Let a Brisker save the day
Tired of tossing those half-eaten boxes of Triscuits, Fritos,
breakfast cereals and other crunchy foods because they lost
their snap, crackle and pop almost overnight? As every
Neapolitan knows, even the most careful packaging and best
air-conditioning system can't prevent humidity from creeping
into our kitchen cabinets.
"I used to think it was one of the prices we pay to live in
paradise," a longtime Floridian told me. "Once I'd open a box,
especially in the summer, I'd caution everybody to gobble it up
or I'd be tossing it out."
Then she inherited a Brisker.
It not only seriously cuts down on waste, but often improves
the taste and texture of different snacks and cereals. Who can
ask for more? she asked.
So what's a Brisker? was my question.
I found out from David Pease, owner of Brisker Products,
based in Cincinnati.
The Brisker, I discovered, is bigger than a breadbox (unless
you get the new, one-third smaller Brisker Jr.) and is basically
an electric crisper. Made of practically indestructible polished
stainless and rectangular in shape, it's the epitome of low-tech
without one dial or switch.
According to Pease, "You just plug it in for
fresh-from-the-oven flavor."
In very humid climates, he added, food goes bad quickly and
loses its crunch. "It will stay crisp and fresh for an
indefinite time in a Brisker."
Interest piqued, the Daily News decided to test the product
and was delighted with the results.
— The flavor of Ritz crackers intensified. Stored in the
Brisker, they tasted more buttery and salty than before.
— After letting saltines and animal crackers sit out, loosely
wrapped, for a few days, we put the limp results in the Brisker.
Flavor, taste and texture improved within 24 hours but both
items were better than new within two or three days.
— We compared the crispness factor between a carefully
wrapped box of cereal and one stored in a Brisker over a
one-week period. The latter won hands down.
— Tollhouse cookies got even better after a night in the
Brisker.
Suggested retail price is $59.95; the smaller version runs
about $49.95. Information: 1-800-507-5075.
