Facebook Live Recipes

 

Check out these delicious recipes below that you can easily create at home with the Chefman 3-in-1 Air Fryer and the Chefman Sous Vide Immersion Circulator  – as featured on our Facebook Live event held on Sept 25th, 2019. View the full hour long video on our Facebook page here.

Apple Chips with Yogurt Dipping Sauce

Prep Time: 15 min
Dehydrate Time: 10 hr
Total Time: 10 hr 15 min
Level: Easy
Yield: 2 servings

Ingredients:
• 1 honey crisp apples, 1/8 inch slices
• ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
• ½ tbsp honey
• ¼ tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp cinnamon

Steps:
1. Arrange apple slices evenly on two trays then insert trays into the multi-function air fryer.
2. Set to Dehydrate at 140F for 10 hours.
3. While the apple slices are dehydrating, combine the yogurt, honey, vanilla extract and honey in a small bowl. Refrigerate for later use.
4. When the time has expired and the apples are crisp, remove from the multi-function air fryer.
5. Serve immediately with dipping sauce or store in an air-tight container.

Balsamic Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Prep Time: 15 min
Air Fry Time: 25 min
Total Time: 50 min
Level: Easy
Yield: 5 servings

Ingredients:
• ½ cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp salt
• 2 tsp black pepper
• 1 lb brussels sprouts, destemmed and halved
• 6 pieces of bacon, ½ inch pieces

Steps:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic, salt and pepper.
2. Add brussels sprouts and bacon then toss together until evenly coated.
3. Split the mixture between two trays and then place in the multi-function air fryer.
4. Set to 390F for 25 minutes.
5. When time has expired or food is crispy and dark in color, remove from the multi-function air fryer.
6. Serve immediately.

Banana Chip Trail Mix

Prep Time: 10 min
Dehydrate Time: 8 hr
Total Time: 8 hr 10 min
Level: Easy
Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients:
• 2 bananas, peeled, ¼ inch slices
• ¼ cup dark chocolate chips
• ¼ cup peanut butter chips
• ¼ cup mini pretzels

Steps:
1. Arrange sliced bananas evenly on two trays and insert them into the multi-function air fryer.
2. Set to Dehydrate at 140F for 8 hours.
3. When timer has expired and banana chips are crisp, remove from the multi-function air fryer.
4. In a large bowl, mix together banana chips, chocolate chips, peanut butter chips and pretzels.
5. Store in an air-tight container.

Mediterranean Sous Vide Egg Cups

Prep Time: 15 min
Sous Vide Time: 1 hr
Total Time: 1 hr 30 min
Level: Medium
Yield: 6 servings

Supplies Needed:
• Large container or pot
• 6 (4oz) mason jars with lids
• Chefman Immersion Circulator

Ingredients:
• Cooking spray
• 6 eggs
• ½ cup half and half
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup spinach, finely chopped
• ½ cup sundried tomatoes, finely chopped
• ½ cup feta, crumbled
• Oregano, for garnish

Steps:
1. Spray all 6 jars with cooking spray and set aside.
2. Fill large container or pot with warm water. Place immersion circulator in the water and set to 172F. Allow water to come to temperature.
3. In a large bowl, whisk eggs, half and half and salt until fully beaten and light yellow in color.
4. Add in spinach, sundried tomatoes and feta. Stir until evenly combined.
5. Evenly distribute into the sprayed jars. Close the lids tightly.
6. When water has reached the correct temperature, carefully place jars into water. (Note: The jars can be stacked if needed.)
7. Cook for 1 hour.
8. When time has expired carefully remove egg cups from water.
9. Remove from jars by taking off lid and inverting them or serve them in jars. Serve immediately with fresh oregano.
10. If storing, allow jars to cool then place in fridge. Reheat in jars without lids. (Note: Recipe can easily be doubled for 12 servings if desired.)

Maple Dijon Salmon with Asparagus

Prep Time: 15 min
Sous Vide Time: 1 hr 30 min
Total Time: 1 hr 45 min
Level: Medium
Yield: 4 servings

Supplies Needed:
• Vacuum sealer bags
• Vacuum sealer
• Large container or pot
• Brush
• Chefman Immersion Circulator

Ingredients:
• 1 bunch asparagus, cleaned
• 3 tbsp butter, melted
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper

• 4-6oz salmon fillets
• 4 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tbsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• 3 tbsp Dijon

Steps:
1. Fill a large container with warm water. Place immersion circulator in water and set to 125F. Allow water to get to temperature.
2. In a large bowl, combine asparagus, melted butter, 2 tsp salt and 1 tsp pepper. Evenly coat.
3. Place in a single layer in a large vacuum sealer bag. Seal bag until airtight. Set aside.
4. When water has reached the correct temperature, place bagged asparagus in water. Cook for 40 minutes.
5. Brush the salmon on all sides with butter then season evenly with ½ tbsp salt and 1 tsp pepper.
6. In a small bowl, combine maple syrup and Dijon mustard. Brush mixture on all sides of salmon.
7. Place salmon in a single layer in a large vacuum sealer bag. Pour any additional sauce into the bag and seal until airtight. Store in the fridge until 40 minute timer on asparagus has expired.
8. When time has expired, place bagged salmon in water with asparagus and cook for 50 minutes (Note: The total time for cooking the asparagus is 1 hour and 30 minutes).
9. When time has expired, remove asparagus and salmon. Gently remove both from bags.
10. Serve immediately or sear salmon and asparagus in a hot pan with oil to add color and texture.

Rotisserie Chicken

Prep Time: 5 min
Air Fry Time: 45 min
Total Time: 55 min
Level: Medium
Yield: 4 servings

Supplies Needed:
• Twine

Ingredients:
• 3.5 lb whole chicken
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp salt
• 2 tsp black pepper

Steps:
1. Truss the chicken with twine to make sure the wings and legs are tucked in and therefore will cook evenly.
2. Rub chicken with olive oil then evenly season with salt and pepper.
3. Place chicken on the included rotisserie spit with forks to secure chicken.
4. Place chicken into the rotisserie slots on the center rack.
5. Set to 380F for 45 minutes. Press the Rotisserie button to rotate the chicken while cooking.
6. When time has expired and the internal temperature of the chicken is 165F, remove the chicken with rack removal tool. Rest chicken for 5 minutes.
7. Remove twine and cut chicken as desired.
8. Serve immediately.

Steak Frites

Prep Time: 25 min
Air Fry Time: 25 minTotal Time: 55 min
Level: Medium
Yield: 2 servings

Ingredients:
• 1 russet potato, peeled and cut into ¼ inch sticks
• 4 cups water
• 4 tbsp olive oil, divided in half
• 6 tsp salt, divided in half
• 2 tsp black pepper, divided in half
• 2-12oz bone-in strip steaks, room temperature
• Herb butter, for serving

Steps:
1. Place potatoes in a container with water and allow to soak for 10 minutes.
2. After the fries have soaked, pat dry and then place in a large bowl.
3. Add 2 tbsp olive oil, 3 tsp salt and 1 tsp pepper to the bowl. Evenly coat the fries.
4. Place fries in a single layer on a tray and insert into the multi-function air fryer on the top shelf.
5. Rub remaining 2 tbsp of oil on the steaks then season with remaining salt and pepper.
6. Place steaks on a tray and insert them below the fries.
7. Set to 380F for 25 minutes.
8. When time has expired, remove steaks and allow to rest for about 5 minutes.
9. When fries are fully cooked, golden brown and crispy, remove.
10. Serve immediately with steak and herb butter.

Sweet Potato Casserole

Prep Time: 15 min
Sous Vide Time: 2 hr 30 min
Bake Time: 10 min
Total Time: 2 hr 55 min
Level: Medium
Yield: 5 servings

Supplies Needed:
• Vacuum Sealer
• Large Vacuum Sealer Bag
• Large Pot or Container
• Chefman Immersion Circulator
• Potato Masher
• 8×8 baking dish
• Chefman Multi-Function Air Fryer

Ingredients:
• 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 tbsp butter, cut into 3 pieces
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• 4 sprigs thyme
• 2 sprigs rosemary
• Cooking spray
• 2 cups mini marshmallows

Steps:
1. Fill a large container or pot with warm water then place the immersion circulator in the water. Set to 180F and allow the water to come to temperature.
2. Place the sweet potatoes, butter, brown sugar, salt, pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, thyme and rosemary in large vacuum seal bag. Seal bag until it is air-tight.
3. When water is at correct temperature, place bagged sweet potatoes in the water. Set a timer for 2 hours and 30 minutes.
4. When potatoes are very tender, remove from water. Place sweet potato mixture into a large bowl, removing and discarding the rosemary and thyme.
5. Using a potato masher, mash all ingredients together until fluffy and evenly combined.
6. Transfer the sweet potatoes to a sprayed 8×8 baking dish.
7. Place marshmallows on top and place in the multi-function air fryer. Set to Bake at 400F for 10 minutes.

Yogurt Apple Cake

Prep Time: 30 min
Bake Time: 1 hr 20 min
Total Time: 1 hr 50 min
Level: Medium
Yield: 9 servings

Supplies Needed:
• Hand or Stand Mixer
• 8×8 baking pan
• Aluminum Foil

Ingredients:
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 8 tbsp butter, room temperature
• 2 eggs
• 1 ¼ cups plain Greek yogurt
• 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• 1 honey crisp apple, peeled and ½ inch diced
• Cooking spray
• 4 tbsp butter, melted
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tsp cinnamon
• 1 honey crisp apple, sliced

Steps:
1. In a large bowl with a hand mixer or stand mixer, whisk brown sugar and room temperature butter until creamed together and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
2. Add one egg at a time while mixing until each is fully combined.
3. Add yogurt and mix until fully combined.
4. Add vanilla and mix until incorporated.
5. In a medium bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and cinnamon.
6. While mixing, slowly add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture until a smooth batter is formed.
7. Finally, mix in diced apples until just incorporated, making sure to not overwork the batter.
8. Spray baking dish with cooking spray and then pour batter into pan.
9. In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, ¼ cup brown sugar and 2 tsp cinnamon and combine to make a paste.

 

 

 

Making Memories: Tips from a Pro Photographer on Taking, Printing and Preserving Cherished Family Photos

It’s true what they say: “the days are long, but the years are short.” Time can be a thief when it comes to freezing moments in time with family, specifically with children. They seem to grow up in the blink of an eye. One day they’re taking their first steps, and the next they’re starting their first day of school. Erin Brooke Burns, an award-winning photographer, is here to share her tips for photographing and preserving your family memories. Learn how to capture real moments with your kids and discover timeless ways to display and cherish those precious memories.

Get Priceless Results Even Without a Pricey Camera

Great photos are about real moments. Period. Yes, a perfectly composed shot with great lighting is a nice bonus, but when it comes to emotions, real moments bring it home. So you don’t need to spend a pretty penny on a big, fancy camera if isn’t not in your budget. A point-and-shoot or even your smartphone does a great job. What’s even better about those is that people tend not to freeze and fall into a rehearsed pose like they do when you raise a large SLR. Without a bulky camera to lug around, look for the “in between moments;” the moments in-between the rehearsed smile and pose, where the real emotions are. With children, these in-between moments come by relatively often, so just have your camera at the ready and bask in the hilarity of kids being kids. As an added bonus to using your smartphone, you have a plethora of apps to choose from to take your photos to the next level – just don’t overdo it on filters; less is more. You can also download the London Drugs Photolab App (available on iOS and Android) to easily order prints, enlargements and even create a Photo Book right from your phone or tablet.

Swing for the Fences

Digital photography has allowed us to make more mistakes, and in return, more wins. As a professional photographer, I might take 200+ photos to use and publish only one. That single shot that I choose will have the emotion that we talked about earlier, something none of the other 199 photos have. So swing for the fences, and take a bunch of photos to get that one fantastic shot. Digital files are cheap, so take advantage, practice, play around and get the shot. You can always delete the others later on. If you’re using your smartphone, take advantage of Burst Mode from time to time. Each phone differs, but generally it’s a sequence of photos taken at a rate of around ten frames per second by holding your finger on the shutter button.

Change Your Perspective

Have fun! This sounds obvious, but as adults, we fall into our go-to poses and smiles. When photographing your kids, we get into trouble if we expect them to behave like adults, so get down to their level and explore the world as they do. It will change what you see in your viewfinder. A different angle or perspective can change a photo dramatically, and getting down allows you to see angles you might otherwise miss. Catch your kiddos doing the things they love and you’ll have all kinds of success. Catch them on the swings, in the sandbox or even just colouring – candid photos have a beautiful reminiscent quality about them that can cause the viewer to stop and pause. So have fun with your camera and your kids. It’s a win-win.

Photographing Babies

Even the most seasoned of amateur photographers can find it a challenge to photograph babies. So, if ‘newborn in a basket’ photos are what you’re looking for, then I would recommend hiring a professional; it’s worth the investment. But when it comes to the average parent, here are some guidelines that will help you take a great snap:

  1. Keep your baby happy by photographing them on a full tummy.
  2. Dress your baby in comfortable clothes, or if you choose to photograph your baby in their birthday suit, keep a space heater nearby to keep them warm.
  3. Choose a spot in the house with a large window; preferably a north-facing window to get a large, natural, indirect light source.
  4. Always keep your baby’s safety at top of mind.
  5. As your baby grows, think about doing monthly photos to document your baby’s growth. It’s a good idea to keep the background consistent to emphasize their growth.

From Digital to Print

Photolab lifestyle

Don’t fall into the trap of taking fantastic photos and leaving them on your camera or phone like so many of us do. We end up taking thousands of photos without a feasible way to control the mess. Digital photos can be lost just as easy as they are taken so it’s wise to choose one of the many options to cherish and display them before things get out of control. In my home, we don’t have a ton of photos on our walls, but we love a good Photo Book. The reason we love the Photo Books is 2-fold. First, you can add as many photos as you like, and second, you can create an entire book of a single event: like a family vacation, or baby’s first year. We find the books offer great flexibility and the kids adore looking through them, especially the older books – it’s like a collection of visual encyclopedias of the family. There are so many different Photo Books available – you’ll find one that is perfect for your needs.

If Photo Books aren’t your thing, I’m really loving the Wall Clings. Wall Clings are adhesive matte paper prints that can be removed and replaced many times. I mentioned we don’t have a lot of photos that adorn our walls, but that’s not entirely true. We love these for our kids’ rooms. It allows them to choose how they create their own ‘gallery walls’ without creating damage to our home. They’re able to move them around how they like, and get creative without any frames, hammers or nails. There are dozens of ways to use the Wall Clings, long term or short term, like incorporating them into a birthday celebration. These are the perfect option for people who want to switch up their photos often or simply can’t commit to one image.

However you choose to cherish your memories, make sure you download the London Drugs Photolab App from the App Store or Google Play to get full access to everything from enlargements, Canvas Gallery Prints, and Calendars to Photo Books right from your phone or tablet. You can also hop onto their website to order online, or visit any London Drugs Photolab in-store.

Meet Erin

Erin Brooke Burns is an award-winning photographer and graphic designer based in Calgary, Alberta. You can follow Erin and see her latest works with Erin Brooke Photography & Design on Instagram: @erinbrookeburns.

Bissell Pet Contest

 

Calling all pet parents and pet lovers!! We want to hear why you love your pet! Is it because they make the perfect hiking companion or that they know how to make you smile after a rough day? Whatever it is, share it with us as part of our Bissell Pet Contest and you will be entered at a chance to win one of four prizes! These include one of two (2) Bissell Little Green Machine ProHeat Carpet Cleaner 2513E, one (1) Bissell Swivel Rewind Pet Upright Vacuum 2258C or one (1) grand prize of a Bissell Pet Home Package! This package includes a Crosswave Pet Bissell Vacuum 2306C and a year’s worth of Bissell Clean & Fresh No Rinse Dog Shampoo. See full contest terms and conditions below. Good luck!

 

Bissell Pet Contest – Official Rules

1) To enter:
FACEBOOK
-Like the London Drugs page
-Like the contest post
-Tell us why you love your pet in the comments

INSTAGRAM
-Follow London Drugs on Instagram
-Like the contest post
-Tell us why you love your pet in the comments

[September 13 – October 2, 2019 11:59pm PST]

2) No purchase necessary. Limit one (1) entry per social network per contest. Limit one (1) prize may be won per household. Four (4) winners will be drawn from all combined social media platforms. Entries must be received no later than [October 2, 2019 at 11:59pm PST]. London Drugs is not responsible for entries that become lost or misdirected.

3) Contest is open to all residents of British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba who, as of the date the prize draw is made: (i) have not won a London Drugs contest since [October 2, 2018 11:59pm PST]; (ii) have reached the age of majority in the province in which they reside as at [September 13, 2019 ](iii) are not employees of London Drugs, their respective advertising and promotional agencies, the independent judging organization (if any), or any family member living with any such employee.

4) The winners will be randomly chosen on the day the contest ends (see dates below) in Vancouver, British Columbia, from all eligible entries received per contest. To win, selected entrants must have correctly answered the skill-testing mathematical question on the online entry form and must sign London Drug’s declaration and release confirming compliance with the contest rules and acceptance of the prize(s) as awarded, releasing London Drugs from liability in association with the contest and prize and consenting to the use of their name, photograph, voice and statements for promotional and publicity purposes.

5) There will be 4 (four) prize(s) awarded to 4 (four) winners: each receiving one of the following: One of two (2) Bissell Little Green Machine ProHeat Carpet Cleaner 2513E (value:$139.99 each), one (1) Bissell Swivel Rewind Pet Upright Vacuum 2258C (value: $169.99) or one (1) grand prize of a Bissell Pet Home Package! This package includes a Crosswave Pet Bissell Vacuum 2306C (value: $399.99) and a year’s worth of Bissell Clean & Fresh No Rinse Dog Shampoo (value: $400+). Prize(s) must be accepted as awarded, are non-transferable and no substitutions are permitted. London Drugs reserves the right to substitute a prize of equal or greater value should any prize become unavailable for any reason. Prize will be awarded at the closest London Drugs location to the winner.

Contests dates: September 13 – October 2, 2019 11:59pm PST
Draw Date: 12:00 PM Pacific Time [October 4, 2019]

6) Selected entrants will be contacted by email, or social network they were drawn from. No correspondence will be entered into except with selected entrants. If the winner does not respond then she/he will be notified for the second time, 3 (three) days after the first notification. If the winner still does not respond within 3 days of the second notification, a new winner will be chosen in the same manner until a winner is successfully contacted.

7) The chances of winning a prize will depend on the number of eligible entries received. Decisions of the judges in respect of all aspects of this contest including, but not limited to, eligibility of entries and correctness of answers given to the skill-testing question, are final.

8) London Drugs, their respective advertising and promotional agencies, the independent judging organization, and their respective agents are not liable to an entrant in any manner relating to the contest or the awarding and use of the prize(s).

9) This contest is subject to all federal, provincial, and municipal laws and regulations. By entering the entrant consents to the collection of all personal information included on their entry and agrees to the use and disclosure of such information by and between London Drugs and their agents. The winner(s) also agrees to the collection, use and disclosure of their name, entry, photographs, voice and statements for London Drugs’ publicity purposes without further compensation. All personal information collected from entrants will be used only for the purposes of administering the contest and for marketing and promotional purposes as contemplated by these rules; under no circumstances will any personal information be sold or rented to third parties. All personal information collected by London Drugs will be kept in accordance with the privacy policy of London Drugs, which can be viewed at www.londondrugs.com, and in accordance with all applicable privacy laws.

10) The right is reserved by London Drugs to terminate this contest, in whole or in part, and/or modify, amend or suspend the contest, and/or these rules in any way, should any cause beyond the reasonable control of London Drugs or its agents affect the proper administration thereof.

STATEMENT OF DECLARATION AND RELEASE

All selected entrants will be required to sign the Statement of Declaration and Release attached before they can be declared a winner and receive a contest prize.

 

Clever Tips for Packing School Lunches

Back to school, back to routine. It can be a hectic transition, and when thinking of what to feed the little ones during their days at school, you want to ensure they have all the fuel and good nutrition they need to remain sharp. At the same time, you want to make it as quick and easy as possible, especially with that never-ending to-do list! You might be pleasantly surprised at how many snack and healthier food options you’ll find at London Drugs. Check out some clever ideas below for school lunch packing and snacking so your child has the energy needed to get through the school day.

Make Lunches Fun

Firstly, keep packed lunches interesting by providing options. Aim to have at least three of the four food groups in your child’s lunch. From there, mix and match to get the most variety. An example can be some cheese cubes, a ham sandwich and some grapes or a boiled egg, veggies and dip and some apple slices. You can also make lunches more exciting by using cookie cutters to cut shapes from sandwiches, cheese slices, etc.

If your kids don’t like typical lunch foods like sandwiches, why not try skewers? Again, you can mix and match with meat, cheese and veggies or a mix of fruit. BONUS: Include dipping options such as a light ranch or yogurt to make it extra fun.

Food Prep Goes a Long Way

Set aside one day a week to prepare school lunches. This could be prefilling food containers with hummus and carrot sticks or making a big batch of homemade chicken noodle soup for the week ahead.  The goal is to have everything ready so all you have to do is fill up your kids’ lunch boxes the night before or morning of the school day. TIP: PB&J sandwiches can actually be frozen in advance, which makes it a great lunch option to make in large batches. Just pack it in the morning and it will be thawed by lunch time.

Nutritious But Still Delicious!

Along with fresh fruits, veggies, dairy and meat products, you can also pack healthy versions of your child’s favourite sugary snacks (that are just as tasty!) These include Smart Sweets, (no artificial colours or flavours, 3g of sugar and 24g of soluble fibre per bag!), Popcorners Flourish Veggie Crisps, (vegan-friendly and gluten-free) and Made Good Granola Bars and Minis (taste like dessert but contain the nutrients found in one full serving of vegetables!), Adams Peanut Butters (just make sure to check with your child’s school for allergies) and Rudolfs Organic Jams (organic and no added preservatives)

Don’t fear, we’ve got you covered when it comes to specialty diets. Our gluten-free options include Annie’s Organic Fruit Snacks, Bobo’s bars and The Gluten Free Bites. Nature’s Bakery offers tasty bars that are vegan.

For kids with allergies, Enjoy Life Soft Baked Cookies are free of gluten and peanuts, while LaraBars are dairy-free and soy-free. Leclerc Go Pure bars are also peanut-free.

Subscribe for Simplicity

Life gets busy. Between work, picking up and dropping off the kids from school, and taking them to their after-school activities, it doesn’t leave a lot of time for running errands like re-filling the pantry. Luckily, our new Snack Subscription can help with that. It’s an easy way to ensure you’re always stocked up on snacks for school lunches or weekend snacking – without having to run out the door. Simply search up your favourite snack product on our website and check the purchase options for the “subscribe for this product” button. From there, you can choose to receive it every 15, 30, 45, 60 or 90 days.

Pack with Reusables

Say goodbye to plastic bags and bottles and hello to reusable, eco-friendly options! These Lunch Kits, which come with a lunch box and water bottle, are reusable and are a great choice especially if your child’s school doesn’t allow paper or plastic bags for packed lunches. They can even be customized with your child’s favourite photos so they’ll always know which one is theirs. You can order the Lunch Kits in blue/blue, pink/pink and green/white from the London Drugs Photolab.

If you like to pack snacks like vegetables and fruit in small bags, there’s an eco-friendly packing option for that too. Stasher Reusable Food Bags are made with platinum silicone, so they’re durable and can be used over and over again. The material also prevents bacteria growth and is dishwasher and microwave safe!

 

 

 

The Best Kitchen Gadgets You Need For University Life

University life can be hectic, especially if it’s your first time away from home. Sure, the cafeteria and take-out are quick and convenient, but you can’t survive on mystery meat and instant noodles. Cooking for yourself is healthier, more affordable, and will help keep that overworked brain as sharp as a knife. It also can be a nice change of pace during a busy day. We’ve got some great ideas for kitchen gadgets that will save you space, time and help you avoid cramming too much junk food while cramming for exams.

Mini-Fridge with Style

If you’re living in a residence without a kitchen, a mini-fridge is essential for keeping healthy meals and snacks on-hand. Some campuses allow you to rent one for the year, but if you don’t have that option, why not get a mini-fridge with style? This RCA Retro 3.2cuft fridge has personality and practicality.

Space-Saving Water Pitcher

Hydration is key to staying healthy, so pop a Brita Space Saver Pitcher in that mini-fridge to have great tasting cold water on-hand for whenever you need it. Here’s a What’s the Green Deal? bonus fact: one Brita filter can replace 300 standard plastic water bottles!

Compact Coffee Maker

Now that you’ve got hydration covered, we know you’ll be needing some caffeine for those late-night study sessions and early mornings. Instead of spending all your money at the local café, you can make delicious coffee in your room, and take it on-the-go (bonus points for using a reusable coffee mug!). The Cuisinart 4-Cup Coffee Maker takes up very little counter space and is easy to store. Perfect for your tiny kitchen – or improvised kitchen.

Multitasking Multi Pot

Unfortunately, not all residences allow in-room coffee makers, so you might need to be a little more creative. Some might say a kettle, but an even more versatile option to consider is the Salton Multi Pot -1L. It can boil water, and cook your favourite dishes like pasta, soups, rice and more. Use it to boil water, then you can use the Bodum Brazil French Press to make your coffee. Or if you’re late for class, the Bodum Travel Coffee Press serves as both a French press and travel mug, for that dash to class.

 

Induction Cooktop

You won’t always have time to cook, but when you do, you can make the most of it with the right appliances. If your place doesn’t have a stove but does have a counter, the Salton Double Induction Cooktop will transform your bite-size kitchen into the hippest little eatery on the block. (Again, be sure to get permission as not all residences allow cooktops in rooms).

8-in-1 Multicooker

Can’t have a cooktop? A multi-cooker pot can give you a ton of options for cooking in your little home. With the Crock Pot Express 8-in-1 multicooker, you can whip up soups, stews, chilli, rice, steamed vegetables, mac & cheese, pulled pork, oatmeal, fruit cobbler, butter chicken, enchiladas – even cheesecake! With one of these on your counter, you’ll be the Gordon Ramsay of your floor.

Handy Blender & Dicer

Another multi-tasking must-have for a small space is the Magic Bullet. This little wonder gadget can chop, mix, blend, whip, grind, and more- all in just 10 seconds or less. You’ll be able to put together the fastest, tastiest meals ever, as well as super quick and healthy smoothies for quick breakfasts and impromptu study sessions with friends. Another specialized dicer is the Farberware Pro Rice’n’Slice. This handy tool spares you from having cauliflower pieces all over your dorm while dicing cauliflower rice. Its convenient function allows for quick and easy dicing of veggies, and it doesn’t need electricity in case there is no plug within reach.

Healthy Popcorn Popper

Speaking of studying, you’re going to need snacks. And lots of them. Instead of reaching for the aforementioned chips, make sure to stock your room with healthy snacks that you won’t regret eating while you’re nose is in a textbook. Popcorn is a fun study food, but packaged microwave popcorn can be full of fat and oil, so keep it light with the FlavorQuik Microwave Popcorn Popper. Its unique shape uses steam heat instead of oil or butter to give you a healthier snack in just minutes, and it’s collapsible, so it’s easy to store.

Mistake-Proof Cooking Thermometer

Never cooked before? Fret not! The Accutemp Instant read thermometer will ensure your food is always cooked just right. Its digital interface and fold-up design make it simple and compact, taking the guesswork out of cooking.

As you prepare to tackle another year of hard work, great friends and fun adventures, hopefully these kitchen gadgets will make busy campus life a breeze.

Sunscreen Safety: 5 Things You Need To Know

Sun Care Safety London Drugs Chemical Mineral Sunscreen

Sunscreen is one of those things we are supposed to apply liberally to our arms, legs, face, and our kids. So, what’s actually in it? How does sunscreen work? Are some sunscreens ‘greener’ than others?

Here’s a little summertime reading for anyone planning to protect themselves from the sun—5 things you need to know about sun safety.

1. Understand the two types of sunscreen

Mineral sunscreen creates a layer of particles (zinc or titanium oxide) that deflect the sun’s rays.

  • Effective immediately
  • Does not degrade from UV exposure
  • Does not penetrate the skin
  • Also effective against UVA rays
  • Safe for use in coral areas

Chemical sunscreen uses compounds that absorb the sun’s rays, turning them into non-damaging wavelengths.

  • Easy to apply, non-whitening
  • Requires wait-time to be effective
  • Chemicals can penetrate skin
  • Chemicals degrade when exposed to UV
  • May harm coral reefs

2. Know what’s in your chemical sunscreen

Chemical sunscreens typically contain a combination of two to six of the following active ingredients:

  1. Oxybenzone
  2. Octinoxate
  3. Octisalate
  4. Octocrylene
  5. Homosalate
  6. Avobenzone

Recently, concerns have been raised about long-term safety of some of these ingredients, particularly oxybenzone (benzophenone-3) which, in addition to sun protection, acts as a penetration enhancer. This chemical has been linked to allergies, hormone disruption, and cellular damage. Oxybenzone is present in over 500 other North American cosmetic items.

Remember to watch the spray! Spray sunscreens have increased in popularity, but some experts don’t recommend them because of the hazard of inhaling chemicals and particles.

3. Look for broad spectrum protection

The suns rays come in different lengths, and it’s a good idea to protect against them all. UVA radiation goes deeper into the skin (dermis), causes premature aging and wrinkles, and causes tanning. UVB radiation affects the skin’s surface (epidermis), contributes the most to burning of the skin, and damages your eyes.

4. Is higher SPF better?

People assume that they get twice as much protection from SPF 100 sunscreen as from SPF 50. In reality, the extra protection may be negligible. Used correctly, sunscreen with SPF values in the range of 30 to 50 will offer adequate protection, even for people most sensitive to sunburn. UV protection does not follow a linear relationship, meaning that if you apply half of the recommended amount you get less than half of the labeled SPF protection.

5. Protect the ecosystems and coral

There are biodegradable and reef safe options. 25 to 60 million bottles worth of sunscreen wash off into coral reef areas each year, and researchers have found that common sunscreen chemicals can be toxic to coral health. Hawaii has passed a law that will ban the sale of sunscreens that contain oxybenzone and octinoxate. Sunscreens with titanium oxide or zinc oxide—natural mineral ingredients—have not been found to be harmful to corals. If you are swimming in nature, choose one of these options.

London Drugs is pleased to offer a range of green sunscreen options. Here are some choices that protect as sustainably as possible:

Attitude Mineral Sunscreens
Mineral- based protection: Non-nano Zinc Oxide
Ecologo Certified™
Vegan, not tested on animals
UVA, UVB protection
Made in Canada

Aveeno Mineral & Aveeno Baby
Mineral based protection
UVA, UVB protection

Badger Sunscreens
Non-Nano Zinc Oxide Mineral Protection
Biodegradable
87% organic ingredients
UVA, UVB protection

Boo Bamboo Natural Sunscreen
Active ingredient: Zinc Oxide, Titanium Oxide
UVA, UVB protection
Made in Canada

Goddess Garden
Certified organic
Non-Nano, Reef Safe, Non-GMO, Biodegradable
Vegan, Cruelty Free, Paraben and Phthalate Free
UVA, UVB protection

Green Beaver
Non-nano zinc oxide and titanium oxide mineral protection
100% natural, biodegradable and reef friendly
Made in Canada
UVA, UVB protection

Neutrogena Sheer Zinc
Active ingredient: Zinc Oxide
UVA, UVB protection


If you want to learn more, visit greendeal.ca for blogs, videos, articles, and products to help you live a little greener.

Tips on Getting a Full Night’s Sleep

Tips for Getting a Better Night's Sleep

Is a lack of sleep messing with your mojo? You’re not alone. Thirty percent of adults claim to have trouble sleeping, says London Drugs Pharmacy Manager Gianni Del Negro. And up to 10 percent of those are experiencing problems during the day because of their sleep difficulties.

Understanding Your Sleep Problem and its Cause

Understanding how and where your sleep is going awry is the first step to finding a solution.

Sleep problems come mainly in three different categories:

  • Difficulty falling asleep
  • Waking up in the middle of the night and not being able to get back to sleep
  • Inability to get into a deep, restorative sleep

There are many reasons you could be experiencing sleep problems, says Del Negro, including medical conditions such as sleep apnea or asthma, pain resulting from certain conditions, stress or depression, or even medications you’re taking.

Poor sleep is often a result of poor sleep habits, particularly the use of electronics too close to bedtime, or too much caffeine, nicotine or alcohol late in the day.

While a few nights of bad sleep might not hurt too much, prolonged poor sleep can have severe consequences, including a weakened immune system, obesity and risk of accidents at work or on the road.  

Help for Better Sleep

The first step is to ensure you maintain a regular sleep routine, which means waking up at the same time and going to bed at the same time every day. Yes, even on weekends and holidays.  

Other lifestyle habits such as regular exercise and winding down a couple of hours before bed can also help in the sleep department.

While Del Negro says it’s always best to try non-medicinal ways of promoting sleep, if nothing is working, pharmaceuticals can help you get some much-needed rest.

One category of short-term sleep aids you can try is Diphenhydramine, which is an antihistamine that causes drowsiness. You’ll find it in products such as Benadryl, Sleep-eze and NyQuil.

Melatonin is another product you can try for better sleep. It’s most effective for resetting your body clock in the event of jet lag or shift work.

Finally, valerian root is an herbal supplement that can promote faster and better quality sleep. But be aware that it can have some side effects and may not be safe to take with other medications. Please consult your doctor before taking it.

If you’ve tried all of these remedies and you still can’t sleep, come speak to a pharmacist at your local London Drugs. We can help!

« Previous Page Next Page »