If you want to keep your food fresher for longer, learning how to use the V500 Series FoodSaver vacuum sealer is a great skill. This guide will walk you through every step, from setup to advanced tips, so you can get the most out of your machine.
How To Use The V500 Series Food Saver Vacuum Sealer
Before you seal your first bag, it’s important to understand what the V500 can do. It’s a popular external vacuum sealer, meaning the machine does the work outside the bag. It’s perfect for home use, helping to prevent freezer burn and extend the shelf life of leftovers, meats, vegetables, and more.
What’s in the Box and Initial Setup
When you open your FoodSaver V500 box, you should find a few key items. Make sure you have the main vacuum sealer unit, the handheld vacuum accessory, a roll of vacuum seal bags, and the power cord. Some bundles might include extra bags or container lids.
To get started, place the machine on a clean, flat, and dry countertop. Plug the power cord into the back of the unit and then into a wall outlet. The control panel will light up. It’s a good idea to let it sit for a few minutes if it’s just come from a cold car or storage.
Understanding the Control Panel
The V500’s control panel is simple, with just a few buttons:
- Power Button (I/O): Turns the machine on and off.
- Vacuum Seal Button: The main button. Press it to start the vacuum and seal process automatically.
- Seal Only Button: Use this if you want to seal a bag without vacuuming, like for moist foods you’ve pre-frozen.
- Cancel/Release Button: Stops any operation and releases the vacuum.
- Indicator Lights: These show you when the device is ready, when it’s sealing, and if there’s a warning.
Your First Bag: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now, let’s seal something simple, like a portion of chicken breasts or some homemade soup.
- Prepare Your Food: Pat dry any moist foods with a paper towel. Excess liquid can interfere with the vacuum process. For soups or stews, freeze them flat in a container first, then seal the frozen block.
- Cut the Bag: Unroll the FoodSaver bag material and cut a piece that gives you plenty of extra space—about 3 inches more than your food’s height. It’s easier to work with a bag thats too long than one that’s too short.
- Seal One End: Place the open end of the bag over the front sealing strip. Press the “Seal Only” button. The machine will heat up and create a strong, airtight seal on one end of your bag. You now have an open pouch.
- Add Your Food: Put your prepared food into the pouch. Leave at least 2-3 inches between the food and the top of the bag.
- Start the Vacuum Seal: Place the open top of the bag over the front sealing strip again, making sure the bag is flat and not wrinkled. Lower the lid until it locks. The vacuum process will start automatically. You’ll see the bag tighten around the food. When all the air is removed, it will seal and beep to let you know it’s done.
- Release and Check: Press the “Cancel/Release” button to release any remaining pressure, then lift the lid. Gently tug on the seal to ensure it’s strong. Your food is now ready for the fridge or freezer!
Using the Handheld Vacuum Accessory
The V500 comes with a handy tool for sealing containers. To use it, attach the hose to the port on the front of the machine. Then, attach the appropriate lid to your FoodSaver container. Place the handheld nozzle over the valve on the lid and press the button. It will suck the air out and create a vacuum inside the container. This is perfect for things like cheese, salads, or half-used ingredients.
Pro Tips for Best Results
A few simple tricks can make a huge difference in your vacuum sealing success.
Dealing with Moist Foods
Foods with high water content, like berries or marinated meat, can cause problems. The liquid can get sucked into the machine. To prevent this, try the “Pulse” method: hold the lid down lightly during vacuuming, and press “Cancel” just before liquid reaches the top. Then press “Seal Only.” Even better, pre-freeze these items on a tray for 1-2 hours before sealing them.
Protecting Delicate Items
Foods like bread, soft fish, or delicate pastries can be crushed by full vacuum pressure. Place a paper towel at the top of the bag to act as a buffer, or use the “Pulse” method to stop the vacuum early while still removing most air.
Organizing Your Freezer
Always label your bags with the contents and date before you fill them. Use a permanent marker. For efficient storage, freeze bags flat on a baking sheet. Once solid, you can stack them like books, which saves a ton of space.
Common Troubleshooting Issues
Even the best machines have hiccups. Here’s how to fix common V500 problems.
- Bag Won’t Seal: Check that the sealing area is clean and dry. Even a tiny crumb or drop of moisture can break the seal. Also, ensure you’re using bags designed for the FoodSaver system.
- Incomplete Vacuum: If air seems to be left in the bag, check for wrinkles where the bag meets the sealer. Also, make sure your food isn’t too close to the top, blocking the air channel.
- Machine Stops Mid-Cycle: This is often a safety feature if it detects a leak or moisture. Open the lid, dry everything thoroughly, and try again with a new section of bag.
- Unusual Noise: A constant, loud noise might mean the vacuum channel is blocked. Turn off the unit, unplug it, and check for debris in the groove near the sealing strip.
Maintenance and Care
Taking good care of your V500 ensures it lasts for years. After each use, wipe down the sealing strip and the vacuum channel with a damp cloth. Make sure it’s completely dry before closing the lid for storage. About once a month, check the foam strip on the underside of the lid. If it becomes worn or damaged, you can order a replacement from FoodSaver. It’s a simple fix that keeps the vacuum strong.
Always store your machine with the lid open to prevent the seals from compressing. And keep it away from direct heat sources, like your stove or oven.
Creative Uses Beyond Food
Your V500 isn’t just for the kitchen! Here are some clever ways to use it:
- Document Protection: Seal important papers, photos, or passports to protect them from water damage during travel or storage.
- First Aid Kits: Keep bandages, gauze, and medical supplies sterile and dry in your car or boat kit.
- Marinating Meat Quickly: The vacuum action pulls marinade into the meat in minutes instead of hours. Just be sure to use a bag without sharp bones.
- Preventing Oxidation: Seal half-used bags of chips, nuts, or coffee beans to keep them crispy and fresh.
FAQs About the FoodSaver V500
Can I use any bags with the FoodSaver V500?
For best results and to avoid damaging your machine, it’s recommended to use FoodSaver brand bags or bags specifically marked as compatible with FoodSaver systems. Generic bags may not seal properly or melt.
How do I seal a bag that’s already open on both ends?
You can still use it! Simply fold one end over and make a temporary seal with the “Seal Only” function. Then, fill the bag and create your final, proper vacuum seal at the other end. Cut off the temporary seal later if you want.
Is the FoodSaver V500 good for liquids?
It can handle liquids, but you must be careful. The best method is to freeze the liquid solid first, then vacuum seal the frozen block. For things like soups, you can also use the specialized FoodSaver containers instead of bags.
Why did my bag get a weak seal?
A weak seal is usually caused by moisture, crumbs, or grease on the sealing area. Always wipe the inside of the bag’s opening with a dry paper towel before placing it in the machine. Also, ensure the heating strip on the machine is clean.
Can I reseal a bag after I open it?
Yes, you can. Just cut the bag open, leaving enough material above the old seal. After removing some food, you can re-seal it using the “Seal Only” function. Note that each time you do this, the bag gets shorter.
How long will vacuum-sealed food last?
It varies. In the freezer, meats can last 2-3 years instead of 6-9 months. In the fridge, cooked leftovers can last 1-2 weeks instead of 3-4 days. Always observe food for signs of spoilage and follow safe food handling guidelines.
Final Thoughts on Mastering Your Appliance
Getting comfortable with how to use the V500 Series FoodSaver vacuum sealer opens up a world of possibilities. You’ll waste less food, save money, and make meal planning much simpler. Start with dry, easy foods like crackers or frozen vegetables to build your confidence. Before long, you’ll be sealing everything in sight, enjoying the benefits of fresh-tasting food whenever you need it. Remember to keep the sealing area clean, pre-freeze moist items, and always label your bags. With these practices, your V500 will be a reliable kitchen helper for a long time.