Maintenance includes replacing vacuum pump oil if not using an oil-free pump. Then, there’s ongoing storage costs for mylar bags and oxygen absorbers.
We’ve found that a sturdy bench made of food-grade stainless steel works well, especially with its lower shelf for our trays and storage equipment.
Just a few years ago freeze dryers were only available commercially. As of 2025, there are now several brands and models of home freeze-dryers to consider.
Some costs you just can’t skimp on. For example, one mistake we made early on was purchasing cheaper Mylar bags and oxygen absorbers from Amazon – they are sitting in our shed to this day!
Users should consider their specific preservation needs and long-term goals when choosing accessories. Factors such as the types of products being freeze-dried, desired output volume, and budget constraints all play a role in determining which accessories will provide the most value.
Integrating oxygen absorbers into the packaging process enhances product shelf life and quality, making them indispensable for maintaining the integrity of freeze-dried items during storage and distribution
A full one-year warranty to repair or replace any part of the freeze-dryer or vacuum pump found to be defective
I hope this can assist you in making a wise purchasing decision on the size and type of freeze dryer that fits your food processing plan best.
The Harvest Right freeze is an obvious fit for gardeners, homesteaders, and preppers. But here are some other people who might benefit from owning a freeze dryer:
With these accessories, we had everything we needed to start freeze-drying right away, but we have purchased extra accessories along the way. Em excesso trays, tray lids, tray dividers and more Mylar bags and oxygen absorbers have all been added to our gear list.
Even canned foods do not retain their original texture and flavor. In each case their Buy Now water content is to blame. Freeze dried food retains only 2% of its water. When stored properly, it should retain its taste for decades and will probably taste better than plain MRE’s.
Freeze-drying food involves more than just tossing it into the machine. We need to spend time cutting fruits and vegetables into the right sizes, blanching as needed and preparing meals.
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The size and weight of a freeze dryer is more of a consideration for setup and placement rather than a measure of it’s performance.