FAQ

 

    1. What is freeze-drying?     Freeze-drying is a preservation method that removes moisture from food by freezing it and then reducing the surrounding pressure to allow the frozen water to sublimate directly from solid to gas. 

    2.  What are the benefits of freeze-dried food?     Freeze-dried food offers numerous benefits, including: Nutritional Retention: It retains most of its nutritional value, flavor, and texture, making it a healthy option. Lightweight: The removal of moisture makes it significantly lighter than fresh food, which is ideal for backpacking and travel. Long Shelf Life: Freeze-dried foods can last for 25 years or more when stored properly, making them perfect for emergency preparedness. Convenience: They are easy to prepare; just add water, and they’re ready to eat. Versatility: Suitable for various meals, snacks, and even desserts, accommodating a wide range of dietary needs. Minimal Waste: Freeze-drying allows for long-term storage of surplus produce, reducing food waste.

    3.  Can you rehydrate freeze-dried food?      Yes, freeze-dried food can be rehydrated by adding water. This process restores much of the original texture and taste, making it similar to fresh or cooked food

    4.  How do you rehydrate freeze-dried food?     To rehydrate freeze-dried food, follow these steps: Choose the right amount: Determine how much freeze-dried food you want to rehydrate. A common ratio is about 1 cup of freeze-dried food to 1 to 1.5 cups of water, but this can vary based on the specific food item. Boil water: Heat water to a boil, especially for foods like fruits or soups, which benefit from hot water. Combine: Pour the hot water over the freeze-dried food in a bowl or pot. For cold water rehydration, simply add the water to the food and let it soak longer. Time: Let it sit for about 10-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even rehydration. Some foods may take longer, so check the texture and adjust the soaking time as needed. Drain excess water: After rehydration, you can drain any excess water if necessary, depending on your intended use.

    5.  How should freeze-dried products be stored?     Freeze-dried products should be stored in a cool, dry place in airtight containers. One effective way to store them is in mason jars, which provide an airtight seal to prevent moisture absorption and maintain freshness. Unlike Mylar bags, which can be prone to punctures and may not provide a perfect seal over time, mason jars offer durability and visibility, allowing you to easily check the contents. Additionally, mason jars are reusable and environmentally friendly, making them a sustainable choice for long-term food storage. Label the jars with the contents and date for easy identification. Feel free to ask if you have more specific questions or need further information!