What is a vacuum sealer?

A vacuum sealer is a device that extracts air from a bag or container and then seals it to create an airtight environment. Models vary from handheld pumps and chamber machines to countertop units with built-in cutters and heat-sealing bars. The primary function is to reduce oxygen levels around food, which helps slow microbial growth and chemical reactions that lead to spoilage. Some vacuum sealers also include settings for delicate items or liquid-rich foods to prevent crushing or leakage.

There are two common types: external vacuum sealers that suck air from one end of a bag and then seal it, and chamber vacuum sealers that remove air from a whole chamber including the container. Chamber units tend to handle liquids better and create stronger seals, while external units are usually more affordable and suitable for home kitchens.

How vacuum sealers aid food storage

Vacuum sealing alters the environment around food, reducing oxygen and humidity that encourage mold, bacteria, and freezer burn. For food storage, that means meats, cheeses, and dry goods can keep their texture and flavor longer than when stored in ordinary plastic containers or wrap. The compact packages also stack neatly, improving organization in refrigerators, freezers, and pantries.

Using vacuum-sealed packs can simplify portioning and meal planning: you can divide bulk purchases into meal-sized packets that are ready to thaw and cook. Proper labeling with date and contents is still important because vacuum sealing slows but does not stop spoilage, and some perishable items still require refrigeration or freezing.

Using a vacuum sealer as a kitchen appliance

As a kitchen appliance, a vacuum sealer fits into food-prep workflows by saving time and reducing waste. It works well alongside a freezer, slow cooker, or sous-vide setup. For sous-vide cooking, vacuum-sealed bags create even heat transfer and prevent water from contacting food. For everyday use, vacuum sealers help preserve bulk buys and seasonal produce until needed.

Routine maintenance keeps the appliance reliable: wipe sealing bars after use, replace gaskets when worn, and use manufacturer-recommended bags. Accessories such as jar adapters, roll holders, and different-size bags increase versatility. Choose a model with adjustable settings if you plan to seal delicate items like berries or bread that could be flattened by strong vacuum pressure.

Role in food preservation

Vacuum sealing supports multiple preservation strategies: refrigeration, freezing, and room-temperature storage for shelf-stable items. By limiting oxygen, it reduces enzymatic browning and oxidation of fats, which helps maintain flavor and appearance. Freezer-stored foods are particularly protected from freezer burn when air is removed, preserving texture and moisture during longer storage periods.

That said, vacuum sealing is not a sterilization method. Perishable items should still be stored at safe temperatures and consumed within recommended time frames. For long-term preservation beyond refrigerator or freezer life, vacuum sealing is often combined with freezing or drying and, in some cases, proper canning or freezing protocols to ensure safety.

Can you use plastic bag with a vacuum sealer?

Yes, but use bags designed for vacuum sealing rather than ordinary plastic bags. Vacuum sealer bags are typically thicker and have textured channels that allow air to be drawn out evenly and the heat-seal to form properly. Standard sandwich or grocery bags can collapse and may not hold an airtight seal, risking spoilage. For chamber machines, smooth-walled bags may work, but check your machine’s recommendations.

When sealing foods with moisture, consider pre-freezing or using a vacuum sealer setting for liquids to prevent spills. Some sealers provide a gentle or pulse vacuum mode for softer foods to avoid crushing. Reusable vacuum bags are available and can be suitable for many uses, but inspect them regularly for nicks and replace them as needed to maintain food safety.

Conclusion

A vacuum sealer is a practical kitchen tool that assists with organized food storage and extends the life of many ingredients through reduced exposure to air and moisture. It complements refrigeration and freezing, supports portioning and meal planning, and can improve outcomes for techniques like sous-vide. While not a substitute for safe handling and proper temperature control, a vacuum sealer can be a useful addition to a well-run home kitchen focused on reducing waste and preserving quality.