Bullet Express Machine Product Review

You may have seen "Mick and Mimi" many times on television through the years demonstrating the Silver Bullet. The Silver Bullet has been around for a while and is still being sold so that is a good sign that the product has some longevity and value to it. When the infomercial for the Bullet Express emerged on the scene I was completely entranced by the ease and efficiency by which this product produced such great meals. I just had to buy it and see whether it was the "8 minute meal maker."

First things first, this is what you get and how much it will cost you.
The Bullet Express costs anywhere from $115.00 used on Amazon, to $199.99 new.

WHAT YOU GET:

Item 1
The motor base. This will of course motorize all the different components to the Bullet Express. Constructed mostly of plastic.

Item 2
The Meal Maker Express attachment, is is basically the food processor part of the machine.

Item 3
The free juicer. This was fun to use, and works fairly well.

Item 4
User manual. This is pretty good but nothing out of what you would expect.

Item 5
The Bullet express cook book. This is pretty useful whether you have the Bullet express or not. Great easy recipes.

WHAT IT DOES:

This machine does pretty much what it says it will do. That being said, it is more important to realize what it does that it doesn't tell you about. 8 minute meals is stretching the truth a bit. The preparation time they claim in the infomercial doesn't take into account that potatoes, apples etc. have to be paired down to fit through the somewhat small chute. By the time you are done coring apples for slicing, or cutting fruit down to size to juice you have invested quite a lot of time.

What I found while using this product:
Pros: 
Good basic idea  
The basic idea of this machine is a good one, but they need to go back to the drawing board and iron out all the kinks and those are big kinks.

Cons: 


Cheap plastic components
The Bullet Express may look heavy duty, but is primarily plastic. One of my attachments arrived cracked right from the git go.  It is clumsy to work with and can crack and break with out a lot of effort. The side "arms" that connect to all the different attachments are flimsy and can snap. Once these snap the whole thing is practically useless so a lot is riding on two flimsy plastic latches.

Engine easily overheats
Now I know many blenders will overheat but this item was new and wasn't being tasked to do anything it did not claim to be able to handle as per the infomercial.

Takes up too much space
The Bullet Express takes up a great deal of space with all components included. You will have to clear a good deal of space out from your cabinets just to house all the parts. The infomercial may say no more space than a coffee maker, but they aren't adding in all of the components.

Extremely messy to use
If you watch the infomercial, pay attention closely to the mess it makes all over the counter top. It is cleverly hidden, but take note while it is being demonstrated. You will see a lot of excess shredded pieces and slices flying all over.

The Juicer isn't convenient to use
The bullet express juicer needs to be raised in order to fill a glass with the juice. Notice also this in the infomercial. When the juicer is being demonstrated, look down at what it is sitting on. You will see they have put a thick cutting block under it. If you do not raise the Bullet Express up for the juicer, you will not be able to fit much more than a mug under the spout. Unfortunately, if you put in too much veggies and fruit it will continue spewing out even if your cup is full. Be prepared to wipe the counter many times using this feature.

Dangerous blade removal
The blades in this machine are difficult to remove and switch out and could easily result in an injury.

THE BOTTOM LINE:
Overall, this machine is much like the Rainbow vacuum cleaner that used to be sold door to door. It has a lot of fancy gizmos and gadgets. The Rainbow Vacuum could do a lot of things, for a hefty price. In the end you have spent $1000.00 on something that you use to suck dirt. Will you use any of the accessories? Probably not. Oh sure in the beginning you'll try them out to try and justify the huge expense of the purchase, but at some point you lose interest when you see how much time and energy has to be given to cleaning up the mess it makes.
The Bottom line

Is Bullet Express worth the price? No, a lot of plastic easy to break, messy to work with and not any easier or faster than doing it by hand. Would I recommend it? No. Alternative suggestion? Try the Ninja, which you will find my review for on this site by visiting this link: Ninja Master Prep Blender

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Tips for buying an above ground swimming pool online

If you're like many that are feeling the crunch from the economy, you may be resolved to skip going on vacation this year and invest in entertainment at home. If you're interested in cooling off this year with a new pool there are some key things you need to know in advance. Here's a few good tips to consider before buying from any company online.

• Do your research. Above ground pools are for sale all over the internet and even may be available from retailers in your area. Prices can vary a great deal and you want to make sure you're getting the best deal for your money. Start at least a month ahead before you plan on making your purchase. Be sure to factor in shipping and handling costs, installation costs etc. into your budget before deciding which pool to purchase.
  
• Make sure you aren't required to have a permit. Some areas require a permit, and some also require that you have a fenced in yard or an enclosure to your pool. If you haven't factored that into your budget, do so. Pools are considered to be “an attractive nuisance” and you can be liable for damages or injuries.
  
• Always purchase from a trusted dealer especially if you're buying online. Make sure the company is an accredited business with the Better Business Bureau. Search online for customer complaints and reviews of the business you're considering purchasing from.
  
• Before purchasing any pool from any company online, it is important to establish a means of communication with them ahead of purchase. Be sure to contact via their customer service telephone number or email. Their professionalism, timely response, and willingness to take time and answer any and all of your questions is a good indication of what sort of experience you'll have with them. Always write down the name of the customer service representative you speak with and ask for their personal extension.
  
• You'll need to be home when your pool arrives. If you can't be home, have a neighbor or family member present. Otherwise your pool will get shipped back to the warehouse. Shippers aren't specific with regards to the exact time they will show up so if you can't be home for the day, you may want to look into picking the pool up yourself at the nearest shipping depot. Call and make arrangements.
  
• Check your shipment for all the parts against the list supplied with your purchase ahead of time. Preferably during the delivery. If any parts are missing, make sure to inform the shipper and contact the pool company you purchased from immediately. Many times they will overnight your missing part. Don't wait until the day you install your pool to discover missing pieces.
  
• Be wary of companies that practice the “old bait and switch” routine. There's always a few companies out there that get your attention by advertising what seems like a really cheap price to come and install a pool, but once you inquire further, try to up sell to you a model that is far beyond what intended on spending. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
  
• Look for pools that have a warranty and get it in writing. Some online sites may not post the warranty on the website. Contact the company directly and have them send you a copy of the warranty of the pool you are interested in.
  
• Make sure that you read the pool descriptions carefully. Some pool kits may not include things like a sand filter, pump, or liner. If you are buying a pool for the first time you'll need a ladder, pump, liner, skimmer, a sand filter. Ideally buying a salt filter in advance is a good measure as it is far easier to maintain a pool with a salt filter than with chemicals. Most online sites either include these things in the price or allow the buyer to choose which items they need. However a first time buyer will need most of these items. Be leery of any company that is reluctant to communicate with you online. If they press you to call and are reluctant to answer questions via email, it could be a red flag that they don't want to put anything into writing.
  
• Never buy or attempt to install a pool that does not come with complete instructions. If you're not sure, contact the company and verify that instructions are included. Most provide a DVD, and a written manual. Do not assume if you have installed a pool in the past that you'll be able to do so with a new pool. Some pools have design features that are specific to that brand and model. Look for sites that offer online instructions, and a hotline for any help you may need. Check out my review here on the Intex Saltwater Pool Filter.
  

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Ninja Master Prep Professional Blender Product Review

You've seen the commercials, night and day, you've heard the claims,
The Ninja Master Prep Professional Blender is a whiz in the kitchen and can do it all. Can it? Well Product Dudz gave this item a thorough review and lets take a look.

Price:

Available all over the internet, and average price was  $ 59.19

What you get:

Food and drink maker
2 16-oz bowls
40-oz processor bowl
48-oz pitcher
Interchangeable 450W motor head
Various blades
Dishwasher-safe parts
ETL listed; 1-year Limited Manufacturer's Warranty
Lids that can be fitted over the different sized containers to allow for handy storage in the refrigerator




What we tested:
This item was tested for several things, ease of use, ability to crush ice into snow like consistency, chopping and pureeing ability, ease of cleaning


What we found:

1. Ability to crush ice:
This item was first tested for the ability to crush regular refrigerator icecubes into snow like consistency. The Ninja Master Prep Professional Blender was able to do this task in a matter of a few pulses. Depending on the consistency desired, you can have crushed ice in a matter of a few pulses, or slushie/snow like ice after about 30 seconds or so. We used anywhere from one cup of ice cubes to two cups and experienced no difficulties and there were minimal "chunks" of ice in the results. The Master Prep Professional Blender did not overheat, and did not appear to have any problems. You should always use liquid to help the blender process and crush any ice in the system for best results.

2. Ease of use:
The Ninja Master Prep Professional Blender was extremely easy to use, and we were able to begin testing it right out of the box. The blades easily remove and insert and the lids etc.

3. Chopping, pureeing, processing ability:
As you can imagine, anything that can easily convert ice cubes to snow can easily puree anything. No issues found.

4. Ease of cleaning:
Product is dishwasher safe, was washed in a standard dishwasher on a heated, sanitized cycle and no problems resulted. Items were placed on top and bottom racks, and there were no issues as a result.

Cons:
Almost too powerful
You must be careful when using The Ninja Master Prep Professional Blender for chopping small foods like onions. It's speed and power will turn almost anything into a puree if you over process it. Use limited short pulses only.


The pitcher
The pitcher has a shallow and wide pour spout. This makes pouring things like smoothies and slushies into normal sized glasses difficult as too much comes out too soon. A deeper, smaller spout would work better for any liquids and drinks.

No recipe book included
It would have been great to get a recipe book with The Ninja Master Prep Professional Blender. However, many recipes can be found online, including from the The Ninja Master Prep Professional Blender website.


The Bottom Line:
This is a dieters dream machine. It really does what it says it can do and it beats traditional blenders in price and power hands down. It's easy to clean, handy to use and not expensive for what it can do. It's great for slushies, smoothies, pureeing cooked veggies for soups, and sauces as well. It is therefore the opinion of Product Dudz that this product is well worth the price and an asset to those who are looking for a quality blender.
Products gives this item : Two thumbs up!! For great recipes to use your Ninja with, check out: Recipes from a Southern Kitchen.

Product Review for Brylane Home 600-TC Cotton Blend Sheet Set

Originally submitted at OneStopPlus

This rich, easy care cotton-blend has a high-thread count for a soft and beautiful look in elegant solids. Includes 1 flat, 1 fitted sheet and 2 std. pillowcases (2 king with king). Fits mattresses up to 17" deep. Cotton/polyester. Machine wash. Imported. 7 colors.

600-TC Cotton Blend Sheet Set

Lovely, but....

By Product dudz from SC on 2/15/2012

4out of 5

Pros: Nice Thread Count, Attractive Design, Easy To Clean, Luxurious, Silky
Best Uses: Formal Beds, Guest Bedding, Everyday Bedding
Describe Yourself: Midrange Shopper

This was a very nice sheet set, I am very picky about sheets. I am an Interior Decorator, so having the right quality item is important to me in every design. This set is beautiful, washes wonderfully, and even though it wrinkles some, most come out of the sheets once on the bed. There is a subtle sheen to the sheets and this makes them a beautiful compliment to the bedding. My only problem with this purchase was that I received a torn package, and they sent the wrong color! To make matters worse, I received two different color pillow cases. Brylane Home, understand that we are purchasing products from you sight unseen and rely on the pictures you provide to help us choose colors. When you send the wrong thing, or an obviously damaged return out to another customer, it is a major inconvenience to have to pack and re ship back to you.

(legalese)

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Great Low Carb Product suggestions from Product Dudz

A low carb lifestyle is a good idea for most people, even those not on a diet. Reducing the amount of sugars and carbs early in life will set up a healthier eating habit for the whole family. Here is a list of products that will help you cut the carbs without sacrificing the flavor.

Steviva Blend- this non sugar sweetener is natural and studies suggest it is a healthier alternative to other sweeteners on the market like Nutra Sweet and Splenda. This product contains stevia. Stevia has been approved by the FDA as a dietary supplement only. Replaces sugar 2 to 1. Low calorie, low carb, low gycemic, gluten free, no maltodextrin, and no gmos. Steviva Blend is ideal to bake and cook with. Steviva Blend has less than 1 calorie and less than 1 carbohydrate per serving making it safe for diabetics. May be used in hot or cold liquids, sprinkled on cereals and fruit, or in any way that you wish to use this revolutionary dietary supplement. If you can't find this in your local grocery store, see www.netrition.com for this product.

Almond flour- A natural flour that is un-blanched, gluten-free and very flavorful. Due to the fact that it's not de-fatted, this low-carb substitute is an excellent source of essential fatty acids that occur naturally in almonds. With Almond Flour, you can add color, texture, richness and flavor to your baked goods as well as everyday meals. Use to coat chicken, beef and fish for a delightful and low-glycemic departure from breadcrumbs and white flour. A great brand to try out is Now and it can be found at many grocery stores and online. See: Almond Flour here

Almond Milk- If you have never tried Almond Milk, I'd have to say you're missing out. When it comes to maintaining a healthy weight, every little calorie counts. Almond milk has a very special place in a lighter lifestyle. At just 60 calories for a serving of our Original flavor, and 90 for a glass of Vanilla, it's a calorie-smart choice that’s easy to love.

Smooth, refreshing and indescribably yummy, almond milk can be used everywhere milk is used – from cereal to coffee to straight up in a glass – but with fewer calories than 1% milk.* And just like dairy milk, almond milk is an excellent source of calcium and vitamin D. All that, with the subtle, satisfying flavor of real, natural almonds. You can find Almond milk in your local grocery dairy section where regular and soy milk products are sold. A great brand is Silk Almond Milk and Almond Breeze.

Carb Counters Thick It Up Low Carb Thickener- One thing that many people on low carb diets hate is not being able to have many flour based gravies, and sauces. Carb counters thick it up can do this and be used in a wide variety of ways. Great for Soups, Gravies, Sauces, and Fruit Fillings.

Its all natural, with no artificial ingredients and no preservatives.

See: Carb Counters Thick It Up Low Carb Thickener.

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Product review for American Signature's Vineyard Manor Dining room 7 piece set

This product is currently offered in American Signature and Value City furniture stores.


Product Details of the set: 

All-wood formal dining room.
Intricately carved legs and a rich cherry finish.
Side chairs feature distinct cut-out backs with upholstered seats.
5-Piece set includes table base, table top, two 12" leaves and four side chairs.
Arm chair (sold separately).
An American Signature exclusive.
SKU: 1304062



Pros: 
This furniture is heavy duty, large and has nice carved detailing on the seats and the table.
Easy to assemble. Even though this set seems daunting, the hardest part of assembly is just getting the large boxes into your home to assemble.

One man job-
Only requires one person to put the large table and chairs together.

Padded upholstered seats-
The padding on the dining room chairs will go with a multitude of design schemes and colors.

Open stock-
You have the ability to purchase matching pieces from the collection.
If you love this set, you can easily purchase not only the hutch, but a bar stool, desk and bedroom set in the Vineyard Collection which is convenient.

Easy financing-
I merely registered online and was approved for credit instantly.

Price-
  This set is very expensive looking and a seven piece set for under $1500.00 was a good buy when you consider the quality of the materials and workmanship.

Chairs can accommodate large and heavy people-
Even the Captains chairs (which have arms on the sides) will easily accomodate people that are much larger than average. If you have large men that are 300 lbs. or more they will be comfortable and the chairs are extremely strong and well made.

Accommodates many guests-
Seven people can sit easily at this dining room table with both leaves inserted. However, I do believe two more could be fit in making this table able to accommodate 9 guests in a pinch.

Two leaves-
This makes adjusting the size of the table to suit your needs extremely convenient. Much better than some dining room tables that only have one leaf. This set offers even better flexibility.

American Signature lifetime warranty

Chair pads can be re-upholstered-
If you wanted to change the look of the padded seats they can easily be removed and re-upholstered to suit your tastes.


Cons:
Heavy-
It will take two people to unload if you live outside the delivery area of a Value City/American Signature store and must pick the pieces up yourself. Bring a friend and make sure you have a truck.

Large-
Please consider the scale of the dining room you are placing this furniture in, it is large scale and needs plenty of room to be a functional set.

No online ordering-
If you love to shop online, American Signature nor Value City are not set up to let customers order online. This means if you live outside the delivery area you will have to travel to the store and find a way to transport your order once it comes in. This was inconvenient.

Cherry finish?-
Varies- We had some existing Oak hutches that we didn't want to part with and to make them match, we had to stain our hutches by refinishing with a gel stain. The gel stain we used to match the Vineyard Manor Collection was Mahogany. Cherry was too light. So take that into consideration when purchasing, this set is quite dark, however it is rich and warm.

No padding on chair backs-
It would have been nice to have had a padded upholstered back on these fine heavy chairs.

The Bottom line:
Its a winner!
The Vineyard Manor Collection is large scale, beautiful, with lots of fine quality carved detailing and a bold style. This stet is  made to last a lifetime and I have no doubt it will. American Signature offers a lifetime warranty on their furniture pieces so you can order with confidence. It is the opinion of this purchaser that this set exceeded expectations in design, style, price and durability. It is well worth the money, and a good value. It is a recommended purchase for those seeking furniture that they want to last through out the years. Two thumbs up!
Recommended.

This set can be viewed by visiting this link: American Signature Vineyard Manor 5 piece dining room set

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Ryans Family Steak House Orangeburg SC review

Image via Wikipedia
We all like a good value for our money, and going to buffet style restaurants certainly fill the bill for most consumers. However, some either rise above expectations, or fall short of them. Ryans Family Steak House located at 2580 Orangeburg SC 29118 was recently visited to see where it falls.
Author's note: The picture used in this article is not representative of the restaurant reviewed in this article.

This review will be in the following sections:
Price
Cleanliness
Service
Food Quality
Atmosphere

Price:
For a family of four ordering from the All You Can Eat buffet, the price is around $48.00, which does not include a tip.

Cleanliness:
This restaurant had a sour smell of old bleach and dishwater and most of the tables in our section were covered in  dishes and leftover food from former patrons. Most remained this way during our meal.

Service:
The waitresses are not very friendly and some were extremely loud. Our waitress was neither friendly or helpful and we had to go find our own silverware and dishes. Seating is horrendous and even though there were empty areas of the restaurant, they were not utilized for the overflow of customers.

Food Quality:
The food served at the restaurant in Orangeburg, SC was mediocre at best. Many trays were empty, picked through and although there was staff in and around the buffet area, many were in the way of the patrons and the main meat trays were not replenished in a timely fashion. Vegetables were limited, Broccoli is often undercooked. The buffet area is extremely congested with patrons that did not seem to know how to move between the buffet servers without bumping into one another.
Atmosphere:
This restaurant was loud, congested, and staff was so loud that you could not carry on your own conversation at your table because of it. Large crowds of people constantly walk by often bumping into anyone sitting on an "aisle seat". The surrounding areas were not clean, and although as mentioned before the staff was overflowing to the point they were bumping into patrons, yet most of the dining areas were filthy. This is one of many trips to this particular restaurant and was typical in the experience.
Bottom Line:
If you must go out to eat, it is the opinion of this reviewer that you choose an alternative restaurant. Patrons visiting at different hours may have a better experience, however the hours between 4 to 6 pm. seem to be quite undesirable under the circumstances.
This review is specifically for Ryans Family Steak House located at 2580 North Rd. Orangeburg, SC 29118.

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Wolfgang Puck electric skillet product review

Wolfgang Puck at the 2010 Academy Awards (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Wolfgang Puck's 1500 watt electric skillet has some real advantages. This product is currently offered from online from the Home Shopping Network. While many electric skillets seem to have a short life, ie: coating peeling off, and the handles breaking, this skillet is heavy duty and has a few innovative clever design elements that make it possibly a good fit for your family.

What you get:

 Powered base
 Extra-deep cooking vessel, see measurements below
 Roasting rack
 High-domed lid, you can easily accommodate a whole chicken under this domed lid
 Temperature-control probe with AC cord
 Use and care manual/recipe book

Product features:

 1.  Adjustable steam vent - open for browning; set to closed position when baking. 
 2. Pan-tilt lever - allows the fat and juices to drain away from the food for crisp, low-fat cooking; makes it easier to baste foods and to serve sauces or gravy
 3. Unique drip lip - for easy pouring
 4. Wire rack  - for steaming or roasting foods
 5. Detachable control probe with trigger release - removes easily for cleaning of vessel and base Measures approx. 21.5"L x 14.5"W x 11.62"H
 6. Made of steel, plastic and cast aluminum
 7. Cooking vessel and base are dishwasher safe; hand wash lid; wipe cooking probe with damp cloth only

 8.Warranty offered- Comes with a manufacturer's 1-year limited warranty

Pros
Price:$ 89.90 right now, if you order this product you can have the payments divided into several to make owning this really affordable. HSN currently is offering free shipping on this product as well with guaranteed Christmas delivery.
Large cooking vessel- Can accommodate a large family of 4 and more.
Easy to clean- Because the cooking vessel detaches from the base it is super easy to place into a dishwasher for cleaning.
Non stick coating- This coating is holding up beautifully after many uses and stands up to super hot dishwasher settings.
Adjustable steam vent- This  allows you to control more precisely how much steam to keep in or let out while cooking with the lid on.
Even heating- This pan has not "cold spots" or uneven heat distribution. If you place six burgers in the pan, all six brown at basically the same time, no matter how they are arranged.
Super deep- This pan can easily hold a roast, whole chicken or large ham. It has a super high domed lid and this makes it a great kitchen tool.
Base is dishwasher safe- This is a great improvement and not always seen in other models of similar design that do not recommend placing the base in the dishwasher.

Cons
Price- $89.90. This electric skillet is higher than most of it's competition, however it is of superior quality overall.
Maybe too large- If your family is less than four you may find this pan is too big.
Dome not for dishwasher-It is not recommended that you place the domed lid in the dishwasher, although the product did not show any damage from the dishwasher at the time of this review, after several washes in dishwasher.
Pan wobbles- Removable vessel can not sit flat. If you take the pan out of its base it will not sit flush on your stove top or counter top, not that you should put it on your counter top hot.
The plastic trigger releases- This pan comes with two release mechanisms that allow you to remove the corded plug  that inserts into the base, and another trigger that detaches the pan itself from the heating element base. The plastic trigger on the insert able corded plug juts out and seems vulnerable to breaking at some point. I don't think this was a necessary feature at all. The trigger that detaches the pan from the base is also plastic looking and just seems unnecessary. The pan typically is not removed during cooking, and could have just simply been lifted out when time to wash without this particular clumsy feature.

The bottom line:
Wolfgang Puck's 1500 watt electric skillet is large, heavy duty, and holds up to a lot of use and the dishwasher. It is therefore highly recommended by the reviewer at this time, however updates will be posted as the product continues to be tested.

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Coasters Bar and Grill of Santee, South Carolina review

This is conveniently located at:
9135 Old Number Six Hwy
Santee, SC 29142
(803) 854-9955
The food choices offered at this quaint restaurant are wide and varied and there is something for everyone.
The atmosphere-
Coasters Bar and Grill is a come-as-you-are environment.  Leave the fancy duds at home when coming to this place. The restaurant is set up into sections for eating,including indoor and outdoor dining. There is a bar for those just looking to unwind and socialize and large screened TV's are provided and on Sports channels for the fellows. The restaurant is decorator in an ocean hut style, lots of wood beams, and you have the feeling you are near the ocean.
The food-
You can get almost anything at this restaurant, however the platter deals are the way to go. The Surf and Turf platter includes a large salad, decent sized steak cooked to order, large stuffed baked potato that you can have piled to the gills with bacon,cheese,sour cream and butter. Fresh veggies, scallops, and shrimp as well. This is a large platter you will have no room for dessert. The food is mouth watering and delicious, and that is just one platter sample. There are many.
The prices-
Coasters Bar and Grill offers a lot of food for the money, and the prices are comparable to many seafood restaurants in the area. You are getting large portions and for an occasional outing with your family or just the two of you, the prices are worth it. Their massive Surf and Turf Platter is currently advertised at $15.95.

The Bottom Line:
For great food, larger than life proportions, and a friendly environment, Coasters Bar and Grill can not be beat and is highly recommended.

UPDATE 6/7/2012
We're not sure whether the economy played a role here but Coasters Bar and Grill was recently visited and unfortunately the food was not to the level and quality it was when this review was first written. The Surf and Turf platter was a mere remnant of what it was before. While the steak was good, the Shrimp was over cooked, and the "loaded" potato was a shadow of it's former self. Oh, and the scallops that was included with the Surf n Turf platter? Gone.

Dreamfields Low Carb Pasta product review

What is it?
Dreamfields pasta is a low carb pasta that was manufactured  to be a healthy part of the low carb lifestyle. The Dreamfields Pasta line is available at many grocery stores and from many online sites specializing in diet goods. They make a variety of different types of pasta such as Linguine, Penne Regatta, Rotini, Elbow, Spaghetti, Lasagna and Angel Hair.

What makes it low carb?
Dreamfields pasta is a special recipe  made with durum wheat semolina. Dreamfields has a patent-pending recipe and  uses a special manufacturing process that allows for only 5 grams of the carbohydrates per serving to be digested. Dreamfields pasta contains Inulin, a natural pre biotic fiber found in  many common foods like garlic, raisins, artichokes and asparagus. Inulin provides a food source for the healthy bacteria living in the digestive system and thus helps promote healthy digestion. Inulin is a water soluble fiber found in oats, etc. Inulin  is reported to help lower cholesterol and glucose levels  in your diet. Dreamfields  states on their website that their pasta has been clinically proven to have a lower glycemic index than traditional pasta. Although its label lists a total carb count of 41, all but 5 grams of it are indigestible due to the unique recipe and manufacturing process.

How does it taste?
Dreamfields Pasta's taste is indistinguishable from traditional pasta. Because it is a high fiber product you may experience the same side effects you would have with many other high fiber products, however this is actually healthy and promotes good health. It cooks in the same time period traditional pasta does and can be substituted exactly the same way for all of your favorite pasta dishes such as Lasagna, or Baked Macaroni and Cheese.

What is the cost?
Online store www.netrition.com sells the whole Dreamfields Pasta line at $2.49 per 13.25 oz. box. It is also available for purchase in cases of 12 boxes per case for ($28.68), and 20 boxes per case for ($47.80). The more you buy the more you save.

The Bottom Line
Dreamfields pasta is a delicious, healthy  transition to make in a low carbohydrate diet.  It is not only healthy for those who are trying to lose weight, it is also healthy for diabetics, and those just wanting to improve their diet. It is a great product and highly recommended.

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Touvit Forte Classic Clean product review

Touvit Forte Classic Clean Cleaning Paste is a white paste cleaner made in Germany. The product boasts a 40 year history in the field of cleaning your stains. It is a multi-surface cleaner and can be used on your hands, fabric, leather, vinyl, auto grease etc.  It has been dermatologically tested. On the popular online shopping show, Home Shopping Network, demonstrations show the product removing a wide variety of stains from ink to those that are of unknown origins and compounds.

What Touvit Forte claims to do:
This product was tested in the home on a wide variety of stains. This product claimed to remove old stains, new stains, and "mystery" stains. After carefully testing on a wide variety of fabrics and surfaces it was found to work fairly well on carpet stains, that were of an organic nature.

The Pros-

Effective on dirt-
It is pretty effective on stains that are organic, meaning anything made by plant or animal. Carpet stains from mud,etc will usually come up if you follow the instructions.

Convenient size-
The product can be stored literally anywhere as it is no larger than a tube of toothpaste.
It appears to be safe to come into contact with your skin.

The Cons-

The Smell-
 This product will smell up your house. The smell is putrid, it smells like a combination of old hair permanent chemicals, hair removal creams and vomit. The smell lingers a long time and is quite embarrassing.

Removes color-
 Be very careful about what fabric you put this product on. It will either remove the color and leave the stain, or change the color all together. It did not remove an old ink stain on a pair of Khaki slacks. It left the stain and created a pink area around the pants making them useless.

Negative Reviews-
 A quick look at consumer reviews on Home Shopping Network and elsewhere reveals an overall dissatisfaction with the product.

Price-
The price on Home Shopping Network was $19.98, and that was $19.98 over what it was worth.

Must have water to work-
Touvit Forte needs water to activate its ability to clean. This can be inconvenient and just not worth the extra hassle.

Comparison to other cleaners-
 For the money, Touvit Forte was not found to work any more efficiently or effectively than other well known product cleaners such as de-greasers, or the latest green products.

The Bottom Line-

This product proved to be disappointing in almost every aspect. While videos seem impressive, one must remember this is in a controlled environment where the demonstrators are using fresh stains and known stains. The price, smell, ability to further damage fabric and lack of real effectiveness make this product simply not worth it.
Not recommended.