This is the response I got from minwax about finishing the top.
Currently Minwax does not manufacture a stain or clear finish that is FDA
approved. We do not perform animal testing and cannot test for ingestion.
Most Minwax clear coatings are fully cured in 14-30 days. Once cured, the
film is considered inert and is no longer releasing toxins or chemicals.
If you are interested in an FDA approved product, I'd recommend Behlen at
866-785-7781 (
www.hbehlen.com). Behlen manufacture coatings that are safe
for infant furniture, high chairs, recreational objects (games, puzzles,
children's toys) salad bowls, wooden utensils, chopping/butcher blocks, and
food preparation surfaces. Here's another link you can also try:
http://www.triedandtruewoodfinish.com/
The bohlen website have some nice sounding products.No epoxy though.One product called Rock Hard for table tops stood out for me.Progressive epoxy polymers web site had more information the I could retain(very large,informative site).Any first timer with epoxy(like myself)should visit this website.They do have a brush on epoxy. So me being old school,tried and true,when I pour this top will silicone caulk hold upto the epoxy for filling voids between the top and the wall or will the epoxy melt the silicone.I want to stain the top darker.The mahogany I purchased has quite a bit of blonde in it(lack of quality suppliers in my area).Should I use sanding sealer first for a more even coat.I have never attempted any finishing like this.