CINDY ELLEN RUSSELL / CRUSSELL@STARADVERTISER.COM
The TouCan clamps onto the lid from the outside, cutting under the lip of the lid and removing the whole cover so there are no sharp edges.
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The TouCan boasts of being the world’s easiest hands-free can opener — “no razor-sharp edges on can or lid!” — which means no accidental cuts when removing lids from canned goods. The packaging also promises to open “all size cans” and be “fast and easy!”
Manufacturer: As Seen on TV’s Telebrands
How it works: After inserting four AA batteries under the cover, slide the rim of a can between the cutting blade and wheel so the gadget sits across the top of the can. Push the white button and wait until the TouCan moves a full 360 degrees. Press the button again to stop the device. A magnetic piece on the underside of the can opener is supposed to lift the lid from the can.
Does it work?: Yes, except that the lid did not lift off. I thought this was because the top was still attached, so I repeated the cutting step a couple more times. Finally I realized the TouCan had cut around the lid, but the magnetic piece wasn’t strong enough to detach the lid. I had to use my fingers.
Pros: The cut lids are smooth (I tried running my fingers along the edges — no cuts). Fits in a drawer. The instructions say the TouCan can also be used to open jars and remove bottle caps, but I didn’t test that.
Cons: It takes a while to figure out if the device is correctly aligned. It doesn’t automatically turn off when it completes cutting the lid. The magnetic piece doesn’t work on all cans. It needs batteries. It takes a little more drawer space than a manual can opener. If you normally use the can lid to help squeeze out liquid — for example, to press oil from a can of tuna — you won’t be able to do that.
Cost and availability: I got mine for $5.99 at Ross Dress for Less. Also available online from sites including amazon.com ($12) and target.com ($19.99). Buytoucan.com (or call 800-554-5769) is offering the item for $19.99 plus a second one for $9.99.
Worth it?: Although I’ll probably still stick with my manual can opener, it’s not bad for $6. Manual can openers cost around the same price and some even more.
Got a gadget that you love? Or are you curious about one you’d like us to test? Email crave@staradvertiser.com, or write Crave, Honolulu Star-Advertiser, 7 Waterfront Plaza Suite 210, Honolulu 96813.