Vacuum packing is an easy process in which the air around a food product in a package is removed. This seals the content air tight within a package that preserves the food products. Vacuum packing allows food materials to be efficiently packaged and preserved as the sealed bag provides a barrier to block any air, moisture, and unwanted flavours from getting into the package.  

It is important to use the right-sized bag and vacuum pack machine to efficiently complete the vacuum sealing process. If the vacuum pack bag you are using is too small you will struggle to successfully seal it. If the bag is too big, you will end up wasting resources on over-sized vacuum sealer bags. Both these scenarios are less than ideal so it is important to find the right-sized vacuum sealer for your needs.  

When it comes to the vacuum packer machines there are two main varieties available: a commercial (or chamber) vacuum sealer and an external (or out-of-chamber) vacuum sealer. To see our full range of both varieties of vacuum packers, click HERE.  

It is important to consider the following two questions when purchasing a vacuum packer: 

1. How frequently will your vacuum packer be used? 
2. Do you want a large-scale vacuum packer or a countertop vacuum sealer or one that can be stored away? 

Commercial (Chamber) Vacuum Sealers 

This vacuum sealing device is used for both industrial/commercial and household purposes. These vacuum sealers tend to be more expensive than external vacuum sealers. This is because these types of vacuum sealers tend to be larger in size and have built-in high power compressor pumps. Therefore they have a larger capacity to remove air in comparison to the nozzle or other out-of-chamber vacuum packers.  

The biggest difference between a chamber vacuum packer and an out-of-chamber vacuum packer is that the vacuum packaging bag goes through the sealing and vacuuming process internally inside the chamber. These commercial chamber vacuum sealers also create a higher level of vacuum when compared to out-of-chamber vacuum sealers. The level of vacuum suction is also adjustable with these types of vacuum packers.  

The size of commercial chamber vacuum sealers is bigger and heavier in comparison to their out-of-chamber counterparts. This means their heat sealing bars are longer too which allows for larger sealer bags to be used.  

External (Out-of-Chamber) Vacuum Sealers  

These types of vacuum packers are most commonly used in households. As such, there are very compact versions of this type of machine with more limited vacuum sealing capabilities. These external vacuum sealers come in a range of sizes. There are even handheld and battery-operated designs available. So it is important to consider how much counter space you have available when choosing an external vacuum packer.   

External vacuum sealers are generally easier to use. Users are able to hold the bag while it is undergoing the vacuuming process. This allows users to check and control the vacuum they require for a specific package. These types of vacuum packers require less maintenance and require no oil changing. 

The size of the vacuum packer you invest in should depend on your needs. An important consideration is how often you will be doing vacuum sealing. If you only vacuum seal occasionally you won’t need a commercial/chamber vacuum packer. The price of vacuum packers is dependent on the size and the technology/materials used and as a result, prices can vary greatly.  

When choosing a vacuum packer it is also important to consider your skillset. Vacuum sealers that are built for simple vacuum sealing are more intuitive and easy to use. The model you choose should be dependent on the quantity and quality of the product that is to be vacuum sealed on a regular basis.