What is considered to be a safe, temperature tolerant finish to apply to a useable wooden mash paddle? The intention is to extend the life of the mash paddle while still actively using it, so the finish should be tolerant up to 170°F+ (to account for initial strike temps and the unexpected, accidental over-shot temperatures). It also shouldn't leach any flavors or contaminants into the mash while stirring at temperature.
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2 Answers
The first thing that comes to mind would be to look for tabletop/countertop-finishes, since these have to be able to endure high temperatures of water spill. As far as contamination goes I do not know if they will release anything when exposed to the high temperatures.
One brand of high heat resistant counter top finish is Waterlox. There is no specification on what kinds of temperatures they can endure (but they do mention boiling water). The best would probably to get into contact with a local retailer to find out the limits.
EDIT: If you are looking to go for food grade safe I think you might have to ditch wood altogether though and look towards metal mash paddles.
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I agree that metal is leaps and bounds more food-grade safe than wood, but wood has the added possibility of some father-son time in the workshop together coming up with something really sentimental.– ScottCommented Nov 19, 2013 at 13:14
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1Metal mash paddle is probably best, but would be a shame to miss out on the father-son woodworking. You both could make a wooden sign for the brewery instead, or maybe some bowls to hold hops when measuring, a set of hooks/hanger for hoses or utensils (e.g somewhere to hang the metal mash paddle.) I'm sure there are many more that you might think of - just trying to illustrate there's plenty of scope for wooden things that don't come into contact with water in the brew!– mdmaCommented Nov 19, 2013 at 18:54
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1Or you simply do the woodworking, father-son style. Do not put any finish on it meaning that it will break after a while, which will lead to even MORE father-son woodworking!– SanderCommented Nov 20, 2013 at 8:23
I'd advocate for just using a harder wood (such as maple) without a finish. Some of the finishes out there may say "food safe", but the reality is that even at higher mash temperatures there is the risk of those chemicals leeching in over time. Depending upon your level of paranoia or concern about foreign chemicals and introducing them to your beer, I'd just suggest a mash paddle that's made with a harder wood and don't bother staining it. Clean well after every use and it'll serve you well.
