Vacuum Sealer for Dry Goods

[ByExample]

Hello homesteaders,

We've extended the shelf life of our long term storage by using a hand held vacuum sealer. So buying in bulk is working out well for us. You might find this link of some use:

http://www.byexample.com/homestead/food_storage/

[Shamrock1121]

Good information in the link you provided :). I've been using a FoodSaver since they first came out. I bought a demo model for my first one. The feature where you can seal canning lids to canning jars was what sold me on them. Now on my 3rd FoodSaver in close to 20 years (and the 4th one is in storage - purchased on sale - I'd never be without one).

I know people often think you need to have a large family to benefit from vacuum-sealing, but that's not the case at all. Although the article link shows lots of things stored in 1/2-gallon jars, you can also store in any size canning jar.

I make "gifts-in-a-jar" mixes and seal them with the FoodSaver, which will help keep the ingredients in them fresh longer. These are my homemade "convenience" foods. So don't just think of it as something to seal dry-goods like beans/rice/grains.

-Karen

[leera]

I've been using a vac.sealer for several years.......msotly for things going into the freezer.

However when I restock on flour and baking supplies,it does come in handy........for dry goods,no air,means no spoilage........ :)

[pathwayholding]

Do either of you have the jar lids that you can use on mason jars? I can't figure out if the lid stays on the jar or if you can take it off (kind of like the ring that goes on a mason jar).

path

[docjered]

That lid is just a sealing device... you place a lid on a canning jar, press the vacuum lid on top, attach the vacuum device, and when it ends, remove the white plastic lid and I always add a canning ring, as the vacuum is not as tight as when you can, so it can be knocked loose easier. This device, (they make one for regular and one for wide mouth) is a vacuum sealer accessory.

[Shamrock1121]

Do either of you have the jar lids that you can use on mason jars? *I can't figure out if the lid stays on the jar or if you can take it off (kind of like the ring that goes on a mason jar). *

path

To add to what docjered posted...

I find I get a better seal with my FoodSaver if I soak the canning jar lids in hot (NOT boiling) water for a few minutes, dry thoroughly, and use immediately to vacuum-seal on jars with the jar lid attachment and hose. This almost always assures a good seal since the sealing substance on the lid is softened. This is especially helpful if you are using really old lids. On old lids, the sealing compound may be dehydrated and cracked, which prevents a good seal. That goes for home canning as well as vacuum-sealing

I also agree with adding the ring after you've vacuum-sealed the lid down, although they will hold a seal without the ring. It's just an ounce of prevention kinda thing.

I wouldn't suggest vacuum-sealing lids on something you want to get into often. It's a "pain" to replace the lids, and depending on how carefully you pry them off, you may or may NOT be able to reuse them. I use my fingernails to pry them off and am careful not to bend the lid, and can usually reuse them. If you use a pry-type can or bottle opener, you usually end up destroying the lid.

If you are vacuum-sealing something like cereal or coffee that you will be using daily or several times a week, then invest in some of the canisters designed for your vacuum sealer. The canisters are great for lettuce and shredded cheese in the refrigerator.

I primarily vacuum-seal long-term storage items in canning jars - dried beans, seeds, grains, coconut, nuts, etc. I also use jars for freeze-dried foods I purchase from Emergency Essentials, after I've opened a #10 can, as well as dehydrated foods I make at home.

-Karen

[docjered]

The only thing I dont like about the handheld vacuum sealer, is it only can be used to seal jars. You can do the same thing with a vacuum sealer by using the hose/lid attachment, then also have the option to seal bags... I like tools that have more than one use or application: besides, my cabinet space is bulging!!

Jered