9 gadgets for a healthier kitchen

1. Storage containers

See healthy snacks in clear containers (made without harmful bisphenol A). The tray on the bottom allows air to circulate, slowing spoilage. (Try: Rubbermaid Produce Savers; $4 to $9; Home Hardware, Walmart, Zellers)

2. Portion-control tool

Find a large ice cream scoop that holds three tablespoons (45 mL). It’s perfect for letting you know how much cooked rice is really enough: Three scoops equals a half-cup (125 mL) serving. (Try: The Pampered Chef Large Scoop, $22)

3. Chopsticks

Using chopsticks to handle dinner-not just Chinese takeout-may prevent you from devouring too much food too quickly. Slower eating means more time for your brain to register fullness. (Try: Ikea Rival Chopsticks, $3 for 6 pairs)

4. Steamer

Steaming food helps preserve nutrients and requires no oil or butter; the flavour is from the food itself. Look for one that lets you cook your entire meal at once. (Try: Breville Health Smart Steamer, $100)

5. Potato ricer

This utensil might best be described as an oversized garlic press, turning pieces of cooked potato into delicious fluffy mounds. So there’s simply no need for butter or cream. (Try: Oxo Good Grips Potato Ricer; $22; Sears, Home Outfitters)

6. Gravy separator

Fat rises, and a gravy or sauce cup separates that fatty layer into its upper chamber. The spout, positioned at the bottom, allows you to pour low-fat liquid onto food. (Try: Trudeau 2-Cup Gravy Separator, $11)

7. Stovetop grill pan

Nothing is as tantalizing as steak sizzling on a grill. Stovetop grills can be used year-round, and fat drains into the corrugations. (Try: Heritage Artisan Grill Pan, $60)

8. Nutrition scale

Ever wonder how many grams of fat are in your homemade burgers? Look for a scale that allows you to not only weigh the patty, but also to input the recipe and find out its nutritional value. (Try: Salter Nutri-Weigh Dietary Computer Scale, $90)

9. Whole fruit juicer

Juicers are a great way to get maximum nutrition from fresh produce. Even easier to use? A version with a large mouth so you don’t have to do any chopping. (Try: Hamilton Beach Big Mouth Pro; $120; Canadian Tire, Future Shop, Personal Edge, Sears)

What healthy gadgets come in handy in your kitchen? Tell us in the comments.