Essential Safety Tips for Using a Mortar and Pestle

While the mortar and pestle is a relatively simple tool, it does present several safety considerations that users should understand. From the substantial weight of stone mortars to the volatile compounds released when grinding hot chillies, there are real hazards that can cause injury if proper precautions aren't taken. This comprehensive safety guide will help you grind confidently while protecting yourself and your kitchen.

Handling Heavy Stone Mortars

Stone mortars—particularly granite, basalt, and volcanic stone varieties—are intentionally heavy. This weight provides stability during grinding and helps with the crushing action. However, it also presents risks if not handled properly.

Lifting and Moving

• Use both hands: Always grip the mortar firmly with both hands when lifting or moving
• Lift with your legs: If retrieving from a low cabinet, bend at the knees rather than your back
• Keep close to body: Hold the mortar close to your torso when carrying
• Clear the path: Ensure your route is clear of obstacles before moving
• Avoid wet hands: Never handle stone mortars with wet or greasy hands—they can slip easily

Safe Storage Locations

Where you store your mortar and pestle matters for both accessibility and safety:

• Store at counter level or in lower cabinets—never on high shelves where they could fall
• Ensure the shelf or surface can support the weight
• Keep away from cabinet edges where they might be accidentally knocked off
• Store pestle separately to prevent it from rolling and causing impact damage

Protecting Your Work Surface

The force applied during grinding can damage kitchen surfaces and cause the mortar to move dangerously:

Surface Protection Strategies

• Use a stable base: Place on a wooden cutting board, thick silicone mat, or folded towel
• Avoid glass or tile: These surfaces can crack under the impact of pounding
• Check for stability: Before grinding, ensure the mortar doesn't rock or wobble
• Work near the counter edge: Position yourself where you can brace the mortar if needed, but ensure it won't fall

Handling Hot and Volatile Ingredients

Grinding releases the aromatic compounds in spices—but some of these compounds can irritate skin, eyes, and respiratory systems.

Working with Chillies

Chillies contain capsaicin, which can cause burning sensations and irritation:

• Consider wearing disposable gloves when handling hot chillies
• Never touch your face, especially eyes, while working with chillies
• Work in a well-ventilated area—capsaicin can become airborne during grinding
• If you experience irritation, wash affected areas with milk or yogurt, which neutralise capsaicin better than water

Working with Strong Spices

Certain spices can cause reactions when ground:

• Black pepper: Can cause sneezing and eye irritation; turn your head away when checking grinding progress
• Horseradish/Wasabi: Releases powerful volatile compounds; work quickly and in ventilated space
• Cinnamon: Fine cinnamon dust can irritate respiratory passages if inhaled
• Mustard seeds: Can release pungent fumes when crushed

Preventing Physical Strain

Repetitive grinding motions can strain muscles and joints, particularly in the wrist, arm, and shoulder.

Ergonomic Grinding Practices

• Work at the right height: Your elbow should be at approximately 90 degrees when grinding
• Use your body weight: Let gravity and your body weight do the work rather than just arm strength
• Switch hands: Alternate between hands for longer grinding sessions
• Take breaks: For large batches, pause every few minutes to rest
• Keep wrist neutral: Avoid extreme wrist angles that can cause strain

Food Safety Considerations

Beyond physical safety, proper food safety practices are essential when using a mortar and pestle.

Cross-Contamination Prevention

• Clean thoroughly between different ingredients, especially between allergens
• Consider having separate mortars for sweet and savoury preparations
• Never use a mortar for non-food purposes (medicine, chemicals, etc.)
• Ensure complete drying before storage to prevent bacterial growth

Allergen Awareness

If you cook for people with food allergies:

• Peanuts and tree nuts leave residue that's difficult to completely remove from porous stone
• Consider dedicating a mortar specifically for allergen-containing ingredients
• For severe allergies, use a ceramic mortar that can be thoroughly cleaned with soap

Equipment Inspection

Regularly inspect your mortar and pestle for damage that could pose safety risks:

What to Check

• Cracks: Hairline cracks in stone can expand and cause the mortar to break during use
• Chips: Check the rim and interior for chips that could break off into food
• Surface integrity: Ensure the grinding surface isn't flaking or degrading
• Pestle damage: Look for cracks or chips, particularly at the grinding end

First Aid Basics

Know how to respond to common mortar and pestle-related incidents:

• Capsaicin burns: Flush with milk, apply cooking oil to affected skin, then wash with soap
• Eye irritation: Flush with clean water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention if persistent
• Dropped on foot: Apply ice, elevate, and seek medical attention if pain is severe
• Cuts from chipped edges: Clean wound, apply pressure, and use appropriate first aid

Conclusion

The mortar and pestle is a safe tool when used with awareness and proper technique. By understanding the potential hazards—from the weight of stone mortars to the volatility of certain spices—you can take simple precautions that make your grinding sessions both safe and enjoyable. Remember that most safety issues arise from complacency; stay mindful each time you use your grinding tools, and they'll serve you well for many years to come.