The Journal Scientific Research published a study of microbial counts in wood and bamboo utensils. The studies found natural hygienic properties in these natural materials.

“The recent studies have developed our understanding regarding the natural hygienic properties of wood. Laboratory and field trials have shown a reduction in microbial counts on wood contact surfaces, indicating their importance as promising additional support to the hygienic measures to curb the number and severity of contamination/infections in healthcare and food industries.

“Different species, parts, and age of wood have different action against type, intensity, and frequency of contact of microbes. Therefore, specialized studies are needed to establish the standard values to address these parameters that would be helpful in determining the most cost-effective way to optimize the safety of contact surfaces.”