A-Z Guide

 

Radio

Digital radios review

Digital radio has some positives, but for now it's still expensive.

16 Mar 2011 | Is digital a better option than analog? We review 22 digital radios, priced from $70 to $749, to see how they perform.

Logitech Squeezebox Boom

Play internet radio or your own music files wirelessly or over an Ethernet connection.

25 Feb 2009 | The Logitech Squeezebox Boom is made for constantly connected people, streaming music either over the internet or from a personal computer.

Guide to digital radios

Digital radio has hit the airwaves.

19 Jan 2009 | If you're keen to experience the difference digital technology makes to the radio waves you will have to open your wallet along with your eyes and ears.

Rainwater tanks

Saving water at home

Making your home water-efficient needn’t cost a fortune. You can do a lot with a few dollars, and even more with a few hundred.

14 Feb 2011 | While we may have experienced plenty of rain during the summer just past, there are still plenty of environmental and cost advantages to saving water.

Rainwater tanks buying guide

It’s time we stopped wasting precious drinking water on the garden and for toilet-flushing.

1 Jul 2008 | Australia is the driest inhabited continent and predictions are that the future is likely to get hotter and drier.

Making the most of used water

Saving water is important, but re-using waste water will help too.

20 Mar 2007 | Greywater is the waste water from showers, baths, hand-basins, laundry tubs, washing machines, dishwashers and kitchen sinks. Using greywater on your garden could help save hundreds of litres of water a day.

Rangehoods

Canopy rangehoods review and compare

A canopy rangehood can rid a kitchen of food odours and steam. See our test results for 20 models.

5 May 2011 | Canopy rangehoods, while more expensive than retractable ones, are becoming increasingly popular.

Rangehoods buying guide

Get rid of kitchen steam and smells.

2 Jul 2010 | You can pay $1000 or more for a rangehood, but during testing we've found some good ones among the lower-priced models.

RBA

RBA clampdown on surcharges

Payment Systems Standard will be varied to limit amount businesses charge credit-card customers.

16 Dec 2011 | We take a look at the Reserve Bank’s decision to step into the credit card surcharge debate.

Real estate agents

Real estate's influence on newspapers

Should you believe everything you read in the property section of your newspaper? CHOICE investigates.

19 Oct 2011 | Where does advertising end and editorial begin in the murky grey area between the glossy snapshots and auction listings?

Rebates

Pathology gap fees

Consumers can face large gap payments for pathology, but a public provider may be able to provide a gap-free alternative.

30 Aug 2010 | It pays to ask your GP to request bulk billing wherever possible or to use a public provider.

Rebates for going green

Use our guide to ensure that going green doesn’t cost the earth.

24 Apr 2009 | With climate change in mind, more Australians are installing power- and water-saving equipment. As this can mean significant upfront costs, governments are offering a range of rebates.

Recall

How to avoid unsafe toys

It's up to parents to act as the last line of defence against potentially dangerous playthings.

15 Nov 2011 | Dangerous toys are relatively rare, yet every year major products are still recalled for safety reasons.

Polaris-Victory-Touring-Seat-recall

The backrest support on some of these accessory seats may be defective.

22 Sep 2011 | The defective backrest support can fail and allow the backrest support bracket to separate from the seat base. This could cause a passenger to lose backrest support, possibly resulting in a fall from the motorbike.

John-Deere-D100-D110-D130-Lawn-Tractors-recall

There have been issues with both brakes and the mower blades of the specified lawn tractors.

21 Sep 2011 | Hardware used to hold the brake assembly to the transmission housing can break in the D100 model, which can cause the brakes to fail. In the D100, D110 and D130, hardware used to hold the mower blade brake assemblies on the mower decks can break, posing a laceration hazard.

Specialized-Australasia-Sirrus-Vita-and-Tricross Bicycles-recall

The bonded inserts on the carbon fork legs could crack and de-bond from the fork.

21 Sep 2011 | The defect could cause the brake assembly to come loose from the fork and potentially make contact with the wheel spokes. This could lead to a fall and potential injury to the user.

John-Titman-Racing-Talon-Locksprockets-recall

The retainer bolts may unscrew during normal operation.

21 Sep 2011 | If the defect occurs whilst in motion, it could cause serious injury.

Woolworths-Homebrand-and-Apple-Time-Juice-recall

Asahi has recalled the beverages due to the possible presence of foreign matter (metal shavings).

21 Sep 2011 | Beverages containing metal may cause injury if consumed.

John-Deere-Limited-X300-X300R-X304-SELECT-SERIES-LAWN-TRACTORS-recall

The engine may overheat and in some instances, the surrounding plastic could melt creating the risk of fire.

21 Sep 2011 | The cooling fan installed on top of the front mounted Kawasaki engine in the lawn tractor can break, causing risk of fire.

Austech-Industries-Mechpro-MP2540-Air-Compressor-recall

A manufacturing defect may give rise to a short circuit in the motor, potentially causing it to overheat.

21 Sep 2011 | Due to overheating of various components in the motor, flammable components may combust, leading to other flammable components catching fire.

Portela-Group-bunkbed-recall

The bed does not meet the mandatory safety standard

21 Sep 2011 | Due to failures in meeting the mandatory safety standards, there is a risk of possible entrapment in the frame of the desk unit.

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.

Little-Creatures-Beer-recall

An Australia-wide recall of Little Creatures beers has been issued due to possible glass contamination

21 Sep 2011 | There is the potential for glass contamination from weakened glass bottles in the Little Creatures Pale Ale, Bright Ale and Dreadnaught Single Batch, and food products containing glass may cause injury if consumed.

Maserati-Quattroporte-and-Granturismo-recall

The vehicles have been fitted with an incorrect machining of rear tie-rods.

14 Sep 2011 | Continued use of vehicles equipped with non-conforming rear tie-rods, depending on road conditions, may lead to damage of the rear tie-rod.

Welding-Industries-of-Australia-WIA-190-WELDMATIC-recall

Under certain circumstances, the metal case could become electrically live, posing a risk of electric shock.

14 Sep 2011 | Due to a manufacturing assembly process error, side ventilation louvres could pierce wires from the welding transformer.

Marine-Power-Mercury-Mariner-recall

A recall has been issued on the 40/50/60 HP Four Stroke Outboard Engines because leaking fuel could present a fire hazard.

14 Sep 2011 | The connection to the primer bulb check valve may have the clamp incorrectly installed, which may also create a fuel leak when the fuel bulb is used for priming the engine fuel system.

Honda-2005-2007-Jazz-recall

The driver's side power window switch contains a switch unit that has been manufactured with an inappropriate design.

14 Sep 2011 | Because of the defect, it is possible for automotive cleaning products containing silicones to enter into the switch unit. This may cause smoke and in the worst case, may ignite.

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.

Tiger-Motorcycles-Recall

Recalls have been issued on Tiger 800, Tiger 800 ABS, Tiger 800XC and Tiger 800XC motorcycle models

14 Sep 2011 | In some models, there are incorrect engine management calibration, while in others, the centre stand return spring has been seen to fracture. The 800 and 800XC models have both defects.

Peugeot-207-recall

There is a possibility that the battery's negative cable is incorrect in length.

14 Sep 2011 | The car battery's negative cable may break, and should this occur, the vehicle would stall without the ability to be restarted.

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.

Petstat-HopStop-recall

A recall has been issued on the spray control for cane toads due to leakage.

14 Sep 2011 | A structural fault has been detected in a small number of cans of Batch 0411/A, which may result in leaking or discharge of contents.

Recall-on-thermo-glass-cookware-sold-in-Coles-at-Berwick-Victoria

The Décor Corporation recalls its thermo glass cookware products sold in Coles nationally - RE-ANNOUNCEMENT

7 Sep 2011 | A range of products did not meet Décor's temperature differential specification, which may lead to breakage. it was initially thought that there were 13 affected cookware products sold at Coles in Berwick, Victoria, but it has since been found that they were sold nationally.

CooperVision Avaira Toric Contact Lenses recall

CooperVision Australia has received complaints of temporary hazy or blurry vision and discomfort from wearers.

7 Sep 2011 | Laboratory tests have found that these symptoms were caused by a small amount of residue on the lenses. In all reported cases the symptoms were temporary and reversed after the contact lenses were removed.

Mercedes-Benz ACTROS 930-934 recall

In extreme cases, there could be a problem with a short circuit.

7 Sep 2011 | It is possible that the engine wiring harness may chafe on a mounting bracket, causing a short circuit.

Fiat Ducato X2/50 recall

In some cases, the spare wheel support device might break due to incorrect operation.

7 Sep 2011 | The spare wheel may become detached, which could be a safety hazard.

Kawasaki-ZX1000KBF-and-ZX1000JBF-recall

An electrical fault could cause an accident in the Kawasaki models.

7 Sep 2011 | The main wiring harness of the Kawasaki models may rub against the rear of the frame, causing an electrical fault. The loss of ignition could cause the engine to stop running, creating the potenial for an accident.

Ducati Diavel Motorcycles recall

The motorcycle may fall and potentially cause injury

7 Sep 2011 | The side stand on the Ducati Diavel motorcycles may bend or break under heavy load while the bike is resting on it.

Jayco-Swan-Camper-Recall

A recall has been issued on the campers due to a potential electrical hazard.

7 Sep 2011 | The 240V wiring for the power inlet could be damaged by the roof winder cables over time. The defect could cause a short circuit or activation of the electrical safety switch.

Toyota Dyna cabs recall

The front tyres may cause steering wheel vibration when subjected to an external force, affecting vehicle controllability.

7 Sep 2011 | If the front tyre(s) are subjected to a large external force such as running over a large pot hole or bump in the road at high speed, there is a possibility that the steering wheels may vibrate.

Hino-300-Series-and-Dutro-recall

The front tyres may cause steering wheel vibration when subjected to an external force, affecting vehicle controllability.

7 Sep 2011 | If the front tyre(s) are subjected to a large external force such as running over a large pot hole or bump in the road at high speed, there is a possibility that the steering wheels may vibrate.

Volvo-C30-and-V50-recall

The rod connecting the clutch master cylinder and the clutch pedal on the Volvo C30 and V50 may break

7 Sep 2011 | Volvo issues a recall on its C30 and V50 models, because of a deviation that could make it impossible for the driver to disengage the clutch. In a worst case scenario, this may occur suddenly and without any warning to the driver.

Mitsubishi MK Triton Dual and Single Cabs recall

Genuine accessory parts may not comply with part of the Australian Design Rules.

29 Aug 2011 | Some combinations of genuine accessory aluminium trays and genuine accessory towbars fitted to the Triton vehicles may not comply with part of the Australian Design Rules.

Redranger-Whiteline-Adjustable-Rear-Sway-Bar-recall

Clearance issues with factory brake line which may reduce braking efficiency.

29 Aug 2011 | Redranger Pty Ltd has recalled its Whiteline Adjustable Rear Sway bar because the blade arm length is too long, which may reduce braking efficiency.

Jaguar-Diesel-X-Type-Recall

Errors have beeen detected in the series' cruise control software

29 Aug 2011 | Jaguar has recalled its Diesel X-types from 2006 to 2010 due to errors with the cruise control software.

Mercedes-Benz-Actros-trucks-recall

There is a possible oil leakage in vehicles produced between April 2007 and January 2010.

29 Aug 2011 | Mercedes-Benz recalls its Actros trucks as there is a possibility of oil contacting hot engine components, which in extreme cases may cause leaks.

Citreon-C3-vehicles-recall

The fixing bracket of the air unit on the engine may break under the effect of vibrations.

29 Aug 2011 | Citreon's C3 vehicles have been recalled due to the fact that the fixing bracket of the air unit on the engine may break under the effect of vibrations.

Oobi-Pumpkin-growsuit-recall

Non-labelling can result in consumers being unaware of possible fire safety risks

22 Aug 2011 | The Oobi Pty Ltd pumpkin growsuit does not have a Fire Safety Label as required by the mandatory standard for children's nightwear.

Jackel Pty Ltd dummy recall

Jackel recalls some of its baby dummies because of choking hazards

22 Aug 2011 | Jackel recalls its Tommee Tippee Cherub Comforter 0-6m and 6+m 2pk and its Tommee Tippee Soft Rim Comforter 0-6m and 6-18m 2pk.

RSP-Rubber-Tie-Down-Strap-recall

The required yellow warning label may rip, tear or detach from the rubber strap.

22 Aug 2011 | The rubber strap does not comply with the mandatory standard for elastic luggage straps, as specified in the Trade Practices Regulations 1979.

Rafferty's Garden Italian lasagne baby food recall

Plastic has been found in the 170g baby food satchels

22 Aug 2011 | Plastic matter has been found in Rafferty's Garden Italian Lasagne Premium Baby Food for 10 months+, which could cause injury if consumed.

Kaleidoscope Twirlla rattle recall

Kaleidoscope Australia Pty Ltd recalls Twirlla wooden rattle.

22 Aug 2011 | The Twirlla rattle does not comply with the mandatory standard for toys for children up to and including 36 months of age.

Kawasaki Motorcycle Recall

Kawasaki recalls a range of its motorcycle models

22 Aug 2011 | A damaged tube will cause air to escape from a range of Kawasaki motorcycles, resulting in a flat tyre, which may create potential for an accident.

Triumph-Motorcycle-recall

The top box of a number of Triumph motorcycles may detach and obstruct traffic.

18 Aug 2011 | Triumph recalls its genuine accessory top box locking handle for a few of its Tiger models, as the box may detach from motorcycle and pose an accident risk.

Audi-R8-Spyder-Vehicles-Recall

A defect in Audi's R8 Spyder vehicles could lead to fuel leaks.

18 Aug 2011 | There is the possibility that the fuel supply line can come into contact with the heat shield in the engine compartment, which could cause damage and leaks.

Hot-Dollar-hot-water-bottles-recall

Hot Dollar's hot water bottles have been recalled due to insufficient rubber thickness and labelling

17 Aug 2011 | The Hot Dollar hot water bottle may leak, split or burst, which could cause injury. In addition, due to incorrect labelling consumers could misuse the product.

Isuzu-F-C-E-series-vehicles-recall

The seat belt on Isuzu's F, C & E series vehicles can in some cases be slow to retract.

17 Aug 2011 | There is insufficient clearance between the seat belt and seat base cushion on some vehicles, which can make the seat belt slow to retract.

Discount-Market-Hot-Water-Bottle-recall

Ryde's Discount Market recalls its 800mL blue rubber hot water bottle

17 Aug 2011 | The 800mL blue rubber hot water bottle from Ryde's Discount Market has been recalled because the rubber is not thick enough and could potentially cause burns.

Puffer-urchin-ball-toy-recall

Cheap as Chips recall their novelty stretch puffer urchin ball toys due to the item length

17 Aug 2011 | The Cheap as Chips puffer urchin ball toys are banned under Consumer Protection because the cord can stretch to over the safe limit of 500mm in length.

Velour-Studsuits-recall

Clever Clothing Enterprise has issued a recall on its velour studsuits for babies

17 Aug 2011 | Incorrect labelling can result in consumers not being aware of the fire risk associated wth the Marquise velour studsuits for babies.

Mazda-3-passenger-vehicles-recall

A defect has been found in Mazda 3's vehicle wipers

17 Aug 2011 | The windscreen wiper motor may not function on Mazda 3 passenger vehicles sold between January 8,2008 and February 19, 2009.

Marine-power-international-mercruiser-recall

Consumers may not be able to start the engines of their Mercruiser marine engine.

11 Aug 2011 | Marine Power International has recalled its Mercruiser Inline 4 cylinder 135 HP petrol stern drive marine engine because of faults with its routing.

Nad's Brazilian and Bikini Wax recall

Recall issued on Nad's products sold at Woolworths between July 20 and August 5

11 Aug 2011 | A batch of Nad's Brazilian and Bikini Wax has the potential to cause sparking or a fire when the jar is heated in a microwave.

Safety 1st complete healthcare kits recall

Urgent medical device recall. Thermometers included in the kits read in degrees fahrenheit instead of degrees celsius.

4 Jul 2011 | Product Distribution: supplied throughout Australia at Kmart, Target, Toys R Us and independent retail stores between April 2011 and June 2011.

Maclaren recall in USA

One million strollers have been recalled in the USA for safety reasons.

10 Nov 2009 | The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced a voluntary recall of Maclaren strollers, due to the stroller’s hinge mechanism posing a fingertip amputation and laceration hazard to a child when the stroller is being unfolded.

Rechargeable batteries

Rechargeable AA batteries review and compare

How well do "ready to use" rechargeable AA batteries compare?

23 Sep 2011 | Our latest test results rate 15 NiMH rechargeable batteries, priced from $14 to $29.

High capacity batteries

Finding the best way to keep your digital gadgets going.

14 Jun 2008 | Rechargeable batteries are the most economical option if you frequently use appliances that consume a lot of power, such as a digital camera. However, lithium batteries lasted the longest in our test.

Recipes

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.

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.

Vegetarian bean dip

A great entree for a dinner party

2 Mar 2011 | A tasty dish that's great for everyone.

BBQ mushrooms

A great vegetarian option at your next barbecue

2 Mar 2011 | A tasty recipe for BBQ mushrooms with herbs.

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.

Slow cooked chili shredded beef

A delicious, affordable way to feed the family.

2 Feb 2011 | Warm any kitchen table with this hearty slow cooked meal.

How to make pizza dough

Make your own homemade dough, fresh from your kitchen.

25 Jan 2011 | Try this simple, low-fuss pizza dough recipe.

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.

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.

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.

Cinnamon chicken pasta

Add a unique sweet touch to your pasta - a great recipe for slow cookers.

20 Jan 2011 | A tasty chicken and cinnamon recipe best served with pasta.

Cucumber salad

A tasty and fresh summer salad.

20 Jan 2011 | A simple way to freshen your summer meals.

How to make pancakes

Simple recipe for making pancakes.

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

Veal goulash

A delicious savoury treat perfectly suited to a slow cooker.

17 Jan 2011 | A warm, hearty meal best enjoyed with a small dollop of sour cream.

Vegetarian goulash

A tasty vegetarian dish.

14 Jan 2011 | Cook's CHOICE cooks up a tasty vegetarian dish.

Eggplant and mushroom pasta

A tasty vegetable pasta with a touch of cinnamon.

14 Jan 2011 | Eggplant and mushroom pasta with a touch of cinnamon, topped with parmasan cheese.

Piri piri chicken

The perfect addition to any barbecue meal.

5 Nov 2010 | Sample our tasty chicken recipe, best served with our fresh, summer salads.

Oven roasted chicken

Play around with some herbs to create a tasty oven roasted chicken

4 Nov 2010 | Herbs add the final touch to your oven roasted chicken

Barbecue chicken

CHOICE recipe for a mouth-watering barbecue chicken

4 Nov 2010 | Use your barbecue this summer to cook a whole chicken

Barbecue chicken

CHOICE recipe for a mouth-watering barbecue chicken

4 Nov 2010 | Use your barbecue this summer to cook a whole chicken

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.


Rocky road recipe

Little pockets of brilliance

8 Jun 2010 | Treat your sweet tooth with our tasty rocky road.


Breakfast Plum Cake

CHOICE recipe for Breakfast Plum Cake with lemon syrup

8 Jun 2010 | Known as plum cake, it's tasty and worth going back for more.

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.


Asian scrambled eggs

Scrambled eggs with a tasty twist

8 Jun 2010 | An alternative to authentic scrambled eggs that can be served with dinner.


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.

Cauliflower Puree

CHOICE recipe for Cauliflower Puree

8 Jun 2010 | A perfect accompaniment for steak, chicken or fish.


Turkey-meat-balls

CHOICE recipe for turkey meat balls with our blend of herbs and spices

8 Jun 2010 | Turkey meat makes the core of this tasty recipe, with spices creating the delicious flavour


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.


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


Egg and bacon pasta

Quick and easy savory pasta

8 Jun 2010 | CHOICE recipe egg and bacon pasta that's quick and easy.


Stocks-review-and-compare

Are packaged stocks anything like the real deal?

8 Oct 2009 | CHOICE looks at 25 stocks – liquid, cubes and powders – and highlights the ones that are most like homemade, the ones with the least salt and the ones we believe represent the best value.

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.

Recipe software review and compare

Recipe software can help you take control of clippings, meal times and grocery lists.

5 Aug 2005 | We tested six recipe software programs to find out how easy they are to use and what sort of features they offer.

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.

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.

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.

Fresh juice recipes

Fresh juice – it's delicious, refreshing and healthy.

29 Aug 2000 | Don't let your juicer sit idle at the back of the kitchen cupboard when you could be making these easy and delicious mixed fruit juices.

Fresh juice recipes

Fresh juice – it's delicious, refreshing and healthy.

29 Aug 2000 | Don't let your juicer sit idle at the back of the kitchen cupboard when you could be making these easy and delicious mixed fruit juices.

Recycled water

Making the most of used water

Saving water is important, but re-using waste water will help too.

20 Mar 2007 | Greywater is the waste water from showers, baths, hand-basins, laundry tubs, washing machines, dishwashers and kitchen sinks. Using greywater on your garden could help save hundreds of litres of water a day.

Recycling

Inkjet refill alternatives

Can you save money by using cheaper ink alternatives, and are they as good as the manufacturer’s own inks?

15 Mar 2011 | Non-genuine ink may be a money-saving option, depending on your printer.

Toilet paper greenwashing

We trawled the supermarket aisles and found 21 brands of toilet paper, then star-rated them according to their sustainability claims.

28 Sep 2010 | Toilet paper packaging sports a massive amount of greenwash, so which green claims are true?

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.

Computer recycling

Don't throw out your old computer — recycle it.

28 Oct 2009 | E-waste is a huge global problem that is growing. Recycling programs and sustainable product design are not keeping pace with our apetite for new technology.

Plastic recycling  

Only 15% of plastics we consume are recycled. Here’s what you can do.

26 Feb 2009 | Over the past decade plastics recycling rates have doubled, yet confusion about which plastics can be recycled is hindering progress.

Green claims on supermarket labels  

Supermarket items make all sorts of green claims but can you trust them?

6 May 2008 | CHOICE is campaigning to make sure green claims are honest and useful, because consumers should be able to sort the true green products from the greenwash.

Reduce product packaging

Most of the goods we buy need to be protected by packaging. But how much is too much?

17 Oct 2007 | From gourmet chocolates to beauty products, an increasing number of consumer goods are buried in layers of packaging these days.

Making the most of used water

Saving water is important, but re-using waste water will help too.

20 Mar 2007 | Greywater is the waste water from showers, baths, hand-basins, laundry tubs, washing machines, dishwashers and kitchen sinks. Using greywater on your garden could help save hundreds of litres of water a day.

Recycling greywater

Toilet paper greenwashing

We trawled the supermarket aisles and found 21 brands of toilet paper, then star-rated them according to their sustainability claims.

28 Sep 2010 | Toilet paper packaging sports a massive amount of greenwash, so which green claims are true?

redemption-promotions

TV redemptions

CHOICE puts the redemption process to the test.

7 Apr 2011 | With so many hoops to jump through, are the free goodies offered by redemption promotions really worth it?

Refrigerators

Refunds

Australian Consumer Law - One year on

One year on, we take a look at the successes and downfalls of the ACL in its debut year.

23 Dec 2011 | The newly introduced Australian Consumer Law gives consumers better protection when purchasing than ever before.

Unearth your refund

Paying kickback commissions you didn't even know about? CHOICE outlines an easy way to reclaim your money.

15 Dec 2009 | You can choose who receives the sales and advice kickbacks from your investments. But weigh up the pros and cons before making any changes.

Getting the most from product warranties  

Use our tools to insist on your rights when products don’t work as they should. And help us pressure retailers to sign our Fair Warranty Charter.

3 Dec 2009 | You have a legal right to ask your retailer to repair or replace faulty goods – or give you a refund.

Renting a car

Car rental contracts operate in favour of the rental companies, but you can reduce your risks.

21 Apr 2008 | Renting a car at your destination offers the flexibility to make the most of a holiday but nearly everyone knows of someone who's been ripped off.

Refunds

Know when you’re entitled to return goods and get your money back.

19 Feb 2007 | In this report we explain your rights to a refund for products or services, how warranties affect the situation, and where to go for help if a retailer isn't cooperating.

Letters that get results

Making a complaint requires time, effort and often a bit of patience.

10 May 2005 | Sometimes you may have to write a letter outlining your concerns before the organisation takes you seriously.

Regulations

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.

Real estate's influence on newspapers

Should you believe everything you read in the property section of your newspaper? CHOICE investigates.

19 Oct 2011 | Where does advertising end and editorial begin in the murky grey area between the glossy snapshots and auction listings?

Health system performance reporting

Transparency about the quality and safety of the health care system will empower consumers to make better choices.

6 Dec 2007 | Most people receive excellent care in Australia’s hospitals but as many as 10% of people may suffer harm as a direct result of the care they receive.

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.

Reliability

Car reliability survey

Our latest car reliability member survey gives the low down on breakdowns.

12 May 2011 | Advanced technologies used by car manufacturers aim to make your ride as smooth and safe as possible, how do they fare for reliability?

Appliance reliability survey

Our 2010 update reveals how our members rate common technology products and appliances for reliability.

1 Feb 2011 | CHOICE regularly surveys its members, asking them to share their experiences of reliability for a number of appliances.

CHOICE Computer Technology Reliability Survey 2010

How reliable is your computer equipment?

24 Nov 2010 | Desktop computers, laptops and printers, monitors and external hard-drives are part of our line-up this time.

Getting the most from product warranties  

Use our tools to insist on your rights when products don’t work as they should. And help us pressure retailers to sign our Fair Warranty Charter.

3 Dec 2009 | You have a legal right to ask your retailer to repair or replace faulty goods – or give you a refund.

CHOICE computer reliabilty survey

How do your desktop and laptop, printer and digital camera stack up?

13 Jan 2009 | The results for this year’s reliability survey are in — the good news is there's been an improvement for some products, but there are a few disappointing figures too.

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.

Remington

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.

Remote controls

TVs review  

Our updated report looks at the latest HD plasma and LCD televisions.

2 Feb 2012 | CHOICE puts the latest 102-107cm HD plasma and LCD televisions through their paces.

Renting

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.

Rental car companies reviewed

CHOICE tells you which car rental companies to avoid.

18 Apr 2011 | CHOICE scrutinised the contracts of some of Australia's largest car rental companies - and found plenty to be concerned about.

Renting a car

Car rental contracts operate in favour of the rental companies, but you can reduce your risks.

21 Apr 2008 | Renting a car at your destination offers the flexibility to make the most of a holiday but nearly everyone knows of someone who's been ripped off.

Leasing a computer

It sounds cost effective to rent but in the end you'll pay more and won't own the equipment.

4 Mar 2005 | Renting computer equipment is a good idea if you or your business is short of cash but you'll probably pay more in the long run.

Research

Family tree software

More expensive software can contain extras that are of limited value.

30 Apr 2010 | We review nine programs to help you trace and catalogue your family history.

Restaurants

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.

CHOICE-Awards-2011-Best-Restaurant-Hygiene-Rating-Scheme

Find out which council came up trumps in the CHOICE Awards for transparency in food hygiene.

31 Mar 2011 | Food safety is vital for consumers and some organisations are making sure people know which businesses are safest for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

CHOICE Awards 2011

Read which products and services were voted best of the best in our second annual CHOICE Awards.

31 Mar 2011 | The CHOICE Awards recognise companies developing innovative, quality products and services.

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.

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.

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.

Retail

retailer marketing

Despite the lure of online shopping, bricks-and-mortar stores still have a strong pull on consumers.

2 Aug 2011 | Online shopping is often quicker and cheaper, but bricks-and-mortars retailers have a few tricks that keep us coming back.

Shopping online for overseas goods

Online shopping goes viral as Australians look for a better deal offshore.

6 Jul 2011 | Buying from foreign retailers has netted Australians big discounts. We look into the current state of play for online shopping.

Retail inquiry submission

Submission to Productivity Commission focuses on inflated markups.

26 May 2011 | In our submission to the Productivity Commission, CHOICE calls on importers, distributors and retailers to pass on savings enjoyed thanks to the strong Aussie dollar.

CHOICE Awards Retailers

See which bricks and mortar retailer and which online retailer members voted best of the best.

30 Mar 2011 | Over 12,000 CHOICE members weighed in on Australia’s most popular retailers, picking the stars from the duds.

Retailers to stop accepting gift cards

Borders and Angus & Roberston customers must also use gift cards before 3 April.

24 Mar 2011 | Borders and Angus & Roberston will stop accepting gift cards from the beginning of April.

Retailers: Raise your game

6 Jan 2011 | CHOICE believes online shopping is motivated by more than just a GST dodge. The big retailers have spoken, now it's time for you to have your say.

Retirement

Retirement villages

Moving to a retirement village can be a costly exercise; CHOICE outlines five key risks.

24 Feb 2011 | CHOICE's research indicates that a lot of residents become disappointed with their decision to move to a village.

Reverse mortgages

A reverse mortgage can help fund your retirement. CHOICE outlines the risks.

2 Nov 2010 | Reverse mortgages target homeowners aged 60 and older who want to borrow money against the value of their property.

Skilled scootering

Get a health check-up first and follow these commonsense tips to skilled and safe scootering.

2 Sep 2010 | Accidents, causing head injuries, fractures and fatality can occur on mobility scooters.

Rebuilding your super

There are ways to take control of your superannuation. We answer your most frequently asked questions.

25 May 2009 | The global financial crisis has decimated many Australians’ retirement savings. What steps can you take to rebuild your nest egg? CHOICE looks at your options.

Memory-enhancing pills

Can a pill improve brain function and help prevent dementia?

21 Jul 2008 | There are pills on the market that claim these benefits, and more. They can set you back anything from $10 to $70 a bottle. But do they work?

DIY super – the facts

We give you the facts without the advertising hype and expose the dangers.

12 May 2008 | Setting up your own super fund can give you control and flexibility but it’s also risky. If your accountant or financial planner recommends it make sure it really will give you the best deal before you jump.

Super in a volatile environment

What are your options for securing your retirement?

12 May 2008 | Your June statement might show the worst return in years. Will you have enough money to retire? Should you switch investment options to manage stockmarket risks?

Glucosamine

It’s a popular alternative treatment for osteoarthritis but does it really work?

8 May 2008 | Does glucosamine help relieve the pain of osteoarthritis? The latest research casts some doubt on the matter.

Early release super schemes

Schemes promoting early access to super have got consumers and the scheme promoters into hot water.

30 Mar 2008 | Financial services watchdog, ASIC, has been busy chasing and charging promoters of illegal early-release super schemes.

Ease into retirement

The "Transition to Retirement" rules allow older workers to access their super before they retire.

17 Jan 2008 | If you're 55 or over you can access your super to start an income stream without having to retire.

Reverse mortgage shadow shop

Our shadow shop revealed poor advice and information from reverse mortgage sellers.

27 Feb 2007 | Originally reverse mortgages were sold directly by the lender, but in the last few years mortgage brokers have started to offer these products.

Nursing homes

Plan ahead for when you can no longer look after yourself.

22 Aug 2006 | Most of us don’t want to think about nursing home care while we’re still relatively healthy and independent; we tend to leave it until an emergency forces us to face the issue, utterly unprepared.

Super choice survival guide

How to get the greatest benefit from super choice.

6 Jan 2005 | According to our recent online survey on attitudes to fund choice, 59% of those surveyed were fairly or very satisfied with their current fund, while 10% were dissatisfied.

Rewards cards

Travel Rewards Credit Cards

CHOICE identifies the cards that offer the best value for your spending levels.

6 Oct 2010 | Choose the wrong card and any potential reward can be quickly wiped out in expenses.

Rewards credit cards - a user's guide

Discover how to make the most of your rewards card and avoid the hidden traps.

1 Oct 2010 | Use this basic guide to help you understand the rules and limitation of each program.

Jetstar-MasterCard-review

Jetstar’s credit card compares well against other retailers’ cards for rewards.

9 Feb 2010 | Following in the footsteps of major retailers Myer, Woolworths and David Jones, Jetstar has launched its own branded MasterCard and Platinum MasterCard.

Reward cards review and compare

CHOICE crunches the numbers to find the most rewarding cards for frequent flyer, shopping and cash rewards.

19 Mar 2009 | We analysed 63 reward credit and charge cards, looking at frequent flyer points, shopping vouchers and cash rewards.

Rice cookers

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.

rice-milk

Sanitarium So Good rice milk recall

Consumers who have a soy allergy or intolerance should not consume this product.

16 Nov 2011 | The recall of the product is due to a production error resulting in the presence of an undeclared allergen (soy) in So Good Rice Milk 1L.

Robot

Husqvarna Automower 305

This automated lawnmower will save you time and keep your lawn looking its best - but comes with a hefty pricetag.

27 Sep 2011 | Husqvarna's robotic answer to the sheep could be a good option for the time-poor home-owner.

Routers

Networking 101

CHOICE guide to setting up a home network.

20 Aug 2010 | Share data and internet access between all your computers and devices, whether by cable or wireless. These basic principles will help you set up your own.

Running shoes

Crosstrainers  

Elliptical crosstrainers offer a low-impact, full-body workout at home.

2 Jul 2010 | The crosstrainer (also called an elliptical trainer) has been growing in popularity. The smooth-flowing movement has been likened to a mix of cross-country skiing and slow running.

Heart rate monitors review and compare

Whether you’re an athlete or just keeping an eye on your health when exercising, what can you expect from a heart rate monitor?

12 Nov 2009 | Choice tested 19 heart rate monitors for ease of use and performance, priced between $30 and $399.

Running shoes buying guide

How to pick the best pair of running shoes for your foot type

10 Mar 2008 | Choosing the right pair of running shoes can be a frustrating (and expensive) task. CHOICE discovered even professional runners can find the experience overwhelming.

Nike+ / iPod Sport Kit

Need a bit of help to stay fit? How about some extra motivation?

19 Nov 2007 | The Nike+ / iPod Sport Kit is a personal workout coach with a difference.

Choosing a personal trainer

Look for someone who's qualified, registered and with good interpersonal skills.

10 Feb 2006 | Personal training should be a holistic, lifestyle approach to health and fitness — not just having someone make you run around for an hour.

Home fitness equipment

Exercise equipment can be fun at first, but what does it take to keep you happy, hooked and healthy?

5 Sep 2005 | We asked readers who own exercise bikes, treadmills and elliptical trainers what makes for a good or bad purchase decision.

Russell-Hobbs

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.

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.

Ryobi

Pressure cleaners review

These high-pressure water cleaners blast away grit and grime.

9 Dec 2011 | They all do the job, but some take longer than others. We test 17 high-pressure water cleaners, priced between $99 and $749.

Ryobi 2400W Electric Impact Shredder recall

The motor cooling fan may disintegrate, possibly causing laceration or impact injuries to bystanders.

17 Nov 2011 | Techtronic Industries Australia Pty Ltd is recalling Ryobi 2400W Electric Impact Shredders due to a potential manufacturing defect.

Mulcher lawnmower review

Mulcher mowers can give you a greener lawn and greener environment.

20 Sep 2011 | In our updated test of 14 petrol-powered mulcher and catcher lawnmowers, we reveal which models keep your lawn looking its best.