Toaster ovens seem like an obsolete appliance in today’s world of pressure cookers and air fryers. However, this reputable appliance still has benefits and has evolved to meet the demands of today’s consumer. 

About 1.7 million toaster ovens are sold in the United States each year. Twenty-seven percent of households use it only for toasting foods (Energy Star Market Industry Scoping Report: Toaster Ovens, November, 2011.) Today’s toaster ovens have capability beyond toasting and use one-half to one-third less energy than conventional ovens. 

The Scott County Cooperative Extension Service presented Toaster Ovens: A Primer to attendees in the nine counties of the Bluegrass Area. As a result of the program, 80 participants indicated they were more aware of the benefits of using a toaster oven to prepare small amounts of food. 76 participants shared they were not aware of the energy savings associated with using a toaster oven. Additionally, 88% of those responding to a follow up survey indicated they shared information from the program with others. This program provided participants with the skills and resources they need to utilized the toaster oven in a more efficient manner.