What action should a manager take for a cutting board that is no longer easily cleanable due to scratching and scoring?

• A. Have it resurfaced
• B. Replace the cutting board
• C. Discard the cutting board
• D. Sanitize the cutting board

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that cutting boards must have a smooth, easy-to-clean surface to prevent bacteria from hiding in scratches and grooves. When a board is no longer easily cleanable because it’s scratched and scored, the best move is to restore the surface by resurfacing. Resurfacing removes the shallow grooves and returns a smooth, cleanable face, so it can be properly cleaned and sanitized again, extending the board’s life without unnecessary waste.

Sanitizing alone won’t fix the physical damage; the grooves and pits can still harbor bacteria. Replacing or discarding would be considered if resurfacing isn’t feasible due to depth of damage or if the board is structurally compromised.