Sucking It Out

FYI — The post title refers to getting the air out of freezer bags.

A vacuum sealer is in the “Don't want or need” category in our very downsized apt kitchen. Many folks use these sealers, but buying one would mean storing it and buying special bags, more costly than using store-bought freezer bags.

So, how to get all most of the air out of a freezer bag before freezing?

CAUTION — This procedure does not apply to packages holding any sort of meat, poultry or fish. These can harbor pathogens and parasites, such as salmonella. Sucking the air out of bags with these items inside could result in inhaling some of these microbes and infecting yourself. Don’t take the chance.

OK, so it's clear that this procedure applies to things like baked good, veggies, fruit and it's not new. I heard about it can't recall when and have been using it the past couple of years (or more). And, you also also need to save freezer space by using a freezer bag vs. container. 

Let's get started: all you need is
a plastic straw. 

First, press out as much air as you can by hand, then insert the straw in a corner of the bag and seal the bag around it. Suck the air out through the straw until you see the bag collapse around the contents. While maintaining suction, pull slowly pull out the straw and quickly seal the bag, then freeze. It's as simple as that.

Here’s another procedure (which I haven’t tested): Submerge the freezer bag in a bowl of water and then seal it. The pressure of the water supposedly pushes out the air and molds the bag around the food. This method requires less huffing and puffing. Be sure to dry the bag thoroughly before putting in the freezer.

Either one of these methods can reduce the amount of air in freezer bags, which keeps frozen foods better and help reduce freezer burn. And who doesn't like those benefits?

Do you have a method for "vacuum-sealing" freezer bags that works for you?