Can I use normal plastic bag for vacuum sealing?

Yes, it’s possible to vacuum seal your food at home without a vacuum sealer! All you need is a zip-top plastic freezer bag and a bowl of water.

What bags can be used for vacuum sealer?

If you want to use your FoodSaver® appliance to re-seal, but not vacuum package a bag (without removing the air first) you can use it on Mylar type (strong, thin polyester) or stiff plastic bags, not any other types. For example, you can re-seal potato chip bags.

What is a Mylar bag?

What is a Foil Pouch or Mylar Bag? Mylar pouches are made from several layers of laminated food-grade plastic and aluminum. Food will not react with aluminum because it is separated by a food-grade plastic lining. Mylar bags provide good light, moisture, and oxygen barrier to protect the food inside the bag.

Do you need special bags for vacuum sealing?

Not any bag will work for vacuum sealing. Regular bags leak oxygen and will not hold a vacuum. When looking for a vacuum bag, be sure the bag specifies being a barrier bag. The amount of barrier will depend on the thickness of the materials and what the bag is made from.

What are the disadvantages of vacuum packaging?

Advantages/Disadvantages of Vacuum Packing

Advantages of Vacuum Packing Disadvantages of Vacuum Packing
Barrier From External Elements Proper Gas Levels and Oxygen Levels Must be Known to Increase Shelf Life
Clear and Visible External Packaging Loss of Preservation Once the Package has been Opened

Can you use regular plastic bags in the FoodSaver?

If you want to use your FoodSaver® appliance to re-seal, but not vacuum package a bag (without removing the air first) you can use it on Mylar type (strong, thin polyester) or stiff plastic bags, not any other types.

How do you use a garbage bag as a vacuum bag?

DIY Vacuum Packing (a.k.a the Poor Man’s Spacebag)

  1. Step 1: What You Need. -Garbage bags.
  2. Step 2: Fill a Bag. I have filled my bag with a foam mattress pad, but anything from clothes to bedding will shrink when vacuum packed.
  3. Step 3: Hold the Bag Closed.
  4. Step 4: Insert Vacuum and Suck!
  5. Step 5: Tie the Bag Shut.