If you want to keep food fresh for much longer, learning how to use the FoodSaver vacuum sealer is a game-changer. This guide will walk you through everything, from setup to storage, so you can get the most out of your machine.
A vacuum sealer removes air from specially designed bags and containers. This process, called vacuum sealing, slows down spoilage. It prevents freezer burn and helps your groceries last weeks or even months longer than usual.
You’ll save money by reducing waste. You can also buy in bulk and repackage meals for easy prep. Let’s get started with your FoodSaver.
How To Use FoodSaver Vacuum Sealer
Before you seal your first item, you need to set up your machine correctly. Don’t worry, it’s a simple process.
Unboxing and Initial Setup
First, find a good spot for your FoodSaver. Place it on a clean, dry, and stable countertop. Make sure there’s space behind it for the bag to hang down during sealing.
Check the box for all parts. You should have the main unit, a power cord, and a starter roll of bags or pre-cut bags. Some models include hose attachments for containers. Plug the machine into an outlet, but keep it turned off for now.
Familiarize yourself with the key parts:
- Sealing Strip: The hot bar that melts the bag closed.
- Vacuum Channel: The area where air is sucked out.
- Open/Close Lever or Lid: Secures the bag during the process.
- Mode Buttons: For dry/moist foods, gentle sealing, or manual control.
Understanding Your FoodSaver Bags and Rolls
FoodSaver bags are not ordinary plastic bags. They are made from durable, multi-layer material designed to withstand the vacuum process. Using the right bag is critical for a good seal.
You have two main options:
- Pre-cut Bags: These come in specific sizes (like quart or gallon). They are convenient for single uses.
- Bag Rolls: This is a continuous roll of bag material. You cut the length you need for each item, which reduces waste and is more versatile.
Always use bags designed for your FoodSaver model. Generic bags might not seal properly and can damage the machine. For liquids or very moist foods, freeze them for 1-2 hours first or use the “Moist” setting.
Step-by-Step Guide to Vacuum Sealing Food
Now for the main event. Follow these steps carefully for perfect results everytime.
Step 1: Prepare Your Food
Proper prep extends shelf life even further. For best results:
- Pat dry meats, fish, and vegetables with a paper towel. Excess moisture can interfere with the seal.
- For soups or stews, let them cool completely to room temperature. Hot food creates steam that can ruin the vacuum.
- Arrange items in a single layer when possible. This helps the air get sucked out evenly.
- Sharp bones or hard edges can puncture the bag. Wrap these spots with a paper towel first.
Step 2: Cut and Seal One End of the Bag
If using a roll, cut a piece longer than you think you need. You need extra bag material beyond the food to create a good seal. A good rule is to leave at least 3 inches above the contents.
Take one end of the bag and place it over the sealing strip. Close the lid or lever until it locks. Press the “Seal” button (without vacuum). The machine will heat up and create a solid, closed end on your bag. Now you have an open-top pouch.
Step 3: Fill the Bag and Position It
Place your food inside the bag. Again, leave that 3-inch space at the top. This “clean area” is crucial because any crumbs or moisture in the seal zone will cause a leak.
Gently press the bag to settle the food. Lay the open end of the bag over the vacuum channel. Make sure the bag’s edge is past the sealing strip, inside the machine.
Step 4: Start the Vacuum and Seal Process
Close the lid or lever firmly until it engages. Now, select the appropriate setting:
- Use “Dry” for bread, crackers, dry grains, or hard cheeses.
- Use “Moist” for meats, fish, moist vegetables, and soft cheeses. This setting has a slightly slower vacuum to prevent liquid from being pulled into the machine.
Press the “Vacuum & Seal” button. You’ll hear the machine start. It will suck out the air, collapsing the bag tightly around the food. When the vacuum is complete, it automatically heats the sealing strip to close the bag. The machine will beep or indicate when it’s finished.
Step 5: Final Check and Storage
Open the lid and remove your sealed bag. Inspect the seal. It should be smooth, straight, and about 1/4 inch wide. Gently tug on both sides of the seal to check its strength.
Label the bag with the contents and date using a permanent marker. Store it in your freezer, refrigerator, or pantry based on the food type. Properly sealed dry goods can last over a year, while meats can last 2-3 years in a deep freeze.
Using the Canister and Hose Attachment
Many FoodSaver kits include plastic canisters and a hose. These are perfect for sealing leftovers you want to access frequently, like a block of cheese or salad greens.
To use them:
- Attach the hose to the port on your FoodSaver machine.
- Place your food in the canister and put on the special lid. It has a one-way valve.
- Connect the other end of the hose to the lid’s valve.
- Press the button for “Canister” or “Vacuum” on the hose port. The machine will remove air from the container.
- Once the vacuum is complete, disconnect the hose. The lid will stay sealed until you press the release button.
This method is reusable and fantastic for organizing your fridge.
Pro Tips and Troubleshooting
Even with a great tool, sometimes things don’t go as planned. Here are common issues and how to fix them.
The Bag Won’t Seal Properly
If the seal is weak, broken, or the bag didn’t close:
- Check the Seal Area: Wipe the sealing strip with a clean, dry cloth. Built-up residue from previous seals can block the heat.
- Moisture in the Seal Zone: This is the #1 cause of failed seals. Ensure the top 3 inches of the bag interior are completely clean and dry. For wet foods, use the “Moist” setting and consider a longer bag.
- Bag Wrinkles: Make sure the bag is lying flat and straight across the sealing strip before you close the lid.
The Machine Stops Mid-Cycle
If the FoodSaver turns off before finishing:
- Overheating: If you’ve done many seals in a row, the sealing strip may need to cool. Unplug the machine and wait 15-20 minutes.
- Bag Too Small: If the bag is very short, food particles might get sucked into the vacuum channel. Always use a bag with ample extra space.
Getting the Strongest Vacuum
For the tightest seal on bulky items like a whole chicken or a loaf of bread:
- Use the “Manual” or “Pulse” button if your model has it. Hold it to draw out air, release it to let the bag settle, then press it again. This helps compress irregular shapes.
- For items with sharp edges, use a bag buffering layer. Place the item inside a smaller bag or wrap it in parchment paper first, then put it in the vacuum bag.
What Foods Are Best for Vacuum Sealing?
You can seal almost anything, but some foods benefit more than others.
Excellent Candidates:
- Raw Meats & Poultry: Pre-portion steaks, chicken breasts, or ground meat. Sealing prevents freezer burn beautifully.
- Hard Cheeses: Blocks of cheddar or gouda last for months without molding.
- Coffee Beans & Nuts: Sealing locks in freshness and aroma, preventing staleness.
- Prepped Vegetables: Blanch veggies like broccoli or green beans first, then seal and freeze.
- Bulk Grains & Flour: Protect from pantry pests and extend shelf life.
Foods to Avoid or Prepare Carefully:
- Fresh Mushrooms & Soft Berries: They can be easily crushed. Use a canister or the “Gentle” setting.
- Raw Onions & Garlic: Their strong odors can permeate other foods and the machine. Seal them separately.
- Liquid-Forward Foods: Always freeze soups, sauces, or marinades into a flat block first, then seal.
Cleaning and Maintaining Your FoodSaver
Regular maintenance keeps your sealer running smoothly for years. Always unplug the machine before cleaning.
Daily/Weekly Care:
- Wipe the outside with a damp cloth. Never submerge the unit in water.
- Clean the sealing strip and vacuum channel area with a cotton swab or soft brush to remove any debris.
- Empty the drip tray (if your model has one) after sealing moist foods.
Occasional Deep Clean: Check your manual, but you can often remove the sealing strip cover for a more thorough cleaning. Just be sure it’s completely dry before you use the machine again.
Creative Uses Beyond Food Storage
Your FoodSaver isn’t just for groceries. Here’s some clever ways to use it:
- Marinating Meats: Seal meat with marinade in a bag. The vacuum pulls the flavor deep into the meat in minutes, not hours.
- Protecting Documents: Keep important papers, maps, or photos safe from water damage by vacuum sealing them.
- Travel Kits: Seal toiletries like shampoo in small bags to prevent leaks in your suitcase.
- Emergency Kits: Keep matches, first-aid supplies, or fire-starting materials dry and organized.
FAQ Section
Can you reuse FoodSaver bags?
It’s not recommended for food safety reasons. After opening, the bag’s integrity is compromised, and it’s difficult to clean thoroughly inside. For non-food items, you might get a couple uses if the seal is cut carefully.
How long does vacuum sealed food last in the freezer?
It varies by food. Generally, vacuum sealing can extend freezer life by 3-5 times. For example, steaks might last 6 months normally, but 2-3 years when vacuum sealed. Always label with the date.
Why did my vacuum sealed meat turn brown?
This is normal and safe. The vacuum process removes oxygen, which can change the color of red meat to a darker, purplish brown. It will usually turn red again once exposed to air after opening.
Can you seal liquids in a FoodSaver?
Yes, but with caution. Use the “Moist” setting and freeze the liquid first, or use a canister attachment. For bags, leave plenty of extra space and consider double-bagging for extra security.
What’s the difference between a FoodSaver and a cheap sealer?
FoodSaver machines generally have stronger vacuum motors, more durable sealing strips, and better overall construction. They handle frequent use better and offer more consistent seals, which is key for long-term storage.
My FoodSaver is not sucking out air. What should I do?
First, check for an obvious bag puncture or a poor initial seal. Make sure the lid is fully closed and locked. Clean the vacuum channel area of any blockages. If the problem persists, the machine’s internal mechanism may need servicing.
Mastering how to use the FoodSaver vacuum sealer takes a little practice, but the benefits are huge. You’ll reduce food spoilage, organize your kitchen, and make meal planning simpler. Start with something easy, like portioning out a bulk pack of chicken, and you’ll quickly see how useful this tool can be.