As an avid home cook and homesteader, having the right food storage equipment is essential for keeping ingredients fresh and preventing waste. After testing countless vacuum sealers, containers, and jars over the years, I’ve discovered my top picks for locking in food’s flavor and nutrients. Read on for my recommendations on the best vacuum sealers, airtight containers, and canning jars for your kitchen!

The Best Vacuum Sealers

A high-quality vacuum sealer is a game changer for extending food’s shelf life and preserving flavors. Here are my top choices:

1. Bonsenkitchen Dry/Moist Vacuum Sealer Machine

I love the Bonsenkitchen for its quick sealing time – just 10-12 seconds! The dual mode lets me optimize settings for wet and dry foods. Meats stay fresh for weeks in the freezer, and snacks stay crunchy in the pantry. The sleek, compact size fits easily in my cabinets. This all-purpose sealer tackles every food storage need with ease.

2. Nesco Deluxe Food VS-12 Vacuum Sealer

When I need serious sealing power for large batches of food, the Nesco VS-12 delivers. It has a strong pump for maximum air extraction and a double heat seal option that gives an extra tight seal on moist foods. The bag cutter and storage on this machine are so convenient for meal prepping. I use this for big freezing jobs and it never disappoints!

3. Vacuum Sealer Machine, Full Automatic Food Sealer

For fast, fuss-free sealing, this electric vacuum sealer is perfect. I love the one-touch operation – just insert the bag and it automatically vacuum seals in seconds! It’s sleek and compact, barely taking up any space. This is my go-to for quickly sealing leftovers and produce to keep in the fridge.

4. Electric Mason Cordless Vacuum Sealer Kit for Wide-Mouth & Regular-Mouth Mason Jars

I do a lot of jarring and preserving, so a cordless jar vacuum sealer is a must-have! This battery-powered pick is perfect for sealing up jams, sauces, and more in mason jars. It’s lightweight and portable, with attachments for both wide and regular-mouth jars. I never have to haul out my whole countertop unit just to seal a few jars.

5. Electric Mason Jar Vacuum Sealer Food Vacuum Saver for Wide and Regular Mouth Mason Jars

This electric jar sealer comes with everything I need to start vacuum sealing mason jars – wide mouth and regular mouth attachments, replacement lids, and a hose for use with FoodSaver machines. I love keeping dried goods like flour, nuts, and granola sealed tightly in jars. This compact sealer couldn’t be easier to use!

The Best Food Storage Containers

The right food storage containers make it easy to organize your pantry or fridge while keeping food fresh.

Here’s my top pick:

6. 36 PCS Large Food Storage Containers with Lids Airtight

This large 36-piece set has containers in just about every size I need for storing leftovers, pantry goods, freezer meals, and more. They make my pantry look so tidy and organized! The BPA-free plastic is durable, and the silicone gasket lids create an airtight seal to lock in freshness. The containers neatly stack into each other, saving tons of space.

The Best Canning Jars

For all my homemade jams, sauces, and pickled veggies, I only use the best canning jars. Here’s what I recommend:

7. Canning Jars with Lids, Canning Kit Canning Supplies Starter Kit with 8pc Regular Mouth 16oz Glass Mason Jar

This beginner kit is perfect for anyone new to canning! It has all the essential tools – jar lifter, funnel, lid wand, rack, and more. The 8 glass 16 oz mason jars are just the right size for jams, sauces, and gifts. I love having all the supplies I need to get started with water bath or pressure canning. And these jars double as great food storage containers!

Conclusion

Having the proper food storage tools like quality vacuum sealers, airtight containers, and canning jars can make a huge difference in reducing food waste. My top picks above help keep food fresh for longer than ever and prevent flavor loss. Let me know if you have any other food storage questions! I’m always happy to help fellow home cooks and meal preppers.

FAQs

1. What are some tips for organizing a pantry?

Categorize by food type – grains, oils, spices, etc. Use clear containers to easily see contents. Label everything and keep the oldest food in front. Store by frequency of use. Group like items to maximize space.

2. How long can I store food in mason jars?

Properly canned high-acid foods like jams can be stored for up to 18 months. Low-acid foods last 3-5 years. Sealed dry goods like beans, rice, and pasta can be kept for 12+ months. Once opened, store in the fridge.

3. What are the benefits of sous vide cooking?

Vacuum sealing is crucial for sous vide. It evenly cooks foods to the perfect doneness edge to edge. Retains moisture and nutrients better. Incredibly tender results. Foods can be stored for months after cooking.

4. Can I reuse pickle, sauce, or jam jars for canning?

Absolutely! Just thoroughly wash and sanitize reused jars before filling. Inspect for any chips or cracks. Always use new lids and bands each time you can.

5. How long does vacuum sealing extend the shelf life of foods?

Vacuum sealing keeps food fresh up to 5-8 times longer compared to normal storage! It prevents moisture loss and oxidation. Great for meats, produce, cheeses, baked goods, coffee, etc.