Antimicrobial Copper Countertop Surfaces
Throughout history copper has been used to take advantage of its antimicrobial benefits. Copper vessels were used to keep drinking water pure in ancient Egypt. Copper has also been used in medical treatments to ward of infection and speed healing.
Copper has the ability to kill bacteria such as E. Coli in hours compared to surviving for months on stainless steel surfaces. Using copper as a countertop material or food preparation surface could help reduce the risk of food poisoning from bacteria such as E. Coli.
Copper kitchen countertop with integrated sink
With the use of copper as a counter surface; not only does one benefit from these bacteria killing properties, but one also benefits from the beauty and natural warmth that copper countertops offer.
A weakness of copper as a food preparation surface is that it is affected by acids like lemon juice; that will discolor the surface patina. Copper countertops should then be evaluated like a porous stone material such as soapstone and thought of as a living material; changing with use. The surfaces can be protected with a food grade wax such as beeswax or orange wax, but this would lessen the ability of the copper to protect against these harmful bacteria.
