I use a variety of finishes depending on the item and the use to which it is to be put.
Non-turned Utility Items
Utility, non turned items such as chopping/cheese/bread boards, egg cups, boxes, toast tongs, book and plate stands, buttons etc are given two coats of raw linseed oil
This is, of course, food safe. Anything spilt on the floor is rapidly licked up by my dog! If these items become dry and faded with use they can easy be dried thoroughly and then re-oiled .
Boards used in the kitchen if washed should be stood on edge to dry but never put in a dishwasher!
Utility wooden bowls and dishes
These are finished with my own blend of beeswax and linseed oil, which is also food safe. This gives a pleasant sheen when polished but may fade with use. Bowls used for wet food such as salad just need to be wiped with paper towel.
If they become faded they can be re-oiled with linseed or any vegetable oil. They are not recommended for use with hot food such as soup but this may be O.K. if the bowl is sufficiently thick walled, but it will need re-oiling more often. This is a case of personal preference.
Of course never put in a dishwasher!
Candle holders
These are finished the same way as bowls. If hot wax spills on them pour boiling water over the wax to melt it off and then re-wax the item with furniture polish.
Decorative items
These are often finished with a clear gloss melamine lacquer. Do not use these items for wet food such as salad but they are quite safe to use with nuts in their shells, fruit etc. Decorative items may also be finished with a proprietary wood finish, such as Danish Oil or equivalent. This is food safe and very hard wearing.