If you often need to make breakfast quickly, you'll know the virtues of having a toaster. We tested two- and four-slot models from popular brands, so you can decide which is best for you
There’s nothing like a perfectly-toasted piece of toast, browned to perfection so the butter seeps in without becoming too soggy, or the toast being too overdone. And, as it turns out, getting your toast to crisp and colour to your taste can be a fine art, so you need the right model to suit your individual tastes and preferences. From wallet-friendly functional models to more intuitive and higher end toasters – such as those with different temperature settings depending on the type of bread to cooling racks and more – we tested a variety of toasters in all shapes, sizes and price ranges to find the best models to suit different tastes, household sizes and preferences. To ensure fair and consistent testing, we also tested a number of breaded items, from artisan sourdough to supermarket pre-sliced bread and fruit loaf to see how they fared. We also took into consideration factors such as price point, size, weight, slot size and toasting settings and considered a range of different-sized models, from two-slice toasters to four-slice slot appliances. Read on to discover which toasters we consider to be the best things since sliced bread. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or stylish toaster to match your kettle, we’ve got you covered. View Affiliate Playlist on the source website Best toasters at a glance JUMP TO REVIEWS 5/5 stars Best toaster for quality: Sage the Toast Select Luxe, £119.95 Best toaster for versatility: Gastroback Design Toaster Digital 4S, £99.99 Best 4-slice toaster overall: Bosch DesignLine toaster, £59.99 Best of the rest Best all-rounder toaster: Bosch Styline 2-slot toaster, £85 Best toaster for classic looks: Lakeland 2-slice toaster, £39.99 Best stylish toaster: KitchenAid 2-slice toaster, £152.95 Best 2-slice toaster overall: Zwilling Enfinigy toaster 53008, £89.95 Best stainless-steel toaster: ProCook 2-slice toaster, £59 Best retro toaster: Tower Renaissance 4-slice toaster, £57 Best toaster for stylish kitchens: De'Longhi Ballerina Seta toaster, £73.99 Best toaster with eco credentials: Philips Eco Conscious Edition 5000 Series toaster, £39 Best matching kettle and toaster sets at a glance Best stainless-steel kettle and toaster set: ProCook kettle and toaster, £138 Best retro kettle and toaster set: Haden Highclere kettle and toaster, £80 Most versatile kettle and toaster set: Ninja kettle and toaster set, £189.99 Best premium kettle and toaster set: KitchenAid Artisan breakfast set, £478.40 Best kettle and toaster set for style and simplicity: Salter Pebble kettle and toaster set, £82.99 Jump to: Best toasters to buy in 2025 Best matching kettle and toaster sets What to look for when buying a toaster How we tested toasters Although they're relatively simple appliances, it's surprising how many toasters struggle to brown bread evenly across the slice, and with the same (or at least similar) colouring on each side. We've taken this into consideration when testing out a range of models and rounded up the top performers accordingly. All were rated against practical considerations such as size and weight, safety, ease of use, good looks and speed of toasting (we can confirm that the rumours are false: the settings on your toaster don’t correspond with the number of minutes it takes to toast bread). We used five different bread types to test all the functions and capabilities of the toaster; standard loaf slices, fruit bread, chunky-cut artisan loaf, extra-tall slices and sliced bagels. Each toaster was scored out of five against the following criteria on our testing matrix, before getting an average score. Size and shape: Does the cord tuck away for easy storage? Does it take up a lot of space and is it heavy to lift Toasting options: Does it offer any extra settings such as defrost, warming and bagel function? Are there controls for each side of the toaster, and are there any extra features? Design and aesthetic: Does the toaster look good and come in different colours to suit your kitchen? Finished results: How well does the toaster handle different types of bread? Do standard slices brown evenly, with the same result on each side? Value for money: Toasters perform the basic task of browning bread, so the price should fit the sophistication of its technology and the variety of functions on offer. Overall quality of materials: Every part of the toaster was given a tug and a shake. Best toasters to buy in 2025 Sage the Toast Select Luxe Available from Harts of Stur (£108.95), Sage (£119.95), Amazon (£99.95) Best toaster for quality Pros: Setting for different types of bake (crumpet, brown, white, fruit etc) Level of brown selection dial is a nice touch High lift so toast doesn't get stuck Cons: Two slots may be too small for some needs Star rating: 5/5 Wattage: 2400W Talk about countertop eye candy - this sophisticated toaster has it all, from good looks to intuitive settings. We love how considered the settings are, from settings for crumpets, brown, white and fruit bread, plus a dial for choosing just how toasted you’d like your toast to be. It has a high lift, so extracting most types of bread we tested was straightforward, although we did struggle a little with the fruit loaf. With only two slots, it may not be big enough for some households, but we were impressed with the consistently cooked toast during our testing, as well as the specific settings and ‘crumpet’ function. Did we mention it looks great, too? undefined Gastroback Design Toaster Digital 4S Available from Currys (£99.99) Best toaster for versatility Pros: Extra-wide slots Warming rack LED countdown display Cons: Pricey Star rating: 5/5 Wattage: 2200W Now this is a choice for serious toast lovers. Not only do you have four slots to play with, you can fit almost anything toast-able into those extra-wide spaces, though some taller slices may remain un-toasted at the top. There are nine browning levels, and we tried everything from fat bagels to brioche burger buns with not one peep from our kitchen smoke alarm. There’s a special ‘defrost’ function which worked well on frozen-solid sourdough and a ‘warming’ function which was great when we went back to forgotten doorsteps that didn’t need any more browning. We particularly liked the LED countdown display, that meant we knew how long we had to get on with other kitchen tasks before our perfectly even-toasted slices rose popped from the slots. The warming rack was another bonus - great for gently warming those morning croissants over the heat of the chamber. This may be a more expensive choice, but it really delivered. Available from: Currys (£99.99) undefined Bosch DesignLine toaster Available from Amazon (£59.99) Best overall 4-slice toaster Pros: Lightweight Stylish Robust Speedy More cost-efficient versus other models Cons: Susceptible to fingerprint marks Star rating: 5/5 Wattage: 1940W Made from stainless steel, we found a lot to admire about this Bosch toaster. It's sleek-looking, sturdy, and remarkably lightweight, offering six levels on the thermostat, a defrost button, and reheat button. You can also operate each of the toasting chambers independently from each other. In testing, the DesignLine worked quickly and our toast was ready in just 90 seconds (on level three) – ideal if you need your breakfast in a hurry. It accommodated both standard and XL slices without difficulty, too, producing mostly even toasting lines on each side. Should you need it, and as we've come to expect with Bosch appliances, there's also plenty of information on the toaster's product page about the brand's repair service, and how and where to recycle it at the end of its life – all wins in terms of sustainability. A matching kettle is also available, which our reviews team awarded 4.5/5 stars. Cost to run all slots for 90 secs for one day per week: 3.4p Available from: Amazon (£59.99) Latest Deals Bosch Styline 2-slot toaster Available from Amazon (£69.99), Bosch (£84.99) Best all-rounder toaster Pros: Smart Handy pop up warming rack Cons: Large lever to toast can be hard to push down Star rating: 4.5/5 Wattage: 860W This sleek, smart and intuitive toaster comes with a number of well-thought-out functions including a pop up toasting rack which toasted fruit loaf to perfection without any burnt fruit. It’s simple to use, with a lovely big text and LED display. The wide slots and high lift also means none of the bread we tested got stuck and was easy to remove. The pop-up heating rack was a standout for us, particularly for toasting fruit bread and crumpets, and we believe would work well for croissants, too. For different tastes and toasting preferences, there’s a helpful nine settings to determine how toasted you’d like your bread, plus the standard reheat, defrost and stop functions. Most importantly, the toast was evenly toasted – the most evenly out of all of the toasters we tested. It’s also safety conscious, with an on/off button plus slots that glow so you handily know when the toaster is on. On the whole, it’s a sleek and functional model with a highly sophisticated and intuitive matching kettle to boot (sold separately). One thing to flag is while the large lever for lowering the bread into the slots is a nice touch, we did feel it had a little resistance so some people may struggle as it requires a little bit of force to push down. Other than that, it’s a smart and high quality piece of kitchen kit. undefined Lakeland Stainless Steel 2-slice Toaster Available from Lakeland (£39.99) Best toaster for classic looks Pros: Budget friendly Wide slot openings Bagel setting Cons: Sometimes toasts unevenly Star rating 4.5/5 Wattage: 860-1050W There’s something very classic about the design of this stainless steel toaster, and like most Lakeland kitchen gadgets, it offers great value for money and a quality build - with a three-year guarantee to boot. The wide openings on this two-slot model are a bonus, and its six browning levels suit most needs. We liked the bagel setting - press the red button once the toast has been clicked down into position and only one side of each chamber will be heated. There’s also a button for defrosting, which is great if you fancy soft bread for a speedy bacon sandwich and only have frozen slices. The other button is for cancelling, which pops the bread up immediately. Our model tested well on everything from artisan bloomer to tea cakes, with evenly-toasted bread true to the various settings and no need to squash thicker slices into the slots. We liked the simplicity of this one - less time spent figuring it out means more time for toast, after all. Available from: Lakeland (£39.99) undefined KitchenAid 2-slice toaster Available from Harts of Stur (£152.95), KitchenAid (£179) Best stylish toaster Pros: Stylish design Robust Intuitive Cons: Slots too shallow to accommodate tall slices Slow to toast Star rating: 4.5/5 Wattage: 980W With a stylish, glossy finish and simple controls, this toaster combines an attractive look with impressive functionality. There are seven temperature options to choose from, as well as four settings for bagels, defrosting, keep-warm and reheating. On test, we were really impressed by the even browning on our toast for the regular slices, but slightly disappointed that the slots were too shallow to fully accommodate taller slices. This meant we had to flip these to avoid a white stripe of untoasted bread. This toaster comes with a matching kettle with a similar look, which would work well if you want a matching set. Find the review in our guide to the best kettles. Available from: Harts of Stur (£152.95) KitchenAid (£179) Zwilling Enfinigy 53008 toaster Available from Zwilling (£89.95) Best overall 2-slice toaster Pros: Evenly toasted bread Special bagel function Great look Cons: Cancel button not immediately obvious Star rating: 4.5/5 Wattage: 1800W Sleek, attractive and very effective, this toaster offers everything you need. Of all the toasters we tested, this gave us the most evenly browned results with both sides of the toast being near identical. It coped well with pretty much anything we threw at it – frozen bread, thick bread, bagels, fruit loaf and standard sliced supermarket bread. If we are being extremely fussy, the very top of a tall sandwich loaf wasn’t completely browned when placed in the normal vertical position. The toaster has the usual reheat and defrost functions, along with a bagel setting, all marked with icons. The “cancel” button is also the browning dial and that isn’t obvious as it’s marked by the Zwilling logo. It’s a two-slot toaster, so not the best for larger families, but double-length and four-slot models in the same range are available. Read our full review of the Zwilling Efinigy 53008 toaster. Available from: Zwilling (£89.95) ProCook 2 Slice Toaster Available from ProCook (£39) Best stainless steel toaster Pros: Clean, simple, functional, straightforward Impressive cooking results Cons: Two slots may be too small for some needs Star rating: 4/5 Wattage: 900W Shiny and functional, this stainless steel two-slot toaster is efficient and relatively compact with a modern finish. With wide slots and a high lever, we found testing a variety of breads, toastie bread, sourdough and fruit cake straightforward, and the toasting was wonderfully consistent. It feels and looks good quality and for its price point, we were very impressed. It also handily has a defrost and reheat function, as well as cancel, and a dial of one-seven depending on how toasted you like your bread. On the whole, it’s good value, functional, reliable and consistent – everything you’d want in a toaster. While only two slots may be a drawback for some, it’s so efficient at what it does that toasting any more than two pieces of toast would still be a breeze. undefined Tower Renaissance 4-slice toaster Available from Robert Dyas (£58.99) Best toaster for a retro look Pros: Lovely design and colour Looks more expensive than it is Cons: Toastie loaf stuck out of the top Star rating: 4/5 Wattage: 1630W We loved the colour and design of this one, and our first impressions when unboxing were favourable as it certainly looks and feels more expensive than it is. Despite being a four-slot toaster, it feels relatively compact compared with other models, and the design is modern without being too in-your-face. While the settings aren’t as advanced as other models, with no dedicated heat settings for crumpets or bagels for example, the defrost/reheat/cancel and heat scale of one-six worked well and produced consistent toasting. We particularly liked the sliding heat scale - we used level 3.9 for toasting. The only bread that struggled during our tests was the toastie bread, which wasn’t entirely cooked at the top. Overall, the price point, colour and finish are spot on and it would suit busy households who need to cook multiple slices of toast at once. undefined De'Longhi Ballerina Seta toaster Available from De'Longhi (£73.99) Best toaster for stylish kitchens Pros: Colourful, fun designs Straightforward controls Easy to remove toast Cons: Just one knob for level of browning No bagel option Star rating: 4/5 Wattage: 1800W We tested De'Longhi’s new Seta toaster model in Silk Blue, a chic colour that would suit the fashion for darker kitchens. It also comes in a more traditional cream and there’s a fabulous matching kettle, too. Seta means silk in Italian, and the stylish casing was reminiscent of flowing satin - very swish. Since each side of this four-slot model has separate levers, you can achieve different levels of browning, but you will have to time this yourself by popping one set of toast down slightly later than the other as there’s only one knob for choosing a level of browning from 1-5. The straightforward controls also feature defrost, reheat, and cancel functions. We would have liked to have had a ‘bagel’ option for one-sided crispiness, mind you. We liked the high-lift option for bread retrieval and the two removable crumb trays, which slid out easily for quick tidy ups, leaving no mess on the worktop. undefined Philips Eco Conscious Edition 5000 Series HD2640 toaster Available from Amazon (£39), Currys (£49.99) Best toaster with eco credentials Pros: Ideal for the eco-conscious Compact Quick Warming rack Cons: Not great for long slices Sometimes burnt with defrost button Star rating: 4/5 Wattage: 830W A toaster with impeccable eco-credentials, this compact toaster is ideal for smaller households, or kitchens with a limited working area. The toaster is made from bio-based plastics, which come from biological and renewable resources. It’s smaller than average and very lightweight but surprisingly speedy. It’s also very effective and coped well with all but the tallest loaves. We liked the extra feature of the bun warmer in particular. Unusually, this toaster also comes with a lid which keeps the toaster clean, neat and dust-free when it’s not being used. The defrost function is combined with the browning button, so you can’t choose how brown you want your defrosted slice to be (although of course you can always use the cancel button). This compact toaster would make a perfect gift for an eco-conscious student. Latest Deals Best matching kettle and toaster sets If you like to start your day with a hot cup of tea or coffee and a plate of buttery toast, a kettle and toaster may be your most relied-upon appliances in the kitchen. Many models come in matching sets that can either compliment an existing colour scheme or brighten up your space. But it's just not looks that matter – these gadgets should also be reliable, efficient, and easy to use. We've selected the top-performing kettle and toaster sets that impressed us most in testing. ProCook kettle and toaster Available from ProCook (£158) A smart, compact option for smaller kitchens, this stainless-steel kettle and toaster set is both sleek and practical. The kettle’s slim shape holds 1.5 litres and includes a glowing blue light when boiling. The toaster handled everything from sourdough to fruit loaf with ease, offering even, consistent results. Both feel well made and easy to use – a dependable choice for those after quality design without taking up too much space. Available from: ProCook (£158) Haden Highclere kettle and toaster Available from Robert Dyas (£94.99) A great choice for kitchen with a vintage aesthetic, this stainless-steel kettle and toaster is both sturdy and stylish. Both models are available in two colours (blue or cream), with a smooth matte finish and polished silver accents on the controls. We found them easy to use too, and particularly liked the ergonomic handle across the top of the kettle, which aided with filling and pouring. undefined Ninja kettle and toaster set Available from Ninja (£249.99) Most versatile kettle and toaster set Ninja is renowned for its innovative appliances, from larger cooking gadgets like air-fryers to this matching kettle and toaster set. Available in either stainless steel or black, the variable-temperature kettle can heat from 60-100C, which is ideal for those who drink speciality teas (which require a lower temperature), and the toaster features seven cooking functions and seven shade settings. Available from: Ninja (£249.99) KitchenAid Artisan breakfast set Available from KitchenAid (£351) Best premium kettle and toaster set Available as a pair in KitchenAid's iconic candy apple red (or separately in medallion silver), this kettle and toaster both feature a range of settings that can be customised to your liking – from multi-temperature functions on the kettle, to seven shade options on the toaster. Together they're fairly expensive, but both models feel to built to last and come with a decent guarantee (three years for the kettle, five for the toaster). undefined Salter Pebble Kettle and Toaster set Available from Salter (£79.99), Amazon (£82.99) Best kettle and toaster set for style and simplicity Salter’s Pebble set brings a coordinated look to the kitchen with appliances and matching storage in cream or charcoal. The kettle has a chunky, comfortable feel, and its boil-dry protection and limescale filter make upkeep easy, though filter removal could be clearer. Paired with the Salter Pebble 4-slice toaster (£49.99), rated 4/5 by our product testers – and with a high-lift eject to easily retrieve small items – this set offers both functionality and style. The toaster’s centred slots ensure even browning, while the copper trim adds a stylish touch suited to any kitchen. undefined Other toasters tried and tested Kenwood Dusk Collection toaster, £54.99 Dualit NewGen 4-slice toaster review, £219.99 Breville VTT981 Edge 2-slice toaster review, £31.99 KitchenAid Artisan 5KMT4205 4-slice toaster review, £399 Sage the Smart Toast review, £179.95 Smeg TSF03 toaster review, £175 Russell Hobbs Inspire toaster review, £34.95 Tower Cavaletto T20051RG 4-slice toaster review, £49.95 What to look for when buying a toaster When you’re buying a new toaster, there are plenty of other factors to consider, too. Are you a fan of chunky artisan bread, or loaves with large slices that your toaster might struggle to hold? Read our tips on the features to look for when buying a toaster: What does it toast? When you're looking for a four-slot toaster, think about what you use your current model for the most, and make sure it has everything you need. If you're a fan of bagels, you'll want that extra functionality. If your family all makes their toast pretty much the same way, a single-lever model will suit you fine (and likely be cheaper), while the bagel function found on some toasters is useful for lovers of bagels and crumpets, as it toasts one side, while only warming the other. Cost As with so many kitchen appliances, you often get what you pay for: some cheaper models do a perfectly good job, but if you’re using your toaster every day, it's worth investing in a sturdy model that can withstand being used regularly and taken in and out of the cupboard without getting damaged. Size Is it a titan of a toaster with a cumbersome cord that will take up too much space in your kitchen cupboards? If you’re a fan of bagels, or store your bread in the freezer, does it include all the functions you need to create toast perfection? Weight Checking the weight and measurements of your toaster is also important, as four-slice models are significantly larger than two-slice versions, and can weigh a lot. If you store yours in a high cupboard, a lighter model is best, unless you're happy to rearrange your kitchen. Defrost setting Most modern toasters have a defrost setting that allows you to toast bread from frozen, with the exception of the cheapest models. Warming function For anyone who does not want to eat their toast straightaway, this is an important consideration. The toaster will keep your slice heated without toasting it further, until you return to it later. Slot width If you enjoy a thickly sliced bread or chunky artisan types, be sure to look for a toaster with an extra-wide slot. Some models even have adjustable slow width. On pressing down a lever, the metal frame fits to the slice size to ensure an even toasting, regardless of thickness. Related reviews Best kettles Best food processors Best microwaves Best blenders Best hand blenders Best dehydrators Toast recipes Smoky chickpeas on toast Avocado on toast Crab & tangled asparagus salad on toast Baked beans on toast with pancetta & poached eggs Mozzarella & pesto chickpeas on toast Vegan 'smoked salmon' toasts Chilli & garlic leeks with eggs on toast Poached eggs on avocado & feta toasts More deals Air fryer deals Coffee machine deals Microwave deals Fridge freezer deals Dishwasher deals Stand mixer deals Pizza oven deals Breadmaker deals If you have any questions, suggestions for future reviews, or spot anything that has changed in price or availability, please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk. Which toaster do you use? We'd love to hear your product suggestions below...
They're an essential kitchen gadget, but what are the best kettles to buy? We put them to the test to bring you our top models, including the best matching kettle and toaster sets
As a nation of tea drinkers, we rely heavily on kettles – whether that's to make a brew for yourself or for a crowd, or to use freshly boiled water to get dinner going. Kettles need to be more than just sturdy and reliable, they should also suit your kitchen. That might mean taking up minimal counter space or, for the design-conscious, matching the style and finish of your appliances. In our quest to find the best kettles we tested a wide range, from functional, affordable models to high-end, feature-packed options. Some light up and play meditative sounds as they boil (yes, really!) while others offer precise temperature control for green tea, coffee or even warming baby bottles. There’s something for everyone. Beyond looks and features, we considered packaging, size, weight, materials, boil time, water temperature, recyclability and sustainability during testing. So, whatever your priorities, you’ll find a kettle below that’s just your cup of tea. Those in hard-water areas should look for models with filters and consult our guide to descaling a kettle, as kettles can quickly show limescale build-up in the interior and around the spout. Remember, if you feel inspired by our choices and decide to splash out on a new kettle, read our notes on how to recycle your electricals and appliances before you say goodbye to your old model. View Affiliate Playlist on the source website Best kettles to buy at a glance 5/5 stars Best kettle for energy saving: Gastroback Design Cool Touch kettle, £78.93 Best retro kettle: Haden Highclere kettle, £44.99 Most stylish kettle: Swan Nordic jug kettle, £54.99 Best of the rest Best quality kettle: Sage the Soft Top Luxe, £119.95 Best premium kettle: Aarke kettle, £200 Best stainless-steel kettle: Bosch DesignLine kettle, £49.99 Best lightweight kettle: ProCook stainless-steel kettle, £59 Best kettle for a luxe look on a budget: Kenwood Dusk Collection kettle, £39.99 Best kettle for looks: De'Longhi Eclettica kettle, £49 Best kettle in matching set: Salter Pebble kettle, £37.99 Best kettle for a retro look: Tower Renaissance kettle, £59.99 Best kettle for a quiet boil: Russell Hobbs Calm kettle, £99 Best variable temperature kettles at a glance Best fast-boil kettle: Ninja Perfect Temperature kettle, £99.99 Best kettle for tea lovers: Russell Hobbs Attentiv, £46.99 Best colourful kettle: KitchenAid Variable Temperature kettle, £179 Best kettle for busy households: Bosch Styline kettle, £84 Best multi-function electric kettle: Zwilling Electric Pro kettle, £139 Jump to section: Best kettles to buy in 2025 Best variable temperature kettles How to choose the best kettle for your kitchen How to descale a kettle How we tested kettles We tested a representative sample of kettles and scored them on the following criteria: Good looks: Kettles live on worktops, so the one you buy might come down to the one you like the look of, and whether it will fit in with the style of your kitchen. Quality: Well-fitting lids, quality on switches and filters – we were looking for a kettle that feels like it would last. Speed: While speed might not be the deciding factor when choosing a kettle, for most of us, the quicker, the better. We poured a litre of water into each of the kettles – enough for four mugs – and got the stopwatch out. Ease of use: There’s no point having a beautiful kettle if it’s awkward to use. We looked for kettles that were simple to fill and pour, with a good grip and easy-to-read water levels. Value: We awarded extra points for those kettles that were great value for money. Best kettles to buy in 2025 Gastroback Design Cool Touch Kettle 62436 Available from Amazon (£78.93), Freemans (£79.99) Best kettle for energy saving Pros Saves on energy bills Cool touch for safety Very quiet Cons Water measurements on inside of kettle No limescale filter Star rating: 5/5 Wattage: 2200W Just watch that smart meter light up as you boil the kettle for one cuppa – it uses significant energy compared to other kitchen appliances. That being said, this model boils rapidly and has a ‘keep warm’ function to store water ready for your next drink in its double-walled chamber. We went back to the Gastroback 20 minutes after first boiling and still had a steaming hot mug of tea. With energy prices rocketing, we’d say it’s a smart long-term investment. The Gastroback Design Cool Touch is a good-looking kettle with a quality feel. It’s also very quiet, until it beeps a few times on boiling. The minimalist, brushed stainless steel casing is easy to wipe down, with no obvious finger marks showing between cleans. We also liked the steel accent ring on the base, which set it apart from basic models in the style stakes. With a soft-action pop-up lid activated by a recessed button, and glossy sensor-touch panel, it was functional, too, with the digital readout changing in 5C increments till we chose the perfect temperature for our needs from 35C to boiling point. undefined Haden Highclere kettle Available from Debenhams (£45), Robert Dyas (£44.99) Best retro kettle Pros: Ergonomic handle for easy lifting Stylish retro design All packaging could be recycled Boil-dry protection Cons: Metal on handle gets hot during use Star rating: 5/5 Wattage: 3000W Ideal for kitchens with a vintage aesthetic, this 1.5-litre kettle strikes a nice balance between sturdiness and style. It's available in both blue and cream, and the ergonomic handle across the top is a thoughtful feature that aids with pouring and filling. Be aware, though, that some parts of the handle are metal, which means they get very hot as the kettle boils. The water-level indicator is easy to read and located above the switch, with three markings for 500ml, 1 litre and 1.5 litres, plus the number of cups (from two to six). The switch illuminates in blue when the kettle is turned on, so we could clearly see when it had finished boiling too. While the Highclere isn't the fastest kettle we've tested, it's still relatively speedy and boiled 1.5 litres of water in 3 minutes and 9 seconds. It's also built with boil-dry protection, which means it will switch off if the power is on but no water is detected. You can also buy a matching toaster, which was awarded 4.5/5 stars by our expert reviews team. Cost to boil for 2 minutes: 1.6p undefined Swan Nordic jug kettle Available from Amazon (£37), Swan (£54.99) Most stylish kettle Pros: Attractive design Fast Cons: Limescale filter hard to remove Star rating: 5/5 Wattage: 3000W If you want a kettle that's striking and different, this Scandinavian-style Swan kettle is an elegant and streamlined appliance. The wood-effect handle is made of rubber and easy to grip, but obstructs the water level gauge behind it. However, the upright design of this kettle means that despite its 1.7 litre-capacity, it doesn't take up that much space on the worktop. It's also fairly efficient, taking 2 minutes and 24 seconds to boil a litre of water. Swan also sells a matching toaster and kettle and toaster set. Read our Swan Nordic kettle review. undefined Sage the Soft Top Luxe Available from Harts of Stur (£108.95), Amazon (£109.95), Sage (£119.95) Best kettle for quality Pros: Compact Sturdy, ergonomic handle Cordless base/fits into base nicely Quiet boil (compared to other models) Cons: Wide mouth/pour – might catch some users out Star rating: 4.5/5 Wattage: 2400W A seriously professional-looking (and functioning) kettle from Sage. It has one of the quietest boils of the kettles we tested, and it’s a well-thought-out model with an ergonomic handle and nice wide pour. As well as two glass displays, handily denoting max cup level (seven) on one side and max water level (1.7L) on the other, it also has a clear top, although this does get steamed up when the kettle boils. It’s not the fastest boil we tested, though also not the longest – but everything else about it, from the feel to the look to the materials, is exquisite. We liked how easily the kettle sits and locks into the base, and everything about it feels solid and well made. It’s also BPA-free. undefined Aarke kettle Available from Lakeland (£199.99), Amazon (£200) Best premium kettle Pros: Multiple heat settings Quiet boil function Stylish stainless-steel design Double-walled to keep water hotter for longer Cons: Hefty to lift Leaves visible fingerprint marks Difficult to see measurement markings Expensive Star rating: 4.5/5 Wattage: 1850-2200W A great pick for speciality tea drinkers, this sleek kettle comes with a range of temperature settings (40C, 85C, 95C and 100C) and looks attractive on the counter. It's heavy to lift even without any water in it, but it's otherwise easy to use and has a robust, quality design. One of the things we loved most about the Aarke is how quiet it is, and we could hold a conversation easily while it got to work. In terms of speed, it fared about average versus other models we've tested, boiling the maximum amount (1.2 litres) to 100C in three minutes. Thanks to the double-walled design, it also retains heat well. The minimum and maximum markings are located inside the kettle, which proved difficult to read, especially in low light. Its stainless-steel exterior is impressively shiny but susceptible to fingerprints, so will need wiping occasionally. Cost to boil for 2 minutes: 1.1p undefined Bosch DesignLine kettle Available from Hughes (£59), Currys (£59.99), John Lewis & Partners (£59.99) Best stainless steel kettle Pros: Sleek design Water-level window on both sides 1.7-litre capacity Cons: Lid doesn't open fully Difficult to read water level Star rating: 4.5/5 Wattage: 3000W If simplicity and reliability are what you're looking for in a kettle, this Bosch model is a solid choice that looks great on the counter too. It has a stylish stainless steel and brushed plastic design that slots nicely into a modern kitchen aesthetic. The big, chunky handle also helps with easy lifting and pouring, and there's an extra filter included too. The lid flips up but doesn't open as fully as needed, so we had to manually pull it open further before filling the kettle with water. The water-level indicator also doesn't light up so can be difficult to read, but there are windows on both sides with measurement markings for cups and millilitres. It was relatively noisy during use but we could still hold a conversation. The time it took to boil was about average versus the other models we tested, too, taking 3 minutes and 35 seconds to boil 1.7 litres of water. A matching toaster is also available, which our reviews team awarded 5/5 stars. Cost to boil for 2 minutes: 1.6p undefined ProCook Stainless Steel Kettle Available from ProCook (£59) Best lightweight kettle Pros: Very lightweight Compact Blue light on lever when boiling (which is helpful as it's quite quiet to begin with) Cons: Only displays litre level, not cups Star rating: 4/5 Wattage: 2520-3000W One of the more compact and slim kettles we tested, this model still has a 1.5L capacity, although it’s worth noting we found it to be quite noisy compared to other models. Its stainless steel finish is sleek and shiny, and it feels nice and lightweight to pick up. It’s straightforward to operate, and the water measurements are clear, although it would have been helpful to have cup measurements too. Handily, there’s a bright blue light that activates when the on/off lever is pressed, which is a helpful and thoughtful consideration, as the boil is quiet to begin with. Overall, it’s a robust model made with quality materials that feels reliable and is easy to use – we could see this lasting for a long time. undefined Kenwood Dusk Collection Kettle Available from Very (£39), Kenwood (£39.99) Best kettle for a luxe look on a budget Pros: Funky design Compact Attractive colourways Wide spout for easy pouring Clear water level and markings Cons: A little plasticky looking Star rating: 4/5 Wattage: 3000W This compact, colourful kettle (with matching toaster available) would make a fun addition to any kitchen. With an impressive 1.7L capacity – which equates to seven cups – it boils fairly rapidly at maximum capacity in just four minutes, so is suitable for those who like to regularly make a cuppa or host a crowd. It has a wide spout for easy pouring, an easy-to-click lever, and is straightforward to operate without the need to consult the manual. Overall, it’s a functional kettle for its price point, although aesthetically it runs the risk of looking slightly lower in quality than some other models on the market due to its plastic coating and glossy finish. undefined De’Longhi Eclettica Kettle Available from AO (£69) Best kettle for looks Pros Quirky design and colour Well-constructed Easy-to-clean, removable scale filter Cons Heavier than cheaper kettles Noisier than glass or steel models Star rating: 4/5 Wattage: 3000W We loved the look of this quirky number, with its wavy ‘saucer’ that attaches to the base for standout style in the crowded kettle market. Rather than a flip switch, this model has a traditional pull-off lid, and the handle feels solid and built to last years of sink refilling. Likewise, the silver ‘on’ lever was top quality and went down with a satisfying click. Although we found it fiddly to remove at first, the slide-out scale filter on the spout is a cinch to keep clean, as was the smooth, glossy casing and matt handle. We tested a Playful Pink version which even featured a tasteful light grey power cord and plug, but if Barbie brew-ups are not your bag, take a look at the white, beige and black alternatives in the Eclettica range. undefined Salter Pebble Kettle Available from Salter (£37.99), Amazon (£37.99), Currys (£37.99) Best kettle in matching set Pros Matching toaster and accessories available Boil-dry sensor for safety first Great price Cons Scale filter tricky to remove Some leaking from the lid at full capacity pouring Star rating: 4/5 Wattage: 3000W With open-plan living, it’s nice to have coordinating appliances on show. This cream kettle and toaster set would look stylish on any worktop with its brass-coloured accents. Salter also has a range of storage canisters for tea, coffee and sugar in the Pebble range, so if matching is your thing, this is a great choice. Easy to fill and use, we liked the chunky feel of this kettle, which is a straightforward model without complicated temperature variances or a keep-warm hotplate. We liked the fact its boil-dry sensor would activate if the kettle was accidentally turned on when empty. To keep check on levels, there’s a transparent water gauge. We also appreciated the interior limescale filter, though it was difficult to pull out, with no instructions in the manual. This model also comes in a charcoal colourway and can be bought as part of a matching set with the Salter Pebble toaster. undefined Tower Renaissance Kettle Available from Harts of Stur (£49.95), Tower (£59.99) Best kettle for a retro look Pros: Good price point Sleek Handy temp gauge on the front Fast boil and relatively quiet Cons: Tricky to see the water level Handle can be a little tough to remove Handle can get hot as it's located above lid Star rating: 4/5 Wattage: 3000W With a good price point and the promise of a fast and quiet boil, this kettle is an attractive option with a retro look. It’s also nice and compact, with the handle sitting snugly above the kettle. There’s a handy temperature gauge on the front, it comes in a choice of colours, and there’s the option of buying a matching kettle. Impressively, it can boil its maximum capacity (1.7L) in just four minutes and 10 seconds, and takes just one minute for its minimum level of 0.5L, so it’s ideal for those looking to regularly make a quick cuppa when time is of the essence. That said, we did find the temperature gauge and water levels hard to read, and perhaps the biggest drawback with the handle sitting above the kettle lid is that you can’t immediately remove the lid or open the kettle to refill without burning your hand. We also found the handle a little tough to remove at times, and can anticipate limescale potentially building up on the lid – but that’s conjecture rather than our experience. undefined Russell Hobbs Calm Kettle Available from Russell Hobbs (£99.99), Currys (£99.99), Argos (£100) Best kettle for a quiet boil Pros: Sturdy handle and pour Variable temperature (from 40-100C) – great for baby food Relaxing to watch the kettle boil/change colour Keep-warm setting keeps water at 90C for 15 minutes once boiled Cons: Large base, UFO-like Hard to see the digital display in sunshine Music can feel a little gimmicky Star rating: 3.5/5 Wattage: 3000W An innovative and unique kettle, the Russell Hobbs Calm Kettle plays relaxing, meditative music and changes colour while boiling. And it’s not just for show: it has a rapid boil, heating up the maximum level of one cup of water to 100℃ in just 50 seconds, and the maximum level in five minutes. We loved the frosted glass finish of the kettle and the fact that it’s entirely see-through, and genuinely found watching (and hearing) the water boil relaxing. Functionally, it has a sturdy handle and good pour, and the variable temperature settings (from 40℃-100℃) mean it can be used for a variety of purposes, including heating baby milk. Handily, it also has a ‘keep-warm’ setting, keeping water at 90℃ for 15 minutes once boiled. In terms of drawbacks, it does come with a large base, so make sure you have decent counter space available. We also found it hard to see the digital display in the sunshine. Some may find the music gimmicky, but we’ll emphasise 'some' here as we loved it, and the music is also optional. undefined Best variable temperature kettles Ninja Perfect Temperature Kettle Rapid Boil Available from Ninja (£99.99), Very (£59) Best for pre-set temperature settings Pros: Six pre-set temperatures Rapid boil mode for a single cup in under 60 seconds Unique audible alert for end-boil Clear temperature climb Cons: Audible end-boil alert can't be turned off Score: 5/5 Wattage: 3000W Ninja's kettle has a lot to offer for the price-point. The selectable variety of temperatures on offer spans 60-100 degrees C; a feature perfect for getting the most out of speciality teas and coffee and will be popular if your household drinks a variety of hot beverages. It's also an efficient tactic for such a high-wattage appliance, meaning you don't have to reach a full-boil for every mug. The temperature is tracked on the digital display while the water heats and there's an audible tone as a notification of kettle finishing that's the same as other Ninja appliances. This isn't possible to turn off which is tricky if you're making late-night cuppas, but is the loudest part of the kettle, which boils relatively quietly. For the price, you get a lot for your money from this kettle. Ninja also sells a matching toaster. undefined Russell Hobbs Attentiv Available from Argos (£75), Very (£70), Amazon (£46.99) Best kettle for tea lovers Pros Great for making tea to your taste Very good quality Variable temperatures Cons Base has a large footprint on counter tops Control’s electronic beeps may annoy Star rating: 5/5 Wattage: 3000W This is a kettle with a difference as it has a removable basket for loose leaves if you’re not a fan of tea bags or love herbal infusions. Once infused, use the handle to remove the insert and it will keep tea at your desired temperature for up to 30 minutes. It’s perfect for refills after that first delicious cup of the day. The ‘Steep Timer’ function can also be programmed to remember a particular setting for your preferred brew. The Attentiv’s touchscreen controls let you choose anything between 40-100C and it has a speedy, quiet boil. Use the chunky dial on the control base to wind the temperature reading up or down, press start and the digital reading will increase as the kettle does its thing. There’s a toaster and coffee maker in the high-tech Attentiv range, too. undefined KitchenAid Digital Variable Temperature Kettle Available from KitchenAid (£179) Best colourful kettle Pros: Attractive design Intuitive controls Range of temperature controls Cons: Expensive Star rating: 4.5/5 Wattage: 2400W This is an elegant, compact kettle that comes in a range of KitchenAid's bright colours to add an eye-catching feature to your kitchen. There's a choice of temperatures between 50C and 100C with an easy-to-move lever and light up display to help indicate your choice. While the price is certainly a premium one the look and feel of the kettle reflects it, with a sleek finish on the body and matte handle. The water boiled fairly quickly, and we like how the safety features prevent you from boiling less than the minimum level. You can also buy a matching toaster with this kettle, which our reviews team rated 4.5/5. undefined Bosch Styline Kettle Available from Amazon (£84), Bosch (£84.99) Best kettle for busy households Pros: Four temp settings (70, 80, 90, 100, plus keep-warm) Sturdy handle and base Good quality materials Cons: Cup/water level slightly obscured by handle Star rating: 4.5/5 Wattage: 3000W This sleek and stylish kettle is helpfully intuitive. With four different temperature settings (70℃, 80℃, 90℃ and 100℃) plus a handy ‘keep-warm’ setting, it’s an ideal kettle for those with different beverage needs, from herbal tea drinkers to coffee aficionados. You can tell it’s made from good materials, and the sturdy handle feels ergonomic to hold. From a safety perspective, helpfully there’s an off/on button for added security and the kettle beeps when it has boiled. Boiling is swift – just three minutes for maximum capacity (six cups/1.5 litres) at 100℃ and a mere thirty seconds for one cup. In terms of drawbacks, the cup/litre measurements are slightly obscured by the handle, but the display is nice and wide to see the water level nonetheless. But you just can’t beat the boil speed. undefined Zwilling Electric Pro Kettle Available from Zwilling (£139) Best multi-function electric kettle Pros: Dedicated setting for boiling baby bottles Cons: Unsure if boiling (temp flashes when boiling) Tall kettle – we struggled to fill it to max in our sink Can't see water level from the outside Struggled to use it without manual Star rating: 4.5/5 Wattage: 1850W One of the many benefits of an electric kettle is the faster boiling times and variable settings, and this sophisticated model can heat water to 40℃, 60℃, 70℃, 80℃ and over 90℃ for coffee. It’s a sleek and functional model with a secure lid and an overall modern and impressive look. It has an easy-to-use interface with the different temperatures clearly marked. Given its range of functionalities, it would suit busy households/large families with different tastes in hot drinks, or those with growing families as it has a dedicated setting for boiling babies’ bottles. We did find it hard to notice when the kettle was boiling – besides a small flashing icon – and the measurement levels are on the inside of the kettle, which can make it hard to determine the water level. The kettle is also surprisingly tall and we struggled to fit it under our tap to fill it to the top. Overall, we were impressed with its quiet boil and multitude of functions. While not the quickest it can still boil 10 cups in five minutes, so it would be great for an office or busy workspace, too. Available from: Zwilling (£139) Other kettles tried and tested Bosch Styline kettle review, £85 Zwilling Enfinigy review, £89.95 Breville high gloss electric kettle review, £44 Russell Hobbs Structure kettle review, £31.58 Dualit Classic Kettle review, £150 Bosch Silicone kettle review, £79.99 Morphy Richards Verve kettle review, £42.06 Smeg KLF04 kettle review, £170 Morphy Richards Hive kettle review, £34.99 Sage the Compact Kettle review, £69.95 KitchenAid Artisan kettle review, £199 Kenwood elegancy kettle review, £39.99 How to choose the best kettle for your kitchen Unsure what to look for when choosing your kettle? We've summarised the main features you should consider: Classic or multifunctional If you just want a kettle that boils water, you’re spoilt for choice. If you’re a lover of fine teas, some of which brew better at lower temperatures, you might want one that enables you to select the temperature. This option can also suit parents making hot drinks for children. Some kettles also have a 'keep warm' function, which is useful if you don’t all want your tea at the same time. Capacity A smaller kettle may be good for a single person or small household to avoid the temptation of overfilling. Each of the models we tested also came with bases, which can widen the footprint of the appliance on your countertop too. Style Classic, old-fashioned, shaker, trendy, futuristic – there’s a kettle for you whatever type of kitchen you have. While most modern kettles are jug-style, taking up less space on the worktop, there are plenty of pyramid kettles on the market if you prefer one of those. All the kettles we tested sat on a base that plugged into the mains, and all had auto-switch off. Lid Flick up or pull off? If you like to operate your kettle with one hand, you might prefer one where you just press a button to lift the lid. Some people would rather have one where the lid comes off completely. Speed If you want a quick break from work, you might appreciate a kettle that is a minute or so quicker. Noise Some people want their kettle to be as unobtrusive as possible, and certainly not loud enough to drown out the radio or music. But if you like to flick on the kettle, then go off into a different room while it boils, you might like one that’s a bit louder, so you can hear when it clicks off. Price You might be surprised at how cheap – or expensive – a kettle can be. Our samples range from £22.99 to £149. Best kettles for hard water In areas of hard water, there's usually a faster build-up of limescale inside kettles, particularly around the element. To avoid getting limescale in your tea, you want a kettle that has a robust and finely meshed filter inside the spout that's also easy to remove. How to descale a kettle It's the age-old question of kettle maintenance – how do you get rid of a build-up of limescale? We recommend using vinegar, which is a common household ingredient that works as a gentle acid to break down deposits inside your kettle. Add half a cup of neat white vinegar to a kettle filled with water and leave it to sit overnight – this should remove any surface scale. Try to do this regularly to avoid heavy build-up that becomes impossible to remove. Related reviews Best air fryers Best coffee machines Best bean-to-cup coffee machines Best espresso machines Best coffee pod machines Best filter coffee machines Best milk frothers Best toasters Best food processors Best blenders Best soup makers Best slow cookers Best microwaves Best multi-cookers Best herbal teas Kitchen appliance deals Air fryer deals Coffee machine deals Microwave deals Fridge freezer deals Dishwasher deals Stand mixer deals Pizza oven deals Breadmaker deals All costs-to-run calculations were done against the variable tariff at the time of testing, which has since changed – read more on the current energy price guarantee rates. If you have any questions, suggestions for future reviews or spot anything that has changed in price or availability, please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk.
8 diets nutritionists say you should NEVER follow
From cabbage diets to celery juice cleanses, discover what two top nutritionists have to say about some of the most popular fad diets
Whether you’re looking to consume more protein, gain more energy, live longer or lose some weight, there’s a diet that claims to help you reach your goal. We’re all after a quick fix or magic bullet superfood that can help shortcut the calorie-counting and meal planning that are generally required for improving our eating habits. There are also plenty of celebrities and influencers who laud certain diets as being the secret to impressive bodily transformations. But, the effects – or their ability to stick to these regimes – don’t always turn out to be long-lasting. To help you sort fact from fiction and avoid potentially dangerous ‘secret ingredients’ or eating plans, two top nutritionists share their thoughts on some of the most popular fad diets. They also advise on ways to approach weight loss mindfully without having to down endless vats of celery juice or cabbage soup. Phew! Alkaline diet In a nutshell, the alkaline diet promotes the intake of ‘alkaline’ foods, such as fruit, vegetables, legumes and nuts, and the reduction of ‘acidic’ foods, such as meat, eggs and alcohol, with the aim being to change the body’s PH levels. “It encourages fruit and vegetable consumption and limits processed foods, but the body regulates pH independently, so the diet's premise is flawed,” says Eli Brecher, a registered associate nutritionist (ANutr) specialising in gut health and host of The Gut 360 podcast. “And, it may lead to unnecessary food restrictions and nutritional imbalances.” “The fundamental premise that food can significantly change your blood pH is not scientifically supported. Your body naturally maintains pH balance regardless of diet,” agrees qualified nutritional therapist and author Rosie Millen (@missnutritionist). Cabbage soup diet Not a diet that promotes much variety, the cabbage soup diet consists of eating cabbage soup for a week alongside select additions, such as fruit and milk. Supporters claim to be able to lose up to 10 pounds in just seven days while following it, but these claims are unsubstantiated. “Cabbage is certainly nutritious – it's packed with vitamin C, fibre and antioxidants that support the immune system and digestive health,” explains Rosie. “The diet can lead to fast initial weight loss, but it’s primarily water weight being lost, rather than sustainable fat loss.” Nor is the weight loss sustained, says Rosie: “It’s far too restrictive to be sustainable or healthy. It deprives your body of the essential nutrients, proteins and healthy fats needed to function properly, and this extreme calorie restriction can lead to muscle loss, metabolism slow down and nutritional deficiencies. Plus, once you return to normal eating, the weight typically returns quickly, creating that frustrating yo-yo effect.” HCG diet Also known as human chorionic gonadotropin, HCG is a protein-based hormone produced by the body during pregnancy. It also happens to be the hormone that determines a positive or negative pregnancy test. But, rather than needing to fall pregnant to experience its full benefits, the HCG diet recommends taking hormone injections alongside a reduced calorie intake of approximately 500 calories a day in order to experience its purported weight loss benefits (which can apparently be up to two pounds a day.) “I struggle to find legitimate pros to the HCG diet,” warns Rosie. “While people do lose weight following it, this is due to the extreme calorie restriction (often 500-800 calories daily), rather than any special effect of the HCG hormone. The severe calorie restriction is simply unsafe and unsustainable. It can lead to muscle loss, nutritional deficiencies, gallstones and metabolic damage. The HCG hormone injections or supplements have not been proven effective for weight loss and aren't approved by regulatory authorities for this purpose, either.” Master Cleanse Given Beyoncé is said to have followed a variation of the so-called "Master Cleanse" – which involves drinking a concoction of lemon juice, maple syrup, cayenne pepper and water – it’s hardly surprising that many eager to shed some pounds have looked to follow in her footsteps. “While it may lead to rapid short-term weight loss due to extreme calorie restriction,” says Eli, “it deprives the body of essential nutrients. It can also cause muscle loss, fatigue and dizziness, and may slow metabolism, making long-term weight management harder.” Zero-sugar diet If you regularly find yourself reaching for the sweet stuff come the post-afternoon slump, you may be tempted to cut out sugar altogether – especially if there are added slimming benefits, too. “Reducing added sugar has legitimate health benefits,” explains Rosie. “It can help stabilise blood sugar levels, reduce inflammation, improve dental health and decrease the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and type-2 diabetes.” However, problems can arise when "zero sugar" is taken to the extreme, such as eliminating naturally occurring sugars in fruits, vegetables and dairy. “These foods contain essential nutrients, fibre and antioxidants that are crucial for overall health. Some very strict no-sugar approaches can lead to nutrient deficiencies and an unsustainable, restrictive relationship with food. The key is balance, not complete elimination.” Carnivore diet This eating plan has become popular in part due to the idea that it’s a ‘natural’ way of eating. Also known as the Caveman Diet, it recommends excluding fruit, vegetables, grains, nuts, seeds and legumes in favour of meat, eggs, seafood and select dairy products. While there are undoubtedly benefits to the diet – such as high protein and fat consumption, which can promote satiety, and a reduced intake of processed foods – the diet lacks the fibre, vitamins and antioxidants found in plant foods, and may increase the risk of digestive issues, heart disease and nutrient deficiencies, says Eli. Celery juice diet It’s easy to see why a celery juice diet may appeal – after all, who doesn’t feel pious after downing a vibrant energy-boosting juice in the morning? But, while juices are a fantastic way of boosting your fruit and veg consumption, drinking 475ml every morning – as recommended by supporters of the diet – is more extreme. “Celery does have some nutritional benefits,” says Rosie. “It's hydrating and low in calories, and contains vitamins K and C, plus potassium and antioxidants. However, despite claims made on social media, celery juice is not the miracle cure it's often portrayed to be – there's limited scientific evidence to support many of the claimed benefits. Plus, relying primarily on celery juice means you’re missing out on essential nutrients, proteins and healthy fats. Juicing also removes any beneficial fibre from the celery.” Whole30 The aim of the Whole30 – where foods such as grains, dairy and sugar are eliminated for 30 days before being introduced again – is to identify allergens and sensitivities, but many also follow it in the hopes of shedding some pounds. But, what do nutritionists have to say about it, and is it as 'whole' as it purports to be? “Whole30 does have some noteworthy benefits,” says Rosie. “It encourages eating whole, unprocessed foods and eliminates common inflammatory foods such as sugar, dairy, grains and alcohol. Many people report improved energy levels, better sleep, clearer skin and reduced bloating.” However, while not necessarily labelling it as "bad", the Whole30 diet can be restrictive and socially isolating, says Rosie. “The all-or-nothing approach doesn't teach sustainable moderation skills, and the rigid rules can foster an unhealthy relationship with food. Nutritionally, the diet also restricts healthy food groups such as legumes and whole grains, which provide essential nutrients and fibre.” So, how should I eat healthily? If fad diets aren’t the magic key to weight loss, what do nutritionists recommend as a long-term and sustainable solution? It all comes down to having a balanced diet that's “rich in whole foods, lean proteins, healthy fats and fibre,” combined with sustainable lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and mindful eating, recommends Eli. Rosie also cites hydration, quality sleep, stress management and consistency as being key. “The truth is, none of these fad diets teach us sustainable habits,” she says. “I've always found my clients achieve the best long-term results when they focus on building a balanced, nutrient-dense diet that works with their lifestyle, rather than against it.” Read more: All you need to know about diets Celebrity diets explained by experts What is the Blue Zones diet? What is the 80/20 rule diet? All health content on goodfood.com is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. If you have any concerns about your general health, you should contact your local health care provider. See our website terms and conditions for more information.
Lakeland tabletop blender with grinder review
Fast, effective, and with a range of blending speeds to choose from, this Lakeland blender has plenty to offer – and at a great price, too.
Lakeland tabletop blender with grinder at a glance The combination of a stainless-steel base and grinder, coupled with the thick glass jug makes this one sturdy blender. And what it may be lacking in looks, it makes up for in function, working as a multipurpose blender and grinder, all for a great price. Read our full guide to the best blenders. How easy is the Lakeland tabletop blender with grinder to use? It takes a minute to figure out how to lock the jug or grinder onto the base and position the lids correctly, but after that, it’s all very intuitive. The buttons are illuminated with blue lights, but these don’t switch off unless you switch it off at the wall, which could be annoying if you plan on leaving it permanently plugged in. Like all glass blender jugs, it’s heavy to lift, but on the plus side it can be placed on the base with the handle to either side to make for easier lifting no matter which is your dominant hand. Suction cups on the feet hold it to the counter, but there’s no safety feature to stop you switching it on without the lid in place. Results The 60-second ice crush programme is slow, but it gets the job done and we like that the texture of the ice isn’t too fine and powdery, making it ideal for frozen margaritas. At max speed it’s powerful enough to puree a tomato sauce in under 30 seconds. But the 60-second smoothie programme is noisy, and our results were hit and miss. It was effective at pulverising raw beetroot, carrot, and kale, but we had to stop it four times to stir a yoghurt and frozen berry smoothie as it was only blending the stuff at the bottom of the jug. For grinding spices, we favoured the pulse button so we could check the grind size regularly, but it only takes a few pulses to grind anything from cinnamon sticks to peppercorns. Smells don’t linger in the stainless steel grinder, so you can switch from coffee to spices with just a thorough wash in between, plus it has a great capacity. We managed to grind 200g coffee beans in one go, in just 30 seconds on low speed, but we did notice the grinds were a tad warm at the end, which isn’t ideal. How sustainable is the Lakeland tabletop blender with grinder? We were disappointed to find big chunks of polystyrene in the box. But in terms of sustainability, this is an appliance that’s built to last, and just in case it doesn’t there’s a three-year guarantee. Lakeland tabletop blender with grinder summary None of the parts are dishwasher-safe, but thankfully the main jug disassembles so you can clean it thoroughly. We think this robust blender and grinder represents great value for money. Lakeland tabletop blender with grinder specifications Warranty: 3 years Blade material: Stainless steel Speed settings: 16 speeds, pulse, smoothie, ice-crushing Jug capacity: 1.5 litre Wattage: 1200W Product weight: 5.5kg Additional attachments: Grinder Recipes and tips Homemade tomato sauce recipe Super berry smoothie More gadget reviews Best espresso machines Best coffee machines Best cafetières Best coffee grinders Best coffee gadgets Best toasters Best bullet blenders Best bread makers Best food processors Visit our reviews section This review was last updated in August 2022. If you have any questions, suggestions for future reviews or spot anything that has changed in price or availability please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk.
Lightweight and easy to use, this simple Kenwood blender is ideal for casual use and makes delicious frozen berry smoothies.
Kenwood Blend-X Fresh blender at a glance If you’re looking for a no-frills blender that’s lightweight and easy to move in and out of the cupboard, the Kenwood Blend-X is worth considering. The plastic jug isn’t as hardwearing as some we’ve reviewed, but for simple blending tasks, that doesn’t matter. It’s available in black or white and there are no additional accessories included, so your cupboards won’t be cluttered with parts that you don’t use. Read our full guide to the best blenders. How easy is the Kenwood Blend-X Fresh blender to use? The jug can’t go in the dishwasher, but the blade assembly unscrews from the bottom so it’s easy to give it a thorough clean. And the 1.5-litre working capacity is plenty for most people blending needs. If you’re looking to blend big pans of soup though, you’ll have to do it in batches. You’ll also have to wait for it to cool as the instruction booklet says not to blend anything that’s above room temperature. With just three speeds and a pulse setting, all selected via the main dial, it’s very intuitive to use. There’s an additional ice crush button that should be operated in short bursts, like a pulse button. It took a whole minute of pressing and releasing it to crush six ice cubes, which is the maximum amount of ice allowed, the crushed texture was good though. Results We used the maximum speed setting for a root vegetable and kale smoothie, and it was completely blitzed in just 30 seconds. A thick yoghurt and frozen berry smoothie posed more of a challenge though, and we had to stop it to stir the mixture three times during the 60 second blend. It made short work of tomato sauce though, blitzing it to a smooth consistency in just 15 seconds. Suction cups on the feet keep it stuck to the counter during use, but young cooks will need supervision as it lacks any safety features to stop it being switched on without the lid in place. The lid twists easily into position and has a removable cap for adding ingredients, but it doesn’t have a tight seal, so you’ll need to make sure you don’t over fill it. How sustainable is the Kenwood Blend-X Fresh blender? It came with minimal plastic in the box, and most of the packaging was recyclable cardboard. And there’s a 12-month warranty should anything go wrong, although the manual also gives contact details for servicing, spare parts and repairs in or out of the warranty period. Kenwood Blend-X Fresh blender summary This basic blender is ideal for occasional or light use, it won’t blow the budget and it copes well with most tasks. Warranty: 1 year Blade material: stainless steel Speed settings: Three speeds, pulse, ice crushing Jug capacity / working capacity: 1.5 litre Wattage: 650W Product weight: 1.96kg Additional attachments: None Recipes and tips Homemade tomato sauce recipe Super berry smoothie More gadget reviews Best espresso machines Best coffee machines Best cafetières Best coffee grinders Best coffee gadgets Best toasters Best bullet blenders Best bread makers Best food processors Visit our reviews section This review was last updated in August 2022. If you have any questions, suggestions for future reviews or spot anything that has changed in price or availability please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk.
A great quality blender at a decent price, this Nutribullet model has three powerful blend settings and is wonderfully easy to use.
Nutribullet blender at a glance On first impressions, the Nutribullet blender has quite a compact base, but a large jug that’s roomy enough for most batches of sauce or soup. Available from Amazon (£80.99), Nutribullet (£99.99) Setting it up and getting to grips with using it required very little help from the manual; it’s all very straightforward. There are three buttons, low speed, high speed, and pulse as well as an on/off switch. There are some thoughtful design features considering it’s a relatively budget model, including the four-suction cup feet to keep it in place. Additionally, the jug can be put on the base with the handle on either side, so it’s perfect for households with both right and left-handed cooks. Read our full guide to the best blenders. How easy is the Nutribullet blender to use? There isn't a recipe book included and the manual only offers limited advice on which speed is best for different foods. But with so few settings, it’s easy to work out. The lid pushes securely onto the top of the jug and has a large ring to make removing it easy. It features a removable lid cap to allow you to insert the tamper when things need a stir, or to pour in extra ingredients while it blends. Unfortunately, the blender will run without the lid in place so if safety features are high on your priority list, you might be better off choosing a different blender. But at least the dishwasher safe jug means you can avoid putting your hands close to the blades when it comes to cleaning. Results Impressively, this blender was able to crush a whole tray of ice cubes to a super fine powder that was almost snow-like in consistency, in just 25 seconds. Our frozen berry smoothie took one minute and we had to give it a stir halfway through, but the results were great, with just a slight grittiness remaining from the seeds. Hard fibrous carrot and beetroot posed no challenge for it – the ingredients were almost fully pulverised in one minute, though it did wobble slightly during blending. Tomato sauce was smooth and lump free in just 30 seconds. How sustainable is the Nutribullet blender? Looking at sustainability, thankfully most of the packaging was recyclable cardboard, with just a few plastic bags included. But should it break, you can’t buy a replacement jug online and the warranty is a worryingly short 30 days. Nutribullet blender summary Overall, while it might not have the look or feel of an expensive blender, it’s good value with a decent size jug and can blitz through anything you throw at it. Nutribullet blender specifications Warranty: 30 days Blade material: Stainless steel Speed settings: Low, high, and pulse Jug capacity: 1.6 litre Wattage: 1000W Product weight: 4.6kg Additional attachments: Tamper Recipes and tips Homemade tomato sauce recipe Super berry smoothie More gadget reviews Best espresso machines Best coffee machines Best cafetières Best coffee grinders Best coffee gadgets Best toasters Best bullet blenders Best bread makers Best food processors Visit our reviews section This review was last updated in August 2022. If you have any questions, suggestions for future reviews or spot anything that has changed in price or availability please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk.
Looking for the functionality of a food processor in a smaller appliance? This Tefal mini chopper might be the product for you.
Tefal Five Second chopper summary Power usage aside, there are many benefits to opting for a manual device over an electric one, not least that you can use it wherever you fancy in the kitchen, and wash the model thoroughly without worrying about the cable. Of course, a manual product does require a little more ‘work’ on the user’s behalf, but this lightweight model from Tefal is easy to operate thanks to its efficient pull cord, and blitzes ingredients to a good standard considering no electricity is required. It’s also impressively robust. On top of herbs and softer veg, it is able to take on foods such as boneless meats and nuts, although for thorough, precise and uniformly consistent results, you may want a more advanced model, or one powered by electricity. Read our round-up of the best mini choppers How is the Tefal Five Second chopper to use? Considering this is a manual machine, it’s remarkably straightforward to use, and will definitely save you time in the kitchen, particularly as no elaborate set-up is needed. It’s able to splice and dice ingredients – lifting and pulling the handle triggers two independent stainless-steel rotor blades and a plastic blade – it certainly impresses. If you want a large dice, or for food such as breadcrumbs to be broken up into medium-sized pieces, just a couple of tugs of the handle are required. A finer dice requires additional pulls – which is what we did to chop onion and parsley, and to make a salsa. Handily, you can see how finely your ingredients are being chopped through the glass bowl. Overall, we noticed it fared slightly better when finely dicing ingredients – such as onions – while medium-sized ingredients such as breadcrumbs were slightly less uniform. The ergonomic handle is comfortable to hold, and we were impressed to see that the chopper didn’t slip across the worktop while in operation. The fact that it can be cleaned easily is also a plus, with both the bowl and blades being dishwasher-safe. Verdict It may not be the most advanced model on the market, but what it lacks in power it makes up for in portability, compactness, ease of use and price. It’s a great model if you’re looking to experiment with a chopper for the first time. Depending on the size of your household and your requirements, the Tefal Five Second chopper comes in both 500ml and 900ml versions – we found the 900ml model an ideal size for a family. Overall, this is a thorough chopper, but if you’re looking for a device which will take on additional tasks, you may wish to consider a cord chopper, or mini food processor. Tefal Five Second chopper specifications Components: 900ml bowl, blade, lid and handle Dimensions: 13.7 x 13.7 x 14.4cm Speed settings: one speed Motor: n/a Colours: green Related reviews The best food processors The best blenders The best pestle and mortars The best knife sets This review was last updated in December 2020. If you have any questions, suggestions for future reviews or spot anything that has changed in price or availability, please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk.
KitchenAid cordless electric mini chopper review
A mini chopper is great for smaller kitchens and budgets. Read our review of this model from KitchenAid.
KitchenAid cordless electric mini chopper summary One of the only cordless models we tested, the Kitchenaid chopper needs to be charged for up to two hours before it can be used cordless. It claims to be able to chop up to 40 onions in that time. It’s relatively lightweight, compact, and small enough to keep out on the countertop, or to stow away without taking up too much space. It’s also straightforward to use, offering one-touch operation via the power button on the top, and the speed controller dial on its side. It also has the benefit of having a choice of two speed settings, and it can pulse, which means it can really get to work when making breadcrumbs, blitzing parsley stalks or taking on tougher ingredients such as meat and nuts. Available from KitchenAid (£119) Read our round-up of the best mini choppers How is the KitchenAid mini chopper to use? Considering how compact and relatively lightweight this mini chopper is, it’s powerful and efficient. We found it to be a great mid-size model – large enough to make family-sized portions, but not too big that it takes up precious countertop real estate or cupboard space. It was just as adept at chopping onions as it was blitzing parsley, breadcrumbs, and puréeing a salsa, and we appreciated the inclusion of an additional whisking tool which can help with making mayonnaise, sauces etc. The size of the drizzle cap on the top of the lid lets it down a little. While this is handy for adding liquids, such as slowly pouring in olive oil for mayonnaise, it's wide opening means it's easy to accidentally add too much liquid at one go. The lid can also be slightly fiddly to fit and remove, but once mastered, wasn't a problem. The fact it’s cordless definitely has benefits, the stow away capabilities of the cord means that it takes up less space, and the food chopper can be moved around the kitchen as per your demands. Plus, the bowl, lid, whisking accessory, drive adaptor and blade are all dishwasher-friendly (top rack only). Verdict Overall, it’s a top-notch model that can take on a variety of tasks in the kitchen, while being small and portable enough to leave out on the countertop. Available from KitchenAid (£119) KitchenAid cordless mini chopper specifications Components: 830ml BPA free plastic bowl, power unit, instruction manual Dimensions: 22.2cm x17.8cm x 14.3cm Speed settings: 2 variable speeds, plus pulse function Motor: 240W Colours: red or matte black Related reviews The best food processors The best blenders The best pestle and mortars The best knife sets This review was last updated in December 2020. If you have any questions, suggestions for future reviews or spot anything that has changed in price or availability, please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk.
This mini chopper from Cuisinart has lots of the functions of a larger food processor. Read our expert review to see how it stood up to our tests.
Cuisinart Mini Prep Pro summary The Cuisinart Mini Prep Pro’s 900ml bowl capacity is bigger than most models we tested, making it a great contender for a large household, or for batch cooking or prepping in advance. Given all of its capabilities, the Cuisinart Mini Prep Pro really is a powerhouse and indispensable kitchen gadget if you’re a keen cook. Latest Deals Read our round-up of the best mini choppers Cuisinart Mini Prep Pro first impressions It comes with a dual blade – one blade is curved and sharp for chopping and mixing, the other is flatter and more blunt for tasks such as grinding. To operate, just hold down one of the two control switches for the desired length of time. The ‘chop’ setting can be used for chopping, puréeing and mixing, while the ‘grind’ setting is useful for chopping harder foods. When using the ‘chop’ setting, it’s best to pulse the ingredients. A couple of pulses is usually enough, while a continuous hold action (but no longer than 20 seconds at a time) is advised for the ‘grind’ setting – with little pulses in between for consistent results. How is the Cuisinart Mini Prep Pro to use? It produced very consistently diced onion, achieved through a series of pulses, and it took on parsley and salsa equally well. Breadcrumbs less so. Overall though, it chops and dices beautifully, and didn’t slip on the surface when we operated it. Getting it set up and locked into place can take time. The bowl must be securely locked into position to operate, a handy safety mechanism that can be a tad fiddly to get the hang of. The handle must also be situated above the control panel and locked into place before it will operate. The accompanying booklet comes with handy instructions for how to process all manner of ingredients, from anchovies and bacon to coffee beans and nuts. The device also comes with a spatula, which is useful for scraping ingredients off the side of the bowl between pulses, or for scooping ingredients out from the bowl. Verdict With its ability to process harder ingredients such as nuts, coffee beans and cinnamon sticks, this model certainly feels more like a mini food processor than just a chopper. Its advanced capabilities are certainly impressive, but may be lost on those looking for a straightforward model. Given its capabilities, it is surprisingly compact. Aesthetics-wise, it’s nice enough to want to keep out on the counter, but equally can be stowed away without taking up too much space. Latest Deals Cuisinart Mini Prep Pro specifications Components: 900ml capacity bowl and lid, dual blade, power base, spatula, booklet Dimensions: 23 x 13.5 x 18.2 cm Speed settings: ‘chop’ and ‘grind’ settings Motor: 250W Colours: silver, frosted pearl, vintage rose Related reviews The best food processors The best blenders The best pestle and mortars The best knife sets This review was last updated in December 2020. If you have any questions, suggestions for future reviews or spot anything that has changed in price or availability, please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk.
Mini choppers operate like food processors and whizz up ingredients in moments. Read our review of this version from appliance brand, Ninja.
Ninja professional chopper summary In terms of setting up, this was one of the easiest mini choppers to put together, taking a matter of minutes from unboxing to operating. It functions with a simple one-touch push of the button on top of the power unit. We found it chopped, minced and puréed consistently, and with ease. Latest Deals Read our round-up of the best mini choppers How is the Ninja professional chopper to use? This is the only model we tested which comes with an additional bowl and lid for storing any ingredients you have chopped, or pastes and pestos you have made. This means you have two 500ml bowls that can stack on top of each other in the fridge. If you’re short on space, you could even use them as storage, even if you're not using the chopper. While a 500ml capacity bowl is larger than some models we tested, the accompanying lids make it suitable for smaller or single households too – if you make too much, it's easy to store the leftovers. It was also one of only two mini choppers we tested to have four blades. The device features a relatively chunky and heavy hand-held power pod which means you can blend your ingredients with one hand once it has locked into place. The lids for each container have a small flip lid, which the base unit fits into. Once you’ve finished pulsing, which is simply a case of pushing down the unit into the hole, you can flip the lid so that it’s covered and ready for storage. Despite being in the mid-price range of the models we tested, it made the best breadcrumbs. It also tackled onion, parsley and a salsa with ease – we definitely noticed how effective the four blades, rather than the typical two, were. Conveniently, all removable parts are dishwasher-safe. Because the bowls have slight ridges on them, food can get stuck – it would have benefitted from providing a spatula. Verdict Overall, if you’re looking for finely, consistently chopped ingredients, this is perfect. If you're after a chunkier chop, you may want to go for a less powerful model/one with just two blades. This is a well-thought out, affordable machine, which ticks all of the boxes. We recommend exercising caution when handling the four-point blade though, it’s incredibly sharp. Latest Deals Ninja professional chopper specifications Components: two sealable and stackable containers with lid, four blades, power unit, instruction manual Dimensions: 14 x 14 x 25cm Speed settings: one speed Motor: 200w Colours: black Related reviews The best food processors The best blenders The best pestle and mortars The best knife sets This review was last updated in December 2020. If you have any questions, suggestions for future reviews or spot anything that has changed in price or availability, please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk.