Woods with an open-pore such as Ash and Oak are not recommended for cutting surfaces as they absorb liquids and food stains. Other woods like Pine can give your foods a resin taste and should be avoided for this reason. Any very softwood should also be avoided as it will scar easily and potentially have an increase of bacteria that could be introduced into your food. Never use any wood that you do not know the species of, as there are potentially toxic woods that could make you sick.