Why should you vacuum seal food, and what are the benefits?

Properly storing food is crucial to maintaining its freshness and quality. One method that has proven to be extremely effective is vacuum sealing. But why should you vacuum seal food, and what benefits does this technique offer? In this article, we highlight the many advantages of vacuum sealing and explain why it's a worthwhile investment for any kitchen.

1. Extended shelf life of food

   One of the biggest advantages of vacuum sealing is the significantly extended shelf life of food. By removing air - especially oxygen - the growth of microorganisms like bacteria and mold is greatly slowed. As a result, vacuum-sealed food stays fresh up to five times longer compared to conventional storage methods. This applies to both fresh products like meat, fish, and vegetables, as well as dry foods like nuts and coffee. More information on shelf life under vacuum can be found in our shelf life table.
   
   

2. Protection against freezer burn

   Freezer burn is a common issue when storing food in the freezer. It occurs when air reaches the frozen food, causing the surface to dry out and become unappealing. Vacuum sealing with a vacuum sealer prevents this unwanted effect by sealing the food airtight. The result is perfectly protected food that retains its texture, flavor, and nutrients.
   
   

3. Space-saving storage

   Another practical benefit of vacuum sealing is space-saving storage. Vacuum-sealed foods take up less space in the refrigerator or freezer because excess air is removed, and the vacuum bags fit snugly. This allows for more efficient use of available storage space, which can be especially beneficial in small kitchens.
   
   

4. Preservation of flavors and nutrients

   When vacuum-sealing with a vacuum sealer, flavors, vitamins, and minerals are better preserved. Since the food is not exposed to air, there is no oxidation process that would otherwise destroy nutrients and dull flavors. This is particularly advantageous for delicate foods like fruits, vegetables, and herbs, whose taste and nutritional value remain intact for longer when vacuum sealed.
   
   

5. Ideal for sous-vide cooking

   Vacuum-sealed foods are perfect for sous-vide cooking. This cooking method, where food is cooked in a water bath at a low, precise temperature, requires airtight vacuum bags to achieve optimal results. Vacuum sealing ensures that no liquid escapes and the flavors remain intense within the food during cooking.
   
   

6. Reduction of food waste

   Vacuum packaging helps reduce food waste. Since the food stays fresh longer, it needs to be discarded less frequently. This not only saves money but also conserves resources and contributes to a more sustainable lifestyle.
   
   

7. Faster marinating process

   Vacuum sealing allows food to marinate faster in vacuum containers or vacuum bags. The vacuum opens the pores of the food, allowing the marinade to penetrate deeper and more quickly. This saves time and provides more intense flavor results in a shorter period.
   
   

8. Protection from moisture and drying out

   Among the benefits of vacuum packaging is the effective protection against moisture, which foods could absorb using conventional storage methods. At the same time, vacuum sealing prevents drying out, which is especially important for delicate products like baked goods, bread, or coffee.
   
   

9. Convenient portioning

   Vacuum sealing allows for easy portioning of food, which is ideal for stockpiling. You can prepare larger quantities at once and then package them in convenient portions. This is perfect for meal preparation or freezing supplies, making daily cooking much easier.
   
   

10. Clean and efficient storage

    Vacuum bags provide clean storage by preventing liquid leaks and mixing odors. This contributes to more order and hygiene in your kitchen.
    
    

11. Versatile uses for outdoor activities and travel

    Vacuum-sealed foods are ideal for various uses, such as camping, hiking, and travel. They are compact, easy to transport, and protected from external influences like moisture and dirt. Thus, they offer a practical solution on the go, preserving the freshness and quality of the food even under challenging conditions.
    
    

12. Longer preservation of colors and textures

    Vacuum packaging preserves the colors and textures of food. Especially with fresh fruits and vegetables, the color remains vibrant and the texture crisp, which not only extends shelf life but also improves presentation.
    
    

Conclusion: A must-have for your kitchen

Vacuum sealing is much more than just a method of food storage. It offers numerous benefits, from extended shelf life and protection against freezer burn to better preservation of flavors and nutrients. Additionally, it simplifies portioning, protects against moisture and drying out, and saves space. If you want to upgrade your kitchen while enjoying fresh, high quality food for longer, vacuum sealing with a vacuum sealer is a worthwhile investment that quickly pays off.