We’ve all had that moment when you find forgotten food in the back of the fridge. Vacuum sealers are a simple way to prevent food waste! Let’s explore the practical features that make a vacuum sealer worth adding to your kitchen and determine which models offer the best vacuum sealer for extending the life of your groceries.
The Breakdown:
Anova Precision Vacuum Sealer
Nesco Deluxe Food Vacuum Sealer
Anova Culinary Precision Vacuum Sealer
FoodSaver Cordless Food Vacuum Sealer
Potane Vacuum Sealer Machine
Bonsenkitchen Dry Vacuum Sealer Machine
FoodSaver 5800 Series Vacuum Sealer Machine
GERYON Vacuum Sealer Machine
Mueller Vacuum Sealer Machine
Mesliese Vacuum Sealer Machine
Bonsenkitchen Food Sealer Machine
MegaWise Vacuum Sealer Machine
The Smart Way to Keep Food Fresh
Ever opened the fridge to find wilted veggies or forgotten leftovers that were way past their prime? Vacuum sealers are the answer! These handy gadgets suck out the air from special bags, creating a super-tight seal. This seriously slows down how fast food goes bad so that it can last way longer. Whether you buy groceries in bulk, need to stash those yummy leftovers, or want to meal prep like a pro, a vacuum sealer’s got you covered.Have a huge sale pack of chicken, but there is no way you can possibly consume it all at once? No worries! With a vacuum sealer, you can split it into smaller portions, seal them up, and put them in the freezer. They'll stay fresh for weeks, even months. No more tossing out food and saying goodbye to money!
If you’re into sous vide cooking (seriously, the results are amazing!), a vacuum sealer is your best friend. You have to seal the food in a bag before it goes into the water bath, so this little machine is a must-have.
There are many vacuum sealers on the market, so you’re sure to find one that fits your style and your budget. Now, let us discuss the best vacuum sealers on the market.
If you’re a fan of sous vide cooking (or want to try it!), the Anova Precision Vacuum Sealer is a must-have. It’s the perfect way to prep those delicious meals, whether you’re using an Anova cooker or any other sous vide machine. This little gadget is super easy to use and even comes with ten bags to get you started.
Here’s how it works: simply pop your seasoned food into a bag, stick the open end into the sealer, and hit a button. Whoosh! All the air gets sucked out. There’s even an option for a quick air pulse if you’re sealing something delicate.
You might ask why vacuum sealing is so important for sous vide. Well, it makes sure your food stays completely underwater while it cooks, locking in all that amazing flavor. And you can also use this thing to freeze and store pre-prepared meals. The Anova sealer ensures your food will taste just as fresh and delicious as the day you made it. You can sous vide anything from steak to veggies.
The best part? The Anova sealer is so simple to use. You'll have restaurant-quality meals at home in a snap. It’s one of the most reliable and straightforward vacuum sealers out there. Plus, it’s got a sleek design and a 5-year warranty.
Pros
- Compact size: Offers easy storage and takes up minimal counter space.
- Sous vide ready: Provides reliable sealing for sous vide cooking needs.
- Includes bags: Comes with starter bags to get you going right away.
- Sealing inconsistencies: These may not deliver perfectly consistent results with all food types.
- Limited power: Doesn’t feature the strongest suction compared to other models.
Designed for efficient air removal, the NESCO vacuum sealer boasts a powerful 130-watt double vacuum pump, the secret behind extending the shelf life of your food. Flexibility is key, so it offers three distinct settings: dry, moist, and double, ensuring the perfect seal for whatever you’re preserving, whether it’s delicate fruit or hearty cuts of meat.
You can also work with this product one-handed. The easy-lock handle makes those busy kitchen moments easier to handle. Plus, with built-in storage for your bags and a handy cutter, everything you need is right there, ready to go.
The NESCO vacuum sealer is crafted from durable plastic with a touch of silver in its finish. While compact (approximately 15.75“ L x 8” W x 4.5” H), it weighs about 6 pounds.
If your goal is less food waste, whether you’re stocking up in bulk or harvesting fresh produce, this vacuum sealer is the answer. Its ease of use and customizable settings cater to everyone, from first-timers to kitchen veterans, and the integrated storage with its cutter is a simple bonus that makes a big difference.
Pros
- Strong suction: Provides powerful suction for reliable sealing.
- Delicate setting: Features a specific setting for handling fragile foods.
- Storage features: Includes a bag cutter and roll storage for convenience.
- Bulky design: Occupies more counter space due to its larger size.
- Noisy operation: Might be slightly louder during use.
Forget about food going bad; the Anova Culinary vacuum sealer is here to help. With its double seal, even super-juicy food stays secure in the bag. It keeps your food fresh for way longer, which means less waste and saving money in the long run.
The vacuum sealer also has a hidden storage spot that holds a whole roll of bags and a cutter. The cord tucks away neatly in the bottom, keeping your counter clutter-free.
But wait, there’s more! The special hose and port thing can seal jars, all sorts of containers, and even wine bottles, making it a very versatile option.
Anova designed this right in San Francisco, and they’re so confident that they give you a 5-year guarantee. Plus, their app has a ton of free sous vide recipes—something for every skill level. They’ve sold a huge number of sealers, so they must be doing something right!
This sealer has all the modes: vacuum & seal, moist, and all those, so you get the perfect seal every time.
The Anova Culinary vacuum sealer itself is sleek black plastic. Its size is not huge, maybe 14.75“ L x 7” W x 4.3” H, and it weighs around 5 pounds. It has standard plug-in power and works automatically.
Honestly, if you want to make your groceries last and ditch the food waste, this sealer is a seriously smart choice. It is super simple to use, packed with useful features, and it does more than just the basics.
Pros
- Powerful seal: Ensures a strong and reliable seal for food preservation.
- Sous vide focus: Designed with sous vide cooking in mind for optimal results.
- Sleek design: Features a compact, modern aesthetic.
- Higher price: Comes with a slightly higher price tag.
- Less versatile: May not be the best choice for those who need to seal a wide range of items.
Handheld power? The FoodSaver’s got it, keeping food fresh way longer than usual. It comes with those special bags and containers, perfect for squeezing into your fridge or pantry—no bulky stuff taking over. They say it seals up a whole 60 bags on one charge, so it’s easy for everyday use. It removes the air super fast; that’s how the food stays good.
The charging base is neat; it keeps the cord tucked away, so your countertop looks tidy. Plus, it works with all the other FoodSaver bags and containers you might already have, which is a bonus. They include a little dock, so this thing’s got its own spot, always ready to go.
Plastic, black color, and honestly, it feels surprisingly small (like 4.33“L x 6.5”W x 11.42"H). Super light, too, and easy to take with you if needed. You control the seal; there is no automatic stuff here. It needs a special battery, but they also throw that in the package.
Cleaning is simple, as it can be easily washed by hand. You get the dock, the sealer, and even a few bags to get started.
The FoodSaver is perfect for grab-and-go freshness. It is pretty lightweight, and you control the whole process. If you want that just-made taste to last longer, honestly, this does the trick.
Pros
- Portable design: The cordless design allows for easy use anywhere.
- Container compatible: Specifically designed to work with compatible containers.
- Small tasks: Ideal for quick sealing jobs or touch-ups.
- Limited power: Not as powerful as larger countertop models.
- Specific bags/containers: Requires compatible bags or containers for use.
Potane built this sealer to last, with upgraded wires and a long-lasting motor. It is designed to keep your food fresher longer and reduce long-term waste. The 2-year return guarantee and solid 5-year warranty mean they’re confident in their product, offering you absolute peace of mind.
It offers eight easy presets along with a smart control system that features four operation modes and four vacuum sealing modes, automatically adapting to the type of food you’re preserving.
The standout feature is the sloped top, a genius design detail especially useful for sealing meats without compromising freshness and ensuring those vacuum bags seal completely for maximum efficiency.
Potane takes safety seriously, and Nationally Recognized Test Laboratories (NRTLs) have ETL-certified this appliance, ensuring that it abides by strict safety standards.
Constructed from durable ABS material with a sleek silver finish, the Potane is surprisingly compact (approximately 14.25“L x 5.5”W x 0.88” H) and lightweight at just under 5 pounds.
The Potane vacuum sealer is a reliable and versatile solution for anyone looking to extend food freshness. It features quality components, an intuitive design, and a clear focus on safety.
Pros
- Multiple modes: Offers dry, moist, soft, and delicate food modes for versatility.
- Strong suction: Features powerful 85kPA suction for secure seals.
- Compact design: Saves counter space with its smaller footprint.
- Settings complexity: Might require some practice to master all the modes and settings effectively.
This Bonsenkitchen sealer is built to last. It’s fast, airtight, and seals food in 10–12 seconds. Just 5 buttons make it incredibly easy to operate. It saves serious money by keeping food fresh for way longer than normal storage methods.
The Seal/Dry dual mode is the star feature, extending the freshness of dry goods for up to 25 days. Perfect for preserving everything from snacks and nuts to fruits and vegetables straight from your garden. Definitely use Bonsenkitchen’s bags; they’re designed to work best with this sealer.
The external vacuum feature is brilliant for jars and crisper boxes. It reduces the rate of food oxidation and prevents strong sauce and wine odors from spreading throughout your fridge. Plus, the Bonsenkitchen sealer can even help protect your valuables by isolating them from air and moisture.
This sealer is incredibly easy to use and store thanks to its compact size (15.7* 3.9* 6.5 inches) and lightweight design (just 2.6 pounds). LED lights guide you through the process, making the operation very straightforward.
Bonsenkitchen includes everything you need to get started: a foam seal, vacuum bags, an air suction hose, detailed instructions, and clear guidance for beginners.
The Bonsenkitchen food sealer is an efficient choice for keeping food fresh longer. It features an intuitive interface, versatile modes, a convenient external vacuum system, and a comprehensive starter kit designed to simplify the entire process.
Pros
- Versatile modes: Provides five easy-to-use modes for different food types.
- Sous vide ready: Simple to use and ideal for sous vide preparation.
- Includes accessories: Comes with bags and a suction hose for added convenience.
- Weaker suction: May not have the strongest suction power for very dense or thick foods.
The IC Sealer is all about saving time and reducing wasted rolls. You can make bags the exact size you need, and then a single button press handles the sealing and vacuuming. This keeps food fresh for a significantly longer time.
The sealing strip is designed for performance, extra-wide, nonstick, and built to deliver a tight seal every time. They’re so confident in this appliance that they back it up with a 5-year warranty.
Need to marinate food quickly? This IC sealer includes a special attachment for the Quick Marinator. Press the “Marinate” button, and you'll achieve maximum flavor infusion in minimal time, perfect if you’re always in a rush.
They also give you a smaller handheld sealer, ideal for zipper bags and those FoodSaver containers (which are sold separately). This means you can preserve a wider range of food without worrying about spoilage.
Safety is IC’s top priority. All their appliances, including this one, are ETL and UL-certified, meaning they’ve gone through rigorous safety testing. So everyone can use the product confidently.
The IC system is versatile and compatible with most FoodSaver rolls, bags, and containers. It actually comes with a selection of accessories, including rolls, bags, and even the marinator attachment, so that you can start right away.
The IC Bag Maker & Sealer is focused on keeping your food fresh with less hassle. The ability to make custom bags, the quick marinate feature, and the included extras make this a great choice for anyone serious about food storage.
Pros
- Custom bags: Features built-in bag making and cutting for creating custom-sized bags.
- Accessory sealer: Includes a handheld sealer for use with canisters and containers.
- High price: Carries a higher price point due to its additional features.
- Bulky design: Occupies more counter space with its larger size.
The Geryon vacuum sealer offers two sealing modes, giving you flexibility for different types of food. It’s also great for resealing snack bags to keep them fresh. The design makes it simple to clean since it comes apart easily.
Geryon made it compact so it wouldn’t take up much counter space. It handles bags and rolls up to 12“ wide. The automatic operation and simple control panel make it super easy to use. Plus, the starter kit has everything you need to get going right away. This includes an air suction hose, five heat-seal bags (7.8”*11.8“), one roll (7.8”*78"), and a user manual.
Pros
- Automatic operation mode: This makes it easy to use and convenient for people who don’t want to have to seal their food manually.
- LED indicator lights: These lights let you know what the machine is doing and when the sealing process is complete.
- Compact design: This makes it easy to store the machine when it’s not in use.
- No built-in cutter: The lack of a built-in cutter may be inconvenient for some users.
Mueller’s sealer is all about easy food preservation. The controls are on top, with soft buttons and LED lights for a more convenient experience. It keeps your freezers organized and saves serious money on cooking expenses.
This Mueller sealer keeps food fresh way longer than bags or containers, and it has even gone through rigorous lab tests. The sealer is plastic-built, white, and weighs under 4 pounds.
There are two modes: one for solids and one for simmered or steamed food. The two modes come in handy and give you the best deal, no matter what you’re preserving. They even include reusable bags to get you started.
The Mueller is not only easy to use, but it also helps you save a lot of time. There’s no more freezer-burned stuff you end up throwing out. It’s designed to be easy and user-friendly, and it comes with everything you need, ready to go straight out of the box.
Pros
- Ease of use: Features automatic sealing and indicator lights for simplicity.
- Food modes: Includes dry and moist food modes for handling different items.
- Lab-tested: Ensures quality and reliability through lab testing.
- Weaker suction: May not have the most powerful suction available.
This Mesliese sealer packs a punch of 90 kPa of suction and vacuums food super fast. It saves a ton of money because your food stays fresh up to 10 times longer in the freezer.
It has 6 different functions and handles pretty much anything. Its modes are versatile, including “Dry&Moist” and “Normal&Soft,” depending on what you’re sealing. You also have the option to just seal or vacuum and seal. The good news is that it even works with jars and wine bottles, and it has a special attachment for this purpose.
Thanks to its 120-watt motor, the vacuum easily handles 20 seals in a row. Its 90 kPa suction is much stronger than that of many vacuum machines, so sealing things takes mere seconds.
Thanks to its stainless steel body, keeping the Mesliese clean is simple. It’s also designed with special chambers to prevent unwanted, accidental messes. The vacuum is rather small, which helps it fit anywhere.
The 5-year warranty from Mesliese is evidence that they stand behind their product. The machine comes with so many extras, including rolls, bags, manual, hose, power cable, and spare parts.
They upgraded the heating strip five layers wider, so the seal is seriously strong. Nothing’s getting out of those bags.
Pros
- Powerful suction: Delivers strong 90kpa suction for secure and reliable sealing.
- Versatile modes: Offers six modes for handling a variety of food types.
- Bag cutter: Includes a built-in bag cutter for added convenience.
- Noisy: It may be slightly louder during use compared to some other models.
This Bonsenkitchen sealer is designed for long-lasting food preservation. Seals airtight in as little as 12 seconds with a simple 5-button operation. It keeps food fresh for significantly longer than traditional storage.
The “Seal/Dry” dual mode is a standout feature, extending the freshness of dry goods for up to 25 days. This helps reduce waste and save money. It is perfect for snacks, nuts, fruits, and even garden produce.
It features an external vacuum system, which is ideal for jars and crisper boxes. This system helps slow food oxidation and prevents strong sauce and wine odors from spreading. The sealer can even protect valuables by isolating them from air and moisture.
The Bonsenkitchen is incredibly easy to use and store. Its compact size (15.73.96.5 inches) and lightweight design (2.6 pounds) make it convenient for drawers or cupboards.
It comes with everything needed to get started: a foam seal, vacuum bags, an air suction hose, and detailed instructions. This is great for those new to vacuum sealing.
The Bonsenkitchen keeps food fresh for extended periods. The easy controls, two modes, and included accessories make it a worthwhile choice for anyone focused on minimizing food waste.
Pros
- Versatile modes: Provides five easy-to-use modes for different food types.
- Sous vide ready: Simple to use and ideal for sous vide preparation.
- Includes accessories: Comes with bags and a suction hose for added convenience.
- Weaker suction: May not have the strongest suction power for very dense or thick foods.
The MegaWise lets you choose how much air is removed, perfect for sealing up those leftover snacks. It also includes a hose for jars and wine bottles—super convenient.
The MegaWise ’s one-touch automatic sealing makes it incredibly easy to use. Your food is vacuum-sealed in 10–20 seconds, a serious time saver in the kitchen. The sealing bar is almost a foot long and works with most bags; they even upgraded it to handle 50 cycles without overheating.
The MegaWise has some seriously handy features. It has a built-in cutter for customizing bag sizes, and it’s designed to be small and easy to store.
The operation couldn’t be simpler. With a touch of a button, you can seal your food in a matter of seconds. It also has a long sealing wire that can seal multiple bags at once. Pick “Dry” or “Moist” depending on what you’re sealing, so your food gets the best protection.
The MegaWise is made of plastic and comes in black. It’s pretty small (around 15.2“L x 4.1” W x 2.3"H) and weighs just over 2 pounds. It plugs into a standard outlet, features a manual mode for control over the sealing process, and is designed to save energy.
The MegaWise vacuum sealer helps you save time and keep food fresh longer. That one-touch operation, built-in cutter, and small size make it super convenient. The included hose and those two modes add even more flexibility.
Pros
- Powerful suction: Features strong 80kPa suction for a reliable seal.
- Versatile external system: Works with containers and accessories using its external vacuum system.
- Easy modes: Offers dry, moist, and fresh modes for user-friendly operation.
- Learning curve: Using the external vacuum system effectively might require some practice.
Vacuum Sealer Reviews
Here are some reviews of the discussed products on the Amazon website that real customers have written. These comments highlight both the positive and negative aspects of all the mentioned vacuum sealers. Here is what others think.Anova Culinary ANVS01-US00 Anova Precision Vacuum Sealer
Users consistently praise the Anova Precision vacuum sealer for its user-friendly design. With clear buttons and a straightforward operation, even beginners can quickly master this appliance. Its compact size is another major advantage, especially for kitchens with limited countertop space. Many reviewers highlight the strong, reliable seals it produces, making it ideal for sous vide cooking.The inclusion of precut bags is a welcome convenience for those who don’t want to measure and cut their own. However, the precut bags restrict size options, and some users would prefer the flexibility of a bag roll dispenser. Additionally, the price point might seem a bit high compared to some basic models on the market.
Nesco Deluxe Food VS-12 Vacuum Sealer
Affordability is a major selling point for the Nesco Deluxe Food VS-12 vacuum sealer. The see-through lid is a thoughtful feature that allows users to monitor the sealing process and ensure proper bag placement. Similar to the Anova, its compact size makes storage convenient. Reviewers also appreciate the removable drip tray, which simplifies the cleaning process.However, this budget-friendly option has some trade-offs. Compared to other models, the Nesco sealer has weaker suction power, which can struggle with thicker liquids. The noise level during operation might also be disruptive for some users.
Anova Culinary Precision Vacuum Sealer Pro
The Anova Culinary Precision vacuum sealer Pro emerges as a favorite among users who prioritize power and versatility. Reviewers praised its strong suction, which is ideal for achieving perfect seals in sous vide applications. Solid build quality is another praised aspect, suggesting durability for frequent use.However, the Anova Precision vacuum sealer Pro does have some drawbacks. Its slightly larger footprint might be a concern for users with limited space. The price point can also be perceived as steeper compared to some non-branded models with similar features.
FoodSaver 31161370 Cordless Food Sealer
Users adore the FoodSaver 31161370’s compact size for easy storage and the one-touch buttons for quick sealing jobs. It’s perfect for those who want to seal smaller amounts of food or reseal open packages.The suction power isn’t as strong as countertop models, so it might not be ideal for heavy-duty tasks or very wet foods. Since it runs on batteries, you'll need to replace them regularly, which can be an added cost and inconvenience for some.
Potane Vacuum Sealer Machine,
Budget-conscious consumers might find the generic Potane vacuum sealer machine’s suction appealing. Its adaptability and flexibility for sealing various food types impress users. The 85 kPa suction power ensures effective air removal for optimal food preservation, and despite its functionality, it maintains a compact footprint for easy storage.Being a lesser-known brand, there might be fewer user reviews available to gauge long-term performance and reliability. Some reviewers also mention the instruction manual could be clearer or more user-friendly.
Bonsenkitchen Dry Vacuum Sealer Machine
Users praise the Bonsenkitchen Dry vacuum sealer’s clear controls and straightforward operation, making it a breeze to use for anyone new to vacuum sealing. The compact size is perfect for easy storage, and the price tag is easy on the wallet.However, it’s not for everyone. Some users looking for more advanced features might find it a bit basic. There are also reports that the suction power might not be strong enough for very moist foods or heavy-duty sealing tasks. Since Bonsenkitchen is a lesser-known brand, a few users expressed concerns about how long the machine would last.
FoodSaver 5800 Series Vacuum
The FoodSaver 5800 series sealer tackles everyday food storage, while the handheld one seals zipper bags and canisters and even marinate food in minutes (a major time-saver for busy kitchens). The rapid marinate mode is another crowd-pleaser, significantly cutting down marinating time. Plus, the dishwasher-safe drip tray makes cleaning simple.However, the larger size might be a concern for users with limited counter space. The automatic bag-making feature, while convenient, comes at a cost; some reviewers find FoodSaver brand bags pricier than generic alternatives.
GERYON Vacuum Sealer Machine
Customer reviews of the GERYON Vacuum Sealer Machine often mention its ease of use and effectiveness. Specific points of praise include sealing performance, intuitive controls, and value for the price.Some reviews indicate a lack of a built-in cutter, which means users must manually cut vacuum sealer bags. This could be considered an inconvenience.
Vacuum Sealer Machine By Mueller
Mueller’s vacuum sealer is a hit with beginners and budget-conscious cooks! Users love how easy it is to use, with clear controls and indicator lights that make sealing a breeze. The compact size is perfect for those with limited counter space, and reviewers consistently rave about the strong, reliable seals that keep food fresh longer. Plus, the starter kit with bags gets you going right away.However, some users wish it had more bells and whistles. Unlike some fancy models, it doesn’t have pre-programmed settings for specific foods. A few reviewers also found the suction power wasn’t strong enough for very juicy or soupy items. There are also some mentions of potential durability concerns and noise during operation.
Mesliese Vacuum Sealer Machine
With its powerful 90kPa suction, users talk about the Mesliese vacuum sealer’s ability to keep food fresh for longer, even for most items. The 6-in-1 settings, including dry, moist, and delicate, are a big hit, allowing for customized sealing for any food type.Many users appreciate the compact size for easy storage and the starter kit that gets you sealed right away. Plus, the affordable price tag makes it a great value.
However, some users wish the instructions were clearer, according to a few folks who found them confusing, particularly regarding the different settings. There are also some scattered concerns about its long-term durability.
Bonsenkitchen Food Sealer Machine
Users love how easy the Bonsenkitchen food sealer is to use, with just five settings that are perfect for beginners. Plus, the small size saves space on your counter, and the starter kit gets you going right away. The affordable price is a major plus, and most users find the suction power works well for dry foods and some moist items.However, keep in mind for those who want more bells and whistles, this model might feel a bit basic. You can’t customize settings for different food types, and the suction power isn’t the strongest. Sous vide enthusiasts might want to look elsewhere for a machine with a super-tight seal.
MegaWise Vacuum Sealer Machine
Users are glad about the MegaWise vacuum sealer machine’s affordability and user-friendliness. Beginners, especially, appreciate the one-touch operation and clear controls. The compact design is a hit for space-saving kitchens, and the included starter kit with bags and a cutter gets users sealing right away. With 80 kPa of suction, it tackles most dry and some moist foods, according to reviewers.However, some users crave more features and the ability to customize settings for different foods. The external vacuum system might feel less convenient to some who prefer a more integrated design. Since it’s a newer model, there are fewer reviews available to assess long-term performance, and some users have expressed concerns about durability.
Facts about industry
Vacuum sealers aren’t just for restaurants anymore. Home cooks have discovered countertop sealers that are affordable, come in tons of sizes, and are perfect for keeping food fresh longer. Remove the air; bacteria can’t grow as easily, so you can buy in bulk, store food longer, or try out sous vide cooking.Professional kitchens, though, need something stronger. Industrial vacuum sealers are built for serious volume. Some work with sealed chambers; others have two chambers for continuous use. These can even handle liquids and delicate foods—adjustable pressure settings, modes for wet stuff, the whole deal.
The huge demand for ready-made, pre-packaged food is driving the whole vacuum sealer industry. Sealed packaging extends shelf life, so there is less waste. Plus, it keeps food fresher, which is something customers actually care about.
Sous vide cooking has made vacuum sealers even more popular. You have to seal food before putting it in that water bath, so more people are buying them.
Going forward, the vacuum sealer industry is likely to focus on environmentally friendly packaging options. Traditional bags are often made of plastic, which isn’t great, but manufacturers are working on biodegradable and even compostable bags.
Conclusion
Picking a vacuum sealer is all about what matters most to you. For everyday food preservation and overall value, the Nesco Deluxe food vacuum sealer is hard to beat.If you’re really into sous vide cooking, the Anova Precision vacuum sealer is the way to go. It’s designed with that in mind, is reliable, and has extras that are useful for more than just bags.
Honestly, both sealers are great choices if you want to keep your food fresh longer, save some money, and cut down on food waste.
FAQ
Are food vacuum sealers worth it?It depends. They’re great if you cook a lot or buy in bulk; food lasts way longer, so you actually save money long-term. But if you’re cooking for one or two and shop often, a vacuum sealer might be overkill.
What foods can you vacuum-seal?
Pretty much anything solid—meats, veggies, fruit, even cheese. Liquids are tricky (unless you have special attachments), and stuff like fresh herbs will get crushed.
What vegetables can I vacuum-seal?
Most vegetables can be vacuum sealed, though some with high moisture content might require pre-blanching to prevent spoilage. Leafy greens like lettuce won’t crisp up again after vacuum sealing, so it’s best to store them using traditional methods. However, vegetables like broccoli, carrots, peppers, and corn freeze exceptionally well when vacuum-sealed.
Can you vacuum-seal bread? How long does bread last in a vacuum?
Yes! Vacuum-sealed bread is great for homemade bread or keeping store-bought bread fresh for a long time. In the freezer, it can last months.
What is the best alternative to vacuum sealers?
Ziplock freezer bags offer a more affordable alternative, but they won’t remove air as effectively as a vacuum sealer. This means food won’t last quite as long, and freezer burn is more likely.
Are vacuum sealers healthy?
Vacuum sealing doesn’t affect food’s nutritional value. However, it’s important to remember that vacuum sealing doesn’t eliminate bacteria. Always follow proper food safety guidelines when storing and handling food.
How long does vacuum-sealed food last?
The shelf life of vacuum-sealed food depends on the type of food and storage temperature. In general, vacuum sealing can extend the life of food in the refrigerator by 3-5 times and in the freezer by 2-3 times compared to traditional storage methods.
Are vacuum sealers better than freezer bags?
Yes, vacuum sealers remove air much more effectively than freezer bags, which significantly reduces freezer burn and extends food’s shelf life. However, freezer bags can be a suitable alternative for occasional use or short-term storage.
Can you vacuum-seal raw food?
Yes, you can vacuum-seal raw food. In fact, it’s a great way to prevent freezer burn and marinate meats more effectively. Just be sure to follow proper food safety guidelines when handling raw meat.
How long does vacuum-sealed meat last?
Vacuum-sealed raw meat can last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and in the freezer for up to a year, depending on the cut.
What are the disadvantages of vacuum-sealing food?
The upfront cost of a vacuum sealer can be a barrier for some. Additionally, vacuum sealing requires special bags, which can add to the ongoing cost. Finally, the vacuum sealing process can crush delicate foods.
