Using a vacuum seal prep container is a straightforward process designed to remove air and preserve the freshness of your food items for longer, making your meal preparation efforts more efficient.
Here’s a breakdown of how to use a vacuum seal container based on common systems involving a manual pump:
Steps for Sealing Your Prep Container
The process involves sealing the container securely and then using a manual pump to extract the air.
- Prepare and Place Food: Place your prepped food items, such as chopped vegetables, fruits, or leftovers, inside the vacuum seal container. Do not overfill the container, ensuring there is room between the food and the lid to allow for proper sealing.
- Close the Lid: Place the lid onto the container, ensuring it is seated correctly and creating a tight seal around the rim.
- Engage the Sealing Mechanism: Most containers have clips or a mechanism on the lid. According to the reference, you would typically fold the clip downwards to lock the lid firmly in place and prepare it for vacuum sealing.
- Position the Manual Pump: Locate the valve on the center of the lid. This is where the air will be extracted. Place the manual pump directly onto this valve, ensuring a snug connection.
- Remove the Air: Begin actuating or pumping the manual pump repeatedly. As you pump, air is being drawn out of the container. Continue pumping several times until resistance is noticeable. This resistance indicates that most of the air has been removed and a vacuum seal has been created.
- Remove the Pump: Once you feel sufficient resistance, carefully remove the manual pump from the valve. The container is now vacuum-sealed, protecting your food from oxidation and spoilage.
Opening the Vacuum Sealed Container
Opening a vacuum-sealed container is also simple and involves releasing the vacuum.
To open the container, locate the silicon valve in the center of the lid – the same valve where you attached the pump. Simply press the silicon valve firmly. You will hear a hiss as air rushes back into the container, releasing the vacuum seal and allowing you to easily remove the lid.
Benefits of Using Vacuum Seal Prep Containers
- Extends Freshness: Removing air significantly slows down the oxidation process and growth of microorganisms.
- Reduces Food Waste: By keeping food fresher for longer, you're less likely to discard spoiled ingredients.
- Saves Time: Prep ingredients in advance and keep them fresh until needed.
- Protects Flavor: Preserves the taste and texture of food better than conventional storage.
Using a vacuum seal prep container is an effective method for extending the life of your prepared foods, keeping them fresh and ready for cooking or consumption.
