Vacuum Sealer Buying Guide
Key Takeaways
Choosing the right vacuum sealer can seem daunting, but it’s an investment that pays off with fresher food, less waste, and cost savings in the long run. This guide dives deep into the world of vacuum sealers, covering everything from different types and features to crucial considerations for making the best purchase for your needs. We’ll help you understand the pros and cons, so you can confidently choose a vacuum sealer that will revolutionize how you store food.
Why You Need a Vacuum Sealer
Imagine biting into a perfectly ripe strawberry in the dead of winter, or enjoying a juicy steak that tastes as fresh as the day you bought it. A vacuum sealer makes this possible. But the benefits extend far beyond just delicious meals. Vacuum sealing removes air from packaging, preventing oxidation and moisture, the two main culprits behind food spoilage. This simple process dramatically extends the shelf life of your food, often by several times!
Beyond preservation, vacuum sealing offers other advantages. It protects food from freezer burn, keeps dry goods from going stale, and even prevents liquids from leaking during storage. This makes it ideal for meal prepping, portioning food, and organizing your fridge and freezer. Plus, it’s a game-changer for sous vide cooking, ensuring even cooking and maximum flavor infusion.
Types of Vacuum Sealers: Choosing the Right One for You
Not all vacuum sealers are created equal. Understanding the different types is crucial for making the right choice.
External Vacuum Sealers (Edge Sealers)
These are the most common type of vacuum sealer, and for good reason. They’re user-friendly and relatively affordable. You simply place the open end of a bag into the machine, and it automatically sucks out the air and seals the bag. External vacuum sealers are perfect for everyday use, portioning meals, and sealing leftovers.
Considerations for external vacuum sealers:
- Pros: Affordable, easy to use, compact.
- Cons: Primarily designed for dry foods, can be messy with liquids, requires specialized bags.
- Best For: General household use, dry food storage, meal prepping.
Chamber Vacuum Sealers
Chamber vacuum sealers are the workhorses of the vacuum sealing world. They work by placing the entire bag inside a chamber, creating a complete vacuum before sealing. This allows you to seal liquids and delicate foods without any mess or damage. Chamber sealers offer a stronger, more consistent seal, and are ideal for commercial use or for serious home cooks who demand the best.
Considerations for chamber vacuum sealers:
- Pros: Superior seal quality, handles liquids and delicate foods, versatile.
- Cons: Expensive, bulky, requires more storage space.
- Best For: Sealing liquids, delicate foods, commercial use, sous vide cooking.
Handheld Vacuum Sealers
These compact and portable sealers are perfect for small jobs and on-the-go sealing. They typically use specially designed bags or containers with a valve, and a small handheld device removes the air. Handheld vacuum sealers are great for keeping snacks fresh, sealing leftovers in the fridge, or even packing for travel.
Considerations for handheld vacuum sealers:
- Pros: Portable, inexpensive, easy to store.
- Cons: Less powerful than other types, requires specific bags/containers, not ideal for large quantities.
- Best For: Small jobs, on-the-go sealing, refrigerator storage.
Key Features to Consider
Once you’ve chosen the type of vacuum sealer that suits your needs, it’s time to consider the features that will make your life easier.
Sealing Power
The sealing power of a vacuum sealer is crucial for ensuring a strong, airtight seal. Look for a machine with adjustable sealing levels, especially if you plan to seal delicate foods or liquids. A strong seal prevents air from seeping in, which is essential for long-term food preservation. This is where a good vacuum sealer really shines.
Vacuum Strength
Vacuum strength is measured in inches of mercury (inHg). A higher inHg rating indicates a stronger vacuum, which means more air is removed from the bag. A stronger vacuum results in longer-lasting food preservation and better protection against freezer burn. For most home users, a vacuum sealer with a vacuum strength of 20-25 inHg is sufficient.
Bag Compatibility
Some vacuum sealers require specific types of bags, while others are more versatile. Consider the cost and availability of bags when making your decision. Look for BPA-free, food-grade bags that are designed for vacuum sealing. Some machines also have built-in bag storage and cutters, which can be a convenient feature.
Ease of Use
A vacuum sealer should be easy to operate, with intuitive controls and clear instructions. Look for features like automatic sealing, pulse vacuum, and adjustable seal times. A user-friendly interface will make the vacuum sealing process more enjoyable and less time-consuming.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential for keeping your vacuum sealer in top condition. Look for a machine with removable parts that are easy to clean. Wipe down the exterior after each use, and clean the sealing strip regularly to prevent food buildup. Proper maintenance will extend the lifespan of your vacuum sealer and ensure consistent performance.
Choosing the Right Vacuum Sealer Bags
The type of bag you use with your vacuum sealer is just as important as the machine itself. Using the wrong bags can result in poor seals and compromised food preservation. Here’s what to look for:
* **Material:** Choose bags made from food-grade, BPA-free plastic. These bags are safe for storing food and won’t leach harmful chemicals.
* **Thickness:** Thicker bags offer better protection against punctures and tears. Look for bags with a thickness of at least 3 mil.
* **Structure:** Embossed or textured bags are ideal for external vacuum sealers. The texture allows air to be drawn out more efficiently. Smooth bags are typically used with chamber vacuum sealers.
* **Size:** Choose bags that are appropriately sized for the food you’re sealing. Avoid using bags that are too large, as this can waste material and reduce the effectiveness of the vacuum seal.
* **Compatibility:** Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for bag compatibility. Some vacuum sealers are only compatible with specific types of bags.
Tips for Successful Vacuum Sealing
Mastering the art of vacuum sealing requires a few simple techniques. Here are some tips to help you get the best results:
* **Pre-freeze Liquids:** Freezing liquids like soups and sauces before vacuum sealing prevents them from being sucked into the machine and creating a mess.
* **Blanch Vegetables:** Blanching vegetables before freezing helps preserve their color, texture, and nutrients.
* **Dry Foods Thoroughly:** Ensure that foods are completely dry before sealing to prevent moisture buildup and freezer burn.
* **Leave Headspace:** Leave some headspace in the bag to allow for expansion during freezing.
* **Avoid Sharp Objects:** Protect bags from sharp objects that could puncture them.
* **Double Seal:** For extra protection, consider double sealing the bag.
* **Label Everything:** Label each bag with the date and contents to keep track of what’s in your freezer.
Budget Considerations: How Much Should You Spend?
Vacuum sealers range in price from around $30 for a basic handheld model to several thousand dollars for a high-end chamber vacuum sealer. The amount you should spend depends on your needs and budget. For occasional use, a basic external vacuum sealer may suffice. However, if you plan to use it frequently or need to seal liquids, investing in a higher-quality machine with more features is worth it. Consider the long-term savings from reduced food waste when making your decision.
Don’t just look at the initial price; factor in the cost of bags and any accessories you might need. A good vacuum sealer is an investment in preserving your food and saving money.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I vacuum seal liquids?
Yes, you can vacuum seal liquids, but it requires some extra preparation. For external vacuum sealers, it’s best to pre-freeze the liquid before sealing. Chamber vacuum sealers are designed to handle liquids without any pre-freezing.
What’s the best way to clean my vacuum sealer?
Unplug the machine and wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth. Clean the sealing strip regularly with a soft brush to remove any food debris. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific cleaning recommendations.
How long will vacuum-sealed food last?
Vacuum sealing significantly extends the shelf life of food, but it doesn’t make it last forever. In general, vacuum-sealed food will last 2-3 times longer than food stored in traditional packaging. However, it’s still important to follow proper food safety guidelines and use your best judgment.
Are vacuum sealer bags reusable?
Some vacuum sealer bags are reusable, especially those made from thicker materials. However, it’s important to wash and dry them thoroughly before reusing them. Avoid reusing bags that have been used to store raw meat or fish.
What is the difference between a vacuum sealer and a food saver?
The terms “vacuum sealer” and “food saver” are often used interchangeably. “FoodSaver” is actually a brand name of a popular vacuum sealer manufacturer. While “FoodSaver” specifically refers to their products, “vacuum sealer” is the generic term for the appliance itself.
