Vacuum Packaging-An Indispensable Appliance

SO MANY USES FOR A VACUUM SEALER

My Food Saver Vacuum Sealer is in operation daily. I love this machine. I used to keep it in the cabinet until I wanted to use it. But you know, out of sight, out of mind. Once I put it on the counter, I began using it for everything, not only for long term food storage but for daily vacuum sealing to keep foods fresh, and much more.

There are many models of the Vacuum Saver, with features galore. Mine is pretty basic and suits me just fine. It sucks out the air and it seals, period. Here's a link to one of the more popular vacuum sealers. Food Saver Vacuum Sealer

Why vacuum packaging?

Foods maintain their freshness and flavor 3-5 times longer than with conventional storage methods, because they don't come in contact with oxygen.

Foods maintain their texture and appearance, because microorganisms such as bacteria mold and yeast cannot grow in a vacuum.

Freezer burn is eliminated, because foods no longer become dehydrated from contact with cold, dry air.

Moist foods won't dry out, because there's no air to absorb the moisture from the food.

Dry, solid foods, such as brown sugar, won't become hard, because they don't come in contact with air and, therefore, can't absorb moisture from the air.

Foods that are high in fats and oils won't become rancid, because there's no oxygen coming in contact with the fats, which causes the rancid taste and smell.

Insect infestation is eliminated, because insects require oxygen to survive and hatch.

Meat and fish will marinade in minutes when vacuum packaged in canisters, because as air is being removed from the canister, the pores of the mat or fish open up and allow the marinade to penetrate.

Food bills are reduced because food lasts longer (so less spoiled food will need to be thrown away), and because food can be purchased in lower-priced bulk quantities and re-packaged at home into smaller portions.

And non-food items are protected from corrosion and moisture-damage. Like your antique silverware, which won't tarnish when vacuum packaged. Or wool sweaters, to keep bugs away, and to shrink them for minimal storage space.

Reprinted from  Fante's Kitchen Ware Shop

 Shelf life of vacuum packaged foods.
 

Table adapted by Tilia Inc. from Dr. G.K.York, Dept. of Food Science & Tech, U of California, Davis

Sweet day!

Louise