As is probably evidenced by the sheer amount of new kitchen technology and tools that we cover, we love innovation. Whether it’s a new fusion recipe or a futuristic kitchen concept, it’s probably on our radar. And that’s how we found out about the Sandwich Knife – a simple, practical tool that makes cutting sandwiches more efficient (and maybe a little more fun).
We spoke to the creator of the Sandwich Knife, Gary Ehasoo, to find out more about where he got the idea, what niche it serves
TCE: Do you think the kitchen utensil industry is in need of innovation?
GE: I’m not sure it is in need of innovation, but from a historical perspective, innovation really has accelerated in the past 30 years or so. Today in most cities you can find multiple stores dedicated to just kitchen gadgets and they are all competing to bring the newest and most exciting innovations to market first. Having this demand for innovation has spawned a number of companies which solely focus on trying to develop the next kitchen must have. So I would definitely say there is a demand for it.
TCE: Have our diets changed to the point where the current kitchen tools and utensils that we use now don’t really make a lot of sense or don’t solve our food prep and cooking needs?
GE: Obviously diets have changed a lot (especially recently), but for the most part people are able to adapt their existing tools and utensils to work with whatever their diet may involve. I would say the change in diet has created more niche opportunities for people to be innovative and think of different or more efficient ways to perform daily tasks. So these new products may not have mass appeal, but do function well for a small part of the demographic which can benefit from them.
TCE: Why does the world need a sandwich knife, and what problem(s) does it solve?
GE: What a lot of these tools and gadgets provide is efficiency, accuracy and fun, which all add to creating a more enjoyable eating experience. The Sandwich Knife is unique in that it helps one create a sandwich which they can put in as many ingredients and as much sauce as they want and not have to worry about the ingredients falling out or sauce running down their arms. Ultimately creating a more enjoyable (and cleaner) sandwich experience for both the eater and possibly the parent who would have to clean up afterwards!
TCE: Are there any other uses or applications for the sandwich knife?
GE: We have kicked around the idea of using it for cutting other products such as fruit and vegetables, but have yet to do any testing on anything other than sandwiches.
TCE: What made you create the sandwich knife?
GE: I had made large sandwiches one evening for friends. Everyone really enjoyed the sandwiches but at the end of the meal I noticed there was a lot of ingredients remaining on the plate. That was my ‘ah-ha’ moment when I thought, there has to be a better way to build and eat a sandwich.
TCE: Have you ever created any other kitchen tools, and if not, do you plan of looking at other niches in the kitchen market that need to be filled?
GE: I have not created any other kitchen tools, but have invented and filed for patents on other products. So if another idea or issue does come around in the kitchen, I would not shy away from looking deeper into it.
TCE: What role does innovation play in your life, and how does it affect the way you approach inventing or problem solving?
GE: A number of members of my family work in the patent industry, so we are surrounded by innovation everyday. Maybe being around that keeps me inspired to constantly look for a better way to do something!
