End grain is the hardest thing for flattening. End grain is extremely hard and every tool will have problems. Planners tend to tear out end grain cutting boards. A CNC will work but you have to have the tram dead on or you will still do a lot of sanding. I have a Jet 1632 drum sander and love it. It is expensive compared to other methods of flattening but works best.
A cnc would get you more or less flat but you will still be sanding.
FYI many people are finding that wooden and plastic cutting boards have draw backs about bacteria and plastic with injesting micro plastics. The best cutting boards seem to be titanium but those are not as beautiful as wooden cutting boards.
From a google search about wooden cutting boards.
AI Overview
Wooden cutting boards, while aesthetically pleasing and gentle on knives, can present some hygiene and maintenance challenges. They are porous and can absorb liquids and food particles, potentially harboring bacteria and leading to foodborne illnesses if not properly cleaned and maintained. Additionally, they can be prone to developing knife cuts and grooves, making thorough cleaning more difficult.
Here’s a more detailed look at the problems:
Hygiene and Bacteria:
Wood’s porous surface can absorb liquids and food debris, creating a breeding ground for bacteria if not thoroughly cleaned and dried.
If not properly sanitized, bacteria from raw meat or other foods can transfer to other foods, leading to potential health risks.
Regular use can cause knife cuts and grooves, which can trap food particles and bacteria, making it harder to sanitize effectively.
Maintenance and Durability:
Wooden boards require more careful cleaning than plastic boards and should not be put in the dishwasher or left to soak.
Exposure to excessive moisture or heat can cause wood to warp or crack, affecting its stability and lifespan.
Some woods can stain easily, especially from red foods like dragon fruit or beets.
Good quality wooden cutting boards can be quite heavy, making them difficult to move and store.
Other Considerations:
Some individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to certain types of wood or extractives from wood.
In rare cases, wooden boards may develop splinters, which can be a concern, especially when used for food preparation.
Despite these challenges, wooden cutting boards can be a good choice if properly maintained:
Hardwoods like maple, cherry, or walnut are generally more durable and less prone to absorbing liquids and harboring bacteria than softwoods.
Wash with hot, soapy water after each use and sanitize with a bleach solution (1 teaspoon bleach per gallon of water) if necessary.
Allow the board to air dry completely after washing, and occasionally oil it with mineral oil or a board conditioner to help prevent warping and cracking.
This video demonstrates the proper way to clean a wooden cutting board:
