Tips

3 Vacuum Sealing Hacks to Keep Your Produce Fresh for a Week, No Machine Needed

Keeping your veggies fresh and vibrant all week long is a challenge, but it's one you can conquer without investing in an expensive vacuum sealer. Today, we're sharing a simple, effective method to vacuum seal food at home using everyday items. It's a handy trick that will keep your produce looking and tasting its best, so read on to discover the secret to prolonging your veggies' lifespan!

Administrator

27 July, 2024

To keep food fresh for longer, vacuum sealing is essential as it slows down oxidation and prevents bacterial growth. Contrary to what you may think, vacuum sealing is a simple process, and we’re here to show you how with the following methods.

1 Vacuum Sealing with a Straw

Step 1 Preparation

First, place your food item(s) in a .

Preparation

Step 2 Vacuum Sealing with a Straw

Place the straw into the bag, and suck strongly to remove the air. As you suck, seal the ziplock bag to ensure that no air is left inside.

Apply strong suction to remove air from the bag

2 Vacuum Sealing with Water

Step 1 Preparation

Place your food item(s) into a bag and prepare a large bucket of water.

Tip:

– Ensure you have enough water to completely submerge the bag.

– Use cold water for vacuum sealing. Hot water can alter the food’s characteristics and cause the plastic to melt, affecting your health.

Preparation

Step 2 Vacuum Sealing Process

Slowly lower the bag into the bucket of water, submerging only the section containing the food. Ensure the bag’s opening is facing upward and not in contact with the water. Water pressure will force the air out of the bag.

Vacuum sealing process

Step 3 Securing the Bag

Once the air is removed, gradually fold the bag’s opening and secure it with a paper clip.

Securing the bag

The final product is a vacuum-sealed bag, similar to those found in supermarkets. This method can be applied to green vegetables, meat, or any other type of food.

Final product

Note:

– Ensure the bag remains intact to prevent water from reaching the food. Use bags made from durable PA/PE material. Alternatively, you can use ziplock bags for vacuum sealing.

3 Vacuum Sealing with a Hair Dryer/Vacuum Cleaner

Step 1 Preparation

Start by cutting off the top of a plastic bottle and securing it to the end of your hair dryer with . Alternatively, you can use a vacuum cleaner with a similar setup.

Preparation

Step 2 Vacuum Sealing Food

Place your food item(s) into a ziplock bag and seal 2/3 of the opening. Insert the plastic bottle’s top into the remaining opening and turn on the hair dryer to suck out the air.

Finally, quickly remove the bottle’s top and seal the bag completely.

Vacuum sealing food

In conclusion, with these methods, you can confidently purchase and store food, especially vegetables, without worrying about spoilage or loss of nutrients. Vacuum sealing is an effective way to keep your food fresh.

Frequently asked questions

You can use three simple hacks: first, create a DIY vacuum sealer by placing your produce in a ziplock bag and submerging it in water; second, use a straw to remove air from the bag; and finally, seal the bag by heating the edges with a hair straightener or a flat iron.

Vacuum sealing can extend the shelf life of your produce by removing oxygen, which slows down the growth of bacteria. It also helps to prevent freezer burn and can save space in your fridge or freezer.

This method is particularly effective for leafy greens, herbs, and other vegetables that tend to wilt quickly. However, you can also use it for fruits, meats, and other types of food.

Vacuum-sealed produce can last up to a week in the fridge, which is significantly longer than when stored in regular containers or bags.

Yes, by not relying on a machine, you save money and storage space in your kitchen. This method is also environmentally friendly as it reduces the need for single-use plastic bags.