Archive for Non-Stick
Green Appliances Use AMC Cookware & Saladmaster Cookware
Posted by: | CommentsGo Green With Energy Efficient Kitchen Appliances
Using environmentally friendly cleaning products, recycling and using biodegradable bin liners are just a few ways families are going green in the kitchen. However one of the most important, and significant changes many households are making is buying and using energy efficient kitchen appliances.
For many families, the kitchen is the room in the house where the most energy is consumed. Refrigerators, cookers, ovens, dishwashers and other kitchen appliances can account for nearly 40% of the total energy consumed in some homes. Buying energy efficient appliances, and changing the way kitchen appliances are used on a daily basis can easily make the kitchen a greener place.
Once you make the decision to buy kitchen appliances, for your new eco-friendly kitchen, it’s important that you consider the size of the kitchen appliances. Many families buy oversized kitchen appliances that they don’t need and end up wasting energy in the process. Larger kitchen appliances with lots of features can be very tempting. However if you have a small family, it’s best to buy energy efficient kitchen appliances that will fit your family’s needs, rather than opting for larger models. You’ll save space, money and you’ll be helping to save the environment too.
jamie oliver cookware
Dishwashers are great for convenience, but it’s important that you use them wisely. Did you know that many of the newer, more energy efficient dishwashers use less water than old models? Additionally, many of them are engineered so that you don’t have to waste additional water rinsing your dishes before you place them into the dishwasher. When buying an energy efficient dishwasher, choose a compact model, and remember to run it only when it’s full to help save both energy and water.
It’s imperative for families that cook often to use energy efficient appliances. Using kitchen appliances such as cookers and ovens can require a great deal of energy. When possible, use microwaves or other smaller kitchen appliances to prepare or heat food. And if you need to boil water, try using more practical smaller kitchen appliances such as a cordless kettle, rather than utilizing the cooker.
Do you still use an oven that requires preheating? Most newer models have made preheating a thing of the past, thus just one of the ways energy efficient ovens can help you reduce energy consumption. And remember, when it’s time to use the oven, always try to cook more than one dish.
Another great kitchen appliance to consider when going green is a range hood. A range hood can help with the ventilation in your home, and keep the air in your kitchen cleaner. Clean air is essential in any eco-friendly environment.
When considering buying new kitchen appliances, the first thing that probably comes to mind is the price tag. While purchasing energy efficient appliances can be a significant investment initially, you’ll see the savings instantly on your energy bill and save even more in the long run. Energy efficient appliances can save you between 10 – 50% in monthly energy costs. So in reality, by purchasing energy efficient appliances you’re not only doing your part to help protect the environment, you’re also saving a substantial sum on energy costs too.
Energy Efficient Appliances
Kitchen appliances with the best energy ratings. Appliance reviews
| By Braeg Heneffe Published: 6/5/2008 |
Tivoli Cookware Energy Efficiency
Posted by: | CommentsEnergy Efficiency and Kitchen Appliances
Energy efficiency in the home benefits us in many ways. Firstly we save money on our household bills and with the rise in energy prices, every penny counts. One way to start the saving is by choosing energy efficient kitchen appliances.
Start making your effort to reduce your carbon footprint and save money at the same time. If you’re shopping for a new dishwasher, cooker, fridge freezer or oven, always look for the Energy Saving Recommended logo. They will cost less to run and help reduce carbon emissions.
Refrigeration – Side by side fridge freezers use more energy than similarly sized models with the freezer on top, even if they both carry the ENERGY STAR on board. The government holds the two categories to different standards, allowing side-by-sides to use 10-30% more energy. Icemakers and through-the-door ice also add to energy consumption.
In cooking, when it comes to choosing the fuel type, gas is usually preferable to electricity as a heating fuel. But because cooking doesn’t make a huge overall impact on your energy bill, this choice has more to do with your own preference. Many people find that gas offers better cooking control; however, it also introduces combustion products into the house that must be vented to the outside. Be sure to purchase an energy-efficient range hood that vents cooking products up from the cooktop and directly outside (avoid down-draft vents).
The EU Energy Rating measures energy efficiency on a seven point scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). The rating covers a variety of household appliances including fridges, freezers and fridge-freezers, washing machines, electric tumble driers, combined washer-driers, lamps, electric ovens and air conditioners. By law, all retailers in the EU must display an energy efficiency rating on these products. A product with an A rating will have passed a rigorous, impartial testing procedure, so you can be sure of its high energy efficiency.
If everyone in the UK upgraded their old refrigeration appliance to an A-rated, energy efficient product, energy wastage would be cut by over two-thirds. Buying an energy efficient fridge freezer to replace your inefficient model could cut carbon dioxide emissions by up to 296 kilos a year.
Also, why not consider applying for a grant, available to many people throughout the UK. The UK Government funds schemes providing up to 2,700 to households on certain benefits (see below for examples of eligibility criteria) to improve their heating and energy efficiency. In England the scheme is known as Warm Front, in Northern Ireland it is Warm Homes, in Scotland it is Warm Deal and the Central Heating Programme and in Wales it is the Home Energy Efficiency Scheme. The eligibility criteria for the schemes differ between countries – with some schemes you need to be in receipt of certain benefits, whilst others are available to anyone over a certain age.
Energy Efficient Kitchen Appliances
A selection of quality energy efficient appliances
By Braeg Heneffe
Published: 8/19/2008
Titanium Cookware
Posted by: | CommentsTitanium Cookware Versus Copper and Brass
Cookware is made of different materials. And these materials have varying characteristics that can either be useful or disadvantageous to cooking. Most of these cooking items are made of copper and brass. Some are made of titanium.
Titanium cookware has the highest strength-to-weight ratio compared to many different metals. It is considered a durable, lightweight cookware. Many industries and households have switched to titanium pans, for healthy living and cooking. The high cost actually pays off in the long run.
Titanium cookware is advantageous in many ways. It has a patented non-stick, high-tech abrasion-resistant surface finishing. It is therefore highly resistant to scratches. You can even use metal utensils for stirring. It secures a fine grip because of its heat-resistant handles. It is screw-less and rivet-less. Its handles, knobs and lids can be oven proof (up to 260oC). The thermostatic base is impossible to warp in years of daily use. It definitely looks new, classy and elegant even after a long time of use. The 8 mm thick hand cast aluminum core can conduct heat seven times as compared to steel or iron. This provides even heat distribution as well as retention for evenly cooked meals. No oil or water is required. It even keeps the food from burning.
Titanium layers are non-porous, very resistant to warps, and durable. It prevents aluminum from leaking onto the food. It also gives indirect heat for a perfect cooking atmosphere. Glass lids are heat-resistant, allowing the viewing of the cooking process.
Titanium cookwares weigh less than cast iron pots and pans. It is good for people with arthritis. Its lightweight nature is ideal for camping and backpacking adventures.
Titanium cookware is non-porous, posing no potential harmful poisons and toxins that can make their way onto the food you cook. It is ideal for health-conscious individuals because the non-stick feature requires lesser amount of oil to cook. Having less cooking oil is a healthy way to eliminate much fat or calories. Titanium cookwares are also heat quickly and evenly, and easy to clean after use. It works on any stove top. It is dishwasher safe. It has an anti-bacterial coating (titanium dioxide). This kills nasty bugs that cause food poisoning.
Titanium cookware is considered as a perfect material for cooking with class. Popular forms are open French skillet, stir-fry pans, stock pots, sierra cup, multi-compact cook set, sauce pans and backpacking cook set.
With the onset of titanium, it is often compared side by side with brass and copper. Although these last two materials have been used for many years already in manufacturing cookware, it has disadvantages. First and most important of all is its high ability to rust and corrode, and thereby contaminating the foods cooked. Although copper and brass cookware is lined with non-corrosive materials, it wears off after several washing.
This is what sets apart the titanium. For the same rate of durability and usefulness, titanium is proven to be safer. More and more cooks are switching to titanium cookware because of the obvious advantages.
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Titanium Cookware Review – Nonstick Cookware
Titanium cookware is non-stick cookware, and is a better choice over Teflon coated cookware. Although titanium has some properties of aluminum, it is tougher, rust-proof and more.
Titanium Cookware – Titanium Cookware Reviews
Titanium Cookware Reviews – This type of cookware can be a bit pricy but from some of the reviews that this cookware has been getting it appears it is well worth the money.
How To Choose The Right Backpacking Cookware
Titanium is a material that is growing in popularity for use in cookware. It has many characteristics that make it ideal for backpacking cookware. It is very lightweight.
Titanium Cookware Sets – Are Thay Really Worth The Money
Best Syndication News Does titanium cookware have enough advantages to really justify the big price tag that comes with it? Well one of the biggest advantages of titanium pots and pans is weight.
Should You Buy Nonstick Cookware?
Posted by: | Comments
Should You Buy Nonstick Cookware?
Should you buy nonstick cookware? This article discusses some of the issues involved in cooking with nonstick cookware, things to keep in mind when considering purchasing nonstick cookware and some alternatives.
Many people think that nonstick cookware is a must in a kitchen. Although I definitely don’t agree, I can see their reasoning. The biggest advantage to nonstick cookware is obvious: food doesn’t stick to the pans while cooking which makes clean up very easy. You can cook foods with less fat than you would need to use with uncoated cookware. And, although most nonstick pans shouldn’t be washed in the dishwasher because the harsh chemicals can remove the coating, washing these pans by hand is pretty easy.
But, there are also disadvantages to nonstick cookware. First, you can’t use metal utensils on nonstick cookware because the nonstick coating can be easily scratched off. The coating can cause the pan to be less efficient in terms of heat transfer. And, from a culinary point of view, cooking in a nonstick pan doesn’t leave you with the wonderful bits of caramelized food, called "fond", the basis for many tasty pan sauces, on the bottom of the pan.
And then there is the question of safety. Is nonstick cookware safe to use?
Before I begin, let me state for the record that I’m not a doctor and I don’t work for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. What I’m saying here is just my opinion as a cook and consumer and nothing more than that.
But, it seems to me that there are two possible dangers from nonstick coating. First there’s the danger involved when the coating flakes off and gets into your food. As most of us have probably seen, over time, as nonstick cookware ages, the coating begins to flake off. Logic would tell me that it has to be going into the food being cooked and ultimately ingested. I don’t know if this is bad for us or not, but I don’t like the idea.
The second possible danger from nonstick coating is from the emitting of fumes that occurs when a nonstick cooking vessel is overheated. Most experts say that if you heat nonstick cookware beyond 450-500 degrees, the nonstick coating can out gas, releasing fumes into the surrounding air. You may be able to get the pan that hot on the stove top, but it’s more likely to happen if you use the pan with your oven’s broiler. The fumes that are released can make you sick with flu-like symptoms that are temporary, but who really knows the long-term effects? And, these fumes have proved fatal to pet birds.
So, if you already own nonstick cookware, I’d suggest erring on the side of caution. Don’t use those pans under your broiler or over a really hot burner. And, if you have pet birds, keep the little guys far away from the kitchen whenever the nonstick come out.
In terms of future purchases, should you buy nonstick cookware?
Obviously, that’s a personal decision. But, I can tell you what I do. The only nonstick pans that I own are a couple of small skillets that I use exclusively for cooking eggs. And I always cook my eggs over low heat. I buy these skillets at a local or online restaurant supply store, where they’re relatively inexpensive, and I replace them as soon as they show any sign of wear.
I also have a couple of carbon steel pieces, a skillet and a wok, that I’ve seasoned. Well-seasoned carbon steel is very close to nonstick. I use the skillet for egg dishes that go in the oven, like frittatas, and I use the wok for high-heat stir frying.
Besides these pieces, everything I have is uncoated and that works fine for me. I’ve found that uncoated cookware is much less likely to be sticky if you thoroughly preheat the pan, use a little bit of fat and avoid turning the food before its ready. But, if you still feel that you want nonstick cookware, keep a couple of things in mind. Never use metal utensils with a nonstick coating. Replace the pan when the coating shows any signs of wear. Never use these pans over a very hot burner or under the broiler. And keep your pet birds (and all small creatures, in my opinion) away from the kitchen when you’re cooking.
Mary Kenkel helps you find the best for your favorite room in the house! Visit http://www.BestinKitchen.com today to sign up for our free newsletter.
| By Mary Kenkel Published: 5/22/2008 |
Purchasing a Cookware Set – A Cooks Best Friend
When it comes to browsing for a new cookware set, there are three central categories: cast iron cookware, stainless steel cookware, and non-stick cookware.
Nonstick Popover Pan
A top cooking utensil definitely makes preparing and cooking dinner so much easier. Certain kitchen gadgets reduce preparation time, others make a difficult job.
Apartment Therapy The Kitchen
I’m interested in using cast iron cookware, but not sure where to begin. What are the differences between using cast iron as opposed to my everyday nonstick skillet?
Handle Non Stick With Care
Posted by: | CommentsBest Nonstick Cookware to be Handled with Care
If you are looking for the best cookware set in the market, there are definitely some features that you can look out for. Experts often rate a cookware set as the best one, by looking at the important features, but you should look also at what is best for you and your family and then choose the best cookware set for yourself.
The best nonstick cookware will have an enhanced quality of the liquid coating, which means that there are different quality levels in the formulas of the liquid coating. The number of layers of the coating and the thickness of the coating also add to the quality of the best cookware set.
Naturally the biggest advantage of nonstick cookware is the considerable ease in cleaning and the reduction of grease content in the cooking. But even the best nonstick cookware has its disadvantages, like being damaged by spatulas, spoons and metal forks. This makes the durability of even the best nonstick cookware short. The manufacturer’s instructions on using and caring for your nonstick cookware should be followed very carefully. Otherwise, even the newest and best nonstick cookware will begin to lose the resistance of its nonstick coating after only a few years.
How To Choose
In spite of following all the cooking and cleaning instructions, nonstick cookware could start losing its coating in a short period of time. Hence, to make sure that your best cookware set has the best nonstick coating, you must know what to look for when you are buying nonstick cookware. A good nonstick finish of the coating should be absolutely smooth, implying that all the layers have been sprayed in the correct sequence and properly cured. If there are tiny ridges, it is an indication that there are not enough nonstick layers. Actually the very best nonstick cookware in the world has seven layers. The color of the coating should not be shiny, because that means it has been coated with silicon, which does not react well with animal fats.
Cooking
For cooking in the best nonstick cookware, you need very little oil; hence it is easier to use a cooking spray for the oil instead of pouring from a can or a bottle. Always cook on low heat, as it is advisable not to overheat the nonstick cookware. Also, the use of wooden spoons for cooking is imperative, otherwise the coating can get damaged. You can use plastic, rubber, silicon and wood utensils when you are cooking.
Cleaning
Once you have bought the best nonstick cookware, you not only have to cook in it with care, but clean it with care too. No harsh detergents or steel pads should be used, just clean with some soft scrubbing pads, warm water and a mild detergent and your best nonstick cookware will definitely last you for many years.
Cookware
Know the modern cookware for your kitchen and dining room.
| By Nupur Das Published: 9/23/2008 |
The coating used in the cookware industry for the best nonstick cookware is made either from a silicone base or a fluorocarbon base. The coat is applied in two or three layers and then covered up with one or two layers of non-stick material, plus a topcoat. This is how the interior coating of any nonstick cookware is made.
HealthyConcerns.com: Non-stick cookware a threat to your health …
Cookware company fined over non-stick health scare tactics
GreenPan™ Products – Green Living
Irons in the fire — The original nonstick pan :: by Ashley Griffin …
Nonstick Cookware
Posted by: | CommentsShould You Buy Nonstick Cookware?
Should you buy nonstick cookware? This article discusses some of the issues involved in cooking with nonstick cookware, things to keep in mind when considering purchasing nonstick cookware and some alternatives.
Many people think that nonstick cookware is a must in a kitchen. Although I definitely don’t agree, I can see their reasoning. The biggest advantage to nonstick cookware is obvious: food doesn’t stick to the pans while cooking which makes clean up very easy. You can cook foods with less fat than you would need to use with uncoated cookware. And, although most nonstick pans shouldn’t be washed in the dishwasher because the harsh chemicals can remove the coating, washing these pans by hand is pretty easy.
But, there are also disadvantages to nonstick cookware. First, you can’t use metal utensils on nonstick cookware because the nonstick coating can be easily scratched off. The coating can cause the pan to be less efficient in terms of heat transfer. And, from a culinary point of view, cooking in a nonstick pan doesn’t leave you with the wonderful bits of caramelized food, called "fond", the basis for many tasty pan sauces, on the bottom of the pan.
And then there is the question of safety. Is nonstick cookware safe to use?
Before I begin, let me state for the record that I’m not a doctor and I don’t work for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. What I’m saying here is just my opinion as a cook and consumer and nothing more than that.
But, it seems to me that there are two possible dangers from nonstick coating. First there’s the danger involved when the coating flakes off and gets into your food. As most of us have probably seen, over time, as nonstick cookware ages, the coating begins to flake off. Logic would tell me that it has to be going into the food being cooked and ultimately ingested. I don’t know if this is bad for us or not, but I don’t like the idea.
The second possible danger from nonstick coating is from the emitting of fumes that occurs when a nonstick cooking vessel is overheated. Most experts say that if you heat nonstick cookware beyond 450-500 degrees, the nonstick coating can out gas, releasing fumes into the surrounding air. You may be able to get the pan that hot on the stove top, but it’s more likely to happen if you use the pan with your oven’s broiler. The fumes that are released can make you sick with flu-like symptoms that are temporary, but who really knows the long-term effects? And, these fumes have proved fatal to pet birds.
So, if you already own nonstick cookware, I’d suggest erring on the side of caution. Don’t use those pans under your broiler or over a really hot burner. And, if you have pet birds, keep the little guys far away from the kitchen whenever the nonstick come out.
In terms of future purchases, should you buy nonstick cookware?
Obviously, that’s a personal decision. But, I can tell you what I do. The only nonstick pans that I own are a couple of small skillets that I use exclusively for cooking eggs. And I always cook my eggs over low heat. I buy these skillets at a local or online restaurant supply store, where they’re relatively inexpensive, and I replace them as soon as they show any sign of wear.
I also have a couple of carbon steel pieces, a skillet and a wok, that I’ve seasoned. Well-seasoned carbon steel is very close to nonstick. I use the skillet for egg dishes that go in the oven, like frittatas, and I use the wok for high-heat stir frying.
Besides these pieces, everything I have is uncoated and that works fine for me. I’ve found that uncoated cookware is much less likely to be sticky if you thoroughly preheat the pan, use a little bit of fat and avoid turning the food before its ready. But, if you still feel that you want nonstick cookware, keep a couple of things in mind. Never use metal utensils with a nonstick coating. Replace the pan when the coating shows any signs of wear. Never use these pans over a very hot burner or under the broiler. And keep your pet birds (and all small creatures, in my opinion) away from the kitchen when you’re cooking.
Mary Kenkel helps you find the best for your favorite room in the house! Visit http://www.BestinKitchen.com today to sign up for our free newsletter.
| By Mary Kenkel Published: 5/22/2008 |