Three quarters of adults have used their toaster to make something other than toast – and the results were surprising
From fish fingers to bacon and even steak, these are the most bizarre items Brits have attempted to cook in their toaster. A survey of 2,000 adults revealed Brits use their toaster on average four times a week and there’s a range of peculiar items Brits have tried to prepare using their trusty appliance – including potato waffles and pizza.
As a result, four in ten confessed to experiencing a toaster mishap when trying to cook something other than bread. The study was conducted by Ginsters ahead of the launch of its new Pastry Toastie, designed to be popped straight into the toaster and ready to eat hot in just four minutes.
Sarah Babb at the brand said: “The toaster is a staple in many kitchens and has been for years. “A busy lifestyle often means people want both taste and convenience, and the toaster is loved for its speed and ease.”
Among those who reported a toaster blunder, one person caused a power outage in their home, while others have had their food catch fire whilst cooking.
Despite these incidents, 72 per cent have used their toaster to make things other than toast. The main reason for using a toaster is speed, with 53 per cent saying they want to make food quickly, and one in 10 use it to experiment with new ideas.
One in three believe that using a toaster is the most convenient way to heat food and almost a third feel more foods should be designed for toaster cooking, and 26 per cent think the appliance doesn’t get the credit it deserves.
The study, conducted by OnePoll, found speed and convenience (43 per cent), food quality and affordability (both 37 per cent) are the top considerations for those whipping up a weekday lunch.
Over half typically spend 10 minutes or less preparing their midday meal on a weekday, with two thirds always on the hunt for quicker and easier meal ideas than their usual fare.
Sarah Babb for Ginsters added: “It’s clear people want to use their toaster for more than just bread. Which goes hand in hand with the fact that speed, quality and convenience are key factors for many when choosing what they want for lunch.
“The working day is busy, so having something that takes less then five minutes is appealing for people. But just because something is quick and easy to make, doesn’t mean it shouldn’t still be high-quality and tasty.”
TOP 20 UNCONVENTIONAL FOOD ITEMS TO BE TOASTED:
- Naan bread
- Potato waffles
- Pancakes
- Garlic bread
- Croissants
- A slice of pizza
- Hash browns
- A burger
- Apple pie slices
- Fish fingers
- A chicken breast
- Bacon
- Mac & Cheese
- Samosas
- A steak
- Fruit slices
- Tofu slices
- Mozzarella sticks
- Leftover pasta
- Halloumi