Ceramic knives are a modern alternative solution to traditional steel knives for specific kitchen tasks — outstanding sharpness, lightness, chemical inertness and long-lasting edge retention make them a valuable addition to a professional kitchen, where the quality of cutting affects the texture, colour and flavour profile of the finished dish. BHS offers ceramic knives to HoReCa businesses across Europe.
Properties and advantages of ceramic knives
Ceramic knives differ from steel knives in several unique properties. Outstanding sharpness and edge retention — zirconium oxide ceramic is extremely hard, so the blade retains its sharpness significantly longer than steel; it does not require sharpening for months or even years. Chemical inertness — ceramic does not react with acids and minerals in food, does not cause a metallic taste or change the colour of fruit and vegetables, which can happen with steel knives. Very lightweight — ceramic knives are significantly lighter than steel knives, reducing hand fatigue during intensive cutting. Excellent hygiene — the ceramic surface is very smooth, does not absorb odours or bacteria; easy to clean and disinfect. Brittle blade — ceramic is hard but brittle; dropping or cutting hard materials can cause it to chip. BHS helps choose the most suitable ceramic knives based on the task profile.
Where to use ceramic knives
Ceramic knives are most suitable for specific tasks where their advantages are most pronounced. Vegetable and fruit preparation — a ceramic knife ensures an exceptionally clean, thin cut without tearing fibres; the fruit’s colour does not change on contact with the blade. Cheese and dairy product cutting — chemical inertness prevents a metallic taste from being added to the delicate cheese profile. Sashimi and raw fish cutting — the clean cut of a ceramic blade is ideal for thin sashimi slices. Confectionery and fruit garnishing — precise, clean cutting for decorative fruit elements in dessert preparation. Salad and crudité preparation — fast, precise vegetable cutting with minimal hand fatigue.
Care and usage restrictions
Proper care of ceramic knives is essential for their longevity. Brittleness — ceramic is not intended for hard products (bones, frozen products, hard bread); such use can chip the blade. Dishwasher — ceramic knives are not recommended for washing in a dishwasher, as impacts can damage the blade; wash by hand with a mild detergent. Sharpening — sharpen ceramic knives with a special diamond sharpener; a regular steel sharpener is not suitable. Storage — a magnetic holder can damage the ceramic blade; it is better to use a wooden block or protective sleeve. Dropping — avoid dropping ceramic knives, as the ceramic can chip.
HoReCa usage scenarios
Vegan or health-food restaurant — ceramic knives as the main tool for vegetable preparation, where the clean colour and flavour of fruit and vegetables are a priority. Fine dining restaurant with a raw fish display — ceramic knives for cutting thin sashimi slices with maximum precision. Confectionery specialising in fruit decoration — ceramic knives for delicate fruit garnishing and cake decoration. Cheese café or cheese counter — ceramic knives for cutting various types of cheese without flavour contamination. Catering company with a fresh fruit station — ceramic knives for fast fruit cutting and attractive presentation at events across Europe.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference between ceramic and steel knives? Ceramic knives are lighter, chemically inert and retain their sharpness longer, but are brittle and not suitable for hard materials. Steel knives are more durable and versatile but require more frequent sharpening. Also see Japanese Knives.
Can ceramic knives be sharpened? Yes, but only with a diamond sharpener or by sending them for professional sharpening. A regular sharpener can damage the blade. Contact the BHS team and explore the full Knives and Boards range.
Why choose BHS?
BHS – Baltic HoReCa Solutions supplies professional equipment for restaurants, cafés, hotels and canteens: more than 20,000 products from many manufacturers. Our specialists help you choose the right equipment and spare parts for your kitchen or bar.
Delivery
We deliver across the European Union. Delivery time and cost depend on the order volume and destination — contact the BHS team for an exact price and lead time.
