Vacuum sealing Mylar bags is a game-changer for anyone serious about long-term food storage, prepping, or preserving bulk goods. Mylar bags offer an exceptional barrier against oxygen and moisture up to 4,500% better than standard plastic alternatives making them ideal for protecting your food from spoilage, light damage, and pests. When combined with a FoodSaver vacuum sealer, these bags can dramatically extend the shelf life of your stored items, keeping them fresh and safe for years.
Why Choose Mylar and Embossed SteelPak Bags?
Mylar bags are made from polyester film laminated with aluminum, creating a durable, flexible, and puncture-resistant container that blocks light and oxygen effectively. Embossed SteelPak Mylar bags, with their textured surface, are specifically designed to work with suction vacuum sealers like FoodSaver machines. They are eco-friendly, reusable, and perfect for preppers, homebrewers, and bulk buyers who want reliable long-term storage.
Can You Vacuum Seal Mylar Bags with a FoodSaver?
Yes, but only embossed or textured Mylar bags like SteelPak work well with FoodSaver vacuum sealers. Smooth Mylar bags lack the internal channels needed for suction vacuum sealers to remove air properly, so they typically don’t seal effectively with these machines. Using non-compatible smooth Mylar bags with a FoodSaver can result in incomplete seals or leaks.
Step-by-Step Guide to Vacuum Seal Mylar Bags Using a FoodSaver
- Gather Tools:Â You will need a FoodSaver vacuum sealer, embossed Mylar bags (e.g., SteelPak), oxygen absorbers, scissors, and optionally a funnel for filling.
- Prepare Bags:Â Ensure bags are clean and dry. Leave enough headspace at the top for sealing.
- Fill Bags:Â Add your food or items, using a funnel if needed. Insert the appropriate oxygen absorber(s) to eliminate residual oxygen.
- Preheat Sealer:Â If your FoodSaver has a preheat function, activate it for optimal sealing.
- Position Bag:Â Lay the filled Mylar bag flat in the vacuum channel, smoothing out wrinkles.
- Vacuum and Seal:Â Close the lid, select vacuum and seal, and let the machine extract air and seal the bag. Double sealing may be necessary for thicker bags.
- Inspect Seal:Â Check for a smooth, airtight seal without gaps. Re-seal if needed.
- Label Bags: Mark contents and date for easy identification.
Hacks for Sealing Smooth Mylar Bags with a FoodSaver
If you only have smooth Mylar bags, you can still vacuum seal them by creating air channels inside the bag. Insert a textured strip from a vacuum sealer bag, a straw, zip tie, or mesh to allow air extraction. Alternatively, use a hair straightener or flat iron to heat seal the bag combined with oxygen absorbers inside. These hacks improve sealing success but require extra care.
Chamber Sealers vs FoodSaver for Mylar Bags
Chamber vacuum sealers (e.g., Avid Armor, WeVac) differ from suction sealers like FoodSaver by removing air from both the bag and the chamber, allowing them to seal any type of Mylar bag smooth or embossed without issue. Chamber sealers are generally more expensive but offer superior efficiency and compatibility. FoodSaver machines are more affordable and suitable for embossed Mylar bags but may struggle with smooth Mylar.
Vacuum sealing embossed Mylar bags with a FoodSaver is an effective, accessible method for preserving food long-term. By choosing the right type of Mylar bag and following proper sealing steps, you can maximize freshness, reduce waste, and safeguard your stored goods for years to come.
Recommended Products and Accessories
To get the best results when vacuum sealing Mylar bags, using the right products and accessories is essential:
- SteelPak Mylar Bags: These come in both pre-cut sizes and roll formats. The embossed texture makes them compatible with suction vacuum sealers like FoodSaver, ensuring a strong, airtight seal. Rolls allow you to customize bag sizes for different storage needs, while pre-cut bags offer convenience.
- FoodSaver-Compatible Vacuum Sealers: Popular models from FoodSaver are designed to work well with embossed Mylar bags. Look for machines with adjustable heat settings and strong suction power to handle thick Mylar material.
- Chamber Vacuum Sealers: For serious food storage enthusiasts or commercial users, chamber vacuum sealers such as WeVac and Avid Armor are excellent choices. These sealers work with any Mylar bag type smooth or embossed and provide superior vacuum strength and seal reliability.
- Oxygen Absorbers: Essential for long-term food preservation, oxygen absorbers remove residual oxygen inside sealed Mylar bags, preventing spoilage and insect infestation. Choose sizes appropriate for your bag volume.
- Labeling Supplies: Use waterproof labels or permanent markers to clearly mark the contents and sealing date on each bag. Proper labeling helps with inventory management and ensures you use stored items before expiration.
Tips vs Common Mistakes to Avoid
To maximize the effectiveness of vacuum sealing Mylar bags, keep these tips and pitfalls in mind:
- Avoid Overfilling Bags: Overstuffing makes it difficult to seal properly and can cause seal failure. Leave enough headspace (about 2-3 inches) at the top for the sealer to create a strong seal.
- Clean the Seal Line Thoroughly: Any food particles, moisture, or wrinkles in the sealing area can cause leaks or weak seals. Always wipe the seal area clean and smooth before sealing.
- Store Wet Items Correctly: Vacuum sealing wet or moist foods without proper preparation can shorten shelf life. Consider pre-freezing or drying foods, or use a sealer with a wet/dry mode to prevent liquid from interfering with the seal.
- Don’t Skip Oxygen Absorbers: Even a perfect vacuum seal won’t prevent oxidation if oxygen remains inside the bag. Always include oxygen absorbers for long-term storage to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
In clusion, vacuum sealing Mylar bags with a FoodSaver is highly effective when using embossed or textured bags like SteelPak. These bags provide superior oxygen and moisture barriers, and when combined with oxygen absorbers, they ensure long-lasting food preservation. For casual users and home storage, FoodSaver machines paired with embossed Mylar bags offer a cost-effective solution. However, serious preppers or commercial users may benefit from investing in chamber vacuum sealers, which provide greater versatility and seal any Mylar bag type.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use smooth Mylar bags with a FoodSaver?
A: Smooth Mylar bags generally do not work well with FoodSaver suction sealers because they lack the textured channels needed for air extraction. However, hacks like inserting a textured strip or using a hair straightener for heat sealing can help.
Q: What’s the best vacuum sealer for Mylar bags?
A: For embossed Mylar bags, FoodSaver models with adjustable heat settings are excellent. For sealing smooth Mylar bags or for professional use, chamber vacuum sealers like WeVac or Avid Armor are the best options.
Q: Are SteelPak bags reusable?
A: Yes, SteelPak embossed Mylar bags are durable and can be reused multiple times if handled carefully and resealed properly.
Q: Is vacuum sealing better than just heat sealing with oxygen absorbers?
A: Vacuum sealing removes most of the air, creating a tighter package and reducing oxygen exposure. Heat sealing alone with oxygen absorbers can work but may not remove as much air, potentially shortening shelf life compared to vacuum sealing.
By following these recommendations and avoiding common mistakes, you can confidently vacuum seal Mylar bags to protect your food and supplies for years to come.
