Wood dye is toxic during the application and drying processes, but is not toxic after a 30-day cure. Most wood dyes are not tested for food safety and therefore cannot be labeled as food-safe, but are manufactured in accordance with FDA regulations. Wood dye is considered toxic during application and during drying. However, wood dye is no longer toxic after it has been cured for 30 days.
With regard to food safety, most wood dyes cannot be labeled as food-safe because they are not tested accordingly. However, they are manufactured to comply with FDA food safety regulations. All wood dyes are toxic in liquid form, but become non-toxic when fully cured. This process can take 3 to 30 days, depending on the type of stain and brand.
As the stain dries, volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, are released into the air. Products with high levels of VOC cause air pollution and can have long-term adverse effects on human health. Oil-based wood dyes contain ingredients such as petroleum, alcohol, formaldehyde, sodium hydroxide and glycolic ether. All of them are harmful, either because they are toxic, corrosive or carcinogenic.
As these ingredients evaporate, they turn into harmful volatile organic compounds or VOCs that stay in the air for days or even months. Avoid wood dyes and finishes that are made with harmful petroleum-based solvents and chemicals. Water-based dyes do not contain the same harmful binders as traditional oil-based wood dyes. Wood dyes, which can be oil-, gel- or water-based, contain dyes and pigments that, when applied, penetrate the wood to accentuate natural grain.
Once wood dyes have cured, they are generally safe and non-toxic, even if the FDA doesn't technically label them as “food-safe.” As the stain dries, the dangerous solvents evaporate and, once the stain is completely dry, it is no longer considered toxic. Transparent wood finishes: varnishes, lacquers, natural oils and water-based finishes protect the wood from moisture or sunlight. To begin with, when finishing a piece of wood, it is likely that the stain will not come into contact with any food until it has completely dried. In fact, dyes are not technically a finish because a simple dye requires a layer (or layers) of varnish or other finish on top to protect the wood.
Often, the appearance of the coffee stain will depend on the type of coffee, the intensity of the infusion and the type of wood. Understanding the toxicity of wood dye starts with understanding the differences between the types of wood dyes. This is even more important when the stain is drying because VOCs can enter the air as the stain evaporates. They don't have the strong smell of traditional wood dyes and don't use the same toxic ingredients, making them valuable to all areas of the house.
Whether you're building a toy for your children or a countertop where food will be prepared, you may be wondering about the toxicity of wood dye. Read on to learn more about the toxicity of wood dyes and some more natural options if you want an alternative that is completely safe for food.
