What it is
A colander or strainer separates liquids from solids through holes or mesh. A pasta colander and a fine sieve belong to this family but have different fineness.
When to use it
A colander drains pasta; fine mesh strains stocks and sauces and can sift flour or powdered sugar. Opening size determines what is retained.
How to use it
Choose openings suited to the food you want to retain and support the strainer securely. Use protection when handling cookware to drain hot liquids.
How to choose it
A stable base helps with draining. For fine straining, a handle and support hook let the sieve rest over another container.
Cleaning and storage
Wash food-contact surfaces with hot, soapy water between uses; rinse and dry. Check the material’s care instructions before choosing a dishwasher or abrasive cleaners.
Safe use
Do not reuse a utensil that has touched raw meat, fish or poultry for ready-to-eat food without thoroughly washing it.
Frequently asked questions
Which tasks is it useful for?
A colander drains pasta; fine mesh strains stocks and sauces and can sift flour or powdered sugar. Opening size determines what is retained.
How should it be cleaned after use?
Wash food-contact surfaces with hot, soapy water between uses; rinse and dry. Check the material’s care instructions before choosing a dishwasher or abrasive cleaners.
What precaution should I remember?
Do not reuse a utensil that has touched raw meat, fish or poultry for ready-to-eat food without thoroughly washing it.
Sources and review
Sources consulted for this utensil’s documented uses, care and characteristics.
- Safe Food Handling | FDA www.fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/safe-food-handling
- Essential Kitchen Equipment and Utensils www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/cooking-skills/meal-planning/essential-kitche…
- Organize Your Space - Spend Smart Eat Smart spendsmart.extension.iastate.edu/cook/organize-your-space/
- Cleaning — Food Standards Scotland www.foodstandards.gov.scot/consumer-advice/food-safety/food-safety-in-the-kitchen/cleaning
- Cook’s Tools — Alice Henneman, University of Nebraska Extension, hosted by Purdue Extension extension.purdue.edu/foodlink/includes/pubs/Kitchen%20Utensils.pdf
