Vacuum Sealer Bags

Vacuum sealers use bags that are intended to hold food. Most vacuum sealer bags have been approved by the FDA for food use, and they contain no harmful materials. Vacuum sealer bags contain an embossed, or textured, side, which is why they are able to rid themselves of air effectively.

Not your ordinary bag

Vacuum sealers use bags that tend to me made out of polyethylene, which is a type of plastic. Vacuum sealer bags are more durable and possess more strength than your average, plastic zip-lock bag. Additionally, they often contain an outer layer of thin nylon, which increases their strength.

From small to big

Sizes of vacuum sealer bags vary. They range from 11" to quart size to gallon size. To avoid wasting unused portions of bags, it's smart to keep a variety of sizes on hand.

Get a good deal

Vacuum sealer bags are more expensive than your ordinary zip-lock bag,but they are much more durable and secure. Most vacuum sealers come with a supply of bags, and additional bags can be purchased for about 50 cents a bag. They usually come in quantities of anywhere from 20 to 100. Look for good deals on vacuum sealer bags on the internet or at local hardware or home furnishing stores.

A few tips

Some vacuum sealer bags are reusable. If the bag contained fruits, breads, or dry goods, it can be washed and used again. Bags containing raw meat, fish, eggs, or cheese should be thrown away after one use. If you find that the bag is in any way oily or greasy, it is best to discard.

Bags can be washed by hand or in the top rack of the dishwasher. Make sure they are completely dry before using again.

Most vacuum sealer bags are recyclable. Look for the recycling number, usually number seven, on the bag.

Most vacuum sealer bags are microwave friendly. If you have sealed leftovers, just put them in the microwave to reheat. Most items can be reheated, but never place a bag sealed with raw meat in the microwave. Likewise, foods that contain an excess of oil should not be microwaved either, as the heat of the oil can melt or cause holes in the bag.

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