How to Vacuum Seal

Vacuum sealing prevents freezer burn.

To vacuum seal food, you will need a commercial vacuum sealer and the included vacuum bags. You can buy these sealers at many stores that sell kitchenware and appliances. With the appropriate equipment, vacuum sealing is a simple process. Once sealed, the shelf life of your frozen and refrigerated foods will expand exponentially. There are many models of vacuum sealers on the market. For instructions specific to your particular model, consult your owner's manual.

Things You'll Need

• Vacuum sealer
• Vacuum sealer bags
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Cut a bag. Most vacuum sealer bags come in a continuous roll. Estimate the size you will need for the item and add 3 inches. Cut the length off of the roll with a pair of scissors (or enclosed tool). Make the cut as straight as possible to facilitate sealing. If your vacuum sealer comes with individual bags, skip this step.

2. Slide one of the open ends of the cut bag into the sealer (it does not matter which). Activate your vacuum sealer's sealing function (according to the manufacturer's instructions) to seal the bag.

3. Fill the open end of the bag with the food or any other items you wish to vacuum seal.

4. Slide the remaining open end of the bag into the sealer. Activate your machine's vacuum and sealing function. Certain machines gauge when all of the air is removed, then automatically seal the bag afterward. Some allow you to choose a function for soft sealing (for breads and other soft foods) and hard sealing. Other models require you to set a time for the vacuuming after which the sealing will take place. Still others allow you to stop the vacuuming process at any time by pressing the "seal" button. Follow your manufacturer's instructions for the method required for your model.

5. Store the vacuum sealed bag in the refrigerator or freezer.

Tips & Warnings

• Freeze liquids before vacuum sealing them.

• Blanch vegetables before sealing and freezing them.

• Place powders into a plastic bag before placing them in the vacuum seal bag.

• Wrap items with sharp edges in a paper towel to prevent them from puncturing the bag.

References

• Preserved Food: How to Use a Vac Sealer