Which Safety Features Do You Need?
Smart shoppers today look for the best safety features when purchasing anything for their home. Food Processors are no exception. Different brands boast different features. Most consumers just want to know which brand and model has the best safety features. The answer is surprising: all of them do!
Safety features in food processors have been standardized and all brands come similarly equipped. You really only need to worry about safety features, or the lack thereof, if you are working with an older, used model. All modern food processors will not run until the lid is locked securely in place, ensuring you don’t accidentally turn the machine on while your hand is in the bowl.
Any new product sold in the U.S. today has to comply with electrical safety codes, regardless of the cost of the machine. Buying from a reputable supplier will ensure compliance with these codes.
How to Avoid Danger
This does not mean a food processor does not come with a risk of danger. You should always be careful around sharp kitchen equipment, especially if there are children present. There is a very good reason a food processor can chop and slice as well as a good knife; the blades and discs are just as sharp. Injuries are most likely to occur from contact with sharp blades or discs when the machine isn’t even in use. Most incidents take place either when washing the equipment or putting it away.
You should never stick your hand in the work bowl while the blade is in place. Use a spoon or spatula to remove the food after it’s been processed. Carefully grasp the blade by the stem, avoiding contact with the metal part.
There is always an element of danger when using an electrical appliance in close proximity to a water supply, as is often the case in a kitchen with a food processor. Don’t ever use any appliance that has a frayed cord or damaged plug. Keep the area around the electrical receptacle clean and dry. Unplug the machine before cleaning.
The bottom line is this; you need to be careful and exercise common sense when using a food processor. However, the slight risk of danger isn’t due to a lack of safety features provided by the maker. Be careful and you will enjoy many years of injury free use of your food processor, regardless of the model you choose.