Can You Save Money by Freeze Drying Your Own Food?
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*All information in this post is my opinion and gathered through my own research. Please do your own research before following any information in this post. This is for information purposes only. Also consult your doctor before taking any supplements*
**This post contains affiliate links. I receive a commission from any purchases that are made. This in no way changes the price for you. I am paid directly from the manufacturer.**
Are you looking to save money on food? Freeze drying your own food is one of the most cost-effective ways to do just that.
In this blog post, we’ll take a look at what freeze drying is, compare the cost of buying freeze-dried food to freeze drying your own food, and explore the benefits of freeze drying your own food.
We’ll also provide some tips for freeze drying your own food and some recipes.
What is Freeze Drying?
Freeze drying is a food preservation technique that is used to preserve food without the need for freezing or canning.
The process involves freezing the food, then removing the ice crystals (sublimation) by applying a vacuum and low temperatures. The process not only preserves the food, but also preserves its flavor, texture, and nutrition while removing the moisture.
Freeze drying has become a popular food preservation technique for home cooks and commercial food producers alike.
It’s used to preserve a wide variety of foods, from fruits and vegetables to meats, fish, ice cream, and leftovers. Freeze-dried foods, such as dry food, are light weight, easy to store, and have a long shelf life. Your final product after freeze drying will be a great way to fill your pantry and is a good idea for your food storage needs.
One of the benefits is that you can store your food without a fridge or freezer.
Cost Comparison Between Buying Freeze-Dried Food and Freeze Drying Your Own Food
When it comes to cost, buying freeze-dried food is generally more expensive than freeze drying your own food. A one-pound bag of freeze-dried fruit, for example, can cost anywhere from $5 to $15, depending on the type of fruit and where you purchase it.
On the other hand, freeze drying your own food is often much cheaper. Depending on the type of food you’re freeze drying and the amount of time it takes, you could spend as little as $0.50 per pound on your own freeze-dried food.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Freeze Drying Your Own Food
The cost of freeze drying your own food can vary widely, depending on several factors. The type of food you’re freeze drying, for example, can have a significant impact on the cost.
Fruits and vegetables are generally the cheapest to freeze dry, while meats and fish tend to be more expensive. The amount of time it takes to freeze dry the food also affects the cost.
Foods that take longer to freeze dry, such as meats and fish, will cost more than foods that take less time, such as fruits and vegetables.
The equipment you use to freeze dry your own food also affects the cost. If you’re using a home freeze dryer, you’ll need to factor in the cost of the machine, as well as the cost of electricity to run it, and accessories needed such as mylar bags and oxygen absorbers.
If you’re using a commercial freeze dryer, you’ll need to factor in the cost of renting the machine, as well as the cost of electricity.
Benefits of Freeze Drying Your Own Food
There are many benefits to freeze drying your own food. The most obvious benefit is cost savings. Freeze drying your own food is often much cheaper than buying freeze-dried food.
You’ll also enjoy the convenience of having your own food preserved and ready to eat whenever you need it.
Another benefit of freeze drying your own food is that it allows you to control the ingredients. You can choose the freshest ingredients and use organic produce, if desired.
It will allow you to pick the food with the best nutritional value without the need for preservatives.
You can also control the amount of salt, sugar, and other seasonings you add to your food.
Finally, freeze drying your own food is a great way to reduce food waste. By freeze drying your own food, you can enjoy fresh produce all year round, without having to worry about it going bad.
Check out the article below to see more advantages of freeze drying…….
How to Freeze Dry Your Own Food
Freeze drying your own food is relatively easy, although it does require some specialized equipment. In order to freeze dry your own food, you’ll need a freeze dryer like the harvest right, a vacuum pump, and a vacuum chamber.
You’ll also need a few other supplies, such as trays, a food processor, and a vacuum sealer.
To freeze dry your own food, you’ll first need to prepare the food. This involves washing and chopping the food, as well as blanching or freezing it.
You’ll then need to place the prepared food on the freeze dryer’s trays and set the temperature and time.
Once the food has been freeze dried, you’ll need to vacuum seal it in airtight containers to ensure it will stay fresh for a long time.
Equipment and Supplies Needed for Freeze Drying Your Own Food
In order to freeze dry your own food, you’ll need a few pieces of equipment. The most important piece of equipment is a freeze dryer.
There are two types of freeze dryers: home freeze dryers and commercial freeze dryers. Home freeze dryers are smaller and made more for home use, while commercial freeze dryers are larger and more expensive.
You’ll also need a few other supplies, such as trays, a food processor, and a vacuum sealer. You may also need a vacuum pump and a vacuum chamber, depending on the type of freeze dryer you’re using.
Recipes for Freeze-Dried Food
If you’re looking for recipes for freeze-dried food, you’ll be happy to know there are plenty of options. You can make everything from homemade snacks to full meals with freeze-dried ingredients. Here are a few recipes to get you started:
- Freeze-Dried Fruit Salad: Combine freeze-dried apples, strawberries, bananas, and peaches in a bowl. Mix in a few tablespoons of honey and a pinch of cinnamon. Serve cold.
- Freeze-Dried Vegetable Soup: Sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in a pot. Add in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and freeze-dried vegetables. Simmer until the soup is hot and the vegetables are tender.
- Freeze-Dried Chicken Burgers: Combine ground chicken, freeze-dried onions, garlic powder, and parsley in a bowl. Form the mixture into patties and cook in a skillet over medium heat until the burgers are cooked through. Serve with your favorite burger toppings.
Check out the article below for a list of foods that can and cannot be freeze dried….
Conclusion
Freeze drying your own food is a great way to save money and reduce food waste. It’s also a convenient way to preserve food without the need for freezing or canning.
With the right equipment and supplies, you can easily freeze dry your own food and enjoy the convenience and cost savings it offers.
If you’re looking to save money on food and preserve your own food, freeze drying your own food is definitely worth considering. With a little practice, you can become a pro and enjoy the benefits it offers.
If you are looking for a strategy to help you grow your food easier, than check out the article below…….
About The Author
My name is Robert and those that know me know that I like to research and to always be prepared the best I can for whatever life brings my way. This website was born out of putting those two things together. I am married with 3 children, a dog, 2 hamsters, 3 fish, and a gecko.
There is plenty of adventures and fun situations that happen at my house. We live in a rural down home town and like to enjoy lots of time with our immediate and extended family. My primary job is in the medical field which can be an adventure of it’s own at times.
My desire for this website is for it to be a place where you can come and find products and information that will help you be prepared for whatever life throws at you.
Thanks For Reading,
Robert
*All information in this post is my opinion and gathered through my own research. Please do your own research before following any information in this post. This is for information purposes only. Also consult your doctor before taking any supplements*
**This post contains affiliate links. I receive a commission from any purchases that are made. This in no way changes the price for you. I am paid directly from the manufacturer.**
