Oxygen: the unseen culprit behind food spoilage. From a sliced apple turning brown to the staleness of chips and the dreaded freezer burn on meats, air exposure degrades food’s taste, appearance, and texture. This is where a Food Vacuum Sealer becomes an indispensable kitchen ally. We rigorously tested a range of food vacuum sealers to bring you the top recommendations. These appliances work by extracting air from bags or containers, creating an airtight seal that dramatically increases the lifespan of your stored food. Beyond just longevity, vacuum sealers also shield food from moisture, preventing baked goods from becoming stale and eliminating freezer burn. Investing in a food vacuum sealer is a smart move for saving money by buying in bulk, preserving catches from hunting or fishing trips, and even preparing your own emergency food supplies.
But the utility of a food vacuum sealer extends far beyond basic preservation. Imagine quickly marinating meats, rapidly pickling vegetables, or infusing spirits in a fraction of the usual time. Airtight vacuum-sealed bags are essential for sous vide cooking, a technique that unlocks the potential for perfectly cooked steaks and unique culinary creations like savory, freezable egg bites. And it’s not limited to food; vacuum sealing is also effective for protecting jewelry, silverware, and other valuables from rust and tarnish during long-term storage.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall:
Nesco VS-12 Vacuum Sealer at Amazon $97
Best Budget:
Geryon Vacuum Sealer Machine at Amazon $36
Best Splurge:
FoodSaver 2-in-1 Vacuum Sealing System at Amazon $240
Best for Beginners:
Anova Precision Sous Vide Vacuum Sealer at Amazon $60
Best Handheld:
FoodSaver Cordless Handheld Food Vacuum Sealer at Amazon $52
Best Chamber:
Anova Precision Chamber Vacuum Sealer at Amazon $350
Best for Soups and Sauces:
FoodSaver VS5960 Elite All-in-One Liquid+ Vacuum Sealer at Amazon $272
Most Versatile:
FoodSaver Vacuum Sealing System at Amazon $170
Best Overall
Nesco VS-12 Deluxe Vacuum Sealer
PHOTO: Amazon
$97 at Amazon $120 at Walmart $97 at Target
What We Like
- Precise control settings
- Gentle mode for delicate foods
- User-friendly operation
What We Don’t Like
- Operates at a high noise level
The Nesco VS-12 Deluxe Vacuum Sealer stands out as our top overall pick due to its intuitive design, versatile settings, and unmatched performance in our rigorous testing. It offers specialized sealing modes for both dry goods like cereals and moist items such as raw meats, ensuring optimal preservation for a wide variety of foods. For enhanced security, it includes a double heat-seal option, adding an extra layer of protection for long-term storage. Equipped with a dual vacuum pump, the VS-12 efficiently removes virtually all air from sealed packages. Even when sealing irregularly shaped foods, we observed minimal air pockets or bubbles post-sealing.
A standout feature is the choice between two vacuum pressure settings: normal and gentle. The gentle setting is specifically engineered for delicate items such as crackers and fresh fruit, preventing crushing. Combined with the pulse function, the gentle mode provides precise command over the vacuuming process, making it ideal for preserving the texture of items like buns, pastries, cereals, and potato chips. In a series of lab tests, the VS-12 distinguished itself as the only sealer capable of preserving fresh raspberries without damage, highlighting its superior gentleness compared to competitors.
Beyond its exceptional performance, the Nesco VS-12 excels in user-friendliness. The latch system is easy to secure, and a built-in timer displays the air extraction progress, indicating when to apply the heat seal. An accessory port accommodates a hose (sold separately) for vacuum sealing jars and canisters, further expanding its functionality. Integrated roll storage and a bag cutter allow for custom-sized bags, minimizing waste. The VS-12 comes with two rolls of different-sized bags and is compatible with most brands of replacement bags, offering flexibility and convenience.
While the price point is slightly above average, the exceptional features and performance justify the investment. The only minor drawback we noted is the operational noise level, a trade-off for its powerful motor. This robust motor is key to its effectiveness, but it does make for a louder operation, so be mindful if noise sensitivity is a concern.
Dimensions: 17 x 5 x 9 inches | Weight: 6 pounds | Power: 130 watts | Includes: Bag cutter and storage, accessory port, 2 bag rolls | Warranty: 1 year
PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Russell Kilgore
Best Budget
Geryon Vacuum Sealer Machine
PHOTO: Amazon
$36 at Amazon View on Geryonkitchen.com
What We Like
- Highly affordable price
- Includes accessory port and versatile vacuum modes
- Disassembles for easy cleaning
What We Don’t Like
- May not remove all air in every seal
- Touchpad can be overly sensitive
The Geryon Vacuum Sealer Machine emerges as the best budget option without compromising on essential features. Despite being among the most affordable models we tested, Geryon, a brand known for its vacuum sealers including commercial-grade units, delivers impressive functionality. The E2900-MS model offers features often absent in more expensive competitors, including selectable gentle and normal vacuum strengths, and modes for dry or moist foods. It also incorporates an accessory port with a hose for sealing jars, canisters, and other containers, although these accessories are typically purchased separately.
In performance tests, the Geryon demonstrated a robust motor, effectively vacuum sealing marinated meats of various shapes and sizes. Its heat seals consistently proved firm and watertight throughout all tests, including sous vide cooking. However, it fell slightly short in completely removing air in all scenarios; when sealing an avocado half, minor browning occurred in spots where residual air bubbles remained.
We were particularly impressed with the gentle mode, which, while crushing some cereal, performed better than most competitors in preserving delicate items. Another noteworthy advantage is its easy cleaning design. The machine can be fully disassembled, allowing the lid (containing the motor and controls) to be detached, and the bottom half rinsed directly in the sink for thorough cleaning.
Operationally, the Geryon is straightforward with simple touch controls. Closing and sealing the lid requires a bit of pressure. The touchpad buttons are quite sensitive, occasionally leading to accidental activation when loading bags and food.
While it may not be the absolute top-performing vacuum sealer available, the Geryon Vacuum Sealer Machine offers exceptional value for its price. Its combination of affordability and features makes it an outstanding choice for budget-conscious consumers seeking reliable food preservation.
Dimensions: 14.4 x 5.5 x 2.6 inches | Weight: 3.4 pounds | Power: 110 watts | Includes: Accessory port, adapter hose, 5 bags, 1 bag roll | Warranty: 2 years
PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Russell Kilgore
PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Russell Kilgore
Best Splurge
FoodSaver 2-in-1 Vacuum Sealing System
PHOTO: Amazon
$240 at Amazon $200 at Walmart
What We Like
- High-speed and powerful operation
- Easy to clean design
- Integrated handheld sealer and bag storage
What We Don’t Like
- Lacks a gentle mode for delicate items
For serious food preservation enthusiasts, the FoodSaver V4840 2-in-1 Vacuum Sealing System is a top-of-the-line machine packed with features. This model includes virtually every desirable feature in a food vacuum sealer, such as onboard bag roll storage, a removable and dishwasher-safe drip tray, a built-in retractable handheld sealer, and both dry and moist food modes. Automatic bag detection intelligently senses when a bag is correctly positioned and initiates the sealing process automatically.
An LED progress bar visually tracks the sealing progress, though the V4840 operates so quickly that this feature is almost secondary. Its powerful motor creates exceptionally tight seals on a variety of foods. In our tests, an avocado half sealed with the V4840 remained nearly identical to a fresh avocado even after five days of refrigeration. For those looking to efficiently organize and stock freezers, this model is an excellent choice. However, its powerful vacuum may be too intense for delicate foods. In previous and recent tests, it caused crushing of fresh fruits, pretzels, and a significant portion of cereal. The absence of a dedicated “gentle” mode is a notable drawback for delicate items.
The integrated retractable handheld sealer distinguishes this model as a 2-in-1 system. It is compatible with various accessories such as canisters, jars, and reusable zip-top bags (compatible accessories sold separately). The system includes a few starter bags, and a dishwasher-safe drip tray simplifies cleanup and features a full indicator light. While the price point is considerable for casual users, the V4840 is a robust, heavy-duty option for dedicated vacuum sealing needs.
Dimensions: 11 x 12 x 20 inches | Weight: 10 pounds | Power: 127 watts | Includes: Bag storage and cutter, handheld sealer, 3 (1-quart) bags, 3 (1-quart) zipper bags, 2 (1-gallon) bags, 2 (1-gallon) zipper bags, 1 bag roll | Warranty: 5 years
PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Russell Kilgore
PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Russell Kilgore
Best for Beginners
Anova Precision Sous Vide Vacuum Sealer
PHOTO: Amazon
$60 at Amazon $79 at Walmart $80 at Target
What We Like
- Simple and intuitive to use
- Quiet and compact design
- Includes pulse button for manual control
What We Don’t Like
- Lacks an accessory port
- No adjustable vacuum strength settings
Anova Precision Vacuum Sealer Review
Anova is a recognized leader in sous vide technology, and their Precision Sous Vide Vacuum Sealer is designed for both sous vide enthusiasts and anyone seeking a user-friendly food vacuum sealer. Anova’s Precision Cooker is a favorite for sous vide cooking, and their vacuum sealer complements it perfectly. While designed with sous vide in mind, this machine excels at general food vacuum sealing for any preservation purpose. Its sleek aesthetics and exceptionally simple controls are particularly appealing to beginners. It features just three buttons: “vacuum and seal” for automatic operation, “pulse” for controlled vacuuming of delicate items, and “seal” for heat-sealing bags after using pulse mode. Its intuitive operation makes it easy to use even without consulting the manual.
In testing, the Anova Precision Sous Vide Vacuum Sealer demonstrated quick air extraction, tight seals, and remarkably quiet operation. The latch system requires minimal pressure to close and secure, a notable advantage over some tested models. However, the automatic vacuum-and-seal mode proved too aggressive for soft raspberries and brittle cereal, causing crushing. For delicate items, the pulse mode is essential for gentle, manual vacuum control.
The Anova is a no-frills machine with a moderate price. While it lacks advanced features like an accessory port, bag storage, or a cutter, it compensates with its robust build quality and straightforward operation. It includes 10 starter bags, and Anova offers pre-cut bags and bag rolls designed for optimal fit. While manual bag cutting is required, we found that unevenly cut edges did not compromise the seal quality. The double heat seal consistently held during hours of sous vide cooking.
Its compact size makes the Anova Precision Sous Vide Vacuum Sealer an excellent backup or portable option. Its simplicity and ease of use are consistently impressive, making it ideal for beginners or anyone preferring a straightforward, effective food vacuum sealer.
Dimensions: 16.7 x 4.8 x 3.1 inches | Weight: 2.3 pounds | Power: 80 watts | Includes: 10 bags | Warranty: 2 years
PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Russell Kilgore
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Russell Kilgore
Best Handheld
FoodSaver Cordless Handheld Food Vacuum Sealer
PHOTO: Amazon
$52 at Amazon $35 at Walmart View on Foodsaver.com
What We Like
- Affordable price point
- Compact and highly portable
- Simple and easy operation
- Long-lasting battery charge
What We Don’t Like
- Requires specialized bags and containers
- Slower operation compared to countertop models
The FoodSaver Cordless Handheld Food Vacuum Sealer offers exceptional convenience and portability in a compact design. Unlike larger countertop models, this handheld unit is about the size of a salt shaker and can seal up to 60 one-quart bags on a single charge, making it ideal for smaller sealing tasks and on-the-go use. Its 2.5-watt motor, while less powerful than countertop models, effectively creates a reliable seal for sous vide cooking, although it is slower in operation. In tests with avocado, it left slightly more residual air, resulting in some browning after five days. The single-button operation functions as a pulse control, providing manual suction control to prevent crushing delicate foods. We successfully used this feature to seal cereal, stopping suction as soon as cracking began.
A key limitation is its compatibility only with FoodSaver’s specialized accessories. Users must purchase bags and containers with a valve designed for its nozzle, as well as adapters for jars and bottles. However, its low price point makes the additional cost of accessories less significant.
An updated version, the FoodSaver FS2160 Multi-Use Handheld Vacuum Sealer And Marinator, is also available, bundling reusable zipper bags and a marinating container. Like its predecessor, it is cordless and uses a charging dock.
Dimensions: 4.7 x 2.2 x 4.3 inches | Weight: 0.5 pounds | Power: 2.5 watts | Includes: 4 (1-quart) zipper bags, charging/docking station | Warranty: 1 year
PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Russell Kilgore
PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Russell Kilgore
Best Chamber
Anova Precision Chamber Vacuum Sealer
PHOTO: Anova Culinary
$350 at Amazon View on Anovaculinary.com $350 at Best Buy
What We Like
- Simple and intuitive operation
- Multifunctional capabilities
- Powerful vacuum performance
What We Don’t Like
- Limited chamber capacity for larger items
Anova Precision Chamber Vacuum Sealer Review
The Anova Precision Chamber Vacuum Sealer represents a significant step up from standard vacuum sealers, offering advanced capabilities and performance. Unlike external vacuum sealers that extract air from the bag opening, chamber vacuum sealers depressurize the entire chamber, resulting in a more complete and effective vacuum, especially for liquids. While requiring more counter space, this type of sealer is exceptionally versatile, enabling advanced culinary techniques used in professional kitchens.
The Anova Precision Chamber Vacuum Sealer excelled in our tests across various foods, from fruits to cereals. Operation is straightforward: place food in a bag, position it in the chamber, close the lid, and press start. The machine automatically removes air and creates a robust heat seal. Its chamber design allows for sealing liquids like homemade stock, soups, and sauces without spillage or damage to the machine’s internal components.
The primary limitation of chamber vacuum sealers is their capacity, restricted by the chamber size. Large items like whole roasts or full racks of ribs may not fit. While cutting meat into smaller portions resolves this, we found that partially sealing larger bags by placing only the open end inside the chamber provided an acceptable seal for items like cereal, though not as airtight as a full chamber seal.
The Anova Precision Chamber Vacuum Sealer’s price is justified by its expanded functionality beyond standard vacuum sealing. It features three additional modes: “extract/infuse” for rapid infusions of oils, vinegars, and alcohols; “compress/pickle” for instant refrigerator pickles and flavor infusion into fruits; and “dry/cool” for preserving the crispness of baked goods while cooling them for packaging. These advanced features broaden its utility for culinary experimentation.
Dimensions: 13.6 x 11.2 x 8.9 inches | Weight: 23 pounds | Power: 280 watts | Includes: 20 bags | Warranty: 2 years
PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Donna Currie
PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Donna Currie
PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Donna Currie
Best for Soups and Sauces
FoodSaver VS5960 Elite All-in-One Liquid+ Vacuum Sealer
PHOTO: Amazon
$272 at Amazon $224 at Walmart $224 at Target
What We Like
- Space-saving upright design
- Automatic bag grab and seal function
- Includes accessory hose for added versatility
What We Don’t Like
- Liquid viscosity limitations
The FoodSaver VS5960 Elite All-in-One Liquid+ Vacuum Sealer is specifically designed to handle liquids, addressing a common challenge with most non-chamber vacuum sealers. FoodSaver has consistently innovated and this model marks their first dedicated to sealing wet foods like soups and salsas. While very thin liquids like water or bone broth may still pose challenges, it is designed to handle thicker liquids like pasta sauce effectively.
Beyond its liquid-handling capability, the VS5960 incorporates several user-friendly features. Onboard bag roll storage simplifies custom bag creation, minimizing bag waste due to a reduced sealing margin. An included accessory hose is ideal for use with zipper-style vacuum sealer bags, perfect for storing deli meats and cheeses. It offers a comprehensive range of modes, including dry, moist, liquid, sous vide, marinate, and pulse. The automatic bag detection and clamp feature allow for hands-free operation once a bag is inserted.
After a brief learning curve with bag threading, we found the VS5960 easy to use and the seals consistently reliable in both refrigerator and freezer storage. The stand-up design is a space-saving advantage, allowing it to be positioned at the back of the counter without占用 valuable workspace.
The VS5960 comes with an extensive accessory kit, including bag rolls, pre-made bags, easy-fill bags, zipper bags, a wine stopper, and a marinate-and-preserve container, providing exceptional value and versatility right out of the box.
Dimensions: 23.6 x 9.8 x 10.9 inches | Weight: 6.4 pounds | Power: 186 watts | Includes: Two 11″ rolls, five 1-quart bags, five 1-gallon bags, ten easy-fill quart bags, five easy-fill gallon bags, five vacuum zipper quart bags, five vacuum zipper gallon bags, wine stopper, and marinate and preserve container | Warranty: 5 years
PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Donna Currie
PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Donna Currie
PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Donna Currie
Most Versatile
FoodSaver Vacuum Sealing System
PHOTO: Amazon
$147 at Amazon View on Foodsaver.com
What We Like
- Combines bag sealer and accessory vacuum in one unit
- Includes starter bags and accessories
- Untethered handheld vacuum for convenience
What We Don’t Like
- Reusable vacuum bags can be difficult to close
The FoodSaver Vacuum Sealing System offers the best of both worlds, integrating a standard countertop vacuum sealer with a detachable handheld vacuum. This 2-in-1 system provides the functionality of both a full-size sealer and a portable handheld unit for maximum versatility. While some FoodSaver models include accessory ports, this system’s completely removable handheld vacuum offers untethered convenience for sealing reusable bags, wine bottles, marinating containers, and more, wherever needed.
The handheld vacuum nests securely within the countertop unit for storage and charging when not in use. The countertop sealer can operate even while the handheld vacuum is docked, but the handheld unit must be in place to utilize the bag vacuum function.
Its relatively compact design is ideal for kitchens with limited storage space. We found it effective for sealing bags for freezer storage and the handheld vacuum particularly useful for resealing reusable bags of cheeses and other frequently accessed items.
One minor inconvenience is the tight seal of the reusable vacuum bags, which can make them somewhat difficult to close. However, the set includes a small tool to assist with securely closing the bags. The system also comes with a generous assortment of bags, wine bottle corks, and various accessories, making it a comprehensive and versatile kitchen tool.
Dimensions: 23.6 x 9.8 x 10.9 inches | Weight: 6.3 pounds | Power: Not listed | Includes: Handheld+ Vacuum Sealer, 5 quart-size bags, 5 gallon-size bags, 3 reusable quart-size bags, 3 reusable gallon-size bags, and 2 bottle stoppers | Warranty: 5 years
PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Donna Currie
PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Donna Currie
Final Verdict
The Nesco VS-12 Deluxe Vacuum Sealer earns our top recommendation for its ease of use, effectiveness across various food types, and precise control. For those seeking a budget-friendly option, the Geryon Vacuum Sealer Machine delivers excellent performance at a value price.
How We Tested Food Vacuum Sealers
Over years of testing, we have evaluated numerous food vacuum sealers for their ability to seal both delicate and robust ingredients, including strawberries, raspberries, cereals, pretzels, ground beef, and pork. These prior tests, combined with extensive market research, guided our selection of 23 machines for rigorous head-to-head testing in our lab.
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THE SPRUCE EATS / DONNA CURRIE / RUSSELL KILGORE / ABBY MILLIGAN
We Observed
- Sealing Performance: We assessed how effectively each machine removed air and created a secure seal. A boneless, skinless chicken breast was sealed in a bag with a half-cup of teriyaki sauce (for models compatible with liquids). Post-sealing, we checked for bag compression around the chicken and any residual air pockets indicating imperfect vacuuming. The chicken was then cooked sous vide at 165 degrees Fahrenheit for one hour to test seal strength (only one bag failed) and to reveal trapped air bubbles, which would expand during cooking and potentially cause floating.
- Oxygen Protection: Avocado halves were pitted, with one half placed in an unsealed zip-top bag as a control and another half vacuum-sealed with each test unit. After five days of refrigeration, we examined both halves for browning, damage, and oxidation signs. Machines achieving complete air removal preserved bright green avocados, while residual air pockets led to browning.
- Delicate Food Sealing: One cup of Rice Chex cereal was sealed with each machine, using gentle and dry-food settings where available. We evaluated bag compression, cereal crushing during sealing, and additional crushing upon bag opening. For machines with pulse mode, we tested its effectiveness for gentler vacuuming and noted if manual controls improved results.
We Rated
- Ease of Use and Cleaning: We followed provided instructions for each machine, noting any confusing or difficult steps and identifying optimal operational methods. Post-testing, we evaluated cleaning ease and the extent of mess created during use.
- Power: We timed each sealer from start to finish during chicken, avocado, and cereal tests to gauge efficiency. Higher wattage did not always correlate to faster sealing. We also considered the trade-off between power and gentleness, as quicker sealing sometimes resulted in food damage.
- Versatility: We evaluated the range of settings offered by each machine, testing available modes like moist and dry food settings, and gentle modes. For models with accessory ports, we assessed the utility of included tools and the necessity of additional purchases for full functionality.
- Design: We assessed material quality and design aspects like control buttons, hinges, and lid latches, noting any design flaws or advantages during testing.
About Our Testers
- Our dedicated lab team possesses decades of collective experience in professional kitchens, recipe development, and kitchen gear testing.
- Donna Currie, a seasoned food writer, cookbook author, and recipe developer, has extensively tested hundreds of products for The Spruce Eats over seven years. She conducted in-depth home testing for several vacuum sealers featured in this review.
Learn More About How We Test Products
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Long-Term Testing Takeaways
Years of extensive testing have yielded key insights about food vacuum sealers:
- Cost Savings: Vacuum sealers are cost-effective tools that minimize freezer burn on meats and vegetables and extend the shelf life of dry goods, reducing food waste and saving money.
- Accessory Benefits: While not always essential, accessories like adapters for reusable zipper bags, marinating containers, and wine bottles enhance a vacuum sealer’s versatility and kitchen utility.
- Liquid Sealing Advancements: Modern vacuum sealers are increasingly capable of handling liquids, though chamber vacuum sealers remain the best option for sealing liquid-rich foods like bone broth without pre-freezing.
- Beyond Storage: Vacuum sealers offer diverse applications beyond storage, including rapid marinating and quick pickling, streamlining meal preparation and adding culinary creativity.
Other Options We Tested
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The Spruce Eats / Lindsay Boyers
What to Look for in a Food Vacuum Sealer
Type
Food vacuum sealers fall into three primary types, each with distinct characteristics:
- External Vacuum Sealers: These are the most common type for home use. They operate by placing the open end of a bag into the machine, which then clamps down, removes air, and heat-seals the bag. External sealers come in various sizes and price ranges. Many include bag roll storage, cutters for custom-sized bags, and accessory ports for sealing jars and containers.
- Chamber Vacuum Sealers: Chamber sealers offer more powerful vacuuming by placing the entire bag or container inside a chamber, which is then depressurized. This method is highly effective, especially for liquids and delicate items. Chamber sealers are typically bulkier, more expensive, and often found in professional kitchens, though smaller, home-use models are available.
- Handheld Vacuum Sealers: These compact, battery-powered units are designed for portability and convenience. They work with specialized bags and containers equipped with valves. Handheld sealers are ideal for smaller sealing tasks but are less powerful and slower than plug-in models.
Sealing Settings
Vacuum sealers range from basic models with a single vacuum-and-seal button to advanced machines with multiple settings. Common settings include:
- Gentle Mode: Reduces vacuum pressure to prevent crushing delicate foods like cereals and crackers.
- Dry/Moist Food Modes: Moist mode typically extends vacuum time and uses a stronger heat seal to accommodate foods with moisture content, directing any liquid into a drip tray. Note that “moist mode” is for damp solids, not for pure liquids like soups.
- Pulse Mode: Provides manual control over the vacuum process, allowing users to stop suction at the desired point, especially useful for delicate items.
More expensive models generally offer a wider array of settings, but some affordable options also include useful features.
Size and Bag Storage
Consider the size of food items you typically seal. Larger items like whole roasts require larger sealers, while smaller machines suffice for individual portions. Countertop space and storage are also factors. Larger sealers require more storage space, while compact models are easier to store. Some sealers include onboard bag roll storage and cutters for convenience, while others require separate storage for bags.
Accessories and Supplies
Most vacuum sealers are designed for bag sealing, but some offer additional capabilities through accessories. Accessory ports, often found on external sealers, connect to hoses for sealing jars, canisters, and specialized containers. These accessories, which may be included or sold separately, expand versatility for tasks like quick pickling or preserving spices. Starter bags are usually included, but the quantity varies. Consider the ongoing cost and availability of compatible bags and accessories. Reusable vacuum sealing bags are an eco-friendly and cost-effective option.
FAQs
How long does vacuum-sealed food last?
Vacuum sealing significantly extends food shelf life but is not a permanent preservation method. Always adhere to safe food storage guidelines, such as maintaining freezer temperatures and storing pantry items properly. Vacuum-sealed food generally lasts for years in the freezer and weeks in the refrigerator, substantially longer than conventionally stored food. FoodSaver, for example, states that vacuum-sealed meat and fish can last up to two to three years in the freezer, compared to six months without vacuum sealing. Fresh fruit shelf life approximately doubles when vacuum-sealed in the refrigerator, and cheese can last for months instead of weeks. Dry goods like flour and pasta can remain fresh for a year or two at room temperature when sealed, and baked goods can last for several weeks. For long-term storage, ensure ample space between food and bag edges to maximize air removal and preservation time.
Can you vacuum-seal soup?
Most external vacuum sealers are not designed for sealing liquids directly, which can cause messes and damage the machine. To vacuum-seal soups, stews, and sauces, pre-freeze them in containers until solid. Then, remove the frozen blocks and vacuum-seal them in bags.
Can you vacuum-seal bread?
Fresh, soft bread can be crushed by the pressure of vacuum sealing. To prevent this, pre-freeze bread and baked goods for a few hours before vacuum sealing. This firms them up and prevents deformation during the sealing process.
What foods should you not vacuum-seal?
- Raw Alliums and Brassicas: Raw onions, garlic, cabbage, broccoli, and similar vegetables from the Allium and Brassica families release gases that can compromise the vacuum seal. Cooking or blanching these vegetables before sealing is recommended.
- Raw Mushrooms and Bananas: These continue to ripen after harvest, and vacuum sealing accelerates spoilage. Cook mushrooms and cook or freeze bananas before vacuum sealing.
- Soft Cheeses: Soft cheeses like Brie, feta, and mozzarella contain bacteria and fungi that can thrive in anaerobic (airless) environments, leading to faster spoilage and mold growth when vacuum-sealed. This does not apply to hard cheeses like cheddar or parmesan.
- Hot Foods: Sealing hot foods can create steam, which expands the bag and breaks the seal. Allow cooked foods to cool completely to room temperature before vacuum sealing.
Do you need to cook meat before you vacuum-seal it?
No, it is safe to vacuum-seal raw meat. However, delicate cuts like fresh sausage or thin slices may be crushed during vacuuming. Freezing meat for 20-30 minutes beforehand firms it up and prevents damage. To thaw vacuum-sealed meat, Robert Miller of The Conscious Carnivore recommends placing packages in a bowl of cold water, or under a slow stream of cold water in the sink, to expedite thawing.
What can you vacuum-seal besides food?
Vacuum sealers are useful for protecting various non-food items from air and moisture. Important documents like certificates, wills, and insurance papers can be vacuum-sealed for protection against water damage. Emergency supplies, medications, and first-aid kits for “go-bags” benefit from vacuum sealing. Precious metals such as jewelry and silverware can be protected from tarnish and rust. Bulky clothing, winter jackets, and sleeping bags compress significantly when vacuum-sealed, saving storage space and protecting against damage. Vacuum sealing liquids like lotions for air travel can prevent leaks due to pressure changes.
Can you use Ziploc bags in a vacuum sealer?
No, it is not recommended to use regular Ziploc bags in vacuum sealers. Vacuum sealer bags are specially designed to create and maintain airtight seals. They are thicker, often textured to facilitate air extraction, and made of materials that properly melt and seal at the machine’s heat-sealing temperature. Using non-vacuum sealer bags can result in ineffective seals, damage to the machine due to melting plastic, and voided warranties. Reusable vacuum sealing bags are available as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative.
How do you clean a vacuum sealer?
Regular cleaning is crucial for maintaining a vacuum sealer’s performance and longevity. Focus on cleaning the heat strip, as buildup can weaken seals. Some models have removable, dishwasher-safe drip trays for easier cleaning. If you observe ice crystals forming on vacuum-sealed frozen food (indicating freezer burn) or if the machine no longer effectively removes air, it may be time for servicing or replacement.
Why Trust The Spruce Eats?
Donna Currie, the original author of this review, is a product tester and writer for The Spruce Eats, specializing in kitchen tools and gadgets. She has personally tested three of the vacuum sealers featured in this guide and is the author of “Make Ahead Bread.” This review incorporates additional reporting from The Spruce Eats writers Allison Wignall and Jason Horn, editor Taylor Rock, and Associate Editorial Director Mary Kate Hoban, all of whom contributed to lab testing and editorial oversight.
The 6 Best Food Dehydrators of 2025, Tested & Reviewed
Additional reporting by Taylor Rock, Allison Wignall, and Donna Currie.
Originally written by Donna Currie.
Article Sources
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