Q: I saw a product on “Shark Tank” a while back, and although the Sharks didn’t bite, I thought it sounded delicious and would like to try it on my family. It’s a condiment called Slawsa. Do you know if this is available in the area? Thanks. — C. Dalton, Atlanta
A: You’re right, Slawsa — think coleslaw smacking into salsa — was featured on the television show “Shark Tank” in 2013. The North Carolina-based company turns out a few Slawsa flavors, including original, spicy, garlic and spicy garlic. As its name implies, Slawsa teams cabbage with a “salsa twist.” The company suggests serving it on hot dogs as well as tacos, meatloaf, baked potatoes and as a dip for chips. Locally, you’ll find Slawsa in 16-ounce jars for $3.59 at Kroger, 3871 Peachtree Road, Atlanta, 404-240-0808. The jars are located on the top shelf, next to the pickles, on aisle 4.
Q: Can you tell me where to find Mentholatum Ointment? No one seems to carry that any more. Thank you. — Frances Burns, Peachtree City
A: Mentholatum Ointment, which gets its aromatic anti-inflammatory properties from camphor and natural menthol, has a long history dating back to the late 1800s. Founded by Albert Alexander Hyde, the Yucca Company started out selling soaps and shaving products. It then moved on to producing Mentholatum Ointment, and the company received a new name. Once missionaries got a hold of the aromatic compound, Mentholatum started getting used around the globe and, eventually, Mentholatum was sold to a Japanese company. But, while the ointment might not always be easy to find, you won’t have trouble buying it in your area. A 3-ounce jar of Mentholatum Ointment is available for $4.79 at Rite Aid, 101 City Circle, Peachtree City, 770-486-9776.
Q: I have been looking for a family favorite ever since I moved to Atlanta in 1994, and have not found it, yet, in a local store. I have found it online. Open Pit original barbecue sauce brings back very fond family memories. Maybe you could help us find it in the Atlanta area. We would be eternally grateful to you if you could find this family treasure. — Linda Garland, Milton
A: Open Pit, a traditional barbecue sauce, made its debut in Detroit back in 1953. It still enjoys legions of fans. You can relive those family memories anytime you like by visiting Publix, 9925 Haynes Bridge Road, Alpharetta, 770-751-7980. You’ll find 18-ounce bottles of original Open Pit for $1.69.
Q: I have a front-loading washing machine and have been using tablets to clean it. It takes more effort to keep this machine clean than my old top loader, but I’m stuck with it. I want to try a liquid cleaner that I’ve heard good things about and it’s called Magic cleaner, I think. I’m not sure I have the right name, but I can’t find it in my market. Can you track this down for me, please? — Elaine Marks, email
A: Elaine, a lot of consumers are less than thrilled with their HE front-loading washing machines because of the maintenance involved. Unlike open top-loaders, these machines are sealed, turning them into huge petri dishes. Add plenty of thick liquid detergents and fabric softeners that mingle with fibers, pet hair and specks of food that, over time, create a film that sticks like glue to the hoses, and you’ve got a recipe for funky odors. It sounds as if you’re looking for Washer Magic, the liquid washing machine cleaner. One of the many reasons users like the product is because, unlike tablets, Washer Magic can be dabbed on a paper towel or cloth and used to clean the glass and other parts of the machine. You’ll find it at Lowe’s, 4950 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Chamblee, 770-220-0153. A 24-ounce bottle sells for $6.48.
