By Andrea Lillo
NEW YORK–Using a proprietary ceramic compound called Ceramber, FoldTuk Kitchenware has introduced a collapsible bakeware product that combines the foldability of silicone with the heat transferring abilities of Ceramber. To be showcased at the International Home & Housewares Show, FoldTuk can be used in the oven, microwave and freezer, store food and be washed in the dishwasher. When not in use, it can collapse down to a height of 1 inch for easy storage.
FoldTuk is a division of E&M Engineering Inc., a company that developed the materials that became Ceramber when it worked on a heat sink for Lucent Technologies, said Duncan Fung, president. The company saw that the material transferred heat better than silicone, Fung said. As his wife was “always complaining about shelf space” and Ceramber was food safe, FoldTuk was born. But it’s only the beginning, said George Arnold, director and chief executive officer, and more than 10 housewares products will launch this year under FoldTuk Kitchenware.
The product is constructed with a Ceramber rim and bottom, as heat transfers faster from the bottom in an oven, Fung said, with a clear, foldable silicone middle and cover. The company tested the product recently, which began selling on a Web site for the recreational vehicle industry. In March, it will also launch on a national cable shopping channel.
Initially the product is available in four- and six-cup sizes, in rectangle or oval shapes, and with retails between $14 and $22.
In addition, the company said that manufacturing FoldTuk requires less energy than making ceramic or glass products, so it is eco-friendly as well.