10 Best Vacuum Sealers to Keep Your Food Fresh and Tasty

The comprehensive review of the best vacuum sealers with a buying guide and answers to the most popular questions.
By
Daniel
Daniel
Writer
Daniel is among our most talented writers: based on the dull expert reports he's able to make up a comprehensive, reader-friendly article which anyone can benefit from. Also read more
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Reviewed By
Tom
Tom
Tom
Expert Consultant
Initially being an engineering specialist, Tom has never stopped learning and acquiring other knowledge and skills. Now he’s involved in technical support for a well-known read more
Last updated: August 15, 2023
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Some harmful bacteria that only grow in air-free settings can grow much better and faster in badly vacuum-sealed products than if they were not vacuum-sealed with a quality package. With the best vacuum sealer, you can now actually preserve your food for a long period of time.

Our methodically-structured research, in which we have invested tens of hours, spanned numerous sources. We have included an insightful comparison table in which our 10 picks have been orderly and numerically listed with the top choice – NESCO VS-12 DELUXE. Some of the factors that helped in our selections included type, vacuum strength that provides tight packaging, acceptable bags and rolls, dimensions and weight so that you’ll be able to store it everywhere, and the number of controls and accessories as an added benefit for beginners.

Quick Summary

  • Editor’s Choice: NESCO VS-12 DELUXE
    "A powerful yet compact model with dry, moist, and double sealing options, working with a plastic roll band for economy"
  • Easiest to Clean: Foodsaver V4400
    "An easy-to-use vacuum sealer with an auto bag detection feature and the Instant Seal feature"
  • Best Commercial-Grade Sealer: Weston Pro-2300
    "A commercial-grade vacuum sealer with automatic and manual seal modes and heavy-duty build"
  • Best Value Vacuum Sealer: NESCO VS-02
    "An advanced vacuum sealer that seals large food items easily and has the Seal Only mode"
  • Most Lightweight Model: NutriChef PKVS18BK
    "A compact and lightweight model with a high suction power and reusable bags available"
  • Steadiest Operation: Potane VS5736
    "A durable vacuum sealer with a steady operation, quick at sealing food"
  • Longest Warranty Period: FoodSaver FM5200
    "A model with the Express Bag Maker feature and automatic moisture detection, making it easy to use"
  • "A tiny and affordable vacuum sealer with a handy Canister mode and simple operation"
  • Best Vacuum Sealer for Liquids: KOIOS SHA1203FBAA
    "A model with handy built-in indicator lights, that can run for up to 30 times nonstop"
  • Best Chamber Vacuum Sealer: VacMaster VP210
    "A tiny and affordable vacuum sealer with a handy Canister mode and simple operation"

Top 10 Vacuum Sealers 2023 Review

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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2376 people in the past 30 days
9.9
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.7
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.5
9.9
1
Editor’s Choice

NESCO VS-12 DELUXE

Features
  • Sealing settings: dry, moist, double
  • Max bag/roll width: 11.8 in
  • Dimensions: 17 x 15 x 9 in
  • Weight: 10 lbs
  • Warranty: 1-year limited

More features: double line sealing, BPA-free materials

While the Nesco American Harvest VS-12 looks extremely ordinary on the outside, taking a closer look at its functions and features will let you know why it is currently the best rated vacuum sealer. Even though it has a fairly plain design, this machine is sufficiently powerful to extract every ounce of air from your food bag. Also, it provides you with adequate control over the unit’s suction to apply extra seals on the food bags and to seal even more delicate foods. The dimensions of this unit are perfect regardless of the size of your kitchen, and it also has intuitive controls which enable you to efficiently use the unit, regardless of your experience level.

Furthermore, the Nesco American Harvest VS-12 packs a lot more suction power than any other product in its class, thanks to the incorporated double-vacuum pump, which allows you to seal a significant amount of food within a short time. Also, the machine allows you to select between two different pressure settings, which enables you to seal anything, from meat to seeds. And in order to ensure your food stays sealed perfectly and to prevent freezer burns, you can use a double seal on your food bag.

The inbuilt plastic roll storage is one of the most impressive features on the VS-12. The sealer functions with all plastic roll brands, so there is no need to be wasting time to look for anything in particular. While it comes with no accessories, the machine features an incorporated accessories port, which allows you to plug a hand-held sealer and extract the air from zipper bags or mason jars. In fact, you can utilize accessories made by other brands, so you don’t need to waste any extra money.

    What makes it stand out?
  • Compact design
  • Very powerful
  • Features a LED screen
  • Has an incorporated accessory port
  • Has a double-vacuum pump
    Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
  • Comes with no accessories
Also Product Ranking:
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 4740 people in the past 30 days
9.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.3
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.5
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.5
9.8
2
Easiest to Clean

Foodsaver V4400

Features
  • Sealing settings: dry, moist
  • Max bag/roll width: 11 in
  • Dimensions: 15.88 x 5.75 x 7.29 in
  • Weight: 12 lbs
  • Warranty: 5-year limited

More features: CrushFree™ Instant Seal feature, rapid marinate mode, jar sealing function, automatic bag detection

While the Foodsaver V4440 Vacuum Sealer is probably not the most compact sealer in the market, it’s an extremely functional machine that is very efficient and easy to use, and it is the best Foodsaver vacuum sealer on this list. It comes equipped with an excellent starter kit that includes an 11 x 10-inch roll, vacuum seal bags, a one-gallon zipper, vacuum seal bags, and a one-quart zipper. Also, the machine is compatible with various food bags, Mason jar sealers, bottle stoppers, and more. it also features an auto-moisture detection system that senses any moisture and automatically switches to the perfect mode.

Additionally, this Foodsaver model is extremely easy to use since the unit automatically vacuums and the LED indicator light allows you to keep track of the suction’s progress. Like we already mentioned, it has a system that helps it detect moist or dry food, which is a very useful feature as it also helps to automatically switch to the most suitable mode. Besides, the included drip tray is removable and dishwasher safe, which means you don’t have to be worried about any cleaning difficulty since you only need to remove it and put it in a dishwasher. The product also serves as a cutter, thereby allowing you to create custom-sized food bags.

And for optimum rest of mind, the vacuum sealer is backed by a five-year warranty, which gives you sufficient confidence in your purchase. Although it doesn’t have a Pulse mode and can’t function with bags and rolls from other brands, it is still a great machine. And the fact that it comes with all the necessary attachments is also a great gesture as you don’t need extra attachments or accessories to get started.

    What stands out?
  • Auto bag detection makes it easy to use
  • Needs no extra attachments
  • Very easy to clean
  • Doubles as a cutter
  • Features LED indicator light
    What cons did we manage to find?
  • Lacks a Pulse mode
  • Doesn’t work with rolls and bags from other brands
Also Product Ranking:
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9822 people in the past 30 days
9.6
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.2
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.2
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.1
9.6
3
Best Commercial-Grade Sealer

Weston Pro-2300

Features
  • Sealing settings: dry, moist
  • Max bag/roll width: 15 in
  • Dimensions: 15.3 x 23 x 9 inches
  • Weight: 22 lbs
  • Warranty: 2-year limited

More features: commercial-grade sealer, automatic and manual seal modes, fan-cooled motor

The “commercial grade” incorporated into the name of the Pro-2300 isn’t a joke; it’s because it’s actually built for commercial usage. This incredible vacuum sealer comes with wide Teflon double-sealing strip and openings that allow you to utilize extra-wide food bags, or seal two littler bags simultaneously. Being a commercial-grade model, it is heavier than numerous out-of-chamber models, and it’s also durable and strong especially since it’s produced using stainless steel.

Despite being priced at a fraction of the price of models from the higher end, this Weston Pro2300 offers an incredible level of control, which is remarkably impressive. You can utilize a manual pressure mode to seal non-food goods and soft foods effortlessly. It also has an automatic mode that allows you to seal food with only a button, which makes the Weston Pro-2300 easy to use for regular tasks. That’s not all – the machine also comes with a removable drip tray which catches captures dripping liquid and useful LED lights so that you will know exactly where you are.

The unit operates quickly, and the seal is very powerful, with the 935 watts of power provided by the fan-cooled motor and the 28-Hg of vacuum strength delivered by the built-in double-piston pump. With such power and strength, the vacuum sealer can run continuously for many hours with no risk of overheating. The unit also sports an external port to seal other kinds of containers, although the hose isn’t included. However, be aware that there is no incorporated cutter so you will need to cut your own food bags.

    Why are we impressed?
  • Simple to use
  • Heavy-duty built
  • Quick and efficient operation
  • Affordable price
  • Easy to clean
  • Useful LED lights
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • Heavy construction
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2744 people in the past 30 days
9.5
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.1
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.2
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.3
9.5
4
Best Value Vacuum Sealer

NESCO VS-02

Features
  • Sealing settings: dry, moist
  • Max bag/roll width: 11.8 in
  • Dimensions: 21 x 13 x 7 in
  • Weight: 8 lbs
  • Warranty: 1-year limited

More features: Seal Only mode available

Featuring a myriad of advanced features, the Nesco VS-02 Vacuum Sealer is undoubtedly one of the best vacuum sealers for home use. Nesco is a household name when it comes to the manufacturing of vacuum sealers, so it’s not entirely surprising that this model is rated so highly. This model is equipped with handy and sweet features such as the cutter, the roll holder, and cable storage. In addition, the machine comes with unique sealing settings for various kinds of food, and also the possibility of attaching a canister sealing fixture.

Measuring just 18 x 11 inches and weighing in around eight pounds only, this Nesco product is actually a small and lightweight model. Fortunately, this model is sold at a reasonable price, despite being capable of sealing fairly big food items and coming with a guide that carefully explains all the things necessary to know. Not just that, but the machine also features a bag cutter, a washable drip tray, and storage for the bags. You might not find a better option at this price for real as this model offers the most value for money.

For a mid-priced product, this model from Nesco offers a couple of fancy features, but that’s not to say it doesn’t have any flaw. Probably the only flaw we found is the irremovable drip tray, which makes it very difficult to clean the unit if you have a spill.

    What makes it special?
  • Easily seals large food items
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Affordable price
  • Offers a lot of value for money
  • Comes with an insightful guide
  • Many useful features, like the Seal Only mode
    What cons did we find?
  • The included drip tray isn’t removable
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2651 people in the past 30 days
9.5
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.0
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.1
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.3
9.5
5
Most Lightweight Model

NutriChef PKVS18BK

Features
  • Sealing settings: dry, moist
  • Max bag/roll width: 11.8 in
  • Dimensions: 14.1 x 6.0 x 3.0 in
  • Weight: 2.93 lbs
  • Warranty: 1-year limited

More features: wine stopper cork included

Functional and stylish, the NutriChef Vacuum Sealer is equipped with every feature required to seal all kinds of foods. This machine is fully automatic, and it has a sealing system that is designed cleverly with two different modes. While the dry mode can be used for solid foods, the moist mode can be used for simmered, steamed, or poached food. The control center located at the top has soft-touch buttons with LED lights which make for a simple operation. It also operates very quickly, thanks to its high suction power of 12-liter per minute.

Furthermore, the manufacturers have subjected the machine to certain laboratory testing to raise the food shelf life effectively, which allows your food to remain fresher for five times longer than regular plastic containers or zip bags. The starter kit is equipped with all the things you require to begin sealing your foods instantly: an air suction hose, a wine stopper cork, a long vacuum bag roll, and five medium-sized vacuum bags. The bags are also waterproof and reusable.

The housing is very easy to clean as it resists stains and the slimline and ultra-lightweight design of the unit will fit all kinds of kitchen spaces. In fact, the machine is offered in different colors which include silver, stainless steel, and black, so that you will find the ideal style for your kitchen decoration. On the downsides though, it’s been reported by users that this unit doesn’t deliver a steady degree of heat across the bag at all times. Besides, it’s not really suitable for heavy-duty usage, which might be a concern for people who cook in large quantities.

    What stands out?
  • Automatic vacuum sealing
  • High suction power allows for a quick operation
  • Simple electric plug-in design
  • An easy to clean housing
  • Soft-touch digital buttons
  • The bags are waterproof and reusable
    What cons did we manage to find?
  • Not suitable for heavy-duty usage
  • Doesn’t deliver a steady degree of heat across the bag all the time
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7382 people in the past 30 days
9.4
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.1
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.0
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.1
9.4
6
Steadiest Operation

Potane VS5736

Features
  • Sealing settings: dry, wet
  • Max bag/roll width: 11 in
  • Dimensions: 16 x 6.5 x 5 inches
  • Weight: 6.5 lbs
  • Warranty: 5-year limited

More features: 8 mm sealing element, brushless motor, built-in bag storage and cutter

The Potane VS5736 Precision Vacuum Sealer Machine is a top-tier kitchen appliance designed for those who prioritize quality and efficiency. This machine boasts a high power vacuum and provides a reliable, consistent sealing experience. Unlike many other brands that use a 3 mm sealing element with a 1-2mm sealing width and cheaper motors, the Potane VS5736 employs an 8 mm sealing element with a 3 mm sealing width, coupled with a robust brushless motor. This ensures longevity and durability, backed by a 5-year warranty.

One of the standout features of this machine is its built-in bag storage and cutter, which offers convenience and ease of use. It comes with two bag rolls of sizes 11”x16’ and 8”x16”, and an extra foam gasket. The design is user-friendly, allowing for one-handed operation. The lid can be locked with just one hand, making it accessible to all users, including the elderly. Furthermore, the Potane vacuum sealer is ETL tested and certified, ensuring that safety is a top priority.

    Why are we impressed?
  • High power vacuum with a reliable and consistent sealing.
  • Built-in bag storage and cutter for added convenience.
  • One-handed operation with easy lid lock.
  • ETL tested and certified for safety.
  • Comes with a 5-year warranty.
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • Might be on the pricier side compared to other models.
  • Some users might prefer a more compact design.
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 5825 people in the past 30 days
9.2
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.9
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.7
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.8
9.2
7
Longest Warranty Period

FoodSaver FM5200

Features
  • Sealing settings: dry, moist
  • Max bag/roll width: 11 in
  • Dimensions: 9.3 x 17.6 x 9.6 inches
  • Weight: 8.9 lbs
  • Warranty: 5-year limited

More features: Express Bag Maker, automatic moisture detection, jar sealing

One of the most recent models from FoodSaver, the FoodSaver FM5200, is one of the most exceptional vacuum sealers around. It’s durable, performs well, and with its ability to effectively preserve meat for up to three years, there is no reason to argue with its spot on this list. Not only that, but this machine also helps reduce bag making procedures by 50 percent compared to other models, due to an incorporated second heat-sealing bar to prepare the next bag automatically. And since it’s outfitted with dual heat-sealing strips, it is guaranteed to reach a maximum vacuum level.

Furthermore, this machine offers a lot of convenience as it’s equipped with a convenient viewing window that allows you to effortlessly control where you seal whilst the open-roll storage design allows you to easily see when it’s time to change the roll. The unit also sports some LED light indicators that guide you through the entire process, which also enhances convenience. Additionally, it sports a smart technology which detects moisture automatically and switches to the right mode to guarantee an airtight seal.

Also, the removable drip tray incorporated will capture any overflow liquid, which makes this appliance easy to maintain. And to erase any doubts that could be lingering on your mind, the manufacturer has backed this appliance with a five-year warranty. Despite all the positives, however, the controls of the FM5200 are difficult to master. Apart from that, the bag compartment built-in is rather cramped.

    Why did it make our list?
  • Save-spacing compact design
  • Great build quality
  • Comes with roll and bags
  • Quick operation
  • Convenient to use
    What is not ideal about it?
  • The controls are difficult to master
  • Built-in bag compartment is somewhat cramped
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 4656 people in the past 30 days
9.0
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.8
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.6
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.6
9.0
Features
  • Sealing settings: dry, moist
  • Max bag/roll width: 12 in
  • Dimensions: 14.6 x 5.67 x 3.3 inch
  • Weight: 2.6 lbs
  • Warranty: not specified

More features: Canister mode to vacuum containers

The GERYON E2901-M Vacuum Sealer Machine is a versatile and efficient kitchen tool designed to meet the needs of modern households. This machine is equipped with a powerful vacuum system that ensures a tight seal, preserving the freshness and flavor of your food for longer periods. With its sleek and compact design, it doesn’t take up much counter space, making it a perfect fit for any kitchen.

One of the notable features of the GERYON E2901-M is its two sealing modes, which cater to different sealing needs. The “Dry” mode is ideal for solid foods, while the “Moist” mode is designed for moist or steamed foods. This flexibility allows users to seal a variety of food items with ease. Additionally, the machine comes with a starter kit that includes an air suction hose, five heat-seal bags, and a roll of bag material, ensuring that you have everything you need to get started.

The LED indicator lights provide a clear indication of the sealing process, ensuring that users are always aware of the machine’s status. Furthermore, the machine is designed with safety in mind, featuring an automatic shut-off function that prevents overheating.

    What do we love it for?
  • Powerful vacuum for tight seals.
  • Dual sealing modes for varied food types.
  • Comprehensive starter kit included.
  • LED indicators for process clarity.
  • Auto shut-off for safety.
    What were we disappointed with?
  • Might not suit larger sealing tasks.
  • Manual cutting of bags required.
  • Needs cooling between tasks.
  • Starter bags may run out quickly.
  • Potentially noisy operation.
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 5845 people in the past 30 days
8.9
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.8
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.6
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.8
8.9
9
Best Vacuum Sealer for Liquids

KOIOS SHA1203FBAA

Features
  • Sealing settings: dry, moist
  • Max bag/roll width: 12 in
  • Dimensions: 14.6 x 2.9 x 5.9 inches
  • Weight: 3.9 lbs
  • Warranty: 1-year limited

More features: high-temperature resistant (up to 300℃), NRTL Tested and Certified, accessory hose port

If you’re looking for the perfect companion in the kitchen without needing to spend excessively, the KOIOS Vacuum Sealer should be one of your top considerations. It’s capable of preserving wine and food and you can cook food ahead of time and vacuum-seal it afterward in separate portions or whole meals for later consumption. You can utilize the moist or dry feature if you’re sealing food items that are moist or dry, thereby reducing the oxygen on the food bag and remove any additional moisture. The machine also has a hands-free operation and the built-in indicator lights allow you to have total control over the process.

Furthermore, this kitchen appliance features an accessory port that enables you to use a vacuum canister and wine stoppers to preserve food and wine, and the touch panel also enables you to easily use each function. Besides, the machine can run nonstop for up to 30 times, which means the food can stay fresh for a longer period of time. And the included two-year warranty gives buyers the much-needed confidence and provides you with security in case of any defect from the manufacturer. It doesn’t stop there – the unit also comes with ten unique bags, which is a really huge advantage and ensures you don’t incur extra expenses on bags.

And lest we forget, it also comes with an inbuilt cutter and roll storage. As for the downsides, this machine from KOIOS comes with a few. The user manual is rather difficult to understand, which might make using the machine a bit intricate. Apart from that, it requires some effort to get the vacuum to function together with the sealer and doesn’t come off at all times. This machine even seems to function better when used as a stand-alone sealer instead of a vacuum sealer.

    What are its best features?
  • Comes with indicator lights
  • Comes with a two-year warranty
  • Inbuilt roll storage and cutter
  • Easy to use
    What could be improved?
  • Poor instructions
  • Doesn’t work well as a vacuum sealer
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8594 people in the past 30 days
8.7
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.2
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.6
8.7
10
Best Chamber Vacuum Sealer

VacMaster VP210

Features
  • Sealing settings: dry, moist
  • Max bag/pouch size: 10 x 13 in
  • Dimensions: 20 x 14 x 15 in
  • Weight: 72 lbs
  • Warranty: 1-year limited

More features: chamber vacuum sealer, a double seal on each bag

VacMaster is one of the leading manufacturers when it comes to the production of commercial and home vacuum sealers, and the VacMaster VP210 is a leading contender when the top models in chamber models are discussed. Featuring features that are often lacking in external systems, this model effortlessly packages moisture-rich foods and liquids and is powerful enough for commercial or home usage. Typically, chamber models produce a higher suction level than external units since the air is totally suctioned out of the whole chamber, and not the bag only. This evens out the air pressure outside and inside the bag so that liquids stay in place and not squeezed as the air is suctioned out.

It is also easy to operate the control panel and it provides customizable settings for different packaging options. Also, there is a large pressure indicator dial and digital time display. This appliance utilizes a dry pump for several years of seamless operation and offers strong suction with a 20–60-second cycle time. For easy cleaning, the product also comes with a removable ten-inch heat bar. And the clear incorporated viewing window allows you to view your food while it’s being processed. And for optimum durability, the unit is produced using stainless steel body that offers rugged resilience.

The VacMaster VP210 also thrives at packaging liquids and ensuring your food stays fresh, which makes it perfect for a small deli or restaurant, a home kitchen, and a recreational center. Weighing in at 73 pounds, however, it can’t be considered as a portable unit. If there is no dedicated location for it in your kitchen, we recommend that you buy a durable trolley with wheels to be transporting it.

    Why did it make our list?
  • Durable and well-built unit
  • Constantly creates tight seals
  • Functions exceptionally on liquids
  • Maintenance-free dry pump
  • Easy to clean
  • Clear viewing window
    What is not ideal about it?
  • Heavy and large

Things to Consider

Vacuum sealers are quite new inventions, so a lot of people are not familiar with them. As a result of that, you will need all the help you can get if you have chosen to buy one for your needs, which is essentially why we have created this section.

What are the benefits of having the best vacuum sealer for sous vide?

Increased Surface Heat – Air never transmits heat as good as water does. So, with a vacuum sealer, more water is able to touch your food’s surface, which results in quicker cooking times and uniform cooking temperatures. The more air floating around your meal, the longer it’ll take for heat to be transmitted efficiently to your food.

Better Flavor – While we are not really being scientific right now, it is actually pure logic. Since vacuum sealed food bags are airtight, they are able to lock in all juices, aromas, and flavors. In fact, you can marinate your meal in the vacuum-sealed pouch prior to cooking. And obviously, having non-vacuum-sealed bags can lead to the spillage of juices when you are cooking, or in a worse scenario, the zip-lock bag can sink and you are boiling a steak before you know it.

Stays Fresh Longer – Apart from sous vide, these devices also assume an important role in ensuring your food says fresh for a longer period, both in the freezer and refrigerator. From the point of view of sous vide, vacuum-sealing meals for the week ahead doesn’t keep the food fresh only, but it is ready to cook as well – just put the food bag inside your water bath. Since the food is sealed still after cooking, it can even be refrigerated and placed inside an ice bath pending the time you are ready to complete the sear.

Bags Will Not Float – Apart from being very frustrating, floating bags can also be dangerous. Food bags with air usually float on the water, thereby resulting in some food portions being cooked improperly. When you’re cooking sous vide, keep in mind that it is very important to have the food totally submerged in water always, for optimum safety and uniform cooking temperatures. Vacuum sealers completely get rid of all the air in your food bag before cooking your sous vide.

How to use a vacuum sealer

Vacuum sealers are usually made in two major types – chamber sealers and bar sealers. Bar sealers utilize a basic suction method: you append the food bag to the appliance, and it extracts the air. However, this method can only be used with dry ingredients since the vacuum sealer will suck out liquid and gas as well, thereby drying the food out and probably damaging the device.

On the other hand, chamber vacuum sealers have a more sophisticated operation and can be utilized with liquids. Instead of directly vacuuming the food bag, these sealers get rid of the air from the surrounding space. This generates a vacuum that firstly compresses the bag and then seals it afterward.

Method

Fill your vacuum bags with your selected ingredients.
Attach the bar sealer onto the vacuum bag and switch the machine on.
Remove the sealed bag. It is now ready for use.

A vacuum sealer: how it works and the benefits of having one

How exactly is a vacuum sealer able to help in food preservation? This is usually the question that lingers in the minds of prospective buyers, which is why we have decided to answer it here.

How does air impact on food?

Air can have a very damaging effect on your food since compounds can considerably affect the integrity, quality, and taste of certain products over a period of time. Vacuum sealing is perfect if you want your food to remain moist, due to the fact that an airtight setting means juices can’t be affected by the air or escape. Also, this type of food preservation can stop solid foods such as flour and brown sugar from becoming hard, since they can’t absorb moistness from the air.

This food preservation technique is also one of the best ways of preventing freezer burn. Because foods aren’t exposed directly to the freezer’s harsh environments any longer, they take considerably longer time to feel the damaging effect of burn that can be a result of excessive air or poor storage.

How does a vacuum sealer work?

How vacuum sealers work is straightforward – they remove all the air from the container of your food. Since oxidization from oxygen exposure usually causes foods to go bad, your food will last longer if oxygen is removed from it. After removing as much as possible air from your food, a vacuum sealer then seals the food bag so that any air entrance will be prevented, thereby protecting your food. In order to seal the food bags, the majority of vacuum sealers simply melt the plastic together. If you were to utilize a food bag that isn’t designed to be used in a vacuum sealer, you may be risking a bag melting over your food. Although, some models like the KOIOS Vacuum Sealer and the NESCO VS-02 allow you to vacuum-seal a canister rather than vacuum-sealing plastic bags only.

The benefits of having a vacuum sealer

Apart from the benefits offered by a vacuum sealer when cooking sous vide, below are the other benefits of a vacuum sealer.

Preserves Foods Longer

Apart from protecting your food items from potential freezer burn, vacuuming and sealing them also helps preserve them for a longer time than normal. A vacuum sealer would maintain the freshness of your food item for months and even years sometimes. Although, we recommend putting an oxygen absorber in the food bag if you intend to store the food items for a very long time. Also, you can put the bag inside a Mylar bag or Ziplock for additional protection.

Saves Money

This is one of the biggest benefits of having a vacuum sealer. A vacuum sealer helps to save money in two different ways. The first one is that you’ll get to preserve excess food rather than throwing it away because it’s bad. The money saved in the long run can really accumulate before you know it. The second way a vacuum sealer helps save money is by enabling you to purchase food items in a large quantity. Since you’ll be able to safely store them for several months when you vacuum-seal them, you can easily buy freezable food items in a large quantity.

Sous Vide Cooking

In French, Sous vide literally means “under vacuum”, and it alludes to food prepared inside a vacuum-sealed bag in a water bath that is temperature-controlled. As a result of this, there will be no case of under or overcooking, and there will be less shrinkage and no wasted food. If you like sous vide cooking, a vacuum sealer such as the GERYON Vacuum Sealer Machine makes sure that there is a firm seal on your food before utilizing it in a flowing water bath.

Based on the strength of the suction, vacuuming and sealing can affect proteins texture negatively – especially chicken and fish.

Save Your Silverware

While vacuum sealers were primarily designed for food preservation, they can be utilized to protect your silver cutlery also. If you have lots of silverware, they may corrode or tarnish over time if they’re exposed to excessive air and moisture. You don’t need to spend lots of time to polish your silverware and get them shiny and nice if you utilize your vacuum sealer to reduce exposure to air and moisture. Ensure you wrap the pieces of the silverware in a cloth before sealing them, thereby preventing them from tearing the fabric.

Features to consider while choosing a vacuum sealer

It’s not a good idea to go shopping for a vacuum sealer without having prior knowledge of the things you need to check. So, if you’re in the market for one of these machines, below are the key factors you must consider and keep in mind.

Vacuum sealer type

There are three primary types of vacuum sealers and we will highlight them below.

Handheld Valve Sealers – This types of vacuum sealers are designed to eliminate air from specifically built zipper storage bags in order to help maintain the freshness of the food. However, they have a tendency of not performing as well as the other types, which is why most people overlook them. If you admire the convenience offered by smaller devices, you can find several external vacuum sealers that have an accessory port.

External Vacuum Sealers – This types of vacuum sealers operate by extracting the air from the lip of a bag that is put in a tiny chamber above the seal bar. The machine extracts the air upon the closure of the lid before melting the plastic bag with heat. Although external vacuum sealers aren’t as powerful as chamber sealers and are typically louder, they should be enough for home usage. If you plan to seal liquids or package lots of food simultaneously, you can’t look further than a chamber vacuum.

Chamber Vacuum Sealer – Chamber vacuum sealers operate by putting the sealed bag in the chamber and placing its lip above the seal bar. As soon as you close the lid and turn the machine on, the device then extracts the air and the bag is heat-sealed. Chamber vacuum sealers don’t need liquids to even be frozen prior to sealing, and can even seal mason jars with no requirement for unique accessories. They are significantly costlier than the other types, which is probably their biggest downside.

Vacuum strength

The general purpose behind vacuum-sealing your food is keeping it optimally fresh for as long as potential, and you require a powerful and potent vacuum to suck out the moist air in the food. The strength of a vacuum is typically measured in inches of mercury (inHg), and 15 to 25 inHG is appropriate for home cooking.

Sealing settings and controls

10 Best Vacuum Sealers to Keep Your Food Fresh and TastyA pulse or manual button is one of the most vital controls you must look for in a vacuum sealer. It enables you to pulse the process slowly when you’re sealing delicate meals like crackers, chips, and berries so that you can stop before they are crushed. Also, you can freeze some delicate meals before you seal them if you want to avoid smashing them. Most individuals prefer units that feature a cancel button, which allows you to stop sealing or cycle simultaneously.

Some models enable you to have control over the pressure of the vacuum by switching between normal or gentle pressure. While the gentle pressure setting utilizes less pressure to prevent you from breaking delicate food items such as crackers, a normal pressure setting utilizes maximum pressure and is ideal for pantry food items such as brown sugar or nuts. Other handy controls you may look for include dry and moist modes.

While the dry mode works as normal, the moist mode prolongs the sealing time to guarantee a firmer closure.

Accessories and extra features

This one is a little complicated since newer features are constantly being added to successive models of vacuum sealers. Therefore, while some options might have sealing action and multi-speed vacuum, others instantly catch the liquid overflow and are dishwasher-safe. Still, there are models that feature cutter and roll storage so that you don’t need to purchase expensive pouches in your bid to meet everyday packaging requirements. In the same way, other high-end models are equipped with dust removal features required for vacuum-sealing non-edible items such as books, documents, and more.

Portability

Another important thing to which you must pay attention is the machine’s portability. The handheld option is the most ideal if you want a unit with a small footprint. You must, however, keep in mind that lightweight and portable machines usually deliver low performance and they don’t last for long. A large model, on the other hand, you’ll get annoyed due to the space it takes. So, you might need to buy a machine that isn’t too big and not too lightweight.

Size and weight

The significance of the weight and size will depend largely on your kitchen’s size. Measure the counter space you have and think about your predicted usage frequency. Larger models will often come with storage for bag rolls and a couple of other features that provide a significant reason to create permanent space on your countertop. If space is a problem, however, go for a lightweight model that is easy to store. The most lightweight model on our list is the NutriChef Vacuum Sealer.

Warranty

Another important thing you must check when making your purchase is the warranty. Even the best models may suddenly develop a fault after a while, with heavy usage. Therefore, it is vital to get a model with a one-year warranty at least to ease your mind in case you often use the machine. Models like the FoodSaver FM5200 and the FoodSaver V4440 come with a five-year warranty each.

Tips

Refrigerate or freeze your food – Prior to buying a vacuum sealer, you must keep in mind that vacuum sealing won’t offer complete protection to your food against spoilage. While vacuum-sealing your food normally increases the food’s life by five times at least, you still need to keep the food in the refrigerator or freezer if you want it to maintain its freshness.

10 Best Vacuum Sealers to Keep Your Food Fresh and TastyVacuum sealer bags – You can’t use just any bag when it comes to these machines, as most of them are engineered to only work with certain kinds of bags. Therefore, you must ensure that you buy the bags that are compatible specifically with your machine. Or else, the bags may get crammed in the appliance or refuse to seal properly.

Freeze the liquids – If you plan to vacuum-seal liquid foods, like soups or sauces, then you must ensure you first freeze the liquid and seal it inside the bag afterward. Or else, the machine may extract the air as well as the liquid, which will create a mess and probably damage the appliance.

Leave some extra space – When you’re looking to vacuum-seal any product in a bag, refrain from overfilling the bag. Bear in mind that you have to leave some spare space at the top of the bag, about four inches at least. Your failure to do so may result in you not being able to get a decent seal. Also, leaving some extra space means that if your first seal isn’t good enough, you can easily create a second seal a little further up.

Optimum smoothness – Try as much as possible to keep the bags extremely smooth, since any wrinkle on the bags will manufacturer pockets of air inside the seal, thereby prevent the bag from sealing airtight.

Resealing the bag – A commonly made mistake by people that wastes lots of time and food bags is that they try opening and repeating the process when they notice that a bag isn’t sealed properly. Sometimes, they even utilize another bag. As we mentioned earlier, if you leave extra space at the bag’s top, you can just create a second seal upon the failure of the first seal.

Sharp Items – Whenever you try vacuum-sealing a food item that has sharp edges, like meat with bones or even dried pasta, firstly wrap the item in a delicate material, like a soft paper towel, as any sharp object can damage the bag and allow air to come inside without you noticing anything at all.

Oxygen absorber bags – For optimum outcomes, some individuals utilize oxygen absorber bags inside their vacuum-sealed bags, in the event that there is a narrow hole in the food bag that wasn’t noticed by them. Oxygen absorbers usually contain non-dangerous iron powder, which extracts any surplus oxygen that may be remaining in a plastic bag.

Clean your vacuum sealer – Cleanliness is the number one secret to keep all your appliances working rightly, which is even truer if you are dealing with a vacuum sealer. Vacuum-sealing various types of food items every day will obviously get your machine dirty and if you fail to clean it, you can get yourself ready to purchase a new machine in a very short while.

It is very easy to clean any vacuum sealer, regardless of which brand it is. In fact, you can do it in just a couple of minutes. You only have to use a damp cloth to wipe it over and regularly clean the drip tray. Make sure you pay close attention to everything, particularly the sealing strip, as any food traces remaining on the sealing bar may affect the whole sealing process.

FAQ

Can vacuum sealing bags be reused?

Yes, vacuum sealing bags can be reused. However, it largely depends on the bag’s previous contents. Bags that contained pieces of bread, dry goods, vegetables, fruits, and several desserts previously can be washed and then reused. But bags that previously contained fish, eggs, unpasteurized cheese, or raw meats should be thrown away after usage as they may contain unseen bacteria that’ll persist even after washing. Also, bags that previously contained oily or greasy foods should be thrown away because cleaning them may be difficult.

Are there any foods that shouldn’t be vacuum sealed?

Sadly, there are a couple of foods you can’t vacuum-seal. Some foods usually contain anaerobic bacteria, which is capable of growing with no air, which means these bacterial will keep growing even inside a vacuum-sealed pouch and may be dangerous to your health. Examples of foods that can’t be vacuum-sealed include garlic, mushrooms, soft cheeses, camembert, ricotta brie, and other unpasteurized and soft cheeses.

Can I seal liquid products like soup or sauce? Do I need to look for some special setting for that?

Yes, you can seal liquids like sauce or soup. While there are no special settings for doing it, you may have to learn some tips in order to successfully seal liquid products.

How noisy vacuum sealers usually are?

Averagely, most vacuum sealers hit somewhere between 70 and 83 dB in terms of noise production, which is almost as noisy as a vacuum cleaner.

Our verdict

Everybody knows that Nesco is a leader in the terrain of kitchen appliances, which is probably why we’re not surprised that the Nesco American Harvest VS-12 is the best vacuum sealer on our list. Featuring a double-vacuum pump which packs a lot of power, this model is the most efficient vacuum sealer out there.

Right behind the Nesco model in terms of power and overall efficiency is the Foodsaver V4440, which is equipped with advanced features like moisture detector, instant seal feature, and jar sealing. And to clear any doubt you may have, this product comes with a five-year warranty.

The ultra-lightweight NutriChef Vacuum Sealer is our third pick, and its place on this list is totally deserved. Apart from being very stylish, this model is also very functional, which is aided by the built-in multiple modes and soft-touch buttons.

9,9
Total Score
NESCO VS-12 DELUXE - Editor’s Choice
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