A peeler is a kitchen tool used to remove the outer layer or skin of fruits and vegetables. It is a distinct type of kitchen knife consisting of a metal blade with a slot with a sharp edge attached to a handle. There are different types of peelers, including:

• Sword-shaped or straight peelers: This is the original design and has a swiveling double blade that extends straight from the handle, much like a sword. It works by running the blade along the fruit or vegetable and pushing away to remove the peel. Most sword-shaped peelers have a pointed end for digging out blemishes from fruits or vegetables, and the blades often are made of stainless steel.

• Y-shaped peelers: This peeler has a “Y” shape with a horizontal swiveling blade in between the top end of the prongs. Unlike the sword-shaped design, this peeler works by pulling the tool toward you to remove the skin. Blades often are made of stainless steel, and handles are usually made of plastic. These peelers can be more comfortable to hold and keep the blade farther from your hands — a safety perk for the user.

• Swivel peelers: These peelers have a blade perpendicular to its handle, a design closely resembling a safety razor. It is used with a similar action to a razor, shaving off skin in strips parallel to the handle. Most speed peelers have an eye gouger beside the blade, a loop of metal used to dig out eyes and blemishes from a potato. Peelers can remove the skin from produce, including eggplant, mango, and butternut squash. They also can be used for shaving thin slices of chocolate, citrus peels, or cheese.

Peelers are practical tools for paring produce and are widely used in kitchens.