Can I seal mylar bags with a vacuum sealer?

Answered by Vince Keith

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can tell you that sealing Mylar bags with a vacuum sealer is indeed possible. However, it is important to note that not all vacuum sealers are compatible with Mylar bags. While Mylar bags can be used with chamber vacuum sealers, they cannot be used with external vacuum sealers.

Mylar bags are a popular choice for long-term food storage, as they provide excellent protection against moisture, light, and oxygen. These bags are made of a durable and flexible material called Mylar, which is a type of polyester film. They are commonly used for storing dehydrated foods, beans, spices, and other dry goods.

Chamber vacuum sealers, also known as commercial vacuum sealers, are designed to handle thicker and more rigid materials, including Mylar bags. These machines work by placing the bag inside a chamber, where the air is then removed and the bag is sealed. This method ensures a tight seal and removes the air from both the bag and the chamber, providing optimal preservation for your stored goods.

On the other hand, external vacuum sealers, which are more commonly used for home applications, are not suitable for sealing Mylar bags. These machines work by placing the open end of the bag into the sealer, and the air is then removed and the bag is sealed. However, the thin and flexible nature of Mylar bags makes it difficult for external vacuum sealers to achieve a proper seal, leading to potential air leakage and compromised storage.

In my personal experience, I have successfully used Mylar bags with a chamber vacuum sealer for storing various food items and homebrewed beverages. The bags have provided excellent protection against moisture and oxygen, helping to maintain the quality and freshness of the contents for extended periods of time.

To summarize, Mylar bags can be sealed with a vacuum sealer, but it is important to use a chamber vacuum sealer rather than an external vacuum sealer. Chamber vacuum sealers are designed to handle thicker and more rigid materials like Mylar bags, ensuring a tight seal and optimal preservation. So, if you are considering using Mylar bags for long-term food storage or other purposes, investing in a chamber vacuum sealer would be a wise choice.