Hi @mazandchris,
What kind of finish did you apply to the timber?
Many food-safe oils and clear coatings, especially those that are oil-based, like linseed or tung oil, naturally have a warm amber tone that deepens as they cure and age. Sunlight can also intensify this effect, particularly in enclosed or warm spaces like a shipping container, causing the finish to shift from a natural oak colour to an unwanted yellow hue.
To remove the yellowing, the best approach is to lightly sand back the existing finish. Start with a medium grit like 120-grit to cut through and remove the discoloured layer, then move to a finer grit like 240-grit to create a nice smooth surface. You don’t need to sand deep into the timber just enough to remove the tinted coating. Once the surface feels clean and even, wipe it down thoroughly with a damp cloth to remove all dust before applying a new finish.
After sanding, I'd suggest using Gilly's Food Safe Wax. This natural wax finish enhances the oak’s grain without adding colour or gloss and gives a soft, neutral tone that won’t amber over time. It’s easy to apply with a microfibre cloth, just rub it in thinly, allow it to absorb, then buff to a gentle sheen. Gilly’s is also food-safe once cured, making it perfect for tabletops that see everyday use while preserving that clean, natural oak look you originally wanted.
Let me know what you think and if you have further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.
Jacob
