The dehydrator that I am using in this video is the Nesco FD-1040 1000-watt Gardenmaster Food Dehydrator. It runs about $95 on Amazon and the link I connected has free shipping. The 1000 watts ensures that your food dehydrates as quickly and efficiently as possible and is best for larger batches. It comes with 4 trays and you can purchase additional trays for around $16 per two. To view the add on trays click this link - Nesco TR-2 Add-A-Tray for FD-1010/FD-1018P/FD-1020, Set of 2.
If you are not ready to spend a $100 or more on a dehydrator there are other models available that are perfectly fine for dehydrating.
You may have to give up the timer feature which is no big deal in my opinion. I just used an alarm clock when I didn't have the Gardenmaster.
It makes sense to find the most watts available for your budget.
Also, I would not opt for a dehydrator that doesn't have a temperature setting. Different foods have different optimum temperatures for drying.
This model is a less expensive option for someone just trying the dehydrating experience - Hamilton Beach 32100A Food Dehydrator. For $60 it offers 500 watts, 5 stackable trays and it does have adjustable temperature and timer.
There are other dehydrators available that are even less expensive. I would just caution you to check out the reviews and stay away from anything that has flimsy trays, super low wattage or no temperature adjustment.
The mylar bags that I will store the dehydrated foods in can be found here - PackFreshUSA Gallon Mylar Bags with 500cc Oxygen Absorber for Long Term Emergency Food Storage (10 Packs)
They run $38 for 100 bags AND 100 500cc oxygen absorbers. If you aren't sure about using Mylar bags and don't want to spend as much money, less expensive options are available.
This one is still a good deal - 1 Gallon Dry-Packs Mylar Bags and 300cc Oxygen Absorbers for Long Term Food Storage, 10"x14", Set of 50. They are about $17 for 50 count and includes 300cc oxygen absorbers. This is also eligible for free shipping with Amazon Prime.
If you aren't worried about storing dehydrating foods for the long term, any airtight container will do for storage. Smaller portions are better because anytime the container is opened, your dehydrated foods are exposed to moisture from the air.
Vacuum sealing is a really good option as the foods will stay fresh longer. You can read a little more about storing dehydrated foods here - National Center for Home Food Preservation - Packaging and Storing Dried Foods.
Please feel free to share your dehydrating questions, tips, and experiences in the comments section below.
Happy Food Saving and please remember to subscribe if you enjoyed this video!
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