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kgb_ Special Agents are tireless and relentless in their search for the answers to America’s questions.  And what does America want to know, you ask?  Well, today’s buzz centers on the products of infomercials:

Is any of the stuff sold on infomercials any good?

Know more:

Historically speaking, the infomercial dates back to the 1960s when Ron Popeil pioneered the Ronco Veg-o-Matic and marketed it to America.

Today, marketing experts suggest that television and film editing can, frankly, make anything look good.  Statistics suggest that about half of infomercial products deliver what they promise.  30 percent deliver, but do it expensively, and the rest of the products are, well, junk.

Consumer Reports (CR) has plenty to share about infomercial products and here is a sampling:

Slap Chop

Pitchman Vince Shlomi suggests that “You’re going to have an exciting life now” with the gadget that can “dice, chop, and mince in seconds” and remove skins from onions and garlic.

CR found it to chop unevenly and some foods get stuck in the blades.  The splash guard frequently becomes misaligned and hands can get sore from the ergonomics of the product.

Magic Jack

Magic Jack, a VoIP (voice over Internet protocol) phone device and service, “makes your monthly phone bill disappear,” an online ad says. “Save hundreds, even thousands, of dollars” and get “no more poor reception.” You plug Magic Jack into a computer’s USB port, plug the line cord of your own phone into the other end of the USB adapter, and Magic Jack uses the Internet to make and receive calls.

CR actually likes this product.  Calls connect, voice quality is clear, though not a clear as a quality corded phone on a regular line.  A few minor limitations but less expensive than Vonage and Skype.

PedEgg

This foot file removes calluses and dead skin to “make your feet feel smooth and healthy with NO MESS!” Powdery filings collect in a little compartment.

CR suggests you crack open a PedEgg as it does a very good job of removing callouses and dry skin – better than a pumice stone.  It is suggested that the PedEgg be used over a wastebasket as some filings escape.

Ab Circle Pro

Makers claim it will “firm and flatten your stomach in just weeks” and “takes just three minutes a day.” It comes with a nutrition plan and a workout DVD.

CR suggests that three minutes as day won’t do much and the device burns no more calories than brisk walking.  The nutrition plan is so strict that most will lose weight on that alone, sans the device.  Only three panelists out of a panel of thirteen reviewers would consider purchasing it.

10 Worst Infomercials

Have a favorite infomercial?

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Source:   Should you ‘Buy This Now!’?