A-Z Guide

 

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Online complaints reviews and resolutions

Jump online to ensure your complaints and compliments are heard loud and clear.

24 Aug 2011 | Your online comments can help inform other consumers about products and services. CHOICE outlines how businesses are engaging with savvy consumers online.

Face-paint

Horror make-up set recall

If children absorb lead through their skin, they can suffer significant and sometimes permanent health effects.

28 Oct 2011 | PJ SAS Trading Pty Ltd is recalling horror make-up sets sold in various discout variety stores.

Fairtrade

Valentine's-guide-to-chocolate-and-flowers

Why not woo with the classics this Valentine's Day?

11 Feb 2011 | CHOICE gives you the lowdown on two Valentine's classics: chocolates and flowers.

Ground coffee review and compare

CHOICE’s expert tasters find some of the best brews at very affordable prices.

5 Dec 2009 | CHOICE asked three experts to rate 14 popular brands of ground coffee to find out which offer the best value. We uncover pointers for picking a winner.

Fairtrade sales boom

As demand for ethical products grows, big-brand companies try to jump on the bandwagon.

7 Oct 2009 | Last year, Australians spent $23.4 million on fair-trade goods, indicating the demand for ethical products isn’t waning despite the economic downturn.

Consumer Affairs - Fair Trading

Contact details for each state and territory's departments.

14 Aug 2009 | These state and territory government departments provide advice and information on consumer complaints and problems.

Organic meat in question

You pay the price for organic meat, but can you be sure that what you're getting is the real deal?

30 Jul 2009 | Organic meat is expensive to produce so you’ll pay more. But how can you be sure you’re getting what you pay for? CHOICE investigates.

Unfair contracts

Proposed legislation will give consumers uniform protection from unfair contracts.

18 Feb 2009 | Currently most consumer contracts in Australia include non-negotiable terms and conditions. Sometimes these include unfair terms.

Dark chocolate review and compare

Can dark chocolate be ethical, good for you and delicious?

29 Oct 2008 | Chocoholics finally think they have valid reason to indulge — with good conscience.

Food miles

You'll be surprised at how well-travelled your food is.

28 Oct 2008 | Food miles advocates are calling for localised eating to counter the number of imported products on our supermarket shelves. But is it even possible to eat well on food grown within about 160km of where you live?

Fairtrade products

Buying Fairtrade products is a way to make your buying decisions improve the lives of small producers in developing countries.

27 Aug 2007 | So what are Fairtrade products, and what’s it all about?

Fans

Ceiling fans review and compare

A ceiling fan can be a good alternative to, or complement, an air conditioner.

2 Sep 2011 | If you don’t want to spend big bucks on air conditioning, ceiling fans can offer an environmentally-friendly and energy-efficient cooling solution.

Dyson Air Multiplier desk fan

It looks cool, but does it really do the job?

8 Dec 2009 | This bladeless fan, which looks more like a portal to another dimension, attracts attention and works well, but at what price?

Ceiling fans review and compare

An environmentally-friendly way of cooling your home during those scorching days.

25 May 2008 | If you live in a warm climate ceiling fans can offer an environmentally-friendly and energy-efficient cooling solution.

Farmers' markets

Tomato-and-buffalo-mozzarella-salad

Fast, simple and tasty salad for a hot summers day.

8 Jun 2010 | This simple salad with a fresh, cool taste is the perfect addition to a summer BBQ.

Farmers markets

Should you trade in your supermarket trolley for food straight off the farm?

13 Feb 2008 | There’s no legislation defining farmers' markets in Australia—each has its own charter which sets out what the market allows and doesn’t. So can you be sure that farmers and producers are the ones getting your custom?

Strawberries

We tell you how to choose the sweetest and tastiest — but our test found pesticide residues in most conventionally grown strawberries.

29 Jan 2008 | We love our strawberries. They look beautiful and good ones taste delicious. But are there hidden dangers?

Toasted muesli recipe  

Our food in focus is oats, packed full of nutritional goodies, and yummy in our muesli recipe.

4 Dec 2006 | This simple home made museli recipe is both delicious and healthy. It won't last long.

Fashion

Direct factory outlets

Factory outlet centres can be a bargain hunter’s paradise but don’t let the sale signs go to your head.

18 Oct 2007 | Forget your local Westfield: there’s a new breed of shopping centre appearing around the country.

Fast food

Heart Foundation drops takeaway Tick

The National Heart Foundation is ending its Tick licensing program in the takeaway food industry.

22 Sep 2011 | The National Heart Foundation has announced it is scrapping its Tick licensing program in the takeaway food industry, citing its desire to broaden its work across the takeaway and catering sector.

Fast food survival guide

We look at the menus at some of Australia’s biggest fast food chains to help you choose the healthiest option available.

7 Jun 2011 | Despite many fast food outlets offering healthy options, the nutritional labelling and serving sizes of not-so-healthy choices are still not up to scratch.

South Australia to count kilojules

South Australian Government forces fast food retailers to display energy counts on menu boards.

14 Mar 2011 | New regulations requires food chains with 20 or more outlets in SA to display the kilojoule content alongside product price.

Meat pies review and compare

Very few meat pies are tasty or packed with meat, while the majority are a very unappetising prospect.

18 May 2010 | The Australian food standards authority stipulates meat pies must contain a minimum of 25% "meat flesh". But not all do.

Pizzas review and compare

We reveal which brands and chains offer the healthiest and tastiest options.

15 Mar 2010 | CHOICE compared more than 190 brands and flavours of pizza available nationally from supermarkets (chilled or frozen) or from takeaway chains. We found some big differences in nutritional value – and in value for money.

Ready meals

From shelf to microwave, they're ready in minutes. But are these packaged meals any good?

3 Feb 2010 | Supermarket shelves are crammed with shelf-stable meals, costing between $3 and $5. We sort the best from the rest.

Kilojoules on the menu

Some fast food chains in the UK and US are giving consumers information to make healthier choices – but Australia is missing out.

31 Jul 2009 | Among other measures to combat obesity, the federal government’s new Preventative Health Taskforce is considering whether restaurants and fast food chains should display the number of calories/kilojoules alongside each item on the menu.

Food marketing: child's play  

We take a look at how food is marketed to children, and what the problems are.

6 Mar 2007 | Kids are a special target for food marketing, and this concerns us for several reasons.

Healthy food guide - fast food

Some "healthy" fast-food options aren't much better than a Big Mac.

3 Jan 2006 | Three "healthy" options out-Mac a Big Mac when it comes to fat and salt and seven more come close and all 10 are fattier than a KFC Original Fillet Burger.

Coffee chains review and compare

You could be taking away a lot more than you bargained for.

28 May 2005 | A coffee-to-go can provide a much needed caffeine fix. While a standard latte or cappuccino may be relatively harmless, some coffee chain drinks can provide a lot more kilojoules, fat and sugar than you might realise.

Fast food

"Upsizing" your meal will really push the fat, salt and sugar right over the top.

9 Jan 2005 | When we started analysing the nutrition info from the fast-food giants, even our hardened food team was shocked by the amount of kilojoules, fat and salt that some options packed.

Fat

Fast food survival guide

We look at the menus at some of Australia’s biggest fast food chains to help you choose the healthiest option available.

7 Jun 2011 | Despite many fast food outlets offering healthy options, the nutritional labelling and serving sizes of not-so-healthy choices are still not up to scratch.

Savoury snacks

Beware savoury snacks full of salt and saturated fat.

13 May 2011 | CHOICE looks at which savoury snacks are the healthier options as well as those best avoided.

Sweet-snacks

Beware processed snacks that are loaded with sugar and bad fats.

25 Feb 2011 | We tell you which shelf-stable sweet snacks are worth throwing into your glove box or office drawer, and which should be avoided.

Stay slim strategies

A huge US survey by our sister organisation reveals six diet and exercise secrets of the slim.

22 Jun 2010 | Are there key eating and exercise strategies that are trademarks of the slim? Learn the secrets of those who never get fat.

Pizzas review and compare

We reveal which brands and chains offer the healthiest and tastiest options.

15 Mar 2010 | CHOICE compared more than 190 brands and flavours of pizza available nationally from supermarkets (chilled or frozen) or from takeaway chains. We found some big differences in nutritional value – and in value for money.

Trans fats in foods

CHOICE finds some manufacturers still sneak unhealthy trans fats into our foods.

26 Jun 2009 | They rarely rate a mention on the label, but the trans fats hidden in many processed foods are worse for your health than saturated fats.

Foods that make kids fatter faster

Plenty of everyday foods from the supermarket can be just as fattening as fast food.

22 Jan 2007 | Plenty of everyday products from the supermarket can be just as fattening as fast food. Often they’re aimed at kids, and even promoted as healthy.

Slimming pills

Can losing weight be as easy as popping the latest pill?

5 Dec 2005 | If you read the ads and are left with the impression that simply popping a few pills could be the answer to all your weight worries.

Coffee chains review and compare

You could be taking away a lot more than you bargained for.

28 May 2005 | A coffee-to-go can provide a much needed caffeine fix. While a standard latte or cappuccino may be relatively harmless, some coffee chain drinks can provide a lot more kilojoules, fat and sugar than you might realise.

Feeding

Organic baby food review

Not all organic baby food is created equal.

30 Nov 2011 | Our review of 136 baby food varieties for under 1s has found there’s more to (or sometimes less of) these products than meets the eye.

Portable high chairs review and compare

Harnesses, boosters and clip-on seats are compact alternatives to a standard high chair.

13 May 2011 | 15 portable high chairs - including clip-on, booster and harness types - tested for safety and durability.

Up-market baby food

All baby foods are not created equal.

23 Feb 2007 | We’ve put up-market, gourmet, and organic baby food for the under 1s under the microscope to see how they stack up.

Bottle feeding

If you're bottlefeeding your baby here's what you need to know about formula and equipment.

24 Jul 2003 | If you don’t breastfeed your baby you’ll need to choose a formula; cow’s milk shouldn't be used as the primary milk drink in the first year of life.

Recipes for toddlers

Here's some quick recipes that are easy to make and sure to please your little one.

24 Jul 2003 | These simple recipes come from CHOICE's popular book title, Practical Cooking for Babies and Toddlers.

Breastfeeding

Breast milk is the ideal food for newborn babies — it’s perfectly designed to nourish your baby.

15 Jul 2003 | There are a number of reasons why breast is best.

Babys' first foods

We look at how to start with solids, what to choose and what to look out for.

15 Jul 2003 | Experts are probably still arguing, but the latest recommendations are that you shouldn’t start your baby on anything other than breast milk or formula before they’re six months old.

Fertility

Pregnancy multivitamin supplements

Are they essential, or just a pricey gimmick?

1 Sep 2011 | There are plenty of specialist multivitamin on the market for conception, pregnancy and breastfeeding. Can they be beneficial or are they just a gimmick?

Feta

Radish and feta salad

CHOICE recipe for radish with danish feta dip

24 Jun 2010 | Sliced radish used to eat this feta dip adds a fresh taste.


Zucchini mint and fetta salad

A fresh zucchini and feta salad with a hint of mint

8 Jun 2010 | Using zuchini in a salad, adding feta and mint for that special flavour


Feta cheese  

There’s more to this cheese of ancient origins than meets the eye.

13 Jun 2008 | Buying feta might once have been straightforward but now we’re likely to be overwhelmed by choice.

FetchTV

FetchTV first look

CHOICE takes a look at an internet-based alternative to pay TV.

26 Oct 2011 | FetchTV provides another alternative to cable, with your Internet provider delivering a host of channels and rental movies to your television.

Fiat

Fiat Scudo vehicles recall

Damage to the power steering electric pump wiring may cause the failed operation of the power steering.

23 Sep 2011 | Damage to the power steering electric pump wiring may cause the failed operation of the power steering.

Fiat-Scudo

Fiat Scudo vehicles recall

Damage to the power steering electric pump wiring may cause the failed operation of the power steering.

23 Sep 2011 | Damage to the power steering electric pump wiring may cause the failed operation of the power steering.

Fibre

Fast food survival guide

We look at the menus at some of Australia’s biggest fast food chains to help you choose the healthiest option available.

7 Jun 2011 | Despite many fast food outlets offering healthy options, the nutritional labelling and serving sizes of not-so-healthy choices are still not up to scratch.

Fibre

Australians are a constipated lot. But it's not just our bowels that would thank us for eating more fibre.

14 Feb 2005 | One thing is certain –– millions of doses of laxatives we swallow each year wouldn't be needed by most people if we ate more fibre.

Financial advice

Consumers to get better financial advice

CHOICE supports FOFA reforms

15 Dec 2011 | CHOICE has endorsed the Joint Consumer Submission to the Parliamentary Joint Committee inquiry into the proposed Future of Financial Advice (FOFA) reforms.

Simpler mortgage-speak

Small but crucial victory for prospective homeowners.

11 Nov 2011 | The fight for plain English and full disclosure on financial products is far from over but there have been some wins.

Global reach promises greater financial protection

CHOICE on board with Consumers International.

8 Nov 2011 | Consumers International has received support from the G20 for greater financial consumer protection.

G20 financial consumer protection proposals forget lessons of GFC

World needs new international organisation to protect consumers

17 Oct 2011 | CHOICE says there needs to be protection for consumers using financial services and products.

Financial-advisor-reforms

The proposed new “best interest duty” for financial advisers is long overdue.

26 Sep 2011 | CHOICE has been calling for an overhaul of the financial services industry for more than 20 years. The federal government's Future of Financial Advice(FOFA) reforms will hopefully resolve some of the issues.

CHOICE joint submission on Future of Financial Advice legislation

Consumers will benefit if joint submission is accepted

16 Sep 2011 | CHOICE has joined with several consumer organisations in a submission to the first tranche of draft legislation for the Federal Government’s Future of Financial Advice (FoFA) reforms.

Financial advice minefield

CHOICE has campaigned for reform for over two decades.

28 Apr 2011 | The government says the changes will require financial planners to prioritise the interests of their clients.

Making a financial complaint

Avoid the cost of going to court by resolving a matter yourself or using the free Financial Ombudsman Service.

17 Mar 2011 | Dealing directly with banks and other financial services providers to resolve disputes is usually more effective than taking the matter to court.

Advice-bias

Latest Roy Morgan Research shows each of the big six financial planning groups is associated with a major funds management group.

26 May 2010 | If you get financial advice from any of largest six financial planning groups, there’s a good chance you'll end up with investment products offered by the adviser’s parent company.

Income-for-Life-Retirement-Products

We look at whether income-for-life retirement products are as good as they claim.

25 May 2010 | With the average life expectancy increasing, the risk of running out of your savings during retirement is very real.

Financial advice: Is it in your interest?  

We want an end to incentives that lead financial advisers to push products on their clients.

1 Jun 2009 | CHOICE is calling on the government to ban commission, asset based and other incentive remunerations for finanical advisers.

Consumer compensation scheme for finacial services

Consumers should be compensated for wrongdoings.

1 Nov 2008 | Currently consumers who suffer losses because of wrongdoing by financial advisers and service providers aren’t guaranteed of compensation.

Switch financial providers and save

Worried you're paying too much on banking, credit cards or insurance?

15 Feb 2008 | For most of us, minimising the cost of 'staple' financial services like bank accounts and insurance is important. Here's how to save.

Index funds

We compare Australian share index funds and profile a low-cost Exchange Traded Fund.

6 Mar 2006 | Index funds are the most cost-effective way to get investment returns reflecting (before fees).

Financial planning step-by-step guide

Be sure you take all the steps possible to ensure your planner is working hard for you, not just looking after their own interests.

10 Sep 2005 | Follow this six-step guide to improve your chances of getting a high standard of service and advice from a financial planner.

Financial planning

Consumers to get better financial advice

CHOICE supports FOFA reforms

15 Dec 2011 | CHOICE has endorsed the Joint Consumer Submission to the Parliamentary Joint Committee inquiry into the proposed Future of Financial Advice (FOFA) reforms.

Simpler mortgage-speak

Small but crucial victory for prospective homeowners.

11 Nov 2011 | The fight for plain English and full disclosure on financial products is far from over but there have been some wins.

G20 financial consumer protection proposals forget lessons of GFC

World needs new international organisation to protect consumers

17 Oct 2011 | CHOICE says there needs to be protection for consumers using financial services and products.

Financial-advisor-reforms

The proposed new “best interest duty” for financial advisers is long overdue.

26 Sep 2011 | CHOICE has been calling for an overhaul of the financial services industry for more than 20 years. The federal government's Future of Financial Advice(FOFA) reforms will hopefully resolve some of the issues.

CHOICE welcomes Payday Lending reforms

20 Sep 2011 | The Consumer Action Law Centre, Financial Counselling Australia and the Consumer Credit Legal Centre NSW have launched a campaign to end the exploitation of vulnerable consumers by High Cost Short Term Lending, better known as Payday Lending.

CHOICE joint submission on Future of Financial Advice legislation

Consumers will benefit if joint submission is accepted

16 Sep 2011 | CHOICE has joined with several consumer organisations in a submission to the first tranche of draft legislation for the Federal Government’s Future of Financial Advice (FoFA) reforms.

Personal financial software

We look at some of the way you can use personal financial software to manage your home budget.

19 Aug 2011 | Everyone has money concerns, but can personal financial packages help track expenses and manage your budget? We look at some of the online alternatives.

Financial advice minefield

CHOICE has campaigned for reform for over two decades.

28 Apr 2011 | The government says the changes will require financial planners to prioritise the interests of their clients.

Tell your bank how you feel

Help CHOICE keep the pressure on the Government and the big four banks.

10 Feb 2011 | CHOICE is calling on consumers to write the CEO of their bank to get a better deal.

Advice-bias

Latest Roy Morgan Research shows each of the big six financial planning groups is associated with a major funds management group.

26 May 2010 | If you get financial advice from any of largest six financial planning groups, there’s a good chance you'll end up with investment products offered by the adviser’s parent company.

Income-for-Life-Retirement-Products

We look at whether income-for-life retirement products are as good as they claim.

25 May 2010 | With the average life expectancy increasing, the risk of running out of your savings during retirement is very real.

Financial advice: Is it in your interest?  

We want an end to incentives that lead financial advisers to push products on their clients.

1 Jun 2009 | CHOICE is calling on the government to ban commission, asset based and other incentive remunerations for finanical advisers.

Consumer compensation scheme for finacial services

Consumers should be compensated for wrongdoings.

1 Nov 2008 | Currently consumers who suffer losses because of wrongdoing by financial advisers and service providers aren’t guaranteed of compensation.

Wraps and master trusts

Wraps and master trusts can provide convenience and choice, but beware high fees and adviser kick-backs.

1 Mar 2008 | Wraps and master trusts dominate as one-stop-shops for accessing a wider range of investments.

Index funds

We compare Australian share index funds and profile a low-cost Exchange Traded Fund.

6 Mar 2006 | Index funds are the most cost-effective way to get investment returns reflecting (before fees).

Financial planning step-by-step guide

Be sure you take all the steps possible to ensure your planner is working hard for you, not just looking after their own interests.

10 Sep 2005 | Follow this six-step guide to improve your chances of getting a high standard of service and advice from a financial planner.

Fines

AlerteGPS review

It finds speed cameras while you’re driving, but only sometimes.

16 Sep 2009 | The AlerteGPS G200 is designed for drivers who want a device that indicates speed camera locations only, however our tester found that you should look at our car GPS test first.

Contesting parking fines

Ever wondered how to contest unjust parking and speed camera fines?

15 Sep 2009 | CHOICE found 30% of parking fine appeals to the NSW Treasury’s Office of State Revenue were successful. So what are your options?

Fire alarms

Smoke alarms review and compare  

We test 15 battery-powered smoke alarms, including photoelectric, ionisation and dual-sensor models.

2 Mar 2010 | While all of these smoke alarms meet the Australian Standard, they don't all offer the same level of protection.

First aid

First aid kits review and compare

Many of the first aid kits we tested could leave you ill-prepared when an accident strikes.

29 Sep 2007 | Nine of the 22 kits tested provide insufficient equipment to cope with five common household emergencies.

First aid kits buying guide

What items do you need in a general purpose first aid kit?

12 Sep 2007 | With these contents in your "general purpose" first aid kit, you should be equipped for a range of emergency situations.

Fish

Sustainable seafood labelling

We take a look at the implications of weak labelling requirements for sustainable seafood.

20 Dec 2011 | Are the big supermarkets’ sustainable fish-sourcing strategies bona fide or merely a marketing hook?

The facts on fish

CHOICE investigates the benefits and risks of eating fish.

19 Oct 2008 | Fish is good for us, but what about toxic chemicals and over-fishing? We guide you through the debates.

Fisher-and-Paykel

Washing machines review and compare   

There are many things to consider when choosing a washing machine. CHOICE runs through the main factors for you.

11 Jan 2012 | In our updated test we put 45 washing machines through their paces in our labs to give you independent buying advice.

Fridge reviews  

CHOICE puts the major refrigerators through their paces in our laboratories.

18 Nov 2011 | Fridges are becoming more energy efficient, but is it at the expense of healthy food storage?

Dual fuel 90cm stoves review

These sleek stoves are designed for use as either freestanding units or to fit between cabinets.

14 Oct 2011 | CHOICE reviews dual fuel freestanding 90cm stoves, with test results for 6 dual-fuel ranges priced from $1999 to $3699.

Fisher-Price

Christmas gift guide for the traveller

We round up some of the best buys for your globetrotting friends.

16 Dec 2011 | We pick fun and handy products that will make great Christmas presents for anyone who loves to travel.

Portable cots review

Of the 10 portable cots we tested, only three are recommended.

15 Jun 2011 | Portable cots are handy if you're on the move, but make sure you don't compromise on safety. See our tests results for more information.

Fitness

Weight loss pills

Can slimming be as easy as popping a pill?

2 May 2011 | We look at the so-called "active ingredients" in weight loss pills to see if they live up to their claims.

CHOICE-summer-guide

Be proactive about your New Year's fitness resolution with this round-up of tips and recommended products.

20 Jan 2011 | We've put together the CHOICE summer guide to help you get the best start to 2011.

Flood

Insurance premiums hiked up

Home and Contents premiums hit the stratosphere.

20 Jan 2012 | Since the start of the year CHOICE members have been sharing hair-raising stories of premium hikes for home and contents insurance, mainly due to the addition of flood cover.

Insurance code changes

The insurance industry is set on making consumer-friendly changes to its code of conduct.

9 Jan 2012 | A year after the flood events that devastated Queensland, the insurance industry has vowed to make some consumer-friendly changes.

Flood insurance reforms

Government asks for input on flood definition in insurance policies.

5 Apr 2011 | Queenslanders who thought they were covered for floods are starting to find out they aren't.

Floor

Low-cost vacuum cleaner reviews  

You can buy a good quality vacuum cleaner for less than $300. Our newest test results include the latest models.

14 Jul 2011 | Our test reveals some good, affordable choices and one model in particular that would hold its own against vacuums costing twice as much.

Mid-priced vacuum cleaners review and compare  

Our latest test of mid-price vacuums finds bag models take the lead over bins.

4 May 2011 | Mid-priced vacuum cleaners offer some of the best value for their price.

Steam mop fact sheet

The best steam mops are good at cleaning stubborn grime, but can cost a few hundred dollars.

16 Dec 2010 | Steam mops can be a good option if you’re looking for a chemical free way to clean your floors. But some are no better at cleaning than an ordinary mop and bucket.

Steam-mops

Is a steam mop really better than an ordinary mop and bucket?

16 Dec 2010 | CHOICE put 12 steam mops and cleaners to the test to see which are best at shifting stubborn dirt.

Black-and-Decker-Dustbuster-Flexi-review

Put simply, this is the best-performing handheld vacuum cleaner CHOICE has ever tested.

16 Nov 2010 | The Dustbuster Flexi easily and effectively tackles spot vacuuming tasks.

Samsung-Navibot-robot-vacuum-cleaner

Vacuuming can’t yet be left entirely to the machines.

29 Oct 2010 | Easy to use and clever at navigating around rooms, the NaviBot is still no replacement for a traditional vacuum cleaner.

Sustainable Flooring

From recycled timber to bamboo, we reveal the most and least planet-friendly floors.

24 Jun 2010 | The increasing popularity of timber floors poses concerns about exactly how that timber is harvested.

Dyson Radix 6 handheld vacuum cleaner

In 2007 this was the most effective - and most expensive - handheld vac we'd ever tested

23 Nov 2009 | First Look: Dyson Radix 6 handheld vacuum cleaner In 2007 this was the most effective - and most expensive - handheld vac we'd ever tested.

Carpet spot cleaners review and compare

A good carpet cleaner should get you out of trouble ... unless you live with a budding Pro Hart.

25 Sep 2007 | We put the carpet spot cleaners to the test on two different types of cream-coloured carpet: nylon cut pile and wool sisal.

Timber and tile flooring buying guide

Choosing flooring is an important part of home building or renovation.

8 Nov 2004 | When you’re building or renovating, elegant flooring that’s also practical can add substantial value to your home, in addition to looking and feeling great.

Flu

Cough cold and flu treatments

We clarify the over-the-counter and natural remedies and outline effective strategies for treatment.

21 Jul 2011 | Pharmacy shelves are stacked with remedies for winter colds, coughs and flu. Which – if any – will work for your particular symptoms?

Flued gas log fires

The cheapest of the five units tested cost more than $4000 installed, so it pays to buy wisely.

21 Apr 2010 | Flued-gas heating, where fumes are released or pushed outside, offers an efficient and effective option for a big area.

Beware online swine flu cure scams

The US Food and Drug Administration is cracking down on swine flu snake oil.

24 Jun 2009 | As the world experiences its first global pandemic flu in four decades, sensational claims about products are being circulated on US websites, including an ultraviolet light that can destroy swine flu, an air purifier able to sterilise a room and a product “clinically shown” to kill the virus in the nose.

Flu shots

With winter approaching it’s time to get your annual flu shot.

4 May 2007 | The influenza virus is constantly changing so you need to get a flu shot every year to be protected against the most common strains.

Throat lozengers

Relief or rip-off?

3 May 2007 | Most throat lozenges are unlikely to help relieve the pain and discomfort of a sore throat any more than sucking on a hard lolly or drinking hot water with honey and lemon.

Fluoride

Dental decay

It’s not just sugary foods and drinks that are bad for your teeth, other nasties contribute to dental decay.

21 Jun 2010 | CHOICE tested 85 foods and drinks readily available in supermarkets and found that many promoted as healthy snacks are some of the worst offenders.

Dental care

Something's rotten in the state of Australia's health - our teeth.

12 Jun 2007 | Many people are avoiding preventative care and early treatment because they can’t afford dental care, resulting in more serious oral and general health problems — with more extreme treatment and higher costs later on.

Fluoride

Is fluoride good for your teeth, or a slow poison? We look at the most recent evidence.

23 Feb 2007 | There’s now solid scientific evidence that fluoride added to drinking water helps to protect your teeth from decay.

Food

Salad dressings review and compare

If you have the basics, making your own salad dressing can be quick and easy.

1 Feb 2012 | CHOICE reviews prepared French, Italian and Caesar salad dressings for nutrition and taste.

Better country-of-origin food labelling

Time to reform country-of-origin labelling

24 Jan 2012 | CHOICE wants Australian governments to improve country-of-origin labelling on food for retail sale.

Backa Australia Chabi recall

Food products contaminated with Staphylococcus may cause illness if consumed.

23 Jan 2012 | Backa Australia is recalling Chabi due to a microbial (Staphylococcus) contamination.

Healthy eating - theres an app for that

Scan your way to healthier food choices.

19 Jan 2012 | Consumers can now use their iPhones to scan food barcodes and instantly see traffic light information thanks to an app developed by The George Institute and BUPA.

Flowerdale Farm and Gippsland Sprout mung beans recall

Food products contaminated with E.coli may cause illness if consumed.

18 Jan 2012 | Gippsland Sprout Co is recalling Flowerdale Farm mung beans and Gippsland Sprout mung beans due to a microbial contamination.

New chemicals legislation needs improvement

CHOICE says the draft legislation for new chemicals reforms needs improvement

5 Jan 2012 | The draft legislation for the Australian Government’s reforms to agricultural and veterinary chemicals needs to be improved.

Coles Chicken and Vegetable Pies recall

The product may contain bone fragments.

4 Jan 2012 | Coles Supermarkets Pty Ltd is recalling Coles Chicken and Vegetable Pies as the product may contain bone fragments.

Natural Sprouts and SA Sprouts recall

E.Coli contamination may result in food poisoning.

3 Jan 2012 | SA Sprouts is recalling "Natural Sprouts" and "SA Sprouts" due to microbial contamination (E.Coli).

Consumer sharing

Swap, share and rent your way to a better future.

30 Dec 2011 | Consumer sharing is growing in popularity to meet today’s buyer demands. It’s energy efficient, environmentally friendly and cost effective, and it’s now easier than ever.

Microwaves review

A flatbed microwave is convenient but it's those with the turntables that still dominate the list.

19 Dec 2011 | We review 27 microwaves priced from $109 to $490 to find out which models perform the best, and are the easiest to use.

New restrictions on the use of a toxic pesticide

The use of dimethoate has been suspended due to potential health risks.

19 Dec 2011 | There is good news for consumers with the suspension of the use of the pesticide dimethoate due to potential health risks.

Ministers announce future of food labelling

The results are a mixed bag.

13 Dec 2011 | Ministers have handed down their decisions on the future of food labelling, and the menu contains mixed results for consumers.

Food labelling petition

Over 3700 consumers joined the call for traffic light labels.

9 Dec 2011 | More than 3700 signatures and CHOICE’s open letter were sent to food and health ministers from around Australia.

Food labelling petition

Over 3700 consumers joined the call for traffic light labels.

9 Dec 2011 | More than 3700 signatures and CHOICE’s open letter were sent to food and health ministers from around Australia.

Organic baby food review

Not all organic baby food is created equal.

30 Nov 2011 | Our review of 136 baby food varieties for under 1s has found there’s more to (or sometimes less of) these products than meets the eye.

Gift ideas for the kitchen

These gift ideas will please any budding amateur chef.

29 Nov 2011 | CHOICE picks the kitchen gadgets that will make great Christmas presents for anyone who loves to cook.

Daily intake percentage labels discredited  

A new report finds the front-of-pack labelling system is too confusing for consumers to understand.

28 Nov 2011 | Research has confirmed CHOICE's long-held belief that Percentage Daily Intake labels are confusing and based on inconsistent serving sizes.

Good Luck Dried Seaweed Strips recall

The recall of the product is due to high levels of naturally occurring iodine.

16 Nov 2011 | Regular consumption of these products may cause health problems in some people including pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Bundaberg Burgundee Creaming Soda recall

An increased pH level in the beverage may cause fermentation and a risk of the product shattering.

20 Oct 2011 | Bundaberg Brewed Drinks Pty Ltd is recalling Burgundee Creaming Soda because of an increased risk of the product shattering.

Chocolate Macadamia Nuts recall

Food products have been contaminated with salmonella and may cause illness if consumed.

14 Oct 2011 | Paton's Macadamia Plantations Pty Ltd is recalling varieties of its chocolate macadamia nuts due to the presence of salmonella bacteria.

Low-fat desserts review

Read nutrition labels carefully - a 'low-fat' claim doesn't mean it's healthy.

6 Oct 2011 | CHOICE reviews a range of desserts marketed with low-fat labelling from the fridge and freezer section of supermarkets.

Food industry claims add to confusion

23 Sep 2011 | The food industry’s response to CHOICE’s Shame the Claim campaign has missed the point and simply added to consumers’ confusion.

Heart Foundation drops takeaway Tick

The National Heart Foundation is ending its Tick licensing program in the takeaway food industry.

22 Sep 2011 | The National Heart Foundation has announced it is scrapping its Tick licensing program in the takeaway food industry, citing its desire to broaden its work across the takeaway and catering sector.

Sandwich presses review and compare

A sandwich press is a handy appliance if you like cafe-style lunches

21 Sep 2011 | Our latest test reveals which sandwich makers will easily turn your favourite sangers into mouthwatering snacks.

Mainland-Extra-Tasty-Cheddar-Cheese-recall

Metal fragments have been found on Mainland's 200g and 400g packs of Extra Tasty Cheddar Cheese.

21 Sep 2011 | Food products containing metal fragments may cause injury if consumed.

Woolworths-Macro-Whole-Foods-Gluten-Free-Choc-Brownie-Mix-recall

The brownie mixes contain an undeclared allergen, milk.

14 Sep 2011 | Any consumers who have a milk allergy or intolerance may have a reaction if the product is consumed.

Mueslis review

We reviewed 159 mueslis to find the best ones for you, whatever your preferences.

17 Aug 2011 | CHOICE reviews 159 mueslis from supermarkets and health food stores to find those that meet our criteria for lowest fat, lowest sugar, highest fibre and more.

Another step towards restaurant hygiene ratings

CHOICE welcomes NSW food hygiene rating trial as important step for consumers

10 Aug 2011 | CHOICE welcomes the New South Wales Food Authority’s announcement of a year-long, voluntary ‘Scores on Doors’ restaurant hygiene rating trial.

Ceramic cooktops review

Ceramic cooktops have the looks, and they perform well too.

1 Aug 2011 | Ceramic radiant cooktops have streamlined good looks, easy-to-clean surfaces and a mid-range price tag. Which ones perform best?

Juicer reviews

You can spend big bucks on a juicer, but one of the cheapest models on test comes equal first.

6 Jul 2011 | We test a range of centrifugal and non-centrifugal juicers and find a high price tag doesn't necessarily mean outstanding performance.

Food waste

Aussie households bin close to three million tonnes of food each year.

28 Jun 2011 | CHOICE explains how you can do your bit to reduce household food waste, save money and help the environment in the process.

Food for kids

An overwhelming proportion of kids foods are far from healthy.

22 Jun 2011 | CHOICE compares the nutritional panels of various products to help consumers make more informed choices about foods for their children.

Milk submission

CHOICE has joined with the Australian Food and Grocery Council to propose options for a Supermarket Ombudsman

20 Apr 2011 | CHOICE and the Australian Food and Grocery Council are calling for the establishment of a Supermarket Ombudsman

Household waste management guide

A staggering 24 million tonnes of waste material goes into Australian landfill each year. You can help reduce that figure.

14 Apr 2011 | Reducing household waste can be as easy as altering household disposal systems. CHOICE shows you some ways to make your home greener.

cholesterol-lowering cheese

Believe it or not, Kraft introduces cheese products that can actually help lower cholesterol levels.

5 Apr 2011 | One of the main things people with high cholesterol cut down on is cheese. These new Kraft products could be a welcome addition to some fridges.

Join our call for a national restaurant hygiene scheme

CHOICE is pushing for a national scores on doors program

30 Mar 2011 | CHOICE would like to see a national 'scores on doors' restaurant hygiene scheme.

Lasagna

How to make lasagna step by step

8 Feb 2011 | A delicious recipe for the whole family.

Lasagna

How to make lasagna step by step

8 Feb 2011 | A delicious recipe for the whole family.

Ice-cream review

Creamy, premium or low-fat: which vanilla ice-cream suits your taste?

31 Jan 2011 | CHOICE puts our members and staff to the test to find out which vanilla ice-creams taste the best.

How to cook soft bacon

The perfect addition to any big breakfast or a BLT on the run.

21 Jan 2011 | Cook's CHOICE reveals how easy it is to prepare soft bacon every time.

EU a step closer to mandatory country of origin labelling

9 Dec 2010 | EU Ministers voted in favour of plans to extend compulsory country of origin labelling.

Blood orange pistachio cake

Indulge in this deliciously sweet cake

4 Nov 2010 | Bake up a treat using blood oranges and pistachios

Coolers review and compare

A standard cooler should keep your drinks chilled on long summer days.

1 Oct 2010 | We give you the better options of widely available small and medium-sizes from $27 to $120.

Battle of the brands

How do the supermarket brands compare with the market leaders for taste, nutrition and value for money?

7 Sep 2010 | CHOICE purchased a total of 163 supemarket products, across 30 different popular food items, and put them to the test.

Pizza ovens quick review

Pizza is a popular dish but will this pizza making appliance just make its way to the back of your cupboard?

3 Sep 2010 | We review 3 pizza ovens priced from $130 to $159.

Cooking oils review

With such a range of cooking oils on supermarket shelves, which are better for what purpose?

9 Aug 2010 | Not all oils are equal. We tell you the right ones to use for the cooking purpose in mind.

Food processors buying guide

Does paying more get you a better food processor?

2 Jul 2010 | A food processor can slice, shred, chop and blend foods; some can also mix cakes and knead dough.

How to cook pasta

How to cook any variety of pasta

30 Jun 2010 | CHOICE teaches you the basic steps to cooking pasta

Guacamole

CHOICE recipe for Guacamole

25 Jun 2010 | A classic recipe, reloaded with fantastic flavour, try it out.


Broad bean pasta

Tasty broad bean pasta

25 Jun 2010 | Using broad beans to make a great pasta dish


Roasted beetroot spinach and mint salad

CHOICE recipe for a sweet and salty salad

25 Jun 2010 | Ingredients that may not often go together makes a great salad


How to roast beetroot

A simple way with beetroot

25 Jun 2010 | A complex root vegetable is simplified via this recipe


Potato bake recipe

CHOICE easy potato bake

24 Jun 2010 | Six ingredients - definitely simple and very tasty - creamy potato bake.


Pavlova

A tasty dessert topped with a mixture of fresh fruits

24 Jun 2010 | Our national dessert, with coming back for more results .


Salsa

CHOICE recipe for salsa

24 Jun 2010 | A tasty fresh side for guacamole and other dishes


Cauliflower au gratin

CHOICE recipe for cauliflower au gratin

24 Jun 2010 | Quick and easy way to make cauliflower very tasty.


Curry vegetable and chicken soup

CHOICE recipe for indian vegetable and chicken soup

24 Jun 2010 | A delightful combination of chicken and spices create a hearty soup


Mushroom pasta with sage

Mushroom with a hint of sage make this great pasta dish

24 Jun 2010 | A tasty mushroom pasta with a hint of sage.


Prawns in champagne

CHOICE recipe for prawns in champagne

24 Jun 2010 | This unusual and rather hedonistic combination works with a great result


Radish and feta salad

CHOICE recipe for radish with danish feta dip

24 Jun 2010 | Sliced radish used to eat this feta dip adds a fresh taste.


Chicken corn and brussel sprout soup

CHOICE recipe for chicken, corn and brussel sprout soup

24 Jun 2010 | An oft-maligned vegetable makes the core of this delicious soup


Parsnip mash

Add a little parsnip for a great alternative to traditional mashed potatoes

24 Jun 2010 | Instead of potato, why not parsnip? Just as tasty with a hint of sage.


Mushroom risotto

Pine mushroom risotto

24 Jun 2010 | Delicious recipe for pine mushroom risotto and white wine.


Passionfruit butter

CHOICE recipe for passionfruit butter

24 Jun 2010 | A great accompaniment to scones, sponge cake or as a spread on toast.


Vanilla honey cream

A great addition to add with strawberries or scones

24 Jun 2010 | Simple to make, this can make a perfect dessert even better


Potato-and-leek-soup

CHOICE recipe for a tasty potato and leek soup

24 Jun 2010 | An easy to make, thick and tasty, potato and leek soup


French-onion-soup

CHOICE recipe for a delicious and simple french onion soup

24 Jun 2010 | A hearty version of the classic french onion soup, incorporating all the goodness you know and love


Pea-and-ham-soup

CHOICE recipe for pea and ham soup, a perfect winter dinner

24 Jun 2010 | A thick and tasty pea and ham soup


Pea-and-ham-soup

CHOICE recipe for pea and ham soup, a perfect winter dinner

24 Jun 2010 | A thick and tasty pea and ham soup


Potato-and-tomato-salad

Add a little tang to your potato salad

8 Jun 2010 | The classic potato salad with a different companion.


Potato-and-tomato-salad

Add a little tang to your potato salad

8 Jun 2010 | The classic potato salad with a different companion.


Roasted-carrots-with-thyme

A great accompaniment to any roasted meat

8 Jun 2010 | Simple and naturally sweet, this recipe is a great partner.


Scones

Berry creamy delights

8 Jun 2010 | Puns aside, these are simple and delicious.


Scones

Berry creamy delights

8 Jun 2010 | Puns aside, these are simple and delicious.


Tomato-and-buffalo-mozzarella-salad

Fast, simple and tasty salad for a hot summers day.

8 Jun 2010 | This simple salad with a fresh, cool taste is the perfect addition to a summer BBQ.

Meat pies review and compare

Very few meat pies are tasty or packed with meat, while the majority are a very unappetising prospect.

18 May 2010 | The Australian food standards authority stipulates meat pies must contain a minimum of 25% "meat flesh". But not all do.

Ready meals

From shelf to microwave, they're ready in minutes. But are these packaged meals any good?

3 Feb 2010 | Supermarket shelves are crammed with shelf-stable meals, costing between $3 and $5. We sort the best from the rest.

Health claims on foods

Good nutrition messages or just good marketing?

21 Dec 2009 | Health claims are most likely to be used on highly processed foods rather that the fresh foods we should all be eating more of.

Handheld mixers review and compare

Handheld mixers are compact and efficient helpers for the baking enthusiast.

20 Dec 2009 | Choice tested 9 handheld mixers and found they are one of the handiest appliances to have in your kitchen.

Shrinking-sizes

Astute CHOICE shoppers have alerted us to the growing list of shrinking products on supermarket shelves.

16 Dec 2009 | Let us know your additions to the list so we can investigate further.

Traffic light labelling

CHOICE wants the implemention of a system that helps the greatest number of consumers.

15 Dec 2009 | An approach to front-of-pack labelling that helps consumers make healthier food choices.

Take action on food labels

Is a new review of food labelling laws a threat or an opportunity?

2 Dec 2009 | A new review of food labelling laws is an opportunity to improve food labels for consumers. But it could also mean watered down labelling laws to make life easier for the food industry.

Chocolate fountains quick review

These chocolate fountains are better in theory than in practice.

18 Nov 2009 | Given the mess it creates, a chocolate fountain isn't something you'll be bringing out for every occasion.

Food endorsements logos

Which food endorsement schemes help you to make healthy and sustainable food choices?

11 Nov 2009 | What logos influence what you buy?

Mayonnaise review and compare

Food science can't replicate the creaminess of oil and eggs

20 Oct 2009 | Traditional homemade mayonnaise is a luscious blend of oil, egg yolk and vinegar or lemon juice. Supermarket mayo can be a different beast altogether, found our taste testers.

Simmer sauces taste tested

If you’re craving an Asian-style meal, don’t expect authenticity from a jar of simmer sauce, finds the CHOICE tasting panel.

1 Aug 2009 | CHOICE tasting panel tried 26 simmer sauces – none of them impressed and few came even close to conjuring up authentic Asian flavours.

Organic meat in question

You pay the price for organic meat, but can you be sure that what you're getting is the real deal?

30 Jul 2009 | Organic meat is expensive to produce so you’ll pay more. But how can you be sure you’re getting what you pay for? CHOICE investigates.

Mid-sized microwave reviews

More microwaves now feature sensor programs. CHOICE assesses how well they work.

9 Apr 2009 | In microwaves, sensor programs work by measuring the amount of vapour emitted during cooking to control the cooking time and power level.

Food allergies and intolerances

CHOICE investigates why nut allergy rates are now soaring, and what you can do if you think you have an allergy.

24 Mar 2009 | Australia has one of the highest allergy rates in the world, and the number of people affected is growing at an astonishing rate.

Pressure cooker reviews

Pressure cookers are a fast means of cooking and a range of safety features ensure they won't explode.

19 Mar 2009 | Pressure cooking is often used to braise, stew and simmer as you would in a slow cooker but in a shorter period of time.

Nanotechnology and food

No longer in the realm of science fiction, nanofoods are on their way to a supermarket near you.

23 Feb 2009 | CHOICE wants nanofoods better regulated to ensure they are both safe and properly labelled.

Pharmacy diet plans

A growing number of pharmacies are getting into the weight-loss business, but how do these diet plans weigh up?

20 Jan 2009 | Pharmacy diet plans may help to shed extra kilos quickly, but most fail to deal effectively with the complex broader issues around weight loss.

Handheld blenders review and compare

Looking for a light and portable blender, rather than a full-blown food processor? One of these may fit the bill.

20 Jan 2009 | When you have a small food-processing job and don’t want to pull your bulky processor out of the cupboard, a stick blender might be just the thing.

Danoz Flavorwave Oven Turbo review

It sounds out of this world, but can it deliver scrumptious meals in a flash?

5 Jan 2009 | The DANOZ Flavorwave Oven Turbo claims to cook healthy meals, including frozen food, up to three times faster than ordinary methods, with no defrosting or preheating required.

Cooktops buying guide

Here’s the lowdown on buying a cooktop.

1 Oct 2008 | The old kitchen range — albeit in an upmarket format — is making a comeback, but having a separate oven and cooktop allows you flexibility to put each where you like, at the height that suits you best.

Online restaurant guides

Deciding where to eat on Friday night? Check out a restaurant guide website.

29 Sep 2008 | CHOICE's verdict on which ones offer the most useful information, and how to know which reviews you can trust.

Healthy eating

CHOICE’s expert dietitian puts our volunteers' diets to test. Find out how they measured up.

24 Jun 2008 | The most common problems in our volunteers’ diets were too much salt and not enough calcium, fibre and water.

Plasticisers

CHOICE tested foods in glass jars and found contaminants from the plastic used to seal the lids.

12 Jun 2008 | In our test of food in glass jars, half contained the plastic-softening chemicals epoxidised soybean oil or phthalates at levels exceeding EU limits.

Microwave oven reviews

Serious cooking can be done using a combi microwave — but only in small batches.

22 May 2008 | If you’re looking to replace an old faithful with one that can do more, a combination microwave would be a great addition to your main oven

Ovens buying guide  

Ovens aren't simple anymore – our buying guide takes you through the choices.

21 May 2008 | But while looks may be important, they're only one of many things to think about when buying an oven.

Daewoo Pizza Microwave Oven review

Short on space? A combination microwave pizza grill could be the answer.

16 Apr 2008 | If you don’t have room for a full-sized oven and don’t want to pay for a convection microwave, the Daewoo Pizza Oven Combo will make a crispier pizza than you’d get in a microwave.

Rice cookers review and compare

A rice cooker might be the answer, if you eat lots of rice or feed lots of people.

29 Feb 2008 | You don’t need a rice cooker for perfect rice, but preparing it on the cooktop or in the microwave can be trickier and messier.

Restaurant hygiene

Do you know if the food in your favourite restaurant is safe to eat?

11 Nov 2007 | There’s no fast and easy way of knowing if a restaurant has a kitchen that’s filthy or is infested with rats, or even if it passed its last council inspection.

Organic food

Choosing organic food is easier than ever. But is it worth the extra money?

17 Jul 2007 | Not too long ago you had to go to special shops if you wanted organic food. Now you can find plenty in supermarkets, but mostly you’ll pay a pretty high premium over the cost of standard produce. Is it really worth it?

Breadmakers review and compare

If there’s no bakery nearby, why not make your own bread?

9 Jul 2007 | Whether you use a premix or create your bread from scratch, all breadmakers can make bread of many kinds, rolls, pizza dough, focaccia, yeast-free bread, cakes… even jam.

Ovens $850 to $1900  

Modern ovens do a lot more than just bake.

16 Apr 2007 | If you haven’t been in the market for a new oven for a while, you might be surprised to discover what they can do these days.

Is bigger cheaper

Unit pricing helps shoppers get value for money and make better choices.

23 Mar 2007 | Our comparison of the prices of various brands and sizes of everyday items in major supermarkets confirmed what most shoppers already know - it's hard to choose the best value.

Food in focus - walnuts

A handful to munch or in a recipe, walnuts are heart-healthy.

28 Feb 2007 | The Australian walnut crop is growing – so you will find walnuts from Tasmania, Victoria and parts of NSW and South Australia.

Childhood obesity

Obesity in children has reached epidemic proportions.

22 Sep 2006 | Children need better protection from unhealthy food marketing, and a large proportion of people we surveyed think the government should help.

Protein bars and shakes

Do you really need them?

1 Jul 2006 | It’s likely only elite athletes really benefit from protein bars and drinks. For the rest of us, they’re just an additional source of kilojoules and little more than an expensive snack.

Muesli bars

Grabbing a quick muesli or muffin bar may not be the healthy fix you’re after.

9 Jan 2006 | Cereal bars, muesli bars and breakfast bars may have a healthy image but most of them are more than 20% sugar, and some deliver more saturated fat than a packet of chips.

Healthy food guide - fast food

Some "healthy" fast-food options aren't much better than a Big Mac.

3 Jan 2006 | Three "healthy" options out-Mac a Big Mac when it comes to fat and salt and seven more come close and all 10 are fattier than a KFC Original Fillet Burger.

Iron - are you getting enough?

The facts on the most common nutritional deficiency in the world and what to do about it.

1 Nov 2005 | Women of child-bearing age are most at risk of too little iron and there are different types of iron found in food and they are absorbed differently.

Sugar

How much sugar is OK to include in our diet?

13 Sep 2005 | Sugar isn’t linked to diabetes, heart disease, cancer or hyperactivity. However, it can play a role in tooth decay, and adds energy (kilojoules/calories) without any other nutrition.

Food poisoning

We've all driven the porcelain bus at some time. How can you avoid food poisoning?

1 Jun 2005 | Food poisoning is becoming more common - it's likely several million Australians get sick every year.

Fibre

Australians are a constipated lot. But it's not just our bowels that would thank us for eating more fibre.

14 Feb 2005 | One thing is certain –– millions of doses of laxatives we swallow each year wouldn't be needed by most people if we ate more fibre.

Kids' lunch snacks

You want healthy, your kids want cool for school.

1 Jan 2005 | It’s important for children to eat healthily, and variety and balance are key. Build a tasty, nutritious school lunch by including starchy food, protein food, some dairy food, fruit and veg and a drink.

Butter and margarine review

We check out over 90 spreads and dairy blends, and pick the healthier options.

1 Jan 2005 | Margarine’s now a "spread" and butter can come from the fridge soft enough to spread on your toast. But which is the healthiest?

Food styling

If you’ve ever flicked through the pages of a glossy food magazine you’ve seen what a food stylist can do.

24 Jan 2002 | The problem with food photography is that food tends to dry out, shrink, discolour and sag — food styling is about counteracting these forces.

Food miles

Food endorsement programs

We look beyond the catchy logos to tell you which endorsement schemes you can really trust.

2 Mar 2010 | CHOICE reviews the programs behind the top 10 health and sustainability endorsement logos you see on foods.

Organic meat in question

You pay the price for organic meat, but can you be sure that what you're getting is the real deal?

30 Jul 2009 | Organic meat is expensive to produce so you’ll pay more. But how can you be sure you’re getting what you pay for? CHOICE investigates.

Food miles

You'll be surprised at how well-travelled your food is.

28 Oct 2008 | Food miles advocates are calling for localised eating to counter the number of imported products on our supermarket shelves. But is it even possible to eat well on food grown within about 160km of where you live?

Food additives

Fresh food

We reveal the tricks producers and supermarkets use to keep food looking fresh.

30 Nov 2010 | Can you call apples that are nine months old truly fresh?

BPA in canned foods

We found alarming levels of BPA in a range of canned foods – including baby foods.

1 Sep 2010 | CHOICE believes our national food regulator could be more proactive in protecting the health of Australian consumers.

Plastic-food-containers  

Are chemicals from plastic food containers and wrapping as safe as the industry and regulators claim or are they slowly poisoning us?

7 Jan 2010 | There’s a growing body of scientific evidence that suggests some plastics are not as safe as we're led to believe.

Australians to be fed folate in bread

Folate-fortified bread is set to hit our shelves, while New Zealand backs off.

6 Oct 2009 | In a bid to reduce neural tube defects (NTDs) in unborn babies, from mid-September bakers will be required to use flour containing folic acid in their bread products.

Aldi bans food colourings

CHOICE welcomes the decision by supermarket chain ALDI to remove six artificial colours from its branded food items in Australia.

11 Jun 2009 | Research on the adverse affects of artificial food colours has evoked a proactive response from the supermarket chain, which is removing them from their products despite our food regulator saying there’s no need for a ban.

Food allergies and intolerances

CHOICE investigates why nut allergy rates are now soaring, and what you can do if you think you have an allergy.

24 Mar 2009 | Australia has one of the highest allergy rates in the world, and the number of people affected is growing at an astonishing rate.

Supermarket cakes

Many of them are packed with additives, including artificial colours linked to hyperactivity in children. We tell you which brands to avoid.

23 Mar 2009 | Make a cake at home and you'll probably use about six ingredients. Look at the ingredients list on a supermarket cake and you might find 40 or more.

Bottled juice supplements

Are juices that contain extra antioxidants or supplements better for you?

26 Feb 2009 | Fruit juices with exotic supplements have spread from juice bars onto the supermarket shelves. But are these juices with feel-good extras really better for you than straight juice?

Nanotechnology and food

No longer in the realm of science fiction, nanofoods are on their way to a supermarket near you.

23 Feb 2009 | CHOICE wants nanofoods better regulated to ensure they are both safe and properly labelled.

Packaged ham review and compare

No one expects pre-packaged and pre-sliced ham to be a gourmet’s delight.

9 Sep 2008 | You might be surprised at just how much added water these products can contain instead of the meat you think you’re paying for.

Food additives

Which ones pose a health risk?

2 May 2008 | We look at the latest research into additives that health questions have been raised about - and give CHOICE’s verdict on which ones you’d do best to avoid.

Food to lower your cholesterol

Which ones give you the most bang for your buck?

14 Mar 2008 | Eating 2–3g per day of plant sterols in the form of enriched spread, yoghurt, milk or a combination of these products can help lower your cholesterol.

Breadmakers review and compare

If there’s no bakery nearby, why not make your own bread?

9 Jul 2007 | Whether you use a premix or create your bread from scratch, all breadmakers can make bread of many kinds, rolls, pizza dough, focaccia, yeast-free bread, cakes… even jam.

Fluoride

Is fluoride good for your teeth, or a slow poison? We look at the most recent evidence.

23 Feb 2007 | There’s now solid scientific evidence that fluoride added to drinking water helps to protect your teeth from decay.

Sugar

How much sugar is OK to include in our diet?

13 Sep 2005 | Sugar isn’t linked to diabetes, heart disease, cancer or hyperactivity. However, it can play a role in tooth decay, and adds energy (kilojoules/calories) without any other nutrition.

food-allergies

Organic baby food review

Not all organic baby food is created equal.

30 Nov 2011 | Our review of 136 baby food varieties for under 1s has found there’s more to (or sometimes less of) these products than meets the eye.

Choc Cherry Slice and Choc Chip Flapjack Slice recall

Any consumers who have an EGG allergy or an EGG or sulphites intolerance may have a reaction if the product is consumed.

26 Oct 2011 | Kerry Pinnacle Pty Ltd is recalling Choc Cherry Slices and Choc Chip Flapjack Slices because packaging doesn't state the products' allergens, EGG and sulphites.

Food contaminants

Backa Australia Chabi recall

Food products contaminated with Staphylococcus may cause illness if consumed.

23 Jan 2012 | Backa Australia is recalling Chabi due to a microbial (Staphylococcus) contamination.

Flowerdale Farm and Gippsland Sprout mung beans recall

Food products contaminated with E.coli may cause illness if consumed.

18 Jan 2012 | Gippsland Sprout Co is recalling Flowerdale Farm mung beans and Gippsland Sprout mung beans due to a microbial contamination.

Natural Sprouts and SA Sprouts recall

E.Coli contamination may result in food poisoning.

3 Jan 2012 | SA Sprouts is recalling "Natural Sprouts" and "SA Sprouts" due to microbial contamination (E.Coli).

Another step towards restaurant hygiene ratings

CHOICE welcomes NSW food hygiene rating trial as important step for consumers

10 Aug 2011 | CHOICE welcomes the New South Wales Food Authority’s announcement of a year-long, voluntary ‘Scores on Doors’ restaurant hygiene rating trial.

Hazardous pesticides

Many chemicals available in Australia are no longer registered in Europe.

17 Jun 2011 | Cockroach baits, termite treatments, surface sprays and head lice treatments are some of the products containing ingredients that could seriously affect our health and that of our children.

BPA in canned foods

We found alarming levels of BPA in a range of canned foods – including baby foods.

1 Sep 2010 | CHOICE believes our national food regulator could be more proactive in protecting the health of Australian consumers.

Pesticides in imported vegetables

Imported vegetables appear no more likely to be contaminated with pesticides than Australian produce.

5 Mar 2010 | Our random test of common canned and frozen vegetables showed little cause for concern.

Dangerous-plastic-banned

Australia takes a step towards banning toys and baby products containing DEHP.

27 Jan 2010 | Australia may eventually catch up with the US and the UE and ban toys and baby products containing DEHP.

The facts on fish

CHOICE investigates the benefits and risks of eating fish.

19 Oct 2008 | Fish is good for us, but what about toxic chemicals and over-fishing? We guide you through the debates.

Packaged ham review and compare

No one expects pre-packaged and pre-sliced ham to be a gourmet’s delight.

9 Sep 2008 | You might be surprised at just how much added water these products can contain instead of the meat you think you’re paying for.

Plasticisers

CHOICE tested foods in glass jars and found contaminants from the plastic used to seal the lids.

12 Jun 2008 | In our test of food in glass jars, half contained the plastic-softening chemicals epoxidised soybean oil or phthalates at levels exceeding EU limits.

Strawberries

We tell you how to choose the sweetest and tastiest — but our test found pesticide residues in most conventionally grown strawberries.

29 Jan 2008 | We love our strawberries. They look beautiful and good ones taste delicious. But are there hidden dangers?

Travel health guide

Don't let avoidable illness ruin your long-planned holiday.

27 Nov 2007 | The last thing you need to worry about on a trip is illness. Here's how to keep safe and healthy while you're travelling.

Restaurant hygiene

Do you know if the food in your favourite restaurant is safe to eat?

11 Nov 2007 | There’s no fast and easy way of knowing if a restaurant has a kitchen that’s filthy or is infested with rats, or even if it passed its last council inspection.

Pesticides in fruit and veg

Are they harmless — or is the truth that we don’t really know?

10 Mar 2006 | There’s no convincing evidence that pesticide residues are bad for your health at the very low levels permitted in fruit, vegetables and other foods. But the research isn’t conclusive.

Food poisoning

We've all driven the porcelain bus at some time. How can you avoid food poisoning?

1 Jun 2005 | Food poisoning is becoming more common - it's likely several million Australians get sick every year.

food-intolerances

Organic baby food review

Not all organic baby food is created equal.

30 Nov 2011 | Our review of 136 baby food varieties for under 1s has found there’s more to (or sometimes less of) these products than meets the eye.

Choc Cherry Slice and Choc Chip Flapjack Slice recall

Any consumers who have an EGG allergy or an EGG or sulphites intolerance may have a reaction if the product is consumed.

26 Oct 2011 | Kerry Pinnacle Pty Ltd is recalling Choc Cherry Slices and Choc Chip Flapjack Slices because packaging doesn't state the products' allergens, EGG and sulphites.

Food labelling

Better country-of-origin food labelling

Time to reform country-of-origin labelling

24 Jan 2012 | CHOICE wants Australian governments to improve country-of-origin labelling on food for retail sale.

Healthy eating - theres an app for that

Scan your way to healthier food choices.

19 Jan 2012 | Consumers can now use their iPhones to scan food barcodes and instantly see traffic light information thanks to an app developed by The George Institute and BUPA.

Sustainable seafood labelling

We take a look at the implications of weak labelling requirements for sustainable seafood.

20 Dec 2011 | Are the big supermarkets’ sustainable fish-sourcing strategies bona fide or merely a marketing hook?

Ministers announce future of food labelling

The results are a mixed bag.

13 Dec 2011 | Ministers have handed down their decisions on the future of food labelling, and the menu contains mixed results for consumers.

Food labelling petition

Over 3700 consumers joined the call for traffic light labels.

9 Dec 2011 | More than 3700 signatures and CHOICE’s open letter were sent to food and health ministers from around Australia.

Food labelling petition

Over 3700 consumers joined the call for traffic light labels.

9 Dec 2011 | More than 3700 signatures and CHOICE’s open letter were sent to food and health ministers from around Australia.

Daily intake percentage labels discredited  

A new report finds the front-of-pack labelling system is too confusing for consumers to understand.

28 Nov 2011 | Research has confirmed CHOICE's long-held belief that Percentage Daily Intake labels are confusing and based on inconsistent serving sizes.

Low-fat desserts review

Read nutrition labels carefully - a 'low-fat' claim doesn't mean it's healthy.

6 Oct 2011 | CHOICE reviews a range of desserts marketed with low-fat labelling from the fridge and freezer section of supermarkets.

Better Food Labelling  

Time is running out to fix dodgy food labels.

30 Sep 2011 | CHOICE is campaigning for industry and governments around Australia to act on the recommendations of a major, independent review of food labelling.

Heart Foundation drops takeaway Tick

The National Heart Foundation is ending its Tick licensing program in the takeaway food industry.

22 Sep 2011 | The National Heart Foundation has announced it is scrapping its Tick licensing program in the takeaway food industry, citing its desire to broaden its work across the takeaway and catering sector.

Selective labelling

Nutrition claims on food labels often don't tell the full story.

15 Sep 2011 | Seductive labels on food that promise less saturated fat, no added sugar or a bumper amount of wholegrains often don't tell the whole nutritional story.

Beefing-up-of-food-labels-a-good-move

Food standards proposal will close meat labelling loophole

9 Sep 2011 | CHOICE is calling for mandatory country of origin labelling on all unpackaged meat products to help consumers make informed decisions about the meat they’re buying.

Another step towards restaurant hygiene ratings

CHOICE welcomes NSW food hygiene rating trial as important step for consumers

10 Aug 2011 | CHOICE welcomes the New South Wales Food Authority’s announcement of a year-long, voluntary ‘Scores on Doors’ restaurant hygiene rating trial.

New alcohol labelling a good start but could go further

13 Jul 2011 | A new voluntary scheme announced by alcohol industry group DrinkWise, to include messages on alcohol product labels, should become mandatory.

CHOICE welcomes moves on palm oil labelling

Coalition supports Xenophon on palm oil

24 Jun 2011 | CHOICE says consumers look likely to benefit with the Federal coalition joining independent Senator Nick Xenophon in agreeing to support legislation for mandatory labelling of palm oil in all Australian foods.

Food for kids

An overwhelming proportion of kids foods are far from healthy.

22 Jun 2011 | CHOICE compares the nutritional panels of various products to help consumers make more informed choices about foods for their children.

Country of origin labelling

The jargon surrounding country of origin confuses consumers.

10 May 2011 | Our survey revealed Australian consumers are passionate about buying Aussie products, but do they understand claims about the origin of the food they are purchasing?

Country of origin labelling

The jargon surrounding country of origin confuses consumers.

10 May 2011 | Our survey revealed Australian consumers are passionate about buying Aussie products, but do they understand claims about the origin of the food they are purchasing?

Country of origin labelling

The jargon surrounding country of origin confuses consumers.

10 May 2011 | Our survey revealed Australian consumers are passionate about buying Aussie products, but do they understand claims about the origin of the food they are purchasing?

Country of origin labelling

The jargon surrounding country of origin confuses consumers.

10 May 2011 | Our survey revealed Australian consumers are passionate about buying Aussie products, but do they understand claims about the origin of the food they are purchasing?

Ice-cream review

Creamy, premium or low-fat: which vanilla ice-cream suits your taste?

31 Jan 2011 | CHOICE puts our members and staff to the test to find out which vanilla ice-creams taste the best.

EU a step closer to mandatory country of origin labelling

9 Dec 2010 | EU Ministers voted in favour of plans to extend compulsory country of origin labelling.

Country of origin labelling

Where does our food really come from?

3 Sep 2010 | Help CHOICE campaign for clearer food labelling by sharing your thoughts on country of origin.

Food-labelling-folly

A quick trip to the supermarket by CHOICE reveals 12 glaring examples of creative marketing and misleading claims.

1 Jun 2010 | You need to check the ingredients list and nutrition information panel to find out what a product really contains.

Food endorsement programs

We look beyond the catchy logos to tell you which endorsement schemes you can really trust.

2 Mar 2010 | CHOICE reviews the programs behind the top 10 health and sustainability endorsement logos you see on foods.

Genetically modified food risks

The Australian market is being flooded with food made from genetically modified (GM) crops. Yet you'd never know from the label.

17 Feb 2010 | Are GM crops jeopardising the safety and security of our food supply?

Health claims on foods

Good nutrition messages or just good marketing?

21 Dec 2009 | Health claims are most likely to be used on highly processed foods rather that the fresh foods we should all be eating more of.

Shrinking-sizes

Astute CHOICE shoppers have alerted us to the growing list of shrinking products on supermarket shelves.

16 Dec 2009 | Let us know your additions to the list so we can investigate further.

Take action on food labels

Is a new review of food labelling laws a threat or an opportunity?

2 Dec 2009 | A new review of food labelling laws is an opportunity to improve food labels for consumers. But it could also mean watered down labelling laws to make life easier for the food industry.

Supermarket price survey 2009

Our national survey reveals the true price we pay at the supermarket

26 Nov 2009 | Two years on from our last survey, CHOICE hit the supermarket aisles with a shopping list of staples. We found grocery prices have risen against a background of little competition.

Childrens snack bars unhealthy

Some snacks claiming to be healthy alternatives for children’s lunch boxes can be as bad for kids as confectionery.

31 Jul 2009 | Children’s snack bars can be as fattening as some chocolate bars, according to new research by Australian parents and a leading nutritionist, who are calling for better food labelling on the snacks.

Trans fats in foods

CHOICE finds some manufacturers still sneak unhealthy trans fats into our foods.

26 Jun 2009 | They rarely rate a mention on the label, but the trans fats hidden in many processed foods are worse for your health than saturated fats.

Food allergies and intolerances

CHOICE investigates why nut allergy rates are now soaring, and what you can do if you think you have an allergy.

24 Mar 2009 | Australia has one of the highest allergy rates in the world, and the number of people affected is growing at an astonishing rate.

Nanotechnology and food

No longer in the realm of science fiction, nanofoods are on their way to a supermarket near you.

23 Feb 2009 | CHOICE wants nanofoods better regulated to ensure they are both safe and properly labelled.

CHOICE guide to food labelling

You can't judge a book by its cover – what about food by its label?

20 Jan 2009 | Food labelling can be a minefield of confusion and misinformation. Labelling legislation offers some relief, but often isn't sufficiently enforced.

Traffic light labelling

New research shows traffic light labels help consumers make healthy choices.

19 Sep 2008 | A colour-coded traffic lights system, first developed by the UK Food Standards Agency, has been suggested as a more useful tool for helping consumers to make healthier food choices.

Plasticisers

CHOICE tested foods in glass jars and found contaminants from the plastic used to seal the lids.

12 Jun 2008 | In our test of food in glass jars, half contained the plastic-softening chemicals epoxidised soybean oil or phthalates at levels exceeding EU limits.

Food additives

Which ones pose a health risk?

2 May 2008 | We look at the latest research into additives that health questions have been raised about - and give CHOICE’s verdict on which ones you’d do best to avoid.

Food to lower your cholesterol

Which ones give you the most bang for your buck?

14 Mar 2008 | Eating 2–3g per day of plant sterols in the form of enriched spread, yoghurt, milk or a combination of these products can help lower your cholesterol.

Fairtrade products

Buying Fairtrade products is a way to make your buying decisions improve the lives of small producers in developing countries.

27 Aug 2007 | So what are Fairtrade products, and what’s it all about?

Pesticides in fruit and veg

Are they harmless — or is the truth that we don’t really know?

10 Mar 2006 | There’s no convincing evidence that pesticide residues are bad for your health at the very low levels permitted in fruit, vegetables and other foods. But the research isn’t conclusive.

Sugar

How much sugar is OK to include in our diet?

13 Sep 2005 | Sugar isn’t linked to diabetes, heart disease, cancer or hyperactivity. However, it can play a role in tooth decay, and adds energy (kilojoules/calories) without any other nutrition.

Food processors

Thermochef first look

How does the Thermochef stack up against its famous rival, the Thermomix?

25 Jan 2012 | This multifunction cooking appliance doesn't miss a beat.

Gift ideas for the kitchen

These gift ideas will please any budding amateur chef.

29 Nov 2011 | CHOICE picks the kitchen gadgets that will make great Christmas presents for anyone who loves to cook.

MyCook Domestic review

There's room for improvement, but the MyCook has potential.

6 May 2011 | With a similar price tag and functions to the famous Thermomix, the MyCook has a way to go before it's in the same class.

Food processors

We test food processors, to see if price is an indicator of quality.

24 Feb 2011 | While it’s true that all these things can be done with a chopping board and knife or a grater, hand whisk and so on, processors are much quicker.

Thermomix review

This surprising benchtop appliance could make many of your kitchen essentials obsolete.

2 Nov 2010 | This 10-function cooking appliance doesn't miss a beat.

Food processors buying guide

Does paying more get you a better food processor?

2 Jul 2010 | A food processor can slice, shred, chop and blend foods; some can also mix cakes and knead dough.

Ready meals

From shelf to microwave, they're ready in minutes. But are these packaged meals any good?

3 Feb 2010 | Supermarket shelves are crammed with shelf-stable meals, costing between $3 and $5. We sort the best from the rest.

Handheld mixers review and compare

Handheld mixers are compact and efficient helpers for the baking enthusiast.

20 Dec 2009 | Choice tested 9 handheld mixers and found they are one of the handiest appliances to have in your kitchen.

Handheld blenders review and compare

Looking for a light and portable blender, rather than a full-blown food processor? One of these may fit the bill.

20 Jan 2009 | When you have a small food-processing job and don’t want to pull your bulky processor out of the cupboard, a stick blender might be just the thing.

Plasticisers

CHOICE tested foods in glass jars and found contaminants from the plastic used to seal the lids.

12 Jun 2008 | In our test of food in glass jars, half contained the plastic-softening chemicals epoxidised soybean oil or phthalates at levels exceeding EU limits.

Food storage

Fridge reviews  

CHOICE puts the major refrigerators through their paces in our laboratories.

18 Nov 2011 | Fridges are becoming more energy efficient, but is it at the expense of healthy food storage?

Fridge and freezer buying guide  

Side by side or upside down? Find the right fridge and freezer for your needs.

10 Mar 2011 | There are big variations in temperature uniformity, efficiency, noise and running costs.

Ice-cream review

Creamy, premium or low-fat: which vanilla ice-cream suits your taste?

31 Jan 2011 | CHOICE puts our members and staff to the test to find out which vanilla ice-creams taste the best.

Coolers review and compare

A standard cooler should keep your drinks chilled on long summer days.

1 Oct 2010 | We give you the better options of widely available small and medium-sizes from $27 to $120.

BPA in canned foods

We found alarming levels of BPA in a range of canned foods – including baby foods.

1 Sep 2010 | CHOICE believes our national food regulator could be more proactive in protecting the health of Australian consumers.

Eskies

Summer wouldn’t be summer without an esky, but are they all equally cool?

1 Dec 2009 | If you’re out and about and need a place to store cold food and drinks, an esky is essential. Our results showed dramatic differences in the nine models tested.

Fridge temperature guide

Less than ideal settings reduce the storage life and quality of foods.

18 Mar 2009 | For the optimal freshness and safety of your foods, you need to follow a set of recommendations when setting your fridge's temperature.

Fridge thermometers review and compare

We tested 24 fridge thermometers of varying types to find out which give the most accurate readings.

17 Oct 2007 | To keep food safe to eat, it must be chilled below 5°C or frozen at or below –18°C. Any warmer allows for potential for harmful bacteria growth.

Food poisoning

We've all driven the porcelain bus at some time. How can you avoid food poisoning?

1 Jun 2005 | Food poisoning is becoming more common - it's likely several million Australians get sick every year.

Ford

Ford Fiesta Econetic recall

The potential exists for the occupants of the vehicle to be exposed to exhaust gases, which are poisonous.

13 Jan 2012 | Ford Motor Company of Australia Limited is recalling Fiesta Econetic vehicles sold nationally between 2nd September 2011 and 12th September 2011.

Fraud

Work-from-home scams

Far from dying out, work-from-home scams are more dangerous than ever.

29 Nov 2011 | Work-from-home offers can be tempting, but they can make you vulnerable to identity theft. We reveal the top five scams, and explain how to protect yourself from them.

Free range

Organic meat in question

You pay the price for organic meat, but can you be sure that what you're getting is the real deal?

30 Jul 2009 | Organic meat is expensive to produce so you’ll pay more. But how can you be sure you’re getting what you pay for? CHOICE investigates.

Food miles

You'll be surprised at how well-travelled your food is.

28 Oct 2008 | Food miles advocates are calling for localised eating to counter the number of imported products on our supermarket shelves. But is it even possible to eat well on food grown within about 160km of where you live?

Free range eggs

How free are the hens that lay free-range eggs? Have big producers redefined free range to suit themselves?

20 Jun 2008 | If you’re buying free-range eggs because you believe in animal welfare, the brands in the big supermarkets may not be meeting your expectations.

Roast chicken  

Thirty years of intensive farming practices means expensive organic and free-range chickens don’t taste any better than a standard factory chook.

3 Mar 2008 | So what’s the tastiest chicken? Do the more expensive organic and free-range chooks really taste better than standard factory-farmed ones?

Free-range meat

If you buy free-range, how do you make sure you get what you pay for?

6 Mar 2007 | Free-range can mean a variety of things — the only common bottom line is that the general welfare requirements under state-based animal welfare acts and codes must be met.

Toasted muesli recipe  

Our food in focus is oats, packed full of nutritional goodies, and yummy in our muesli recipe.

4 Dec 2006 | This simple home made museli recipe is both delicious and healthy. It won't last long.

Free software

Miro review

Is the internet the future of TV? We take a look.

13 Aug 2009 | With thousands of internet TV "channels" available, how do you find something worth watching?

All about Linux

Free, stable, fast — there's a lot to like about Linux. We take an in-depth look at this powerful, open-source operating system.

31 Mar 2008 | Linux is a bit of a jack-of-all-trades and traditionally the domain of hardcore computer geeks. But that’s changing.

Free software

There's plenty of free software on the internet, but is it any good?

19 Sep 2007 | Free software is appealing because you can find useful office and multimedia applications without the hefty price tag. But there are a few drawbacks to consider.

Freezers

Fridge reviews  

CHOICE puts the major refrigerators through their paces in our laboratories.

18 Nov 2011 | Fridges are becoming more energy efficient, but is it at the expense of healthy food storage?

Fridge and freezer buying guide  

Side by side or upside down? Find the right fridge and freezer for your needs.

10 Mar 2011 | There are big variations in temperature uniformity, efficiency, noise and running costs.

Ice-cream review

Creamy, premium or low-fat: which vanilla ice-cream suits your taste?

31 Jan 2011 | CHOICE puts our members and staff to the test to find out which vanilla ice-creams taste the best.

Chest freezers review and compare

Chest freezers' generally good performance doesn’t negate the back pain they may cause.

17 Apr 2009 | When CHOICE last tested upright and chest freezers nearly a decade ago we found that uprights, although much more convenient, are less efficient.

Food poisoning

We've all driven the porcelain bus at some time. How can you avoid food poisoning?

1 Jun 2005 | Food poisoning is becoming more common - it's likely several million Australians get sick every year.

Frequent flyers

Frequent Flyer failure

Unless you fly often, frequent flyer points won’t get you very far.

12 Oct 2011 | Scoring an airline ticket or an upgrade can be a tall order if you’re relying on Frequent Flyer rewards.

Fresh vegetables

Hazardous pesticides

Many chemicals available in Australia are no longer registered in Europe.

17 Jun 2011 | Cockroach baits, termite treatments, surface sprays and head lice treatments are some of the products containing ingredients that could seriously affect our health and that of our children.

Fresh food

We reveal the tricks producers and supermarkets use to keep food looking fresh.

30 Nov 2010 | Can you call apples that are nine months old truly fresh?

Roasted beetroot spinach and mint salad

CHOICE recipe for a sweet and salty salad

25 Jun 2010 | Ingredients that may not often go together makes a great salad


Food in focus - pumpkin

If you're buying a whole pumpkin, look for one which is heavy for its size, with firm skin.

16 Mar 2007 | Pumpkins are generally available all year around, but are particularly associated with Autumn and Winter.

Are fresh vegies better?

Frozen vegetables can have higher levels of important nutrients, such as vitamin C, than fresh.

13 Mar 2007 | We wanted to compare the vitamin levels in a range of fresh raw, fresh cooked, frozen and canned vegies to see which were more nutritious.

Pesticides in fruit and veg

Are they harmless — or is the truth that we don’t really know?

10 Mar 2006 | There’s no convincing evidence that pesticide residues are bad for your health at the very low levels permitted in fruit, vegetables and other foods. But the research isn’t conclusive.

Fridges

Fridge reviews  

CHOICE puts the major refrigerators through their paces in our laboratories.

18 Nov 2011 | Fridges are becoming more energy efficient, but is it at the expense of healthy food storage?

Energy efficient home guide

We look at energy savings everyone can make.

30 Mar 2011 | We've used our CHOICE testing to bring you a comprehensive list of energy-efficient products for your home.

Fridge and freezer buying guide  

Side by side or upside down? Find the right fridge and freezer for your needs.

10 Mar 2011 | There are big variations in temperature uniformity, efficiency, noise and running costs.

LG

LG compensates consumers for greenwashing

18 Mar 2010 | This major fridge manufacturer claims the GC-L197NFS’s and GC-P197WFS annual energy consumption is 738kWh but CHOICE tests revealed it uses about 876kWh when bypassing the energy-saving mode.

Portable fridge buying guide

You need to know your stuff when choosing a portable fridge.

20 Mar 2009 | There are three types of portable fridge to choose from with big differences between them.

Fridge temperature guide

Less than ideal settings reduce the storage life and quality of foods.

18 Mar 2009 | For the optimal freshness and safety of your foods, you need to follow a set of recommendations when setting your fridge's temperature.

Wine fridges review and compare

They may be a better option than a corner of your garage, but the ones we tested are far from perfect, especially when it comes to energy consumption.

29 Oct 2007 | There are different types of wine fridge, ranging in price from quite low to extremely high. So how can you tell which ones will do the job right?

Fridge thermometers review and compare

We tested 24 fridge thermometers of varying types to find out which give the most accurate readings.

17 Oct 2007 | To keep food safe to eat, it must be chilled below 5°C or frozen at or below –18°C. Any warmer allows for potential for harmful bacteria growth.

Appliance reliability survey 2007

See how your appliances rate for reliability.

25 Aug 2007 | Based on your responses, the most reliable appliances are digital cameras and televisions, while the machines most likely to need repairs are dishwashers and lawnmowers.

Food poisoning

We've all driven the porcelain bus at some time. How can you avoid food poisoning?

1 Jun 2005 | Food poisoning is becoming more common - it's likely several million Australians get sick every year.

Front-loaders

OMO Pods first look

OMO says these liquid capsules contain its ‘most advanced liquid ever’ – but does it deliver?

6 Oct 2011 | CHOICE finds out whether these water soluble pods are any different to a standard liquid detergent.

Frozen vegetables

Pesticides in imported vegetables

Imported vegetables appear no more likely to be contaminated with pesticides than Australian produce.

5 Mar 2010 | Our random test of common canned and frozen vegetables showed little cause for concern.

Potato products review and compare

Some potato shapes that appeal to kids don’t make the nutritional grade.

7 Jul 2009 | Chips, fries or wedges can be handy to keep in the freezer but what is the true cost of this convenience?

Are fresh vegies better?

Frozen vegetables can have higher levels of important nutrients, such as vitamin C, than fresh.

13 Mar 2007 | We wanted to compare the vitamin levels in a range of fresh raw, fresh cooked, frozen and canned vegies to see which were more nutritious.

Fruit

Juicer reviews

You can spend big bucks on a juicer, but one of the cheapest models on test comes equal first.

6 Jul 2011 | We test a range of centrifugal and non-centrifugal juicers and find a high price tag doesn't necessarily mean outstanding performance.

Hazardous pesticides

Many chemicals available in Australia are no longer registered in Europe.

17 Jun 2011 | Cockroach baits, termite treatments, surface sprays and head lice treatments are some of the products containing ingredients that could seriously affect our health and that of our children.

Mascarpone date and pomegranate cream

The perfect addition to sweet biscuits or fruit salad.

25 Jan 2011 | Add a burst of flavour to sweet desserts.

Butterscotch banana pancakes

What a treat

4 Nov 2010 | The butterscotch banana topping adds something special to your ordinary pancake

Butterscotch banana pancakes

What a treat

4 Nov 2010 | The butterscotch banana topping adds something special to your ordinary pancake

Pavlova

A tasty dessert topped with a mixture of fresh fruits

24 Jun 2010 | Our national dessert, with coming back for more results .


Passionfruit butter

CHOICE recipe for passionfruit butter

24 Jun 2010 | A great accompaniment to scones, sponge cake or as a spread on toast.


Vanilla honey cream

A great addition to add with strawberries or scones

24 Jun 2010 | Simple to make, this can make a perfect dessert even better


Watermelon-with-kaffir-lime-syrup

Try this refreshing summer watermelon dessert

8 Jun 2010 | Refreshing kaffir lime syrup to drizzle on your watermelon on a hot summers day.


Picking the right tomato

CHOICE discovers some delicious varieties of tomatoes to look out for - and how to pick them.

7 Oct 2009 | Tomatoes you find at the supermarket are often as hard and as tasty as cricket balls. But there are still some tasty tomatoes to be found.

Farmers markets

Should you trade in your supermarket trolley for food straight off the farm?

13 Feb 2008 | There’s no legislation defining farmers' markets in Australia—each has its own charter which sets out what the market allows and doesn’t. So can you be sure that farmers and producers are the ones getting your custom?

Strawberries

We tell you how to choose the sweetest and tastiest — but our test found pesticide residues in most conventionally grown strawberries.

29 Jan 2008 | We love our strawberries. They look beautiful and good ones taste delicious. But are there hidden dangers?

Superfruit jucies review and compare

Can juice from 'super' fruits — goji, noni, mangosteen or açai — really cure cancer?

16 Aug 2007 | Forget about an orange or apple — distrubtors say if you really want to keep the doctor away, you need to knock back a daily dose of "superfruit".

Organic food

Choosing organic food is easier than ever. But is it worth the extra money?

17 Jul 2007 | Not too long ago you had to go to special shops if you wanted organic food. Now you can find plenty in supermarkets, but mostly you’ll pay a pretty high premium over the cost of standard produce. Is it really worth it?

Are fresh vegies better?

Frozen vegetables can have higher levels of important nutrients, such as vitamin C, than fresh.

13 Mar 2007 | We wanted to compare the vitamin levels in a range of fresh raw, fresh cooked, frozen and canned vegies to see which were more nutritious.

Toasted muesli recipe  

Our food in focus is oats, packed full of nutritional goodies, and yummy in our muesli recipe.

4 Dec 2006 | This simple home made museli recipe is both delicious and healthy. It won't last long.

Frying pans

Broad bean and haloumi salad

A fresh salad perfect for any occasion.

2 Mar 2011 | Try this delicious salad that combines broad beans, haloumi and red capsicum.

How to cook crispy bacon

How to get that perfectly crisp bacon.

21 Jan 2011 | Cook's CHOICE shares the tips on how to cook crispy bacon.

Slow cooked corn beef

A perfect dish for your slow cooker.

20 Jan 2011 | Set up your slow cooker in the morning and come home at the end of the day to delicious corned beef

How to make pancakes

Simple recipe for making pancakes.

17 Jan 2011 | A simple and easy way to make a pancake

Butterscotch banana pancakes

What a treat

4 Nov 2010 | The butterscotch banana topping adds something special to your ordinary pancake

Butterscotch banana pancakes

What a treat

4 Nov 2010 | The butterscotch banana topping adds something special to your ordinary pancake

Non-stick frypans

Take good care of your non-stick frypan to ensure its longevity.

22 Mar 2010 | Spending a little more on a non-stick frypan can save you money in the long run, but even an expensive frypan can be worthless if it's not looked after.

Tefal ActiFry review

Can you cook deliciously crispy, golden chips with only a spoonful of oil?

3 Sep 2008 | The TEFAL ActiFry cooks food with hot air and minimal oil, claiming to make crunchy fried chips with fewer calories.

Fuel

Dodgy fuel dealers

Consumers might be getting more than they bargain for at the bowser.

7 Jun 2011 | Despite a range of federal government checkpoints to ensure consumers get what they pay for at the bowser, some fuel retailers are slipping through the net.

Fujifilm

Gadget gift guide for Christmas

Gadgets and gizmos always make great presents for the tech-savvy and tech-curious.

23 Nov 2011 | We round up the best technology buys, from tablets, to televisions, to MP3 players, to eBook readers.

Christmas gift guide

We've trawled our test results to bring you a range of great gift ideas.

16 Nov 2011 | From digital cameras to kitchen gadgets, our gift ideas cater to all budgets.

fujitsu

Large air conditioners review

Our results reveal the most effective and energy-efficient air conditioner.

22 Sep 2011 | We review seven large air conditioners priced $1649 to $2919, to find out top scorer.

Funeral

Funeral insurance

CHOICE finds this particular insurance doesn't always make good sense.

16 Feb 2011 | Purchasing funeral insurance too early can be costly in the long run.

Funeral costs

Planning ahead for the death of a loved one can save you a lot of unnecessary grief.

9 Feb 2011 | CHOICE found that funeral costs fluctuate wildly. We highlight ways to get a fair deal.

Furniture

Faux Fur Bean Bag Cover recall

Lightweight beads present a severe danger to children if swallowed or inhaled.

14 Oct 2011 | Geelong Home Textiles Pty Ltd is recalling faux fur bean bag covers sold in Queensland and Victoria between 27th September 2010 and 9th October 2011.

Freedom-Chalet-Step-Stool-Recall

The product is not designed for functional use; it is designed as a display piece only.

14 Sep 2011 | If the product is used as a functional stepping stool, the fold out step may collapse and the front legs may break, causing serious injury to the user.

Cots review and compare

The mandatory Australian standard aims to benchmark all cots to a safe level, but some failures slip through the cracks.

8 Sep 2011 | We provide test results for 28 cots. We recommend 13 models and another eight are worth considering. The rest are not recommended.

Buying guide sofa beds

Make a comfortable decision about the sofa bed you choose.

1 Jul 2008 | We've compiled this buying guide to get you up to speed on what's out there in the way of sofa beds, how much they cost, and what to look for when shopping.