Vacuum Sealers!! A Must Have Tool!!

If you've never used a vacuum sealer or don't know what one is, let me first tell you about what a wonderful and invaluable tool this is to have in the kitchen!!  If you are about saving time, money, and energy, this is definitely a tool for you!!  Whether you are just freezing, dehydrating, or storing dried goods, this tool is very, very versatile.  Certain models can even seal mason jars!!  I have one that does and it certainly saves me time!!  This is not a tool to replace heated canning though.  It is more to vacuum seal items such as dry goods, dehydrated goods, etc.

What to look for: The most common brand is Food Saver.  It is by far the most readily available but not the only available.  It is available in most 'box market's' and is easy to find supplies.  Other brands include Rival, Deni, Seal-A-Meal, and Weston.  The only ones of those I have personally seen in most 'box market's' is Seal-A-Meal.  I use Food Saver myself.  Mine does have the attachment for the 'jar sealer' that allows me to seal mason jars.

Here are some examples: 


This is a vertical standing Food Saver

This is a standard Food Saver that sits flat on the counter top.

These are canisters you can get to vacuum seal with the Food Saver

Hose attachment to vacuum seal jars & canisters











Rolls to make 'bags' for food saver

Pre-made bags













Attachments to seal Jars:                       Wide Mouth                                      Regular Mouth

If you decide to get a vacuum sealer, I would highly recommend getting one that seals the mason jars/canisters as well as the bags and being able to make your own bags.  I seal mason jars of all sizes with things such as flour, clear jel, xantham gum (expensive stuff!), beans, dried peppers, herbs, bulk spices, and even lettuce!!  Yep, I vacuum seal lettuce to keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks (that will be a different post!!)!!  I use the bags to seal vegetables and meats for the freezer as well.  We often buy in bulk packages and this saves us money.  If I can't get to canning vegetables or fruits right away, this saves them from going bad too quickly.

Jar with vacuum sealer and hose attached

You can often get them as a kit but most do not come with the jar sealer (or maybe just one of them so check the box!).  So, get your vacuum sealer today and start saving money on those bulk goods and frozen goods!!  It is very much a very valuable tool indeed!!