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FoodSaver vacuum sealers

7 years ago

Does anyone here have a vacuum sealer that you would recommend? I started looking at them and it seems that FoodSaver is a good brand, but there are so many models I'm not sure what I need. I'm really just looking for something to prolong the life of frozen meat in the deep freeze.

If anyone could recommend a model (or another brand/model) I would appreciate it.

Thanks!

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Comments (10)

User
7 years ago
last modified: 7 years ago
FoodSaver is a very good brand at a good price point.

My FoodSaver is probably a dozen years old or so, and it's still working (with a little coaxing now and then!).

I prefer my type:

over the newer model I see in Costco:

It seems like the lower profile model is easier to store.

Costco often has deals on the FoodSaver and bags.

I highly recommend getting one. My frozen foods/meats are protected and I can defrost easily.
cooper8828
7 years ago
I have a FoodSaver also, like the top picture. I have used it a lot more than I thought I would. It really does keep the meat fresh for a long time, so I can stock up when something's on super sale.
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Use only the bags meant for use with your model. Make sure the entire length of the open end is inside the sealing channel. Be sure there is no moisture or grease near where you are sealing .. if there is, clean it off and dry the bag well. Make sure there is a wide enough margin between where the bag seals and where the meat starts. Wait the extra 20 seconds between sealings. If your meat is moist, fold up a paper towel and place it between the meat and where you are sealing the bag .. the towel will absorb any moisture before it gets to the seal. Be sure to press down on the lid for several seconds before releasing. Do not re-use any bags that feel at all greasy after cleaning. Keep the sealing channel inside the machine clean, dry, and grease-free. Be sure the bag edge is all the way inside the sealing channel its entire length. Watch the Tilia website for sales and specials on the bags for your model and stock up then. IF I were buying another vacuum food saver system, I would buy only a unit that lets me use/reuse any plastic-type bag I want to. Did you know you can do about as good a job of sealing by using a freezer style ZipLock bag (available at any Dollar Stores) and a soda straw to suck out all the air yourself? The problems with these pricey vacuum systems is you sometimes do not get a tight seal and even when you do get a tight seal with all air removed, how long will that seal last? Gail R (WNY)
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User
7 years ago
We recently got some nice cuts of meat from Coscto; crown roast of pork and prime rib. We portioned them out and vacuum sealed them so that these treats didn't get damaged by freezer burn.
DLM2000-GW
7 years ago
Just an FYI - you can freeze your meats in a marinade or a dry rub and be ready to go when thawed.
litasart
7 years ago
Recommend, great costumer service too.
KATHY
7 years ago
This is the one I have, been very pleased and no issues with it. I received it as a gift 4-5 yrs ago and really thought it was something I didn't need. I was so wrong, I use it several times a day. It does sit on my counter because I know if it didn't, it wouldn't get as much use. I seal and reseal everything.
amj0517
Original Author
7 years ago
Thank you! Looks like it'll be a FoodSaver for me.
User
7 years ago
Loved it when it worked well ,,,,

I was finding too any things losing their seal in the freezer

Be warned, the bags are like razor blades, it gets pricey.

Bought a new Food Saver to replace old that was becoming a PITA w/sealing, new had issues and it was returned.

At this point my goal is to get a $$ professional model.
lizbeth-gardener
7 years ago
There are some old posts on Food Savers in the cooking forum that would be worthwhile reading. They have a lot of detailed info./tips on how to use and how to save money on the bags, what features you might want, etc.
maire_cate
7 years ago
My brother had a Food Saver that never seemed to seal properly. He replaced it with a nifty one from Cabela's that he's been very happy with.

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