How to Use a Vacuum Sealer: A Step-by-Step Guide

The Benefits of Vacuum Sealing Food

People choose to vacuum seal food for a variety of different reasons. Here are the top three benefits to vacuum sealing:

1. Save Food: Prevent Spoiling & Freezer Burn

Vacuum sealing works by placing your food in an airtight bag and removing all the oxygen. This prevents common issues like freezer burn and bacterial growth, dramatically slowing spoilage. You can vacuum seal cooked or uncooked foods as well, depending on intended uses. 

It is important to understand the correct length of time each food can be vacuum sealed and stored in the fridge or freezer as every item may be different.

2. Save Time with Meal Prep

Save yourself prep time and effort by having your ingredients and pre-cooked meals ready. Using a vacuum sealer machine allows you to pre-cook and seal foods for quick future use.

3. Save Money

Saving on the grocery bill is always a plus, and a vacuum sealer will save you money in the long run. By keeping foods fresh and ready for future use, you can confidently buy food in bulk or maximize leftovers.

Vacuum Sealing Step-by-Step Guide

Every vacuum sealer works a little differently, so it’s always a good idea to consult your owner’s manual for details on the settings and features specific to your machine. The steps below cover the basics to help you get started.

Step #1: Proper Food Preparation

Proper preparation is essential for a successful vacuum seal, whether you are prepping fresh vegetables, trimming meat, or portioning large quantities of food. To ensure your food stays preserved for the long term, always watch out for sharp edges. For meat and fish, be sure to trim away any sharp bones or fragments that could puncture the vacuum bag.

Handling Excess Moisture

Excess moisture is the enemy of a good seal. If you are sealing liquid-heavy foods like soups and stews, pre-freeze them first until they are solid. For slightly moist foods, you can simply pat them dry with paper towels before sealing.

For moist or juicy cuts of meat, you can cut a paper towel to the length of the bag and place it inside, running the whole way across the sealing bar. As the machine extracts the air, the paper towel will absorb the juices and prevent them from escaping into the seal, ensuring you get a clean, airtight lock that keeps your food safe for years.

Step #2: Filling the Vacuum Sealer Bags

When filling your vacuum seal bags, try to size the contents so that the bag isn't overfilled, which risks the bag to pop. Leave at least 2 to 3 inches of empty space between the end of your food and the top edge of the bag. This empty space allows the vacuum sealer to properly pull a vacuum and create a strong, clean heat seal.

Expert Tip | You'll want to use high-quality vacuum sealer bags from brands like MEAT! Your Maker or LEM.

Step #3: Seal the Bag

With your food prepped and placed inside the vacuum seal bag, it's time to seal it tight.

• Insert the Bag: Place the open end of the bag flat into the vacuum sealer's sealing channel or drip tray, making sure it is smooth and centered.

• Lock and Start: Close the lid or engage the locking mechanism according to your model’s instructions. Most vacuum sealer machines will feature buttons to guide you. The machine will then automatically evacuate the oxygen and initiate the heat seal.

Step #4: Proper Food Storage & Labeling

Once the air is removed and your food is properly vacuum sealed, it is time for long-term storage.

• Always Date and Label: Before putting your food away, use a permanent marker to date and label your bags with the exact contents and the date they were sealed. This practice is essential for safe food rotation, tracking expiration times, and ensuring safe consumption.

• Follow the Golden Rule of Storage: Generally, you should store vacuum-sealed foods wherever you would normally keep them if they were unsealed.

With a quality vacuum sealer and bags, you'll be able to easily food prep and have meals readily available for your family. If you have additional questions about food preparation, stop into your local SCHEELS to speak with an Expert.