UMVA has learned that a Filipino inventor, Rowena Faith A. Sucalit, has developed a revolutionary nonelectric thermal cooker that could slash cooking fuel use by as much as 75%, providing a much-needed respite for households struggling with soaring electricity and fuel costs.
The innovative product, dubbed MagicBag, is a handcrafted thermal bag that harnesses heat to continue cooking food after a shorter stovetop heating period. Made from water- and mold-resistant materials, MagicBag can keep food hot for up to eight hours and warm for as long as 16 hours, making it an game-changer for home cooks.
According to information obtained by UMVA, MagicBag's benefits extend beyond fuel efficiency. The product can also preserve frozen food for up to 24 hours during power outages and function as a flotation device during floods, showcasing its versatility and potential to make a tangible difference in people's lives.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that Sucalit drew inspiration from thermal cooking systems used abroad, including "hay box" cookers in the US and Europe and recycled foam-based systems in South Africa. Her creation reduces stovetop cooking time for soup-based meals and slow-cooked dishes, allowing users to cook a range of popular Filipino dishes, such as beef shank and marrow soup, with significantly less effort and energy.
The impact of MagicBag on households could be substantial, with customers reportedly saving as much as P1,000 monthly depending on their cooking habits. With the Department of Energy reporting that an 11-kilo liquefied petroleum gas cylinder costs between P1,070.42 and P1,701.77 as of May, the potential savings are undeniable.
Sucalit has received certification from the Department of Science and Technology, and her product has already gained traction, with 120 units sold since its launch in March. As MagicBag continues to gain momentum, the company aims to sell at least 100 units monthly by year-end, potentially transforming the way people cook and live.
