The Modern, Sleek and Functional Zyliss Ice Cream Scoop
Written: May 15 '03
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Great design, strong construction, makes scooping easy, contoured
Cons: No rubbery handle (yes, I'm spoiled by Oxo)
The Bottom Line: This is a wonderful investment for the kitchen. I am quickly getting acquainted with the Zyliss brand, and really beginning to enjoy their products!
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| Javelina's Full Review: Zyliss Ice Cream Scoop |
I first became interested in Zyliss when I had seen a display of their new products at Linen’s N Things. Like Oxo, they boasted unique, classy designs. I was inspired to purchase some of their products after seeing their pizza cutters. One of the first that I tried from the Zyliss line was the ice cream scoop.
Appearance, Design & Features
The first thing you’ll notice about the Zyliss Ice Cream Scoop is that it’s heavy (weighing in at .32 lbs). However, this doesn’t present a problem, because it doesn’t impede the use of the product in any way. Since you’re pushing down on the ice cream, weight has no bearing on performance (excuse the pun).
The handle is white, and there’s a hole in the top for hanging/storage. The hole is reinforced with what looks like stainless steel, with the Zyliss logo on it. I read that the handle is UV protected plastic that will not yellow”, and also that it won’t discolor.
The scoop part is made out of what looks like non-stick metal, but I’m not sure- it just has a slightly frosty look. It comes to a sharp, flat edge- not enough to cut skin, but sharp. At times, I’ve put the edges of the scoop through the sides of the ice cream container.
There is enough of a ridge between the handle and the scoop to say there is a thumb rest. This helps when getting leverage and pushing down on the spoon.
Performance
I have weak little arms (yes, sad), and scooping ice cream can be a difficulty for me. It is hard for me to put enough muscle strength into actually yielding a decent amount of ice cream.
Usually what we do is run the scoop under hot water to warm it up, which helps it to glide through the ice cream.
I find that the sharp, flat, front edge really helps to dig into the ice cream. The metal part is nice and smooth, and facilities better scooping. The shape of the scoop makes for nice, rounded balls of ice cream (nice presentation!).
“The sharp edges prevent the ice-cream scoop from slipping, making perfectly formed scoops possible, even from deep-frozen ice cream. The handle fits comfortably into the hand, force is transferred without loss and the handle is insulated.”
Dishwasher Safe?
I never was able to figure this one out, but a search on the internet tells me that their kitchen tools are indeed dishwasher safe. I usually just rinse the scoop as soon as I’m done, which is the fastest and easiest way of cleaning it.
Durability & Materials
From the Zyliss website, I read ”A careful test is made before manufacturing a Zyliss appliance to determine which of the various types of plastic has the most suitable properties to give the unit the longest possible service life if treated properly. All materials used by Zyliss are unaffected by foodstuffs and free from cadmium!.
This is definitely a well-made item. Although I don’t know what the exact construction is, or the materials used, you can tell that this is a high-quality item. I expect that this one will last a very long time.
There is a guarantee, stating that “Zyliss warrants this product to be free from defects in material and workmanship for 5 years from date of purchase.” It is very reassuring to know that when you purchase one of their products, you don’t have to worry about poor value.
Downsides?
The only thing about this product that I could change might be the handle. Might. The shape is contoured nicely to discourage slipping, but it might be nice if this had some sort of rubberized grip or a textured surface. I hate to compare this against Oxo products, but that’s where Oxo does have such great appeal- those rubbery handles.
…Fortunately I haven’t had my hands slip on this one.
Price & Where to Purchase
I bought my Zyliss Ice Cream Scoop at a Linen’s N Things. It cost me around $9. Like Oxo, I find that this is a good investment to make, because you’ll have a long-lasting, high-performance kitchen tool- one that lasts a long time. I would rather spend a little more on a tool that makes life easier and doesn’t need constant replacement.
Zyliss seems to be gaining popularity, but I noticed that a lot of people are not familiar with the name. Most people who have used my Zyliss products have not heard of the brand before. I’m seeing this line of products more often in stores, so it seems that they are gradually becoming more available.
Websites
Zyliss: http//www.zyliss.com
This is a neat website… they even have E-cards!!! (The question is, why?!)
My other kitchen tool reviews (all 5 stars & recommended):
Oxo Pizza Cutter: http://www.epinions.com/content_97565380228
Oxo 4-pc Measuring Spoons: http://www.epinions.com/content_88494083716
Oxo Swivel Peeler: http://www.epinions.com/content_95346200196
Banana Holder: http://www.epinions.com/content_98597113476
Overall
I’m very pleased with this product. It looks professional and sophisticated. It’s a great ice-cream scoop, making getting a bowl of ice-cream a little easier for me (as easy as it gets!). I look forward to trying some of their other kitchen tools.
I should note that although I have a tendency to compare brands to (and against) Oxo products, this scoop has a completely different design. I do have an Oxo scoop, although it has a beak shape, rubber handle, and different materials. I can’t really say one is better than the other, because it is like comparing apples to oranges. The rubber handle was only one difference of many, and each has completely separate attributes, like any other products.
Recommended:
Yes
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