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Dear Cath - Sunday 1st February 2015

Q.Why can't I buy Lectric Soda anymore? Barbara

A. Lectric Soda powder is still available, the crystals were discontinued some time ago. It is stocked by both Woolworths and Coles, although it is cheaper at Coles by about 45 cents a kilo. It should also be available at IGA, Foodworks and Ritchies. Bear in mind though that Lectric Soda is a brand name - any washing soda (not bicarbonate soda, a totally different product) will do the job. You should be able to buy washing soda from any cleaning supplies or bulk soap store.

If your store doesn't stock it ask them to get it in for you.
Q. Just wondering about the markdown meat at Coles. I was there today and saw trays of meat reduced to 99 cents from $20, $17 and $8 respectively. That day was the expiry date. So still ok I guess in terms of date. Amazing reductions but the meat was a brown colour. I didn't notice any odour but it did not look appealing. Is that a bargain I missed or better to err on the side of caution?  Trish.

A. It's an amazing bargain you missed out on. I would've been climbing over people to get to it! The meat would have been fine and once cooked you wouldn't have noticed the change in colour, which happens over time as the packaged meat is deprived of oxygen or from the weight when packets are stacked on top of each other forcing oxygen out of the meat.

The grey/brown colour doesn't mean the meat is off or bad or unfit for human consumption. What a shame you didn't ask the butcher at the supermarket they were definitely bargains too good to pass up.
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