This topic comes up a lot over here. Generally, all finishes are food safe after they have cured. The petrolium distilates evaporate out, and the dryers are in such small quantities that it doesn't matter. Any other resin things left over when evaporation is complete is called 'inert material'. Getting tested is a very expensive process. I use walnut oil (Mike Mahoney's) for my food bowls. It does set up/cure eventually which mineral oil won't do. As far as nut allergies, Mike's finish is pressed from nut husks, and leaves, not the nut meats. Most, if not all of the walnut oil available in the grocery stores is from the nut meats, and has been pasteurized which breaks down the protein molecules which cause the allergies. Mineral oil (a petrolium product) never sets up, or gives any surface protection. Carnubal wax is fine and gives a nice shine. Most of the time it comes in a solvent of some sort, like turpentine. Then you don't have to get it hot to apply it. Most vegetable oils work fine as well. Mostly they need to dry in an open space, and wipe off any excess. Wood needs to breathe, and doesn't like being locked away in a cupboard. This is generally responsibel for going rancid.
robo hippy
