How to Dehydrate Food in the Sun

Drying foods releases moisture, which allows them to be kept longer than fresh fruits or vegetables..

One of the oldest methods of preserving, dehydrating foods is a simple and economical method of utilizing the sun's power to keep food for long periods of time. Drying foods releases moisture from them, making them lighter and long lasting, while retaining their nutrients. Although many individuals now use their oven or electrical dehydrator to preserve foods, drying a wide variety of victuals with the sun is a low-impact and cost-efficient means of storing food long term. Does this Spark an idea?

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Humidity gauge
Food for drying
Towel or paper towels
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Two drying screens

Instructions

- 1
  
  Check that the air's humidity is less than 20 percent. If it is higher, wait for another day.
- 2
  
  Clean the meat thoroughly under running water. Make sure that all crevices are clean and free of dirt or debris. Dry the food thoroughly using a towel or paper towels.
- 3
  
  Slice the food to be dried 1/8-inch to 1/4-inch thick, making all the slices the same thickness to ensure even drying times.
- 4
  
  Place the food on the drying screen, spacing them only one slice deep and ensuring that none of them touch.
- 5
  
  Place the other drying rack over the first. This will keep dirt, debris, or animals from contaminating or eating the food.
- 6
  
  Place the screen in the direct sunlight for eight hours. Remove them during the night to a dry, cool area, and place the screens back outside for another eight hours for three more days, or until the food is dry.