9
It is important to note that vacuum packaging is NOT a substitute
for canning and it cannot reverse the deterioration of foods. It can
only slow down the changes in quality. It is difficult to predict how
long foods will retain their top-quality flavour, appearance or texture
because it depends on age and condition of the food on the day it
was vacuum packaged.
IMPORTANT: Vacuum packaging is NOT a substitute for refrigeration
or freezing. Any perishable foods that require refrigeration must still
be refrigerated or frozen after vacuum packaging. To avoid possible
illness, do not reuse bags after storing raw meats, raw fish or greasy
foods. Do not reuse bags that have been microwaved or simmered.
Thawing and Reheating Vacuum Packaged Foods
FOODS INSIDE BAG CAN BE DEFROSTED BUT NOT REHEATED
IN A MICROWAVE OVEN.
Defrosting - Always thaw foods in a refrigerator or a microwave oven
— do not thaw perishable foods at room temperature. Make sure to
cut off the corner of the bag before placing it in the microwave. We
recommend that you place the bag on a microwave-safe dish to avoid
liquids from spilling out.
Reheating - To reheat foods in a microwave oven, remove it from bag
and place it on a microwave-safe dish.
You can also reheat foods in Foodsaver
™
bags by placing them in
water at a low simmering temperature below 75°C (170°F). Make
sure the food is fully heated throughout.
Where to Store
Remarks
Freezer
Pre-freeze moist foods before vacuum packaging. Alternatively, place a folded paper towel between the food and the end
of the bag to absorb excess liquid. Remember to leave 75 mm of space after the towel to allow room for the seal to be
created. Note: Beef may appear darker after vacuum packaging due to the removal of oxygen. This is not an indication of
spoilage.
Freezer
Freezer
Refrigerator
To keep cheese fresh vacuum package it after each use. Make the bags extra long to allow 25mm for each new seal
required. NEVER vacuum package soft cheeses.
Always store in the
freezer
Blanch vegetables until they are cooked but still crisp before packaging. Freeze before packaging. Separate during
freezing to avoid vegetables sticking together when they are packaged. NEVER vacuum package fresh mushrooms.
Refrigerator
Wash then dry. For best results, package using a Foodsaver
™
canister.
Freezer
Pre-freeze soft fruits and berries before packaging. Separate during freezing to avoid fruits sticking together when they are
packaged.
Refrigerator
Refrigerator
Freezer
We recommend using a Foodsaver
™
canister to avoid crushing. Alternatively, pre-freeze until solid.
Pantry
Pantry
To prevent food particles from being drawn into the vacuum pump, place a coffee filter or paper towel at top of the bag or
canister before vacuum packaging. You can also place the food in its original bag inside a Foodsaver
™
bag.
Pantry
Pantry
Freezer
Pre-freeze in a suitable container until solid. Remove frozen liquid and vacuum package in a Foodsaver
™
Bag.
Pantry
Pantry
For best results, use a Foodsaver
™
canister for crushable items like crackers.