A study released in October 2014 suggests that some hand (stick/immersion) blenders leak chlorinated paraffins, a type of chemical found in flame retardants, plasticizers, metal working fluids, and more. CPs are classified as toxic to aquatic organisms and carcinogenic to rats and mice. Short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) are categorized in group 2B as "possibly carcinogenic to humans" by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.

Researchers at Stockholm University discovered the CPs while looking for environmental contaminants in cat food. The chlorinated paraffins showed up in disturbing amounts and were traced to in-house blending of the food, rather than to the food itself.

Safe cookware is foundational for a healthy kitchen. But how do we know which types are truly safe? Here is a brief overview of the three basic categories of cookware.

The kitchen is the heart of the home. With ten ingredients or less you can keep your kitchen clean, warm, inviting, and best of all, chemical-free!

Basic ingredients:

• White vinegar
• Liquid castile soap
• Baking soda
• Borax
• Washing soda
• Grapefruit seed extract
• Essential oils like lime, lemon, lavender, and tea tree

Equipment:

• Plastic spray bottles (or glass, if preferred)
• Mason jars
• Shaker jars

From the foods we consume to the kitchen tools we use, healthy eating is always a worthwhile investment. Here are some ideas for gift-giving to encourage that healthy cook in your life—or to pass along to that special person looking for gift ideas for you!

(All prices listed are approximate, and all links are to Amazon.com for simplicity. Better prices may be found elsewhere.)

1. Food Dehydrator ($250)
   

   Beef jerky, dried herbs, fruit leathers, flax crackers—the versatility of the dehydrator is immeasurable. From sprouted seeds to kale chips to yogurt, dehydrators preserve the nutrients in just about any food. (We have it on good authority that moisture-ridden iPods may also be salvaged!)

   Two popular dehydrator brands are Excalibur and Nesco. The website Dehydrator Review offers an excellent product comparison.