Smucker's Magic Shell is a popular ice cream topping that has gained quite a following among dessert lovers. This unique chocolate sauce has a magical property that sets it apart from regular chocolate syrups. When poured on to ice cream, it quickly hardens into a shell-like texture, creating a fun and delicious experience. The magic behind Smucker's Magic Shell lies in its composition. It is primarily made from a blend of coconut and palm oils, with added sugar, cocoa, and natural flavors. The coconut and palm oils give the sauce its ability to solidify upon contact with cold surfaces, such as ice cream.

Ultrasonic Pest Repellers: Solution or Scam?

Ultrasonic pest repellers are electronic devices that emit high-frequency sounds designed to repel, injure or kill household pests, such as rodents and insects. Whether they're actually effective at doing so has been disputed by testing labs and the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

Left unchecked, rodents and insects can transmit salmonella, hantavirus and other diseases, as well as cause significant building damage. Signs of a rodent infestation include droppings, especially near food and beneath sinks, gnawed or chewed food packages, and holes in structural materials that can provide entry into the home.

Cockroach infestation, which is arguably the most pervasive and hard-to-eliminate type of pest infestation, especially in urban areas and industrial and commercial kitchens, is evidenced by the pest's droppings, which are pepper-like specs, typically found in kitchen cupboards, as well as their egg sacs, which are often spotted in hard-to-reach locations, such as cracks and crevices in kitchen cabinets and drains, and behind dishwashers and refrigerators. Ultrasonic pest repellers are claimed to eliminate even these types of household pests.

The use of audible sound to deter pests is an old strategy; the ancient Chinese used a number of mechanically operated sensory-repellent devices to deter rodent infestations in agricultural crops and buildings. Ultrasound, which is defined by sound frequencies beyond the upper limit of human hearing, has been used as pest control only over the past few decades, however.

The ultrasonic devices are plugged into a home’s electrical receptacle outlets which then purportedly emit high-frequency sounds that are disruptive to pests. The sound supposedly causes a physiological response known as audiogenic seizure response, which is characterized by non-directional running, convulsions, and possibly death from cerebral hemorrhage. The theory behind the devices is that confused rodents eventually flee when the disruption prevents them from gathering food, breeding, building nests or communicating. Ultrasonic devices are popular and appealing to consumers because of their ease of use and the fact that they are silent to human ears and allegedly eliminate the need for traps and poison, which are thought by some to be inhumane forms of pest control. Electromagnetic and subsonic devices are also available, and all designs vary by signal intensity, rate and frequency.

But Do They Work?

Studies designed to investigate the efficacy of ultrasonic pest repellents have shown mixed results. One extensive test performed by Kansas State University in 2002 found that the devices were effective at repelling some insects, such as crickets, but the same devices had little effect on cockroaches. Ants and spiders were unaffected by any of the devices. Of the pests that seem to be bothered by the noise, some tests have shown that they soon become habituated as they realize the noise is harmless. Even models proven successful in tests are unlikely to perform adequately in real-world situations, where signal strength rapidly diminishes and can be blocked by walls and furniture.

Safety concerns have arisen, too; some users have reported that the sound can weaken the clarity of telephone conversations, interfere with burglar alarm systems, and cause muting in hearing aids. The noise may also cause inadvertent distress to rabbits and rodent pets, such as guinea pigs and hamsters. Cats and dogs can hear in the ultrasonic range, but they appear not to be bothered by the noise emitted by these devices.

Manufacturers of ultrasonic pest repellers make claims that may be unsupported by scientific testing. In fact, more than 60 companies received warning letters from the FTC in 2001 stating that “efficacy claims about those products must be supported by scientific evidence." Two years later, one company was sued by the FTC for violating its warning.

Nevertheless, many users have reported success, so customers are advised to research specific brands before they purchase an ultrasonic pest repeller. The devices should be placed in areas where their signals will travel uninterrupted by walls or furniture.

InterNACHI inspectors may inform their clients that many more reliable forms of pest control, such as chemical pesticides, traps and even cats, are effective and inexpensive. Many InterNACHI inspectors are also qualified to perform wood-destroying organism (WDO) inspections, which can further identify and possibly diagnose insect infestation problems to help homeowners devise workable solutions. Inspectors should always wear the appropriate personal protective equipment when inspecting areas of a home that could be a refuge for pests.

In summary, ultrasonic pest repellers emit high-frequency sounds that manufacturers claim reduce household pest infestation, but laboratory tests have shown that the majority of such devices do not work as advertised, in violation of FTC guidelines. Homeowners with pest problems should rely on a qualified inspector who can help them identify their particular pest problem and advise them on practical and effective solutions.

Pest magic

* For new customers only. Cannot be combined with other coupons, discounts and flash sales. Not valid on Fly Eliminators or Gift Certificates.

Bats are, for the most part, harmless to people and can be helpful in keeping insect populations down. But, they can also damage buildings and carry diseases like rabies and histoplasmosis. Not to mention that their squeaking, scratching and odor can drive a person, well, batty. Use the convenient Bat Magic "place packs" to repel these flying critters from most structures; simply place them where the bats hide. They can be used indoors and outdoors in confined areas where bats like to gather such as attics, wall voids, crawl spaces, behind shutters, in chimneys, sheds, garages, etc. Made with all natural peppermint and spearmint oils, these packs are biodegradable, ready to use and last for weeks.

The essential oils in these packs are pleasantly aromatic for most people, but effectively repel bats simply. The unique nature of the oils interferes with the chemoreception of the bat (which it uses for mating and recognizing other bats) and the functions of the bats' Stenson's canal (part of their olfactory system). Since bats have very highly tuned receptive abilities and rely on them a great deal, they cannot abide any disruption to them. They will naturally be repelled by an area they find so uncomfortable. This repellent has no lasting or harmful effect on the bats.

Bats will continuously return to roost in the same area, so remember to seal off any entrances to an area once it has been cleansed of bats. Illuminating the area, if possible, will also discourage re-entry. Once the bats have been eliminated from the undesired roosting areas, why not give them another option for accommodations? We recommend the Songbird Essentials Bat House or the Woodlink Audubon Bat Shelter.

Suggested Uses: Use to drive bats from attics, wall voids, crawl spaces, behind blinds and shutters, eaves, soffits, chimneys, gable vents, sheds, louvers, ridge vents, behind siding, in garages and other dark, confined spaces.

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BONIDE Bat Magic is packaged in convenient "place packs" that are ready to use and can easily be placed, tossed or tacked up wherever needed. Begin treatment by placing one pack per 150 sq. ft. Increase the number of place packs as needed until the desired results are obtained. Although the smell may be pleasant, it can be overpowering in small spaces. Should this occur, simply reduce the number of place packs used.

NOTE: Do not apply to furniture, painted surfaces or fine finishes without testing on a small inconspicuous area first.

Storage: Store and transport in an upright position. Store only in original container, in a dry place inaccessible to children and pets. Do not reuse empty container. Discard empty container in trash.

Cannot Be Shipped To: DC,IN,NM,WI

Warning & Toxicities: KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN. Do not apply directly to water.

Active Ingredients/Guaranteed Analysis:

2.00%. Peppermint Oil
2.00%. Spearmint Oil

Inert Ingredients:

Dr. Mani's Magic - Pest Protect Pro

Your gardening purgatory is over. Finally an organic option that is extremely effective against almost EVERY pest in your garden.

Best of all, it won't harm your beneficial insects, won't damage your plants, and it won't hurt you or your family as you walk barefoot in your garden and lawn!

An organic mix of diatomaceous earth and sulfur that has been all-naturally semi-dissolved into water.

Now you can easily SPRAY and evenly coat a large area against all the nasty bugs, mites, flies, worms, and fungal diseases affecting any plant and grass.

An organic application that is simple and works via diatomaceous earth’s MECHANICAL destruction of pests - so there is NO RESISTANCE.

Sulfur is the world’s oldest fungicide, applied safely for thousands of years.

Take the very best of nature and start protecting your lawn, garden, fruit trees…and most importantly the people in your life.

No more harsh chemicals with unknown long-term side effects.

No more being worried when children run around the lawn bare-foot.

No more trading off having an effective solution with having a safe solution .

No more spending hours researching different mechanisms, bugs, doses, concentrations, seasons, chemicals, side effects…just use this all-in-one solution.

Remember…this is our own regimen that we use on our 250,000 trees in our nursery and 150,000 trees in our grove. This product was made to solve our own problems that you have!

1-gal of concentrate makes 25-gal of product

Spray on leaves, trunk, branches weekly to control pests and fungal disease.

Repeat spray more often or higher concentrations for more aggressive control.

PRECAUTIONS:

**test first on sulfur-sensitive plants: tomatoes, curcurbits, cruciferous vegetables, stone fruit & berries**

**do NOT use within 14 days of application of any sort of horticultural oil - will burn leaves**

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The coconut and palm oils give the sauce its ability to solidify upon contact with cold surfaces, such as ice cream. To use Smucker's Magic Shell, simply drizzle it over your favorite ice cream flavor. As soon as it comes into contact with the cold ice cream, it will start to harden.

Within seconds, you will see the liquid sauce transform into a firm and crispy shell. The result is a delightful combination of smooth and creamy ice cream with a crunchy chocolate coating. One of the greatest appeals of Smucker's Magic Shell is the interactive experience it provides. The transformation of the liquid sauce into a solid shell happens right before your eyes, adding an element of surprise and entertainment to your dessert. Kids and adults alike enjoy watching this magical process unfold. Another advantage of Smucker's Magic Shell is its versatility. While it is commonly used as an ice cream topping, it can be used in various other ways. It can be drizzled over frozen yogurt, added to milkshakes, or even used as a dip for fresh fruit. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to get creative with your desserts. In addition to its unique properties and versatility, Smucker's Magic Shell also offers a wide range of flavors to choose from. It is available in classic chocolate, as well as other exciting flavors such as caramel, mint, and cherry. This variety allows you to experiment with different combinations to enhance your dessert experience. Overall, Smucker's Magic Shell is a beloved and fun ice cream topping that adds a touch of magic to any dessert. Its ability to transform from a liquid sauce to a solid shell brings joy and excitement to both kids and adults. Its versatility and range of flavors make it a must-try for any dessert lover. So, next time you indulge in a bowl of ice cream, consider adding a drizzle of Smucker's Magic Shell for a magical and delicious treat..

Reviews for "From Childhood Staple to Gourmet Sensation: Smuckers Magic Shell"

1. Emma - 1/5 stars - I was really disappointed with Smuckers magic shell. It did not live up to the hype at all. The so-called "magic" aspect of it was just a thick and sticky syrup that hardened into a weird and unappetizing texture. It also tasted artificial and had a strange aftertaste. I will definitely not be buying this product again.

2. Mark - 2/5 stars - Smuckers magic shell was not what I was expecting. The idea of a chocolate syrup that hardens when poured over ice cream sounded amazing, but the execution fell flat. The texture was too thick and gloopy, making it difficult to pour evenly. Once it hardened, it formed a brittle layer that lacked the smoothness I was hoping for. The taste was also underwhelming, with a generic chocolate flavor that did not wow me. Overall, I was let down by this product.

3. Sarah - 2/5 stars - I have to admit, I was excited to try Smuckers magic shell, but it did not impress me. The chocolate flavor was lacking, and the texture was odd. It became overly hard and cracked easily, making it difficult to enjoy. Furthermore, it didn't add anything special to my ice cream experience. I expected a magical transformation when it met the cold ice cream, but it just made a mess and wasn't worth the extra calories. I won't be purchasing it again.

4. Michael - 1/5 stars - Smuckers magic shell was a disappointment for me. The concept seemed intriguing, but the reality was far from magical. The chocolate syrup had a strange artificial flavor and left a filmy residue on my tongue. Even worse, it didn't harden evenly, leaving some parts of my ice cream soft and gooey while other parts were overly hard. I wouldn't recommend this product to anyone looking for a delicious and fun topping for their ice cream.

How to Drizzle Smuckers Magic Shell Like a Pro