Submitted By: Laura Hall
Several weeks ago, Michigan Disability Right’s Coalition held a Tupperware party as a fun event and a fundraiser for programming. This party defied my expectations as our host created an entire meal for our staff using only Tupperware products and a microwave. I had no idea that Tupperware (whose products are now all BPA-free) had products that could truly be considered assistive technology, included ergonomic choppers, a can opener, and microwave safe containers.
As a wheelchair user, cooking has always been difficult. I envision myself creating the meals I see on the Food Network, but in reality, lack of accessible counter space, a stove that is too high, and difficulty using food preparation tools leave me more often relying on frozen and packaged meals. I regret not being able to contribute home-cooked dishes to holiday potlucks and family events. Therefore, when I saw that Tupperware’s TupperWave Stack Cooker allowed you to brown meat, cook vegetables, and boil noodles all from the same container…in the microwave, I was sold. I can proudly say that I used this handy cookware, the accompanying cookbook, and the microwave to create a Food Network worthy dish of Asiago Penne and Scallops all on my own!
Working for the Michigan Assistive Technology Program (MATP) and helping to facilitate device demonstrations with our “Small Changes, Big Differences” kit has helped me gain a better understanding of what is out there in terms of assistive/adaptive cooking devices, and how I can use everyday items in the kitchen for cooking. For example, did you know that an ordinary large pizza cutter can also double as a device to aid in cutting meat and vegetables? Or that driving a few stainless steel nails into a cutting board can help steady fruits and vegetables for slicing?
Handy Helper
We cannot underestimate the joy that time in the kitchen, preparing a home-cooked meal can bring. Assistive technology is available so that disability doesn’t need to be a barrier to preparing meals for ourselves and those we love. As Independence Day approaches, we recommend checking out our webinar on holiday cooking for ideas on tools that aid in preparing your holiday feast. Join the discussion and share with others: what is your favorite kitchen tip or gadget?
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