How to use a nutcracker and avoid injury?
Nutcrackers are used to crack nuts to check their freshness and get the best out of them. They are also used for many other purposes, including as a decorative object. However, not everyone realises how dangerous nutcrackers can be.
These tools have sharp metal teeth that can cause serious injury if not used properly. The following tips will help you choose a nutcracker to avoid injury
Consider buying a propulsion nutcracker
While the original nutcracker dates back to late antiquity, the use of power tools has become much more popular in recent years. The use of powered nutcrackers, such as the Tnut, ensures that you are perfectly safe.
This is because they allow you to work on a larger scale and with greater precision. In fact, many professionals use power tools for this very reason. If you intend to use a nutcracker for this purpose, an electric or powered nutcracker is the best option. It has several advantages, including being much more efficient at cracking a nut without damaging the kernels.
Its teeth are also finer and sharper, making it easier to remove the kernel from the shell. Overall, using an electric or powered nutcracker for this purpose is much safer and easier to manage.
Avoid sharpening the teeth of your nutcracker
If you are not already using a powered nutcracker, an important first step in avoiding injury when using a nutcracker is to avoid sharpening the teeth of your nutcracker. A nutcracker with dull teeth will not damage the nut if used correctly.
However, they can cause injuries that can lead to infection on your fingers, for example. As a general rule, buy a nutcracker with a smooth, polished exterior. If your nutcracker has scratches or nicks, it is best to replace it.
Never use a nutcracker on a cracked nut
This is a common mistake that can lead to serious injury. Nutcrackers have teeth that are designed to crack nuts, not to extract them. If the nut is split and the kernel is not affected, it should not be cracked with a nutcracker. The only time a nut should be cracked is when it is completely dry and has not been previously roasted or salted.
Make sure your nutcracker does not slip
Many people do not realise that nutcrackers can slip under pressure. This means that the tool can easily slip and hurt you or someone else. The best way to avoid this is to make sure that your nutcracker is held securely. If you are in doubt you can use safety gloves when handling your nutcracker. This will prevent your nutcracker from moving and causing injury.
Be careful with your fingers
If you are going to use a nutcracker, you should be particularly careful with your fingers. The metal teeth can cause cuts and lacerations, which can lead to infection. If you are handling particularly granular nuts or nuts with a lot of debris, you should wear gloves. The best way to avoid injury when using a nutcracker is to be very careful.
Conclusion
Kitchen nutcrackers are useful tools for opening nuts and seeds to get the best out of them. However, they can also cause more or less serious injuries. This is because they have very sharp metal teeth that can easily cut your hand or another person’s hand. The best way to avoid injury is to follow the tips described above. If you follow these steps, you should be able to work safely with a nutcracker and get the most out of your nuts and seeds.
The best solution is to use a powered nutcracker such as the Tnut, as it guarantees maximum safety when you use it. You are not in contact with the broken shell, and you work with a minimum of effort.