Most families have to be resourceful when it comes to saving money on groceries. The cost of groceries has steadily been on the increase throughout the United States, yet salaries have not necessarily been increasing. Although this seems like a no win situation, there are ways to cut down on the cost of groceries and feel a bit more optimistic about one's economic position. With a vacuum food saver, families can store food items they purchase at a reduced rate from discount stores and wholesale grocery stores.



By shopping for food in bulk, a family can save a lot of money. The list of food items one can purchase in large quantities at a reduced rate to be stored for later use is unlimited. One can store meats, cheese, fruits and vegetables, grains and spices. Heavy use vacuum food sealers allow for the steady flow of large quantities to be vacuumed and sealed. Storage canisters are great to have as part of the system. These will hold dry ingredients for months.

Fruit that is purchased in bulk, such as melon, cantaloupe, strawberries, grapes, pineapple, and even mango, can be peeled and cut into bit sized pieces then placed in a bag, vacuum and sealed to be tossed into the freezer for use months later. Mixed fruit can be used over cereal or can be blended into vitamin rich smoothies. Some people like to sprinkle the fruit with a bit of sugar before it is frozen so when it thaws it soaks in the sugar for added sweetness.

Vegetables are another great food item that can be preserved using a vacuum food sealer. Most vegetables, except leafy ones, can be frozen if they are par boiled. By boiling vegetables for a very short time and tossing them into cold water, they will remain crunchy and fresh. Cauliflower, broccoli, carrots, turnips and other root legumes, can be cut into bite size pieces, par boiled and then stored in the freezer for months if vacuum sealed.

Vegetables can be defrosted in tepid water, or by laying the bag in the refrigerator to slowly thaw or by placing the bag in boiling water to cook further. Another great idea is to seal fresh veggies or baby potatoes in a storage bag, but before sealing with the food sealer, one can add to them some bits of butter and a little seasoning. The bag is then placed in the microwave to cook. The result is a delicious side dish of steamed vegetables.

This procedure also works well with meats that have been prepared and cooked. One can prepare stews, chili, even roasts. After allowing the prepared meat to cool down, it is simply a matter of placing dinner size portions in the heavy use plastic bags that come with most vacuum food sealer models. Once sealed, one only need to vacuum and toss in the freezer for later use, or in the fridge to use within a few days. Frozen meals may be defrosted by placing the sealed bag into a sink filled with tepid water, or for faster results, may be dropped into boiling water to serve right away, or may be heated in a microwave.

With a bit of creative, anyone can prepare delicious and healthy meals that can be frozen for later use. Anyone on a budget can save money by buying in bulk without having to give up on quality or nutrition.