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7 Clever Alternatives to Progressive International Kitchen Tools

Chris Chan

Chris Chan

Co-Founder @ Marmalade

Published on: November 18, 2024
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Let's face it - Progressive International's familiar blue and white packaging dominates kitchen aisles everywhere. While their gadgets get the job done, a new wave of innovative brands is reimagining how our kitchen tools should look, feel and function. We've discovered some fascinating alternatives that merge thoughtful design with genuine utility, proving that even the humblest kitchen implements can be revolutionized.

Brod & Taylor
: Engineering Meets Artistry in Professional-Grade Tools

The transition from home baker to semi-pro often starts with better tools. Brod & Taylor scratches that itch with implements that wouldn't look out of place in a professional kitchen. Their Dough Whisk features an intriguing spiral pattern that cuts through thick batters while preventing dough from collecting in the center - a common frustration with traditional whisks.
We're particularly intrigued by how Brod & Taylor incorporates legitimate baking science into their designs. Their signature bread proofer maintains precise temperature control based on extensive research into fermentation. The company's technical expertise shines through in every detail, from the ergonomic angles of their handles to the carefully calculated wire gauges of their whisks.

Why we like Brod & Taylor

  • 1

    Professional-Grade Design

    Engineering-driven approach to kitchen tools

  • 2

    Scientific Precision

    Tools developed based on extensive baking research

  • 3

    Ergonomic Excellence

    Thoughtfully calculated angles and measurements

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Food Huggers
: Silicon Warriors in the Fight Against Food Waste

In our quest to reduce kitchen waste, we keep circling back to Food Huggers' ingenious solution for partially used produce. Their Food Huggers Set of Lids transforms the simple act of food storage into something approaching an art form. These stretchy silicone covers create airtight seals around cut fruits and vegetables, replacing disposable wrap with a reusable alternative that actually works better.
The real innovation here isn't just environmental - it's practical. These lids stack neatly, taking up minimal drawer space. The clear silicone makes it easy to identify contents at a glance. While many "eco-friendly" products require sacrificing convenience, Food Huggers manages to make sustainability feel natural and intuitive.

Why we like Food Huggers

  • 1

    Sustainable Solution

    Eliminates need for disposable food wrap

  • 2

    Space-Efficient

    Stackable design minimizes drawer clutter

  • 3

    Practical Innovation

    Clear silicone enables easy content identification

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W&P
: Where Industrial Design Meets Kitchen Poetry

Brooklyn-based W&P approaches kitchen tools with an architect's precision and an artist's soul. Their Cocktail Ice Tray Set elevates the humble ice cube into something worthy of contemplation - perfect spheres and cubes that transform ordinary drinks into craft cocktails.
The brand's design philosophy becomes apparent in their clever solutions to everyday problems. Take their collapsible storage containers - they solve the eternal puzzle of cabinet space without compromising on aesthetics. We appreciate how W&P considers both the practical and emotional aspects of cooking tools, creating implements that spark joy while performing their intended function.

Why we like W&P

  • 1

    Architectural Precision

    Tools designed with both form and function in mind

  • 2

    Aesthetic Appeal

    Beautiful solutions to everyday kitchen needs

  • 3

    Space-Saving Innovation

    Clever designs that maximize storage efficiency

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Stasher
: Storage Solutions for the Modern Kitchen

Silicon Valley has disrupted everything else - why not food storage? Stasher's Warehouse Bags 5-Pack represents a fundamental rethinking of how we preserve food. These aren't mere replacements for disposable bags; they're sophisticated tools that can handle everything from freezer storage to sous vide cooking.
The platinum-grade silicone construction speaks to Stasher's obsession with material science. These bags withstand temperature extremes that would destroy lesser products. While the initial investment might raise eyebrows, the durability and versatility make them a compelling alternative to endless cycles of disposable storage.

Why we like Stasher

  • 1

    Material Innovation

    Premium platinum-grade silicone construction

  • 2

    Versatile Usage

    From freezer storage to sous vide cooking

  • 3

    Long-Term Value

    Durable alternative to disposable storage solutions

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Earlywood
: Montana Craftsmanship Meets Engineering Precision

From their workshop in Montana, Earlywood creates wooden utensils that bridge the gap between artisanal craft and modern engineering. Their Wooden Tasting Spoon exemplifies this fusion, with curves and angles calculated for optimal function while maintaining the warm, organic feel of handcrafted wood.
The choice of hardwoods isn't arbitrary - each species is selected for specific properties like density and grain structure. We're fascinated by how founder Brad Bernhart applies his mechanical engineering background to traditional woodworking techniques, creating tools that honor both heritage and innovation.

Why we like Earlywood

  • 1

    Engineered Craftsmanship

    Precision-designed wooden tools

  • 2

    Material Expertise

    Carefully selected hardwoods for specific uses

  • 3

    Heritage Innovation

    Traditional techniques meet modern engineering

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GIR
: The Science of Simplicity

GIR (Get It Right) proves that even the humble spatula deserves serious engineering attention. Their signature GIR Spatula represents a ground-up reimagining of this kitchen essential. The seamless construction eliminates weak points where traditional spatulas fail, while the carefully calibrated flexibility provides precise control.
The use of pharmaceutical-grade silicone isn't just marketing - it's a deliberate choice that allows these tools to withstand extreme temperatures without compromising food safety. While the color options are plentiful, the focus remains squarely on performance and durability.

Why we like GIR

  • 1

    Engineering Excellence

    Seamless construction eliminates weak points

  • 2

    Premium Materials

    Pharmaceutical-grade silicone for safety

  • 3

    Temperature Resistant

    Withstands extreme heat without compromise

G

Gabrielle Auerbach

04/24/24

Love this spatula! I use it regularly to make my oatmeal and bake

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Joseph Joseph
: Problem-Solving Through Smart Design

The twin brothers behind Joseph Joseph have a knack for solving kitchen problems we didn't know needed solving. Their Milltop Blue Salt & Pepper Mills tackle the age-old issue of spice grinder mess with an elegant solution that catches stray grounds while offering precise control over grind size.
Each Joseph Joseph product seems to ask "Why do we do it this way?" before proposing a clever alternative. The results often combine multiple functions into single tools without feeling gimmicky. It's this thoughtful approach to everyday kitchen challenges that makes their innovations feel both surprising and inevitable.

Why we like Joseph Joseph

  • 1

    Innovative Problem-Solving

    Creative solutions to common kitchen issues

  • 2

    Multi-Functional Design

    Clever combination of features without gimmicks

  • 3

    User-Centric Approach

    Thoughtful improvements to everyday tools

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The Kitchen Tool Evolution

The world of kitchen tools has expanded far beyond the familiar offerings of mainstream brands. These alternatives represent a new generation of implements that merge innovative design, sustainable materials, and thoughtful engineering. Whether drawn to artisanal craftsmanship or cutting-edge materials science, modern cooks have more options than ever to elevate their kitchen experience.