While the initial cost might seem steep, keep in mind the long-term savings and the value of preserved food. It’s an investment in self-sufficiency and food storage security. You can read my full cost analysis of the Harvest Right freeze dryer here.
To get the most out of a freeze dryer, users often turn to specialized accessories that can enhance the equipment's performance and versatility.
While various sealing systems can be used, vacuum sealers or heat sealers are often preferred for freeze-dried products. These systems help remove air and create an airtight seal, which is crucial for maintaining the quality and shelf life of freeze-dried items.
The Harvest Right Small can fit on a counter whereas the XL will need a dedicated spot. They also all come with external vacuum pumps that will need to be accounted for when you position the freeze-dryer.
Our oil pump gave out before we had used it more than a few weeks. It was a hassle to get it fixed and three months later it quit freezing and we had to send the whole machine back. And that was MONTHS ago! I lost my summer and fall harvest because they simply couldn’t be bothered to do anything about it.
Check the device capacity. Freeze drying a single batch of food takes time, so if you plan to use your machine frequently or use it to process large batches of food website items, a higher capacity model speeds up the process.
Most water extraction methods destroy enzymes and terpenes because of the heat used in the extraction process. Because the freeze drying process does not use heat to remove water, the enzymes and terpenes in freeze dried products are not destroyed.
So, the answer depends on what you are trying to do. My opinion is that dehydrators are better for snacks- like jerky and dried fruit, whereas freeze-dryers are better for pretty much any long-term food storage. Both are pretty good at making candy as well.
It sits just shy of 31 inches tall, is just over 20 inches wide and nearly 24 inches deep. So it’s not exactly a countertop unit. Still, if you have a large kitchen or utility room where you can set it up, you will be glad you have it.
Freeze dryer energy and maintenance costs are negligible compared to the cost difference between sizes, so running a small or medium freeze dryer longer is usually much cheaper than running a large or XL freeze dryer in short bursts.
Buying a freeze dryer for a candy business would be a questionable business decision at this point. The market is now saturated with endcaps in grocery stores covered in freeze-dried treats, and margins have been driving lower. The lower cost of freeze dryers means competitors pop up more often.
With its powerful 600-watt motor and six stainless steel trays, this dehydrator can handle a wide variety of foods, from fruits and vegetables to meats and jerky.
These advancements make the freeze-drying process more accessible for regular household use rather than just occasional preservation projects.
If you are going trekking, or hunting in the deep woods, you need to be mindful of every ounce of weight you are carrying. The extra weight of dehydrated or canned food can be a deal breaker.