Richlite cutting boards are made from a durable thermoset composite of FSC® Certified paper and resin, permanently fused under high heat and pressure. This process creates a solid, non-separable material where cellulose fibers and resin are bonded. Unlike plastic cutting boards made from thermoplastics, Richlite does not melt, soften, or shed microplastic particles, even under heavy use.

Independent testing by FILAB (France) confirmed that Richlite boards do not release microplastics during normal cutting or washing. Any particles found were natural cellulose fibers, similar to dietary fiber, and not synthetic plastic.

Plastic (poly) boards are made from thermoplastic polymers like HDPE, the same type of material used in plastic garbage bags and plastic bottles/containers. These boards shed microplastics with every cut. Richlite is made from 65% natural paper fiber and thermoset resin, giving it a knife-friendly surface that stays smooth and durable even under heavy use.

No. Richlite cutting boards are engineered to withstand high heat from pots, pans, and other kitchen tools. In contrast, plastic cutting boards made from HDPE begin to soften around 230°F (110°C) and can melt at approximately 266°F (130°C); temperatures that are easily reached in a busy kitchen. Imagine slicing a steak on an HDPE board that just came off a 500°F (260°C) grill.

Richlite’s thermoset composite resists heat deformation, making it a safer and more durable choice for professional and home kitchens.

Richlite cutting boards typically last 3–5 times longer than traditional plastic (poly) boards. This extended lifespan helps reduce kitchen waste and replacement costs, making Richlite a smart investment for both home cooks and professional chefs.

From a materials perspective, Richlite’s thermoset resin fully cures during production, leaving a stable, crosslinked structure that doesn’t off-gas formaldehyde or other volatile organic compounds.

Richlite does not intentionally add PFAS, PFOS, PFOA, or other perfluorinated compounds. This compliance aligns with U.S. EPA and European regulations, as well as emerging state-level restrictions.

Yes, Richlite cutting boards are NSF® Certified for food contact, meeting strict hygiene and safety standards for commercial and residential kitchens.

If a small fragment were to break off a Richlite cutting board, it’s primarily made of cellulose fiber; not plastic. Similar to wood fiber, it’s not harmful if accidentally ingested and simply passes through the body like dietary fiber. In fact, cellulose is a common food-grade ingredient used as a thickener in many processed foods. This makes Richlite a safer, non-toxic alternative to plastic cutting boards, especially in high-use kitchen environments. Richlite’s thermoset structure prevents plastic-like shavings. Unlike HDPE, which can produce microplastic particles, Richlite’s crosslinked material stays intact even under repeated knife strikes.

Richlite is made from recycled and/or FSC®-certified paper, ensuring responsible forestry and renewable sourcing. It lasts years longer than typical plastic boards, reducing waste and replacement frequency — a practical sustainability advantage for chefs and consumers alike.