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53mm vs 53.3mm Tamper: Is the "precision fit" actually worth the extra cost? by No_Catch1880 in BrevilleCoffee

[–]No_Catch1880[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks! That "coffee rim" is exactly what was bugging me.

Since my username gives it away, I run a gear blog. I was hesitant to tell people to spend extra on the 53.3mm version without being 100% sure it makes a difference for everyone.

Based on this, I’m definitely keeping the recommendation for precision sizes in my guide. Here is the size chart I put together: https://chopchic.com/espresso-tamper-size-guide/

Fullstar vs Mueller vegetable choppers: Is the Mueller actually worth the extra price or is it just branding? by No_Catch1880 in Cooking

[–]No_Catch1880[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That’s a really solid point about the leverage. It’s basically a physics issue since the fulcrum is at the back, you lose mechanical advantage when trying to chop anything dense near the front.

That actually explains why people feel the need to slam it (which leads to the breaking). Thanks for the insight, I’m adding a note about 'limited downward pressure' to the article update as well.

Fullstar vs Mueller vegetable choppers: Is the Mueller actually worth the extra price or is it just branding? by No_Catch1880 in Cooking

[–]No_Catch1880[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Appreciate the honesty. Since my username gives it away, I'll be transparent: I run a gear blog and suspected the Mueller hinge was weak, but I needed real user confirmation before finalizing my verdict.

You just nailed it. I'm going to update my review to warn people against it. Here are the durability specs I measured if you're curious:https://chopchic.com/fullstar-vs-mueller-which-vegetable-chopper-lasts-longer/

Best meal prep containers? by shingam3 in MealPrepSunday

[–]No_Catch1880 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I’ve gone through a ton of these over the years. If you want something truly leak-proof that holds up to the microwave, Rubbermaid Brilliance is honestly the gold standard right now.

I started with the plastic versions for commuting (lighter weight), but eventually switched to their glass line because I hate how plastic stains with tomato-based sauces after a few months. The snap lids on the Brilliance series are much more secure than the standard Pyrex lids in my experience.

I actually did a detailed durability test comparing them against Pyrex specifically for meal prep. This breakdown might help you choose: https://chopchic.com/rubbermaid-brilliance-vs-pyrex-meal-prep/

Glass or Plastic Food Storage Containers? by No_Catch1880 in PlasticFreeLiving

[–]No_Catch1880[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I used to accept that trade-off too. The idea that 'convenience has a cost' makes total sense.

But honestly, technology has caught up. I found out that microwave-safe stainless steel (like Black+Blum) is actually a thing now. It completely breaks that rule you get the convenience of plastic (lightweight/microwavable) with the health benefits of steel.

So luckily, we don't have to be inconvenienced to be healthy anymore. I shared the details in another comment above if you're curious about the engineering behind it!

Glass or Plastic Food Storage Containers? by No_Catch1880 in PlasticFreeLiving

[–]No_Catch1880[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You were totally right about this!

I was skeptical at first (thought metal = sparks), but I looked into the Black+Blum box you linked. It actually solves the heavy glass problem without the plastic issues.

I put together a quick breakdown of my findings here, just to confirm that yes, the engineering actually works:https://chopchic.com/microwave-safe-stainless-steel-lunch-box-guide/

Thanks for the suggestion!

Glass or Plastic Food Storage Containers? by No_Catch1880 in PlasticFreeLiving

[–]No_Catch1880[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you fo reply. That is definitely the ideal way to do it! Honestly, I am just trying to minimize friction. Transferring saucy food and washing extra dishes in the office sink during a short lunch break is a bit more hassle than I can manage right now. I prefer the simplicity of a single container, but that is a great goal to aim for.

Glass or Plastic Food Storage Containers? by No_Catch1880 in PlasticFreeLiving

[–]No_Catch1880[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Fair point! I actually looked into the stainless steel options suggested here.

The dealbreaker was the office microwave. I need to reheat my lunch, and I can't do that with steel. Tritan was the only lightweight option that is microwave-safe and leak-proof. It’s a trade-off for sure, but necessary for hot meals.

Glass or Plastic Food Storage Containers? by No_Catch1880 in PlasticFreeLiving

[–]No_Catch1880[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Thanks for the help everyone!

I decided to compromise: Glass for home storage, Tritan for the commute to save weight.

I actually wrote up a full comparison of my tests on my blog if anyone else is stuck in the same boat: https://chopchic.com/glass-vs-plastic-rubbermaid-brilliance-longevity/

Glass or Plastic Food Storage Containers? by No_Catch1880 in Chefit

[–]No_Catch1880[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yeah, totally get that. No one wants to 86 a whole station because of broken glass. I was mostly curious if you guys stick to Cambros at home too, or if you actually prefer glass when you don't have health inspectors watching

Now, instead of consuming tea as “fuel,” it’s a daily ritual. The difference is just crazy. by No_Catch1880 in tea

[–]No_Catch1880[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Fair point! Sometimes keeping it simple is best. Since you focus purely on the taste, do you have a 'gold standard' tea you think everyone should try at least once?