Can I vacuum pack food at home?

Yes, vacuum packing can be done at home. There are various types of food vacuum packaging machines on the market designed for home use. These vacuum packaging machines are compact, easy to operate and affordable.

What are the steps to use a food vacuum packaging machine?

1. Prepare food

Make sure that the vacuum-packed food is fresh and clean, removing excess moisture or liquid from the item will affect the sealing process of the food vacuum packaging machine

Make sure the food you are vacuum packing is fresh, clean and in the correct portion size.

It is very important to remove excess moisture or liquid from the item as this will interfere with the sealing process.

2. Put the food in a vacuum sealed bag

Use a dedicated vacuum seal bag that is compatible with your vacuum sealer.

These bags are usually made of durable materials and have a textured surface to enhance the vacuum and sealing process. Fill the bag with food, leaving some space at the top for sealing.

3. Seal the bag

Open the chamber of the vacuum packaging machine and place the filled bag inside, making sure not to overcrowd. Close the chamber firmly.

4. Start the vacuum process

Turn on the vacuum packer and select the appropriate setting for your food product.

The vacuum packer will begin to expel the air from the bag, creating a vacuum. This process may take from a few seconds to a minute, depending on the specifications of the vacuum packaging machine.

5. Seal

Once the desired vacuum level is reached, the machine will automatically switch to the sealing process. Vacuum packaging machines use heat to melt the opening of the bag, creating an airtight seal.

Some vacuum sealers may have a separate seal button that needs to be pressed after vacuuming.

6. Storage and Labeling

Once sealed, remove the vacuum-sealed bag from the machine.

Store the vacuum-sealed bags in a cool, dry place, such as the pantry or freezer, depending on the food.

Summarize

Home vacuum packaging helps extend the shelf life of food, prevents freezer burn, and keeps it fresher for longer. Vacuum packing machines are especially useful for preserving meat, fruits, vegetables, leftovers.