just got a replica of a tiki-type paddle. i was hoping to use it as a mash rake. it’s been stained with some kind of stuff. is it ok to use as a rake or do i need to sand the stain off?
I don’t know. Without knowing what it is, I wouldn’t use it.
That’s probably not good for a mash-rake, which is dubious on a homebrewing scale anyway.
Got any pics?
Is it blood? I think you need to pull a Dexter and use one of those lights to see if it glows.
Even if it were not stained, some woods are not good for food contact. I wouldn’t use it without knowing what it is made of.