Mylar bags have the characteristics of lightweight, strong construction, and compatibility with long-term storage. They become one of the most advantageous ways to preserve food when they are appropriately vacuum sealed.
People often wonder "Can you vacuum seal mylar bags with a FoodSaver style vacuum sealer?" Yes, you can vacuum seal mylar bags with a vacuum sealer such as a FoodSaver style machine. This way, the bag will have a very tight seal which is essential for protecting dry foods such as rice, beans, flour, pasta, coffee, and freeze-dried meals from contamination during storage.
Whether you want to vacuum seal a variety of products such as foods, herbs, coffee, powders, or emergency supplies, this guide will assist you in correctly vacuum sealing Mylar bags.
Can You Vacuum Seal Mylar Bags with a FoodSaver Style Machine?
Yes, Mylar bags can be vacuumed sealed. Mylar withstands vacuum pressures and does not stretch or collapse like regular plastic bags. Thus, they are an ideal choice to use for long-term storage.
When vacuum sealed Mylar bags, oxygen is eliminated from the bag's interior and, in combination with the Mylar's ability to block moisture and light, makes it extremely efficient at extending product shelf lives for long periods of time.
What is Needed to Start:
These should be collected beforehand:
- Thick Mylar bags (5 mil thickness preferred) for long-term storage
- Vacuum sealer (such as FoodSaver) to remove air from bag
- Oxygen absorbers (optional) removes oxygen, preventing spoilage
How to Vacuum Seal Mylar Bags
- Fill the mylar bag
- Add oxygen absorbers (optional)
- Slide the top edge of the mylar bag into the vacuum seal
- Start the FoodSaver vacuum cycle to remove air from the mylar bag
- When finished vacuuming, carefully remove the mylar bag
- After completing these steps, immediately heat seal the top of the mylar bag
It is important to note: If you are using a FoodSaver style vacuum sealer, it will not heat seal the top of the mylar bags unless you insert the two small strips, as shown in the video above.
Best Items to Store in Vacuum Sealed Mylar
- Rice
- Oats
- Beans
- Spices and Seasonings
- Flour
- Powdered Food
- Pasta
- Sugar
- Salt
- Tea
- Herbs
- Jerky
- Supplements
- Baking mixes
- Dehydrated meats, fruits, & vegetables
- Freeze dried meals, candy, & food
- Ground coffee & coffee beans
Mylar Thickness Guide
- 2 mil: short-term storage
- 3 mil: food and long-term use
- 4-5 mil+: heavy products or industrial storage
Thicker Mylar holds vacuum pressure better and prevents punctures.
So, can Mylar Be Vacuum Sealed?
Yes, it is possible to vacuum seal for Mylar bags. When done appropriately, vacuum sealing Mylar is effective for long term food storage. Vacuum sealed Mylar bags will maintain the freshness, safety and shelf life for many years.
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