With the popularity of freeze-dried foods, more and more people are becoming fond of this healthy new type of food. Faced with the high prices of freeze-dried foods on the market, many freeze-dried food enthusiasts are deterred. So, we are considering whether it is possible to freeze dry at home to reduce the cost of obtaining freeze-dried foods.
Is it possible to freeze dry food at home?
Of course, it is possible to freeze dry food at home.
We know that freeze drying requires meeting two conditions: low-temperature freezing and a vacuum environment. Therefore, for home freeze drying, you can consider using a refrigerator along with dry ice. First, use the refrigerator to freeze the food, and after the food is completely frozen, place it in a cooler box. Then, add a large amount of dry ice to the cooler box, leaving a hole at the top of the cooler box to allow carbon dioxide to escape. After 2 to 3 days in such an environment, the freeze-dried food will be ready. Note that for better freeze-drying results, it is recommended to cut the food into small pieces. Additionally, during the freeze-drying period, make sure to replenish the dry ice to prevent it from running out prematurely.
In fact, through our practical operation, while using a refrigerator and dry ice to make freeze-dried food is feasible, the results are far inferior to those made with a freeze dryer. Therefore, if you want to freeze dry at home, we recommend the second method: using a home freeze dryer to make freeze-dried food.
What kind of machine should be used to freeze dry food?
Currently, freeze dryers can be divided into three categories: large commercial freeze dryers, small laboratory-specific freeze dryers, and small home freeze dryers that ordinary families can use. These small home freeze dryers are gradually becoming popular in the United States, bringing healthy and nutritious food to many households.
Can a dehydrator be used to freeze dry food?
I think many people might have this question: can a dehydrator be used to freeze dry food? The answer is no.
We know that the two conditions for freeze drying are low-temperature freezing and a vacuum environment. Our dehydrator uses high-temperature circulating air to remove water from the food, during which the texture of the food changes. Our freeze dryer, on the other hand, sublimates the solid water in the food directly into water vapor in a low-temperature vacuum environment, without changing the texture of the food. These are completely different processes, so we cannot use a dehydrator to make freeze-dried food.
What should be noted when using a freeze dryer to freeze dry food?
Before using a freeze dryer to freeze dry food, we need to pre-treat the food to ensure smooth freeze-drying. Here are some common pre-treatment steps:
- Cleaning: The food to be freeze-dried needs to be thoroughly cleaned to remove dirt, pesticides, and other contaminants. This step is especially important for fruits and vegetables.
- Peeling and Cutting: Depending on the type of food, it may need to be peeled, cored, seeded, or shelled. Afterward, cut the food into small pieces or slices. This helps the food freeze dry evenly and shortens the freeze-drying time.
- Blanching: For some vegetables, such as green beans, carrots, and cauliflower, blanching is an important step. This step can destroy the enzymes in the vegetables, preventing changes in color and texture. After blanching, quickly cool the vegetables in ice water and then drain them.
- Even Placement: Evenly distribute the pre-treated food on the trays of the freeze dryer to ensure air circulation for better freeze-drying results.
Maintenance of Home Freeze Dryers
After using a freeze dryer, we should clean it promptly, especially the interior and trays of the freeze dryer, to prevent food residues from breeding bacteria and affecting the performance of the freeze dryer.
Additionally, for the freeze-dried food, use vacuum-sealed bags or sealed cups for packaging to avoid contact with air.
The above are tips related to using a home freeze dryer. If you want to learn more about home freeze dryers, you can also read the following articles as a reference:
Freeze Dry Machine Tips: Everything You Need To Know
How Does A Freeze Dryer Work: Everything You Want To Know
What Is A Freezer Dryer Used For? Understanding Various Applications Of Freeze Dryers
Small Freeze Dry Machine For Home Use: Making Freeze-Dried Delicacies At Home Is No Longer A Dream
Freeze Dry Food Machine: Making Freeze-Dried Delicacies At Home Is No Longer A Dream
