There is something about kitchen gadgets that makes one want to collect them. They are usually very inexpensive and perform some function that could also be performed by more common utensils used around the kitchen. Perhaps it is the advertising that convinces us to get the latest chopper or best can opener ever made. Whatever the reason, America has fallen in love with kitchen gadgets.

One of the most popular places you will see these products is on infomercials on late night TV. Knives that never need sharpening are always popular. A product that slices fruits and vegetables using a specially angled surgical steel blade. There are literally thousands of kitchen gadgets out there. Some are actually quite practical and do a needed job better than you could do it without using that gadget.

One example of an inexpensive device that actually provides a useful function is a jar opener. If you’ve ever tried to open a vacuum packed pickle jar, you know just how difficult it can be. After turning the jar upside down, banging the lid on the floor and hoping you don’t crack the glass, you may be able to turn the lid and get to your pickle. With a jar opener, a kind of pliers that allows you to grip different sized lids and use the leverage of the tool to easily twist off stubborn lids, opening a jar is no longer a problem.

If you can think of it, someone has probably come up with a kitchen gadget to meet your needs. Whether you want to keep the fizz in an opened can of soda, keep bananas from ripening too fast or make the perfect pasta, there is a kitchen gadget just for you.