What Is Vacuum Sealing?

Published on April 08, 2025Updated on April 08, 2025

Vacuum sealers have revolutionized food preservation, extending the shelf life of various items by removing air and preventing spoilage. This comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies of vacuum sealers, offering insights into their types, benefits, usage techniques, and maintenance practices.

Understanding Vacuum Sealers

A vacuum sealer is a device that extracts air from a package and seals it, creating an airtight environment that inhibits the growth of bacteria and mold. This process significantly prolongs the freshness of food items, making vacuum sealers indispensable in both commercial and home kitchens.

Types of Vacuum Sealers

Selecting the appropriate vacuum sealer depends on your specific needs and the nature of the items you intend to preserve. Here are the primary types:

1. Chamber Vacuum Sealers

Ideal for high-volume operations, chamber vacuum sealers place the entire bag inside a chamber. The machine removes air from both the chamber and the bag, allowing for efficient sealing of liquids and moist foods without risk of spillage. These units are typically larger and more expensive but offer superior versatility.

2. External Vacuum Sealers

Commonly used in households, external vacuum sealers require the bag to be placed externally, with the machine extracting air through the open end. They are generally more affordable and suitable for sealing solid foods. However, they may struggle with liquids unless the liquid is pre-frozen.

3. Handheld Vacuum Sealers

These portable devices are perfect for occasional use and small storage spaces. They work with specially designed bags and are ideal for sealing small portions or delicate items. While convenient, they may not offer the same level of suction power as larger models.

Benefits of Vacuum Sealing

Investing in a vacuum sealer offers numerous advantages:

Extended Shelf Life: Vacuum-sealed foods can last up to five times longer than non-sealed foods, reducing waste and saving money.
Preservation of Quality: By removing air, vacuum sealing prevents freezer burn and maintains the texture and flavor of food items.
Efficient Storage: Vacuum-sealed packages are more compact, optimizing storage space in refrigerators and freezers.
Cost Savings: Buying food in bulk and vacuum sealing portions can lead to significant savings over time.

How to Use a Vacuum Sealer

Proper usage ensures optimal performance and food preservation:

Choose the Right Bag: Select bags compatible with your vacuum sealer type.
Prepare the Food: Place the food item inside the bag, leaving adequate space at the top for sealing.
Position the Bag: For external sealers, place the open end into the machine's sealing area. For chamber sealers, place the entire bag inside the chamber.

Initiate Sealing: Close the lid and start the vacuum process. The machine will remove the air and seal the bag.
Store Appropriately: Label the sealed bags with dates and contents before storing them in the refrigerator or freezer.

Vacuum Sealing Liquids

Sealing liquids can be challenging, especially with external vacuum sealers. To prevent spills, consider pre-freezing liquids before sealing. Alternatively, chamber vacuum sealers are designed to handle liquids more effectively without the need for pre-freezing.

Maintenance and Care

Regular maintenance extends the lifespan of your vacuum sealer:

Clean Regularly: Wipe down the sealing bar and remove any food particles after each use.
Inspect Seals: Check the integrity of seals and replace any worn-out gaskets or components.
Store Properly: Keep the machine in a dry, cool place when not in use.