Q: Mallomars, the best cookies in the world, are the hardest item to find. Some grocery store managers have never heard of them, and others say they are a “seasonal” item. The Nabisco rep I found in Wal-Mart said they are seasonal, but Wal-Mart is the only place I have found them this winter! I hate to admit I bought only two boxes instead of all they had. Help! My son, grandsons and I are going through withdrawal! B. Paden, email
A: It's true, Mallomars, graham crackers topped with marshmallow and coated in dark chocolate, are a seasonal item, and have been for over 100 years. Once this nostalgic brand disappears from your grocer's shelves, you're out of luck until next season, which starts around September. Locally, the Nabisco distribution center is located in Norcross, and there's not a single Mallomar to be found. So, next year, you'll have to do as many fans, and that's to stock up, or hoard your favorite cookie. In the meantime, you can order off-season Mallomars through Amazon.
Q: I have an Oster blender that I’ve had for years and it has a black plastic bottom that screws on. That part is cracked and I can no longer use the blender. I’d like to get a replacement because the blender is still in good shape. I can’t find one and hoped that you could help me with this. Thank you very much. Berny Hogan, Atlanta
A: Your Oster blender uses a generic threaded bottom cap that is easy to get. You can check out www.truevalue.com and order the part for $10.99 and have it shipped to the nearest True Value Hardware, without incurring any shipping charges. If you're not familiar with ordering online, then simply call or visit a True Value Hardware store and have someone there order it for you. Ask for item number 617811.
Q: I have celiac disease. My gluten-free friends and I really enjoyed Mi-Del gluten-free ginger snaps. The local Publix, Kroger and Wal-Mart all used to carry the product, but no longer. I have even searched on my travels out of town and have had no luck finding these cookies. Please help me find this item. Dan Payseur, Conyers
A: Mi-Del makes a variety of gluten-free cookies, including ginger snaps, cinnamon snaps and chocolate chip. You can find boxes of Mi-Del gluten-free ginger snaps for $3.69 each at Publix, 1591 Georgia Hwy., 20, Conyers, 678-413-2421.
Q: I fell in love with Heinz tomato ketchup with balsamic vinegar. It is part of the Signature Series. I cannot find it in any of the nearby stores. Has it been discontinued? Where can I find it? Richard Drane, Brookhaven
A: Richard, according to the representative I spoke with at Heinz, your favorite ketchup flavor isn’t discontinued, however, stock seems to be spotty, so I’d buy more than one bottle at a time. You’ll find a few 14-ounce bottles for $2.50 each at Target, 3535 Peachtree Road, Atlanta, 404-237-9494.
