Spalted Wood

I recently showed a bowl I had made to another turner who said that because it contained some spalting it was not food safe. This was news to me as I have been making utility bowls for years that had some spalt. I finish my food bowls with Mahoney's Walnut Oil. I posted this question on the AAW web site and received several answers, including one fron John Jordan, that all said the bowls are food safe and the danger from spalted wood is a myth. I thought I would pass this on. It's good to know.

Paul,

As you know the spalting is caused by a fungus. In all the articles I have ever read, they always recommend wearing a respirator while turning it. I personally prefer not to use spalted woods for utility purpose items. If I were to use it for say a salad bowl, I'd at least put something that truly seals the wood. Ex: Polyurethane, Salad bowl finish. In the past when ever I did sell or give away a spalted piece, I would at least tell the recipient what caused the spalting. I would also mention how it can cause respiratory issues for the woodworker, yet there was no proof to be found on it's safeness with being used with food. I also read somewhere that Richard Raffan no longer turns it. It's really up to you on this one.