Why Do We Need A Vacuum Sealer?

Why Do We Need A Vacuum Sealer? – Most of us would have bought food stuff from the supermarket that is tightly sealed inside poly bags. When you cut the bag open you can feel and see the air rush in. This is because the bag had been vacuum sealed. It is a common process as far as vegetables and fruits are concerned and nowadays even pillows and blankets, and many other bulky items too, are packed in this manner. This is done to make it easier for the manufacturer and customer to transport and store them.

Vacuum sealer – What is vacuum sealing?

Vacuum sealing is a method in which the air is drawn out of a packet, with the materials inside, to create a vacuum, before the bag is sealed using heat. Hence, vacuum sealing not only removes the air that is present around the material but also prevents fresh air from coming into contact with it. This will help the food to remain fresh and consumable for a longer time. This means that less food will be wasted during transportation and storage.

What are the main uses of vacuum sealing?: Vacuum sealing is done using a vacuum sealer. This machine will have a compressor that allows the air in a packet to be drawn out. As soon as the air in the packet is drawn out the packet is sealed off using heat. This leaves all the inner material in a safe and contamination free zone. Vacuum sealed materials remain fresher for a longer time.

What other type of vacuum sealing is available?: Though generally the air in the package is removed and the packet is sealed with heat, sometimes inert gases like nitrogen also may be put into the package to keep the contents in an inert state. Vacuum sealers can also vary according to the size depending on the size of the production unit or demand for vacuum packaging.

Vacuum sealer ratings: There are mainly two types of vacuum sealers based on the method of operation. One sealer works in the automatic mode which requires minimal human interruption and almost no need for us to look into the sealing process. These are mostly the type which is used in established factories.

The other type is the manual type in which the worker will set a time for withdrawing air and sealing the package. This type usually has a "seal now" button, for immediately sealing the package. Both these vacuum sealer ratings are good.

Food saver vacuum sealer: A Food saver vacuum sealer is best vacuum sealer used to extend the shelf life of food by the proper storage methods. The user has to remember that just because a food is vacuum sealed does not mean that it is safe. This is because the removal of air, mostly oxygen, can render aerobic bacteria inactive but other anaerobic bacteria can still survive inside the packet. However, if the material has been properly sterilized then the shelf life can be greatly increased. Meat can be kept up to 2 to 3 years without loss of flavour or tenderness.

Vacuum sealing powders: There are a few points that have to be kept in mind while vacuum storing food materials. All types of powders like masalas, flours and other powdered food items have to be packaged within an inner packet so that the powder does not get sucked into the sealer.

Vacuum sealing vegetables: Vegetables should ideally be vacuum sealed only after they are blanched in hot water. Immersing them in cold water after blanching will help to arrest the cooking process immediately. Now the vegetables are ready to be vacuum sealed.