FoodSaver FM5200 2-in-1 Automatic Vacuum Sealer Machine with Express Vacuum Seal Bag Maker, Safety Certified, Silver, 9.3 x 17.6 x 9.6 inches review and price compare 2024
you can compare the product price from Costco, wayfair, bestbuy, lowes, target, homedepot, Walmart, ebay, amazon to find the best price for you
you can compare the product price from Costco, wayfair, bestbuy, lowes, target, homedepot, Walmart, ebay, amazon to find the best price for you
Product overview
| Brand | FOODSAVER |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Color | Silver |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 17.6 x 9.3 x 9.6 inches |
| Item Weight | 9 Pounds |
product features
- by entering your model number.
- Save more, waste less: Meat preserved with the foodsaver system in the freezer can last up to 3 years and still taste fresh, flavorful, and freezer-burn free. Prep-ahead meals, leftovers, and produce stored in the fridge will stay fresh up to weeks later instead of spoiling in days
- Express bag maker: The express bag maker reduces bag making steps by 50% compared to foodsaver V4000 models, thanks to a unique second heat-sealing bar to automatically prep the next bag
- More convenient to use: Easy view vacuum window lets you easily control where you seal while the open roll storage design lets you see when you need to replace the roll. Plus, led light indicators easily guide you through the vacuum sealing process. Just press the vacuum and seal bar to remove the air that causes freezer burn and spoilage
- Very consistent sealing: Equipped with dual heat sealing strips, it's to reach an optimal vacuum level and airtight seal. The fm5200 is durable, high quality, and backed by a 5-year limited
- Automatic moisture detection: Smart technology automatically detects moisture and switches to the correct mode to ensure an airtight seal is achieved. The patented removable drip tray will catch any overflow liquid and is dishwasher safe, making this kitchen appliance easy to clean and maintain 8 x 20 inches heat seal rolls and (3) 11 x 16 inches heat seal rolls
This fits your .
From the manufacturer
FoodSaver FM5200 Series 2-in-1 Vacuum Sealing System
Lock In Freshness
The FoodSaver FM5200 Series 2-in-1 Automatic Vacuum Sealing System helps keep food fresh longer. The system removes air, one of the main causes of mold and food spoilage, from bags and creates an airtight seal to lock in freshness.
Additional features include an Express Bag Maker that makes it easier to measure and seal rolls, Vacuum View Window that lets you see where you seal, and a built-in handheld sealer that eliminates the need for additional attachments when sealing zipper bags and containers.
Key Features
- Vacuum sealing removes air, one of the main causes of freezer burn, mold, and spoilage
- Express Bag Maker reduces bag making steps by 50%, compared to previous models
- Unique second heat-sealing bar automatically preps the next bag
- Easy View Vacuum Window lets you easily control where you seal
- Open Roll Storage design lets you see when you need to replace the roll
Features & Benefits
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Express Bag MakerReduce bag making steps by 50%* with an easier way to measure and automatically seal. *When compared to previous FoodSaver vacuum sealing systems. | Lower Seal & Cut BarAutomatically seals one end of the bag so you can have a pre-sealed bag handy, making batch sealing and bulk storage easier than ever. | Vacuum View WindowLets you see where you seal for optimal control and reduces over 30% of roll waste compared to previous FoodSaver Food Preservation Systems. |
Top 3 Ways to Get the Most Out of Your FoodSaver Vacuum Sealer
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Preserving Bulk FoodsTake the guesswork out of smart shopping-buy in bulk and see all the savings by safely sealing and freezing meats, cheeses, vegetables, and even soups and sauces. Did we mention all FoodSaver bags/rolls are sous vide safe? Simmer away. | Jar SealingDon’t let your garden's harvest go to waste-preserve fruit and veggies for salads, soups, apple sauces, and more. The FoodSaver Jar Sealers (sold separately) give you an easy way to enjoy or gift. | Prep AheadUse your FoodSaver system to prep meals for the week for yourself or your whole family. It’s also great for sealing up the ingredients you need to blend ultra-fresh smoothies, like bananas, mangos, or blueberries. |
| Meets UL or ETL Safety Standards | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
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| Designed to Prevent Burns | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Patented Removable Drip Tray | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cool Down Required Between Seals | 20 seconds | 20 seconds | 20 seconds | 20 seconds |
| Mode | Dry/Moist & Quick Marinate | Dry/Moist & Quick Marinate | Dry/Moist & Quick Marinate | Dry/Moist & Quick Marinate |
| Built-in Roll Storage and Cutter Bar | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Built-in Handheld Sealer | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Easy Bag Making Features | - | Automatic Bag Detection | Automatic Bag Detection | Automatic Bag Detection Automatic Dispense and Cut |
| Countertop Footprint | 9.3 x 17.6 x 9.6 in | 11 x 20 x 12 in | 11 x 20 x 12 in | 19 x 6.25 x 8 in |
| Pack Ins | (1) 11" X 10' vacuum seal roll (3) 1-quart precut vacuum seal bags (2) 1-gallon precut vacuum seal bags (3) 1-quart vacuum zipper bags (2) 1-gallon vacuum zipper bags | (1) 11" X 10' vacuum seal roll (3) 1-quart vacuum seal bags (2) 1-gallon vacuum seal bags (3) 1-quart vacuum zipper bags (2) 1-gallon vacuum zipper bags | (1) 11" X 10' vacuum seal roll (3) 1-quart vacuum seal bags (2) 1-gallon vacuum seal bags (3) 1-quart vacuum zipper bags (2) 1-gallon vacuum zipper bags | (1) 11" X 10' vacuum seal roll (1) 8" X 10' vacuum seal roll (3) 1-quart vacuum seal bags (2) 1-gallon vacuum seal bags (3) 1-quart vacuum zipper bags (2) 1-gallon vacuum zipper bags (1) marinator |
product description
The FoodSaver FM5200 automatic vacuum sealer system makes it easier than ever to keep food fresh up to 5x longer compared to ordinary storage methods. It reduces bag-making steps by 50%, taking the time and guesswork out of bag making and sealing, along With reducing over 30% of roll waste when compared to previous FoodSaver food preservation systems. Plus, the system provides 2-in-1 versatility for freezer, fridge, and pantry storage. Handheld sealer seals FoodSaver zipper bags, canisters, and containers, and marinates food in minutes.
product details
important information
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Questions about FoodSaver FM5200 2-in-1 Automatic Vacuum Sealer Machine with Express Vacuum Seal Bag Maker, Safety Certified, Silver, 9.3 x 17.6 x 9.6 inches
Q:
does it matter which side of the bag is facing up (rough or smooth), when you seal the bag?
Answer: We recommend putting the bag with the smooth side facing down to the sealing bar.
Q:
does it work with ball jar attachment?
Answer: Yes, the FM5000 series is compatible with jar sealers and any other FoodSaver accessory and container. Happy shopping!
Q:
Is the 5200 the same as the 5480 or the 5380?
Answer: Pretty much. The difference between the 5200 and the 5380 is in the number and types of bags that come with the machine. The 5480 has a "pulse" feature, which just slows down the rate at which the vacuum extracts the air out of the bag, useful if you don't want overly crush delicate things I guess. Personally, I've never found it that difficult to hit the "seal" button to stop vacuuming at the right time with normal pump operation.
Answer: Yes, they're are essentially the same FoodSaver systems, except for the Pulse/Vac feature for delicate foods that is only available with the FM5480 and FM5460. Thank you
Answer: No. Different line.
Q:
Does this machine have the accessory option
Answer: Yes, It comes with the accessory option to seal jars or zip bags from food saver.
Answer: Yes it has the handheld attachment to use for the food saver containers etc
Answer: Yes it does, It has the pump attachment to use on the bags that are made for that.
Answer: Do it come with jar sealer?
Answer: Yes built in
Q:
could this be used for fresh herbs? How does it work for fresh vegetables?
Answer:
Answer:
Answer: Yes, it has both a moist and soft ( like bread) settings. I love it!
Answer: I don't have an answer, sorry
Q:
Is there an attchment to seal canning jars?
Answer: The FoodSaver Jar Sealer is designed for Ball and Kerr brand wide-mouth and regular mason jars. Wide-mouth Jar Sealers can only be used with wide-mouth jars. Regular Jar Sealers are only for regular mason jars. This is also not a substitute for canning.
Answer: no there is no attachment for canning jars
Answer: Does it take two people to operate it
Answer: There is one, but must be purchased separately.
Answer: I didn't get one with mine.
Q:
Is this the newest model Foodsaver?
Answer: Yes, the FM5000 series is our newest FoodSaver system, and it's packed with new features never used in a FoodSaver before like the Express Bag Maker that reduces vacuum sealing steps by 50%, because it pre-seals the bottom end of your next bag each time. Also, the Vacuum View Window allows you to see where you seal, giving you better control during vacuum sealing allowing you to reduce the roll waste up to 30%. Happy shopping!
Answer: It appear to be the newest design. I believe there is more than one model within the 5000 series, according to what I have seen when browsing the sites that sell the Food Savers.
Answer: No its the FM5200
Answer: Not sure but I think so.
Q:
What is the difference between the 5300( sam’s Club ) and 5480 ( Amazon )
Answer: The only difference is that the 5480 has a pulse feature and the 5300 does not. The pulse feature allows you to control the vacuum for delicate items like muffins, cookies, etc.
Q:
can it do dry and powdered things?
Answer: I put fine powders in a brown paper (lunch) bag first/ cut down with just enough top to fold over twice. Add one piece of tape to hold closed. Then add to plastic bag and vacuum seal as normal. Works great for powders. You can also do the same thing with Mylar Bags for long term storage of dry goods.
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Answer: Yep. For powdered items, I'd try the moist setting...
Answer: Yes
Q:
is it 50/60 hz?
Answer: This is 60HZ. All of our products that are sold in the United States and Canada are manufactured and UL approved for 110-120 voltage. We do not recommend using them in different countries due to the difference in voltage. Additionally, doing so will void your warranty.
Q:
I live overseas. Any chance this comes in 110V/220V? In other words, is it only 110V?
Answer: All of our products that are sold in the United States and Canada are manufactured and UL approved for 110-120 voltage. We do not recommend using them in different countries due to the difference in voltage. Additionally, doing so will void your warranty. We appreciate your interest in our products!
Answer: Mine came only 110v. But I'm sure you could buy an adapter.
Q:
Can you use foodsaver pint & quart bags with this sealer?
Answer: Definitely! These FM5200 is compatible with any FoodSaver bag, excluding the 15" rolls. Additionally, you can vacuum seal any FoodSaver container, canister and vacuum zipper bags, as well as mason jars (using jar sealers) and wine bottles (using bottle stoppers).
Answer: Yes - pint, quart or gallon size works.
Q:
Does food need to be frozen before sealing?
Answer: For best results sealing foods with moisture such as fresh meats and seafood, we would recommend you pre-freeze them. Doing this will avoid any liquids/juices being sucked into the vacuum channel. On the other hand, you may fresh meats or seafood using our FoodSaver Liquid Block bags which have a moisture pad built in. To learn more about these bags follow the link below:
Answer: Only if it is too moist. Sometimes the moisture will get under the heat seal and produce a bad seal. Freezing some items like chicken or ground beef can help with that. You don't have to freeze it thru and thru, just on the outside. You also can hit the seal button before the juice travels up the the bag
Answer: No...you can seal frozen,liquid,dry items just about ANYTHING you want.It's great!
Answer: No, freeze after sealing. Without air in package will result in avoiding freezer burn
Answer: No you do not need to freeze first. But you can if you want. Works well either way.
Answer: No.
Answer: No
Q:
What comes in the starter kit?
Answer: Various sizes of bags. Approximately 9
Q:
Has anyone had problems with this vacumming all the air out? It is hard to use by yourself. I find it very cumbersome. Not happy
Answer: Same problem. I returned mine
Answer: I used by myself without any issues. Maybe something is wrong with the unit.
Q:
Does this have multiple suction settings?
Answer:
Answer:
Answer: Besides the regular vacuum-seal cycle for heat-seal bags, this FoodSaver FM5200 has the accessory button, which allows it to vacuum air through the retractable hose. In addition, it has the marinate feature to work along with the FoodSaver Quick Marinator container.
Answer: Hi, if you refer to different levels of suction , in term of power, it doesn't.
Answer: No , but the suction that it does have is all that you will need , I promise.
Answer: No. It has a wet or dry option.
Answer: No it doesn't
Q:
Are any accessory bags, rolls, etc included? I see Walmart has this unit for same price w/ 11x10 roll plus 10 bags.
Answer: Includes (1) 11" x 10' vacuum seal roll, (3) 1-quart vacuum seal bags, (2) 1-gallon vacuum seal bags, (3) 1-quart vacuum zipper bags, and (2) 1-gallon vacuum zipper bags.
Answer: Yes.The FoodSaver Model FM5200 came with the 11 x 10 roll and 10 assorted bags.
Answer: Yes, I think the "Starter Kit" refers to the bags included. As I remember it was an assortment of bags plus a full roll.
Q:
Does this product have a manufacturing warranty?
Answer: Yes, this FoodSaver FM5200 has a 5-years limited warranty.
Q:
What is the diameter of the roll storage area? I'm wondering if a 3 inch roll will fit.
Answer: The roll storage is big enough to fit our FoodSaver 8" and 11" rolls.
Answer: A 3 inch diameter roll fits nicely.
Answer: It will handle a 4 inch without and problem. I get the multi size bag stock from WalMart. They have in stock anytime . Anymore more questions feel to contact me.
Q:
tienen en 220 v ?
Answer: No. 110V
Answer: I don't speak this language
Q:
This unit shows her sealing muffins ,can this seal rolls and breads without crushing them ?
Answer: I doubt it. It pulls a strong vacuum. You can stop the vac before it crushes but it won't get all the air out.
Q:
Does this work with the foodsaver quick 2.25 quart marinator?
Answer: Yes, you can use the FM5200 with the Quick Marinator and any other FoodSaver container/canister.
Q:
What is the differance between the 5400 and rhe 4400
Answer: It is just a newer model
Q:
What's the limit to the size roll this model will take; ie, 15" wide and 50 foot 3.5 mil roll? Thanks!
Answer: The widest I've used is 11 inch. I have used about a 25' roll. I think a 50' roll might not fit?
Q:
Can retractable be used on old err model containers?
Answer: Yes, the FoodSaver FM5200 Vacuum Sealing System can definitely be used with older models of the containers. We hope this helps and always stay safe!
Q:
Can you vacuum seal avacados so they don't ripen so fast? What about raisins...do they squash together too much if sealed to prevent drying out?
Answer: You can vacuum seal anything but i don't know if ut will slow the ripening or if it will squash together, my wife seals vegetables, i seal meats with it.
Answer: I have not vacuum sealed any of these so cannot tell you.
Answer: Yes, and I would recommend the zipper seal bags for that kind of thing. That will allow you to use it and reseal it easily.
Q:
Does this work on tossed salads? If so what is the best container / bag / jar to use for about 4 cups?
Answer: Absolutely! We would recommend you use our Fresh Containers, as they are refrigerator, freezer, microwave and dishwasher safe. Happy shopping!
Answer: Haven't used it yet for salad, but did use it for beets and carrots( in separate bags) and it worked great.
Answer: I would recommend one of the bowl containers. Hold off on adding dressing or liquids until your ready to eat.
Q:
Has anyone had problems with this vacumming all the air out?
Answer: yes... this model is very inconsistent ... and how about the "push bar"...? Horrible!!! if I hadn't paid $100 for the thing it would have been thrown in the garbage.
Answer: I’m about to take a sledge hammer to this f’ing thing. Takes 10 minutes + to find the right insertion of bag for it to work. Not exaggerating. Hate this thing!!! So wanted it to work!
Answer: If I struggle to get something to seal correctly I find that it's something I'm doing wrong. Maybe there's a little fold in the bag or not enough bag up in the sealing area. I love my Foodsaver. I use it all the time.
Answer: yes, i have. and i had the thing replaced. don't buy it. it's a terrible product. i would never recommend this to anyone.
Q:
Difference between 4440 vs Fm5200?
Answer: Aside from the size difference the 5200 has an automatic bag sealer. The 4440 doesn't so you have to take the bag out and seal it separately.
Q:
How far does bag go into sealer
Answer: Great question! The bag needs to go to the middle of the drip tray when vacuum sealing.
Q:
110 w or 250 w?
Answer: The U.S. and Canada operate on 110/120v current.
Answer: This is 110
Answer: Not sure what you are asking, but it is 110 volts. It plugs into a standard American outlet.
Q:
Do you put the top of the bag over the drip tray or put it down into the drip tray?
Answer: Hello, this is Zuzanna from FoodSaver!
Answer: I put it over the drip tray and it catches any liquid.
Answer: this machine was so hard for me to figure out. i got frustrated & sent it back & got the 4400' Good luck. My last one worked for 7 years
Answer: Either it’s kind of weird from the other model I had but it works
Answer: Used it twice. This model is very disappointing. Intolerable rattling. Boxed it back up.
Answer: Over
Q:
What to do if it stops sealing?
Answer: 1. Check your manual for instructions for how to clean the seal. It is very simple to clean.
Answer: Wipe it where it seals, empty the wet tray. Unplug & plug back in.
Answer: I sent mine back & got a 4400. to me it's much easier to use. Good luck
Answer: Mine did it all the time and it got me so frustrated I threw it in the trash.
Q:
Will this worl with 15" bags?
Answer: No it won’t I would say the widest bag would be 13 and maybe a 14. But you can always make the bag 15 long to accommodate the size
Q:
how do you use the balll jar sealer?
Answer: i HAVE NOT USED IT BUT i AM DISAPPOINTED IN THE QUALITY OF THE PRODUCT. SO MUCH SO THAT I HAVE WRITTEN FOOD SAVER
Answer: I have No idea haven't used it yet Containers are a little expensive
Q:
what's the maximum size bag allowed? specifically the maximum width
Answer: As long as you buy food saver bags you don’t need to worry about that, there are the small 8 inch bags and the larger 11inch bags.
Answer: It is the 11 inch or so. My machine was good when I got it but very soon after I started using it it started vibrating so bad that it moves around on the counter when I try to vacuum seal a bag. I would recommend a different machine.
Q:
Will this seal mylar bags?
Answer: I bought this as a gift for someone, so I don't know the answer.
Answer: Yeah
Q:
I used the foodSaver for salsa, so why does the drip tray light stay on after emptying and washing the trays?
Answer:
Answer:
Answer: It may be that the drip tray isn't fully seated back into position and that is causing the error. Try turning off the system and inserting the tray until it fully clicks into place and then turn back on. If that doesn't do it, I would call the manufacturer. It could be that some liquid went where it should not have and they would be the best at advising you on how to move forward. Hope that helps.
Q:
How can I make it seal. Made one seal, won't cut either.
Answer: To cut you slide the tab on the bottom from side to side. To seal you hold the bag under the top sealer and while holding it press both hands forward on the silver bar. It will start and stop on its own. It takes a couple trys to get used to it. But after you get the hang of it it works great.
Answer: Make sure the bag is fully in vacuum before hitting button
Answer: Did you read the instructions? It tells you waxcatly how to do all of this
Q:
Would these meet the specifications for a commercial unit?
Answer: absolutely not
Q:
Can it support 220v?
Answer: The U.S. and Canada operate on 110/120v current. Most foreign countries operate on 220/240v current. This discrepancy will alter the functionality of the products. Additionally, we do not recommend the use of voltage converters or transformers for the same reason.
Answer: They are made for 110V I believe, but here is the phone number for Customer Service, who can answer your question assuredly: 1-877-777-8042.
Q:
How to order mason jar sealer for my Food Saver
Answer: Actually, I would like one of those myself.
Q:
I'm considering buying either the 5000 model or the big game GM 710 model. Which one should I go for? Both have same power pump?
Q:
Are the bags free from bpa? the description doesn’t state whether they are or not.
Answer: All Food Saver bags are BPA-free.
Answer: FoodSaver branded bags are.
Answer: Good question. I looked at mine and it doesn't say. Will have to go online and find out
Q:
Does the 5200 come with a warranty?
Answer: yes
Q:
How large of a roll does this hold?
Answer: It will hold the large roll. I don’t know him many feet exactly.
Answer: I use 11 inch wide rolls. They can be as long as you want.
Answer: It holds the 12” rolls without any issue. I haven’t tied any larger.
Answer: I haven’t purchased any other bags. But the ones that come with it go up to gallon size.
Q:
How do i seal the old style containers with the new hose, do i need a attachment?
Answer: Hello, this is Sandra from FoodSaver Care. Thank you for your interest in FoodSaver products! The hose should be compatible with containers, however, we encourage you to contact our customer service to receive more information on compatibility. Our toll free number is 1-877-777-8042. For your convenience we are available 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Monday - Friday, and 9:00 am to 6:00 pm Saturday, EST. Have a great day.
Answer: Hello,
Answer: This comes with the attachment; it's a great machine!!
Q:
If you cook chicken and seal it how long does it keep?
Answer: If you freeze it, at least a year. If you just put it in the fridge, the vacuum will extend it a couple of days at best. These is a warning about storage in the manual which is available online.
Q:
I buy mozzarella and cheddar cheese in bulk.....3 or 5# bags. Do I have to freeze it before I re-bag it w/the vacuum sealer?
Answer: No, as long as it’s dry
Q:
After vacuuming the bag is still full or air and not sealing all the way every other try. Is there a trick to getting all of the air out?
Answer: Hello Rejane, this is Salumu from FoodSaver Care. Thank you for contacting us regarding our Foodsaer FM5200. Please make sure the bag is well inserted into the drip tray. If this doesn't help, Please give us a call at 1-877-777-8042 to speak with one of our customer care specialists. We're here for you 9 AM - 6 PM, EST, Monday through Friday.
Answer: First lay it on the counter with whatever food you have in it and flatten it out to make sure that there are no wrinkles in the bag and then when you put the und in the food saver pull the edges apart tight so that its straight and even then let the sealing process begin. it sound like you may be not leaving two or three inches at the top above whatever food you have in it or you are trying to seal a bag that is already full of creases.
Answer: It took me a while to figure it out. Now I love & use it. When sealing you bag, I push as much air out as I can. This help the machine so it does have so much air to remove. Keep trying you will love this machine. I hope this helps you. I just brought 4 machines for our daughters. That is what I think & love of this product.
Answer: Make sure that it is well sealed on the top. Place the bag on a very flat surface. Keeping it flat, place the vacuum over the area on the bag and press down. The bag should seal.
Answer: If your sealing a moist piece of meat or anything moist, switch the dial to moist.
Answer: I DO NOT HAVE THAT PROBLEM. MAKE SURE IT IS IN THE PROPER PLACE TO SUCK ALL THE AIR OUT
Answer: I have not experienced this issue.
Product reviews of FoodSaver FM5200 2-in-1 Automatic Vacuum Sealer Machine with Express Vacuum Seal Bag Maker, Safety Certified, Silver, 9.3 x 17.6 x 9.6 inches
marktiscareno : Great improvement over previous models.
A great improvement over the previous model. The new design does a much better job of keeping liquid from being sucked out of the bag. At the same time the vacuum seems much more powerful.
Tyler R. : Better than butcher paper
Worked well so far. Butchered a deer a few months ago. The meat is still frozen. No signs of air leaks or freezer burn. Will caution on using this bad boy with homemade jerky. The sharp points on the jerky poke holes which keep the bags from sealing.
I picked the food saver due to costs. Butcher paper is very expensive. After a few hunting trips, the food saver pays for itself.
I picked the food saver due to costs. Butcher paper is very expensive. After a few hunting trips, the food saver pays for itself.
John : extremely dissappointed ... i will NEVER buy another FoodSaver
This is my first review ever. I have previously owned a FoodSaver and it stopped sealing bags. Decided to buy this one because I thought the engineering on this one looked better and liked the idea of the window to see the bag instead of having the bag press the activator that can be a bit finicky. If I could give this product no stars I would. The engineering on this is AWFUL. I would be extremely emabarassed to call this my work if I were the engineer. (I have been doing engineer for 35 years). First, I thought the capacity on the drip try would be larger but because of the angle it is at it does not hold any more. The angle also proves to be an issue with liquid getting UNDER the drip tray creating false positives for the tray being full. I’ve had to reseat an empty tray more than once to get it to be able to work. We have to prop up the gas at weird angle to get it to work. And finally, and probably the most annoying thing is that you have to press BOTH sides of the activator bar to get it to start vacuuming. TRY and do that with a 2 pint bag with corn it it, holding the bag up at a wierd angle. STUPID! I thought we would get used to it but when we decided to return it the return period had passed. Like I said, I will NEVER buy another FoodSaver.
uncommon_boston : Instruction incomplete, broke during third use
Machine stopped working. Went online looking solutions; discovered I was using it wrong. I followed the instructions carefully, how did I miss this? Leave 4" extra space at the top of the bag, which would make cleaning the inside of the bag under the seal easier.
The machine is difficult to use. To seal a bag, insert the top of the bag into a slot. Then push down on part of the machine. Not a button, but part of the machine. It isn't obvious how much pressure to use. I pushed too hard, something broke. Of course, you must hold the bag in place with one hand, while pushing on the machine---- hoping it starts.
All the bags I have already sealed need to be redone. The bags are expensive!
As I said, I am alone. During this pandemic there is absolutely nobody local to help. I moved out of Boston, delivery options are limited. Going to the post office to mail something isn't smart. Even if it is under warranty, I can't return it.
This was just a waste of my time and money. Very disappointed
The machine is difficult to use. To seal a bag, insert the top of the bag into a slot. Then push down on part of the machine. Not a button, but part of the machine. It isn't obvious how much pressure to use. I pushed too hard, something broke. Of course, you must hold the bag in place with one hand, while pushing on the machine---- hoping it starts.
All the bags I have already sealed need to be redone. The bags are expensive!
As I said, I am alone. During this pandemic there is absolutely nobody local to help. I moved out of Boston, delivery options are limited. Going to the post office to mail something isn't smart. Even if it is under warranty, I can't return it.
This was just a waste of my time and money. Very disappointed
David A. Youngberg : Best ever!
We've had several food savers over the years and I have to say "this is the best one we ever had". Super easy to seal any kind of package. Chips, cereal, frozen vegetables, simply anything. The best part is how, when you pull out the material to make a new bag, you roll out just what you need and cut the material and seal the next one at the same time.
upwasik : Works great but quit just after a year
This has worked just great for packing all kinds of meats and vegetables. Cured products like bacon, linch meat and ham keep for months refrigerated. We also use when buying family packs of meat then vacuum packing and freezing in meal size portions.
I waan’t sure how to assign the rating stars. The only reason for not giving it five stars that it just quit while packing green beans from our garden. We have been packing some them every two or three days so it’s not as if we were running it for hours on end.
It was purchased in late July of 2017 so needless to say we are very disappointed. It seems to be commonplace for so many appliances to last only a year or two these days. We try to purchase name brand quality appliances and not go with Walmart specials but it doesn’t seem to matter since they are almost all made on China. It’s truly planned obsolescence—more for the landfills. I am writing this review because so many times people review products soon after purchasing and there is little written on how long they last.
The good news is that, unlike most small appliances, this particular model has a five year warranty and they had great customer service. The representative was fluent in English, which is not always so these days. They send a replacement as soon as we get a tracking number on our returned sealer, which is great news when we have our vegetable harvest coming in and shouldn’t haveany long delays.
I waan’t sure how to assign the rating stars. The only reason for not giving it five stars that it just quit while packing green beans from our garden. We have been packing some them every two or three days so it’s not as if we were running it for hours on end.
It was purchased in late July of 2017 so needless to say we are very disappointed. It seems to be commonplace for so many appliances to last only a year or two these days. We try to purchase name brand quality appliances and not go with Walmart specials but it doesn’t seem to matter since they are almost all made on China. It’s truly planned obsolescence—more for the landfills. I am writing this review because so many times people review products soon after purchasing and there is little written on how long they last.
The good news is that, unlike most small appliances, this particular model has a five year warranty and they had great customer service. The representative was fluent in English, which is not always so these days. They send a replacement as soon as we get a tracking number on our returned sealer, which is great news when we have our vegetable harvest coming in and shouldn’t haveany long delays.
markr : Works great on dry stuff
It works wonderfully on dry stuff and it will work on wet stuff. On wet stuff you have to keep the tray emptied and may have to seal the bags more than once. Overall it does a great job and we are very happy with it. It is very simple and easy to use.
uncommon_boston : Instruction incomplete, broke during third use
Machine stopped working. Went online looking solutions; discovered I was using it wrong. I followed the instructions carefully, how did I miss this? Leave 4" extra space at the top of the bag, which would make cleaning the inside of the bag under the seal easier.
The machine is difficult to use. To seal a bag, insert the top of the bag into a slot. Then push down on part of the machine. Not a button, but part of the machine. It isn't obvious how much pressure to use. I pushed too hard, something broke. Of course, you must hold the bag in place with one hand, while pushing on the machine---- hoping it starts.
All the bags I have already sealed need to be redone. The bags are expensive!
As I said, I am alone. During this pandemic there is absolutely nobody local to help. I moved out of Boston, delivery options are limited. Going to the post office to mail something isn't smart. Even if it is under warranty, I can't return it.
This was just a waste of my time and money. Very disappointed
The machine is difficult to use. To seal a bag, insert the top of the bag into a slot. Then push down on part of the machine. Not a button, but part of the machine. It isn't obvious how much pressure to use. I pushed too hard, something broke. Of course, you must hold the bag in place with one hand, while pushing on the machine---- hoping it starts.
All the bags I have already sealed need to be redone. The bags are expensive!
As I said, I am alone. During this pandemic there is absolutely nobody local to help. I moved out of Boston, delivery options are limited. Going to the post office to mail something isn't smart. Even if it is under warranty, I can't return it.
This was just a waste of my time and money. Very disappointed
LadyDawn : Easy and Useful
My primary use for this is to be able to buy the "family packs" of meat at a lower price per pound, and then I can package it up in the sizes that our family needs. The vacuum sealer is very easy to use and set up. I had a little problem with the suction at first--I couldn't get it to suck. I checked out one of the YouTube videos and realized I was putting the bag too deep in the suction area. Other than that it has performed easier and better than I expected. Would definitely recommend to others.
Carol Espinoza : Very hard to work
This is my 3rd Foodsaver. Loved my first two, which lasted for years, but want to upgrade so gave to family and still working great. This Foodsaver was the worst. Bag cutter rips the bags while trying to cut, the sealer bar is hard to operate trying to use to fingers while holding bag in place to seal. By the time you got sealer to work or thought is worked, only part of the bag was sealed. I have wasted more bags and patients then necessary. In the dump it went.
Kindle Customer : Do not feel the love
Just opened the box and I already an questioning the product. Not user friendly. How do I reseal a chip bag? It uses too much bag to seal the product. This may go back in a day or two if I don't see results better than what I have already.
Texas Guy : Not worth the money
We have used Food Savers for years and this was the first disappointing model. Awkward to use and quit working second day. We then bought one fifty bucks cheaper that works better.
KJ : It Looks Nice! About it.
With the suction placed up higher from the counter its hard to hold a short bag and press the bar for the vacuum to take place. It takes longer than my old FS to vacuum and seal. I am really not happy with it at all. I would love to exchange for a different model.
m conte : Disappointing Suction and Construction
This unit has poor suction compared to the other units I owned (same exact model). Also, the bottom heat strip lock does not engage on the left side unless I squeeze it firmly manually.
It is as if this is a refurb unit or as if it was damaged in shipping (though the box was in perfect shape upon arrival). Perhaps the QA process is faulty.
I loved my last unit which worked mush, much better. That is why I bought a second one. I gave the first one to my niece.
Disappointing !
It is as if this is a refurb unit or as if it was damaged in shipping (though the box was in perfect shape upon arrival). Perhaps the QA process is faulty.
I loved my last unit which worked mush, much better. That is why I bought a second one. I gave the first one to my niece.
Disappointing !
Hambone99 : I finally replaced my old broken foodsaver
I had it for 20 years. This one is a huge improvement over the old one and I loved the old one. I appreciate how easy it works without juggling what I want to vacuum seal. The attached accessory hose makes it easy to vacuum seal the special bags and the bags are an upgrade as well. I have used it 2 or 3 times a day since it arrived. My favorite thing to do with the vacuum sealer is marinate meat. No more overnight marinating! Hambone uses it too and loves it. If you garden or buy in bulk you need one of these!
Nib : Works as intended. Use it a lot!
We have used this all summer. Love it. Only negative would be that the off-brand rolls are too big around. So when I used the ones that came with it, I kept the core and spooled off about 1/2 of the off-brand onto the other core. Works great!
LINDA NIELSEN : Somewhat awkward having to use two hands to seal bags after filling them.
I like that you can first seal the bag then measure the size you want, I dislike that you need to use two hands to seal the bag after filling, especially soups and sauces. I solved this problem by having a drawer open under the counter so I can rest the bag on it. We will see what happens when I use quart bags (I used gallon barrier bags for one quart of sauce). Overall once I adjusted it is ok. I have a big garden so I have been using this to freeze all of my vegetables and pasta sauces and it has worked well so far.
Keith Housley : To Be Determined...Broke after about 6 Seals
I hesitate to write this as I know sometimes you just get a lemon. I just received this on 01/20/2019 and sealed about 6 or so bags with it over the next 5 days. I went to use it yesterday to reseal a bag and the power button would not turn on the unit. I checked my GFI plugs in the kitchen and none of them had been tripped. I moved the unit to other plugs in the house and it still wouldn't turn on. This morning I tried again and the unit turned on but nothing would work unless you used the bag/jar vacuum attachment. I am sending this back to Amazon for a replacement. I hate wasting food. Especially with two teenage boys in the house. Hopefully the replacement will be a lot better.
Bob : Plenty of suction
I have an older model of food saver and sealing feature is sporadic. Decided to replace it. The new one is hard to hold the bag up in the air and get the food evenly distributed. It works great just difficult to hold the package off the counter to seal.
DGlaser3 : Look elsewhere if you want to save your food.
I finally threw this thing in the trash. I've fought and fought with it for well over a year. OEM bags. Aftermarket bags. It constantly hisses while sealing. Sealing a bag takes 10 tries. Then even after it's "sealed" it's still crap and leaks. I've had meals in the freezer ruined. I've had sous vide meals ruined. Of all of my kitchen appliances, this one is least reliable. Maybe I got a dud. I dunno, but I'm done with it either way.
KATHY : I would buy again.
Bought for my son, Christmas gift. I thought this was an automatic but I guess I didn't read the description well. I have a 5480 model which is automatic. This is more manual which is not bad at all. I just started out with a model more automatic. It's stands up to the Foodsaver brand.
Bones1940 : Love! Love! Love it!!!!!!
I have owned and used a FoodSaver machine for over 15 years. I was presented with this new one as a gift....and it is so awesome!!! No more having to cut the bag to size with scissors, sealing the bottom, then opening the lid, positioning the filled bag, closing the lid, & hoping I got it in the correct place so it would seal. The FM5200 makes it all so much easier! And, because I can place it on my counter top, and the roll of plastic is already in the machine, it is a breeze to use. Thank you, FoodSaver!!!!
robojon828 : Worst foodsaver product I've ever used.
This is the worst foodsaver product I've ever used. If you use it three times in a row, it over heats and you can't use it again for 30 minutes to 3 hours. If anything slightly moist goes in it, it dies and the most and dry lights flash while the machine wont work. Even if you take the tray out and dry it completely, or won't work. Sometimes for a full 24 hours. I absolutely hate this machine.
KJ : It Looks Nice! About it.
With the suction placed up higher from the counter its hard to hold a short bag and press the bar for the vacuum to take place. It takes longer than my old FS to vacuum and seal. I am really not happy with it at all. I would love to exchange for a different model.
Tina : Red flag!!!
The one I threw away work a hundred times better than this one. It has absolutely no suction! With dehydrated cilantro it took out maybe one tenth of the air out of the bag before it's sealed every single time. I thought maybe I might get one bag out of 15 oh, no! It sucks! On the contrary oh, excuse me, it doesn't suck! Do not buy! At least from this vendor! Red flag! Red flag!! Red flag!!!
Brian Miller : 5 machines in 2 yrs...DO NOT LAST!!
This is my 5th unit in 2 yrs. If it was not for the insurance that I purchased, I would never have owned a second one. It is very unfortunate but these are just mass-produced cheap Chinese made machines with a fancy looking exterior. The first 3 units I had a much louder motor that lasted about 6 months before no longer suctioning. I presume after receiving a tremendous amount of returns due to motor failure, they finally started using a lower torque motor. Nevertheless, the new motors, while quieter, still do not hold up to daily use for any more that just a few months.
Lattelady49 : Quality to the max!
We eat a very Whole 30 menu, and meal prep is important for the work week. We use it to save lunch and dinner size portions for both the fridge and the freezer. It is awesome for large batches of soups, chilis, etc.
We also purchase our meat in large quantities, including whole pigs, etc. Saving our cuts with the Food Saver vacuum process allows us to lable and date our packages and no freezer burn, ever!
Our mornings often start with a healthy fruit and kale smoothie. Buying our ingredients at the farmer's market gives us freshness as well as many organic choices. We clean and freeze our fruit, including berries, grapes, bananas, mangoes, etc. That way it is a quick almond or coconut milk, protein powder, kale and some frozen fruit. Awesomeness!
We also purchase our meat in large quantities, including whole pigs, etc. Saving our cuts with the Food Saver vacuum process allows us to lable and date our packages and no freezer burn, ever!
Our mornings often start with a healthy fruit and kale smoothie. Buying our ingredients at the farmer's market gives us freshness as well as many organic choices. We clean and freeze our fruit, including berries, grapes, bananas, mangoes, etc. That way it is a quick almond or coconut milk, protein powder, kale and some frozen fruit. Awesomeness!
marktiscareno : Great improvement over previous models.
A great improvement over the previous model. The new design does a much better job of keeping liquid from being sucked out of the bag. At the same time the vacuum seems much more powerful.
Josh : Good enough in the absence of decent competitors
The FoodSaver is a decent machine, but somehow I expected more of it. It is sort of a "full service" experience for vacuum sealing food in that you can measure, seal, and cut your own bags to size before then putting whatever food you want to keep inside, and then vacuum sealing it. This said, however, it does not always reliably seal what is given to it, and requires the plastic presented to be held extremely flat in order to achieve any kind of seal. Another major issue is the lack of any clear means to seal food which isn't very carefully dried before it gets bagged. The machine has a 'moist' setting, but this doesn't appear to change the behavior of the sealer at all.
Overall, the machine is good - but difficult to clean, and slightly unreliable to seal with... I'm not aware of anything better though, so this is as good as it gets for now.
Overall, the machine is good - but difficult to clean, and slightly unreliable to seal with... I'm not aware of anything better though, so this is as good as it gets for now.
Barbara : review
the product worked well until just before the pandemic hit it broke and is no longer sucking and sealing. tried to reach to square trade whom we got the warranty through and that has been a debacle and they have not emailed me and followed through with replacing the item purchased and our warranty is eventually going to wear out? so I am not happy rights now, this product should have lasted longer, in my opinion but I just want it replaced as I was happy with its service until it broke.
John G. : The strong vacuum & sealing qualities
This is a great unit when you find what works best for " you". I purchased extra bags to get the feel of it, I'm on a roll now! I purchased some meat from the market didn't use it all, I packaged the rest and used their lable! It's loud but so is my Vitamix and I LOVE IT!
LINDA NIELSEN : Somewhat awkward having to use two hands to seal bags after filling them.
I like that you can first seal the bag then measure the size you want, I dislike that you need to use two hands to seal the bag after filling, especially soups and sauces. I solved this problem by having a drawer open under the counter so I can rest the bag on it. We will see what happens when I use quart bags (I used gallon barrier bags for one quart of sauce). Overall once I adjusted it is ok. I have a big garden so I have been using this to freeze all of my vegetables and pasta sauces and it has worked well so far.
Dilbert : There is some good and some bad.
My old FoodSaver died. We had been together for the past seven years. It worked hard just about every two weeks, after Sams Club and Costco visits. But everyone passes on.
My new FM-5200 is in a love/hate relationship right now and I am seriously considering a divorce! Some things thrill me and some things irritate the heck outa me!
Thrills...Before you say anything, thrills are hard to come by these days!
I don't have to keep the bag roll separated from the FoodSaver!
I'm OLD! I usually have trouble remembering where the dickens I put the darn roll!
It's easy to see where the top of the bag goes when it's time to vac and seal!
My eyes are the same age as I am! 'Nuff said!
This thing really SUCKS! In a really good way!
Irritation...
FoodSaver has to have the dirtiest and stickiest countertops on the planet!
My countertops are spotless and as a result I have to put a heavy something (recipe box) so the bag will stay put so I can vacuum it!
What happened to the suction cups on the bottom of the unit? SERIOUSLY? Did you save a penny a unit?
When I am trying to vac a bag, I am pushing it all over my aforementioned spotless countertops! I guess I need to let my counters get all sticky and yucky!
THAT ain't happening!
IT'S NOISY! DID YOU HEAR ME? IT'S NOISY!
I have time to make up my mind. Heck. Maybe by then it will make me a good breakfast and then all will be forgiven.
Or at least some of it.
My new FM-5200 is in a love/hate relationship right now and I am seriously considering a divorce! Some things thrill me and some things irritate the heck outa me!
Thrills...Before you say anything, thrills are hard to come by these days!
I don't have to keep the bag roll separated from the FoodSaver!
I'm OLD! I usually have trouble remembering where the dickens I put the darn roll!
It's easy to see where the top of the bag goes when it's time to vac and seal!
My eyes are the same age as I am! 'Nuff said!
This thing really SUCKS! In a really good way!
Irritation...
FoodSaver has to have the dirtiest and stickiest countertops on the planet!
My countertops are spotless and as a result I have to put a heavy something (recipe box) so the bag will stay put so I can vacuum it!
What happened to the suction cups on the bottom of the unit? SERIOUSLY? Did you save a penny a unit?
When I am trying to vac a bag, I am pushing it all over my aforementioned spotless countertops! I guess I need to let my counters get all sticky and yucky!
THAT ain't happening!
IT'S NOISY! DID YOU HEAR ME? IT'S NOISY!
I have time to make up my mind. Heck. Maybe by then it will make me a good breakfast and then all will be forgiven.
Or at least some of it.
David J. O'Connell : Good idea, definitely a design work in progress
First of all, this is a terrific solution to frozen food storage. We have had this device for a year; and, after getting through the learning curve, admittedly with only intermittent use due to frustration, we have finally gotten to a routine that works. Any buyer will have to deal with the reality that it is a design compromise, combining unrelated tasks of bag sizing and cutting, portion allocation, and sealing in the manufacturer's marketing plan. Perhaps this is elementary and tolerable to you, but you should walk in with eyes open.
I will leave description of the device to others, and begin with the instructions, which are sunny, enthusiastic, and in many ways incomplete and wrong. The process to use the machine must must be learned with hands-on experience. Both hands, this is NOT device that allows for multi-taskng. There are several tricks to making the device work. This is how we NOW do it, not the way the instructions suggest:
1. Plug in the machine on a counter space that will give you enough space to pull bags from the front bottom slot of the device, and to use a support to hold the food in the bag when using the vacuum sealer, and something to hold and transport the cache of sealed food. I use a thick book (in my case, Jacques Pepin's "New Complete Techniques," which is about 3" thick). This is crucial, because the way the device is designed so that, if you follow Foodsaver's instructions, after you cut and fill the bag, unless it is hugely over-sized, you must hold the bag so that it does not slip out of the sealing slot when you try to press the seal bar, which can only be done with both hands for some reason.. The method suggested by Foodsaver wastes a lot of bag, and you will go through a lot of plastic to store a relatively limited amount of food, unless you take some prudent steps to save time and money. Put a roll of the bag you want to use into the bin from either side. It is helpful to unlock the cutter bar at the bottom right, pull the cutter assembly toward the front, and feed the roll to the white line that is usually hidden from view during use. Turn on the machine, power by pressing the button at the top left, re-lock the cutter bar, and press "seal" at the top. Sometimes this is not necessary, especially if you have used the machine before and the same roll remains. One of the nice things about this machine is that its designers "tried" to make it user friendly, and in this instance, the device seals the end of the roll when you go through the process of sealing a bag. Helpful, but not really intuitive to a user.
2. Drape a towel or plastic wrap over the book or support, to prevent food juices, and there will be some no matter how careful you are, on your hands, on the bag, and ultimately on the machine.
3. Prepare, wash, and cut up the food you want to freeze/store into portions you like.
4. Unlock the cutter bar at the bottom right, and pull a bag to the desired size, re-lock the bar, and run the slider to the opposite side to cut off the bag. You will only learn the sizing with repeated use. Again, at first you will use a lot of plastic, not including mistakes and discards, of which you will have a few. Get over it.
5. Put the food in a bag. Insert the unsealed end of the bag in the sealer slot (above the cutter bar insert). If you follow my advice and SUPPORT THE FOOD IN THE BAG WITH SOMETHING ABOUT 3" THICK, you will not need to hold the bag. Insert the bag just far enough to see it through the clear plastic window at the top; if you can see about 1/4" that is enough. If you put it in crooked, or too far, the device will not seal properly.
6. At the top of the machine, there is a button that selects "dry" or "moist" foods, which seems to have no utility. Each time you use the sealer, it defaults back to "dry." Perhaps I am anal, but I try to put it on the right setting before sealing, but it never seems to make any difference in the resulting sealed bag.
7. With BOTH HANDS (if you follow my advice about a support for the bag of food, this will be a snap), grasp the sides of the device, hooking your fingers around the edges, and press BOTH SIDES of the seal bar with your thumbs. If you do not support the food bag, you will fumble, repeatedly, and not be able to satisfy the machine's inner demons to get it to vacuum and then seal the bag.
Last, there is a lot of waste of bags when you first start. There will be less as you become experienced, but there still will be a lot, and I think this is by design.. The machines are not cheap, and it is not inconceivable that the manufacturers sought to increase potential profits in maximizing consumables, which you conveniently buy from Foodsaver. Like office printers, broadband, and a million other things, without the consumables, it is pointless to buy the product. The cash, it flows. And, you might try other vendor's bags, which might be cheaper, but the lure to buy bags intended for the machine might be irresistible. It is capitalism, after all.
I will leave description of the device to others, and begin with the instructions, which are sunny, enthusiastic, and in many ways incomplete and wrong. The process to use the machine must must be learned with hands-on experience. Both hands, this is NOT device that allows for multi-taskng. There are several tricks to making the device work. This is how we NOW do it, not the way the instructions suggest:
1. Plug in the machine on a counter space that will give you enough space to pull bags from the front bottom slot of the device, and to use a support to hold the food in the bag when using the vacuum sealer, and something to hold and transport the cache of sealed food. I use a thick book (in my case, Jacques Pepin's "New Complete Techniques," which is about 3" thick). This is crucial, because the way the device is designed so that, if you follow Foodsaver's instructions, after you cut and fill the bag, unless it is hugely over-sized, you must hold the bag so that it does not slip out of the sealing slot when you try to press the seal bar, which can only be done with both hands for some reason.. The method suggested by Foodsaver wastes a lot of bag, and you will go through a lot of plastic to store a relatively limited amount of food, unless you take some prudent steps to save time and money. Put a roll of the bag you want to use into the bin from either side. It is helpful to unlock the cutter bar at the bottom right, pull the cutter assembly toward the front, and feed the roll to the white line that is usually hidden from view during use. Turn on the machine, power by pressing the button at the top left, re-lock the cutter bar, and press "seal" at the top. Sometimes this is not necessary, especially if you have used the machine before and the same roll remains. One of the nice things about this machine is that its designers "tried" to make it user friendly, and in this instance, the device seals the end of the roll when you go through the process of sealing a bag. Helpful, but not really intuitive to a user.
2. Drape a towel or plastic wrap over the book or support, to prevent food juices, and there will be some no matter how careful you are, on your hands, on the bag, and ultimately on the machine.
3. Prepare, wash, and cut up the food you want to freeze/store into portions you like.
4. Unlock the cutter bar at the bottom right, and pull a bag to the desired size, re-lock the bar, and run the slider to the opposite side to cut off the bag. You will only learn the sizing with repeated use. Again, at first you will use a lot of plastic, not including mistakes and discards, of which you will have a few. Get over it.
5. Put the food in a bag. Insert the unsealed end of the bag in the sealer slot (above the cutter bar insert). If you follow my advice and SUPPORT THE FOOD IN THE BAG WITH SOMETHING ABOUT 3" THICK, you will not need to hold the bag. Insert the bag just far enough to see it through the clear plastic window at the top; if you can see about 1/4" that is enough. If you put it in crooked, or too far, the device will not seal properly.
6. At the top of the machine, there is a button that selects "dry" or "moist" foods, which seems to have no utility. Each time you use the sealer, it defaults back to "dry." Perhaps I am anal, but I try to put it on the right setting before sealing, but it never seems to make any difference in the resulting sealed bag.
7. With BOTH HANDS (if you follow my advice about a support for the bag of food, this will be a snap), grasp the sides of the device, hooking your fingers around the edges, and press BOTH SIDES of the seal bar with your thumbs. If you do not support the food bag, you will fumble, repeatedly, and not be able to satisfy the machine's inner demons to get it to vacuum and then seal the bag.
Last, there is a lot of waste of bags when you first start. There will be less as you become experienced, but there still will be a lot, and I think this is by design.. The machines are not cheap, and it is not inconceivable that the manufacturers sought to increase potential profits in maximizing consumables, which you conveniently buy from Foodsaver. Like office printers, broadband, and a million other things, without the consumables, it is pointless to buy the product. The cash, it flows. And, you might try other vendor's bags, which might be cheaper, but the lure to buy bags intended for the machine might be irresistible. It is capitalism, after all.
Louie : Cumbersome and Does not last
Worst kitchen appliance we’ve ever purchased, and I’m old. Very cumbersome two step process, rediculous requirement to use both hands to seal and now it’s broke down and won’t seal at all. I’ve moistened the gaskets to no end. I hate this thing, you should learn from my miserable experience.
Scintilla : Pros and Cons with Vacuum System
Overall the system does what it says, and what I expected. It vacuums and it seals. That’s really what’s important. I see both Pros and Cons, so let’s look at them.
Pros:
- Realy Easy Bag making system
- Powerful Vacuum, can crush things easily
- It really can use non-foodsaver bags, but not recommended
- Great for cooking Sous Vide
- Has a drip tray to prevent ruining the vacuum
- Large variety of Bags
Cons (with advice to help you)
- A little pricey ( review your needs, wants, and compare the systems )
- Not very clear on the differences in a few generations and model numbers ( go to their website and review the comparison chart as it is very helpful )
- Requires an extra 3 inches of empty space at the top of the bag that will make you feel like you’re wasting bags ( its sad, but don’t feel bad or worry. The space is needed for the sealing heater and to help you prevent sucking liquids into the system. Most, if not all, vacuum bag systems have you leave a generous gap at the top )
Useful Tips
- Write on the bag before you vacuum it
- Read the instructions and helpful tips on their website
- Leave about an extra 1/2 to 1 inch each time you want to reseal a bag. So if you want to reseal a bag twice, you’ll want to leave 4 inches maybe 5 instead of the recommended 3 inches between food and top of bag
- Foodsaver Ziplock bags are Excellent for foods you want to seal several times
- Vacuum softer cracker ( like Ritz ) in the box to prevent crushing ( yeah, it’s a powerful vacuum )
- Prep’ers like them for sealing items in their bug-out bags
- Bags are expensive, so buy in bulk to save money
Pros:
- Realy Easy Bag making system
- Powerful Vacuum, can crush things easily
- It really can use non-foodsaver bags, but not recommended
- Great for cooking Sous Vide
- Has a drip tray to prevent ruining the vacuum
- Large variety of Bags
Cons (with advice to help you)
- A little pricey ( review your needs, wants, and compare the systems )
- Not very clear on the differences in a few generations and model numbers ( go to their website and review the comparison chart as it is very helpful )
- Requires an extra 3 inches of empty space at the top of the bag that will make you feel like you’re wasting bags ( its sad, but don’t feel bad or worry. The space is needed for the sealing heater and to help you prevent sucking liquids into the system. Most, if not all, vacuum bag systems have you leave a generous gap at the top )
Useful Tips
- Write on the bag before you vacuum it
- Read the instructions and helpful tips on their website
- Leave about an extra 1/2 to 1 inch each time you want to reseal a bag. So if you want to reseal a bag twice, you’ll want to leave 4 inches maybe 5 instead of the recommended 3 inches between food and top of bag
- Foodsaver Ziplock bags are Excellent for foods you want to seal several times
- Vacuum softer cracker ( like Ritz ) in the box to prevent crushing ( yeah, it’s a powerful vacuum )
- Prep’ers like them for sealing items in their bug-out bags
- Bags are expensive, so buy in bulk to save money
Wildwood : Great food saver
Received the sealer yesterday and tried it out this morning. Limited usage so far but I love it at this point. Extremely easy to set up and start using. Very simple operation and ergonomically well designed. Takes up very small area of the counter utilizing a more vertical stance than previous or other brand machines. Controls are well labeled and easy to understand. Vacuum and sealing process is very quick works great.
rebel : Works well, saves a lot in food spoilage
Vacuum unit works well, however a support platform to hold the bag contents up off the counter and aid bag seal end lineup with the vacuum port would be helpful.
LINDA NIELSEN : Somewhat awkward having to use two hands to seal bags after filling them.
I like that you can first seal the bag then measure the size you want, I dislike that you need to use two hands to seal the bag after filling, especially soups and sauces. I solved this problem by having a drawer open under the counter so I can rest the bag on it. We will see what happens when I use quart bags (I used gallon barrier bags for one quart of sauce). Overall once I adjusted it is ok. I have a big garden so I have been using this to freeze all of my vegetables and pasta sauces and it has worked well so far.
CarolinaReader : Works well most of the time
The operation of this Foodsaver sealer is more complicated than the last one we had. However it takes up less counter space. It works well most of the tine unless bags are too narrow. Not flexible in that respect.
David J. O'Connell : Good idea, definitely a design work in progress
First of all, this is a terrific solution to frozen food storage. We have had this device for a year; and, after getting through the learning curve, admittedly with only intermittent use due to frustration, we have finally gotten to a routine that works. Any buyer will have to deal with the reality that it is a design compromise, combining unrelated tasks of bag sizing and cutting, portion allocation, and sealing in the manufacturer's marketing plan. Perhaps this is elementary and tolerable to you, but you should walk in with eyes open.
I will leave description of the device to others, and begin with the instructions, which are sunny, enthusiastic, and in many ways incomplete and wrong. The process to use the machine must must be learned with hands-on experience. Both hands, this is NOT device that allows for multi-taskng. There are several tricks to making the device work. This is how we NOW do it, not the way the instructions suggest:
1. Plug in the machine on a counter space that will give you enough space to pull bags from the front bottom slot of the device, and to use a support to hold the food in the bag when using the vacuum sealer, and something to hold and transport the cache of sealed food. I use a thick book (in my case, Jacques Pepin's "New Complete Techniques," which is about 3" thick). This is crucial, because the way the device is designed so that, if you follow Foodsaver's instructions, after you cut and fill the bag, unless it is hugely over-sized, you must hold the bag so that it does not slip out of the sealing slot when you try to press the seal bar, which can only be done with both hands for some reason.. The method suggested by Foodsaver wastes a lot of bag, and you will go through a lot of plastic to store a relatively limited amount of food, unless you take some prudent steps to save time and money. Put a roll of the bag you want to use into the bin from either side. It is helpful to unlock the cutter bar at the bottom right, pull the cutter assembly toward the front, and feed the roll to the white line that is usually hidden from view during use. Turn on the machine, power by pressing the button at the top left, re-lock the cutter bar, and press "seal" at the top. Sometimes this is not necessary, especially if you have used the machine before and the same roll remains. One of the nice things about this machine is that its designers "tried" to make it user friendly, and in this instance, the device seals the end of the roll when you go through the process of sealing a bag. Helpful, but not really intuitive to a user.
2. Drape a towel or plastic wrap over the book or support, to prevent food juices, and there will be some no matter how careful you are, on your hands, on the bag, and ultimately on the machine.
3. Prepare, wash, and cut up the food you want to freeze/store into portions you like.
4. Unlock the cutter bar at the bottom right, and pull a bag to the desired size, re-lock the bar, and run the slider to the opposite side to cut off the bag. You will only learn the sizing with repeated use. Again, at first you will use a lot of plastic, not including mistakes and discards, of which you will have a few. Get over it.
5. Put the food in a bag. Insert the unsealed end of the bag in the sealer slot (above the cutter bar insert). If you follow my advice and SUPPORT THE FOOD IN THE BAG WITH SOMETHING ABOUT 3" THICK, you will not need to hold the bag. Insert the bag just far enough to see it through the clear plastic window at the top; if you can see about 1/4" that is enough. If you put it in crooked, or too far, the device will not seal properly.
6. At the top of the machine, there is a button that selects "dry" or "moist" foods, which seems to have no utility. Each time you use the sealer, it defaults back to "dry." Perhaps I am anal, but I try to put it on the right setting before sealing, but it never seems to make any difference in the resulting sealed bag.
7. With BOTH HANDS (if you follow my advice about a support for the bag of food, this will be a snap), grasp the sides of the device, hooking your fingers around the edges, and press BOTH SIDES of the seal bar with your thumbs. If you do not support the food bag, you will fumble, repeatedly, and not be able to satisfy the machine's inner demons to get it to vacuum and then seal the bag.
Last, there is a lot of waste of bags when you first start. There will be less as you become experienced, but there still will be a lot, and I think this is by design.. The machines are not cheap, and it is not inconceivable that the manufacturers sought to increase potential profits in maximizing consumables, which you conveniently buy from Foodsaver. Like office printers, broadband, and a million other things, without the consumables, it is pointless to buy the product. The cash, it flows. And, you might try other vendor's bags, which might be cheaper, but the lure to buy bags intended for the machine might be irresistible. It is capitalism, after all.
I will leave description of the device to others, and begin with the instructions, which are sunny, enthusiastic, and in many ways incomplete and wrong. The process to use the machine must must be learned with hands-on experience. Both hands, this is NOT device that allows for multi-taskng. There are several tricks to making the device work. This is how we NOW do it, not the way the instructions suggest:
1. Plug in the machine on a counter space that will give you enough space to pull bags from the front bottom slot of the device, and to use a support to hold the food in the bag when using the vacuum sealer, and something to hold and transport the cache of sealed food. I use a thick book (in my case, Jacques Pepin's "New Complete Techniques," which is about 3" thick). This is crucial, because the way the device is designed so that, if you follow Foodsaver's instructions, after you cut and fill the bag, unless it is hugely over-sized, you must hold the bag so that it does not slip out of the sealing slot when you try to press the seal bar, which can only be done with both hands for some reason.. The method suggested by Foodsaver wastes a lot of bag, and you will go through a lot of plastic to store a relatively limited amount of food, unless you take some prudent steps to save time and money. Put a roll of the bag you want to use into the bin from either side. It is helpful to unlock the cutter bar at the bottom right, pull the cutter assembly toward the front, and feed the roll to the white line that is usually hidden from view during use. Turn on the machine, power by pressing the button at the top left, re-lock the cutter bar, and press "seal" at the top. Sometimes this is not necessary, especially if you have used the machine before and the same roll remains. One of the nice things about this machine is that its designers "tried" to make it user friendly, and in this instance, the device seals the end of the roll when you go through the process of sealing a bag. Helpful, but not really intuitive to a user.
2. Drape a towel or plastic wrap over the book or support, to prevent food juices, and there will be some no matter how careful you are, on your hands, on the bag, and ultimately on the machine.
3. Prepare, wash, and cut up the food you want to freeze/store into portions you like.
4. Unlock the cutter bar at the bottom right, and pull a bag to the desired size, re-lock the bar, and run the slider to the opposite side to cut off the bag. You will only learn the sizing with repeated use. Again, at first you will use a lot of plastic, not including mistakes and discards, of which you will have a few. Get over it.
5. Put the food in a bag. Insert the unsealed end of the bag in the sealer slot (above the cutter bar insert). If you follow my advice and SUPPORT THE FOOD IN THE BAG WITH SOMETHING ABOUT 3" THICK, you will not need to hold the bag. Insert the bag just far enough to see it through the clear plastic window at the top; if you can see about 1/4" that is enough. If you put it in crooked, or too far, the device will not seal properly.
6. At the top of the machine, there is a button that selects "dry" or "moist" foods, which seems to have no utility. Each time you use the sealer, it defaults back to "dry." Perhaps I am anal, but I try to put it on the right setting before sealing, but it never seems to make any difference in the resulting sealed bag.
7. With BOTH HANDS (if you follow my advice about a support for the bag of food, this will be a snap), grasp the sides of the device, hooking your fingers around the edges, and press BOTH SIDES of the seal bar with your thumbs. If you do not support the food bag, you will fumble, repeatedly, and not be able to satisfy the machine's inner demons to get it to vacuum and then seal the bag.
Last, there is a lot of waste of bags when you first start. There will be less as you become experienced, but there still will be a lot, and I think this is by design.. The machines are not cheap, and it is not inconceivable that the manufacturers sought to increase potential profits in maximizing consumables, which you conveniently buy from Foodsaver. Like office printers, broadband, and a million other things, without the consumables, it is pointless to buy the product. The cash, it flows. And, you might try other vendor's bags, which might be cheaper, but the lure to buy bags intended for the machine might be irresistible. It is capitalism, after all.
Brian Miller : 5 machines in 2 yrs...DO NOT LAST!!
This is my 5th unit in 2 yrs. If it was not for the insurance that I purchased, I would never have owned a second one. It is very unfortunate but these are just mass-produced cheap Chinese made machines with a fancy looking exterior. The first 3 units I had a much louder motor that lasted about 6 months before no longer suctioning. I presume after receiving a tremendous amount of returns due to motor failure, they finally started using a lower torque motor. Nevertheless, the new motors, while quieter, still do not hold up to daily use for any more that just a few months.
Dr. B. Truett-Serrett : Like this style.
Love this Foodsaver product. Great improvement over the old style I just wore out. I use this almost everyday. I thought it was going To take up so much more room on my counter, but it is only slightly deeper than my old model. The increase in width is very much worth it because you have your rolls right there in the machine.
New Note: I bought this in Sept 2019, and as of July 5, 2021 the bag & jar sealer quit working. This model has a very small, thin airline so that may be the problem. I had to buy the handheld model to seal my bags, and jars now. Plus my marinate attachment is useless not. If I buy another, I have worn out two already, I will get one of the models with a larger tube for sealing bags & jars.
New Note: I bought this in Sept 2019, and as of July 5, 2021 the bag & jar sealer quit working. This model has a very small, thin airline so that may be the problem. I had to buy the handheld model to seal my bags, and jars now. Plus my marinate attachment is useless not. If I buy another, I have worn out two already, I will get one of the models with a larger tube for sealing bags & jars.
Jeff Davis : Good little machine
So far this has been a great vacuum sealer. I tend to use these enough to fry them out so we'll see how long it lasts. l like the set up of the machine the bottom sealer and cutter being separate from the main sealer is sweet.
Keith Housley : To Be Determined...Broke after about 6 Seals
I hesitate to write this as I know sometimes you just get a lemon. I just received this on 01/20/2019 and sealed about 6 or so bags with it over the next 5 days. I went to use it yesterday to reseal a bag and the power button would not turn on the unit. I checked my GFI plugs in the kitchen and none of them had been tripped. I moved the unit to other plugs in the house and it still wouldn't turn on. This morning I tried again and the unit turned on but nothing would work unless you used the bag/jar vacuum attachment. I am sending this back to Amazon for a replacement. I hate wasting food. Especially with two teenage boys in the house. Hopefully the replacement will be a lot better.
KJ : It Looks Nice! About it.
With the suction placed up higher from the counter its hard to hold a short bag and press the bar for the vacuum to take place. It takes longer than my old FS to vacuum and seal. I am really not happy with it at all. I would love to exchange for a different model.
KJ : It Looks Nice! About it.
With the suction placed up higher from the counter its hard to hold a short bag and press the bar for the vacuum to take place. It takes longer than my old FS to vacuum and seal. I am really not happy with it at all. I would love to exchange for a different model.
Betty B : I think this is going to turn out to be one of my favorite kitchen tools.
It was a little hard to get the hang of using this. I think the directions could be improved a bit. For starters the smooth side of the bag must be face down to vacuum seal. Sometimes it doesn't seal but I think that's operator error most of the time. I've successfully used thid with store bought zipper sealer vacuum bags, and I also bought the rolls of bags from Amazon (go ahead and get these when you first purchase as what comes with the unit is scant). I have first frozen softer items like meatballs on trays to maintain their shape then transferred to bags and vacuumed. Another big plus is the unit will re seal things like foil potato chip bags and plastic cereal bags to keep things fresh. Big bonus.
Amazon Customer : Not easy to use! Requires two people.
I spent a little more money as I thought I was getting a good product. Wrong! This is the most unfriendly kitchen appliance ever, it takes two people to operate, one person has to hold the bag with the food and insert it in a slot near the top of the machine and then the second person has to use two hands to press a sealing bar left and right corners at the same time. Ridiculous, I wasted pretty much all of their bags trying to get the hang of this. So frustrating, how anybody can come up with a design like this is beyond me. One other thing I may add, user may need some ear protection, this machine is so loud. I am so happy with my Kitchener 55023006 Automatic Fresh Food Saver purchased from Amazon a very quiet and powerful machine with very good customer service. Needless to say the other machine is going back after one day. There are so many better and cheaper machines out there on Amazon which do not require the use of their very expensive Foodsaver bags.
JB : Exactly what I wanted!!
I love this machine!! I purchased 2 other cheaper models & didn't have features I wanted. This one is the cats meow. I have been vacuuming & sealing everything & very easy to do. I purchased the containers for our salad & breads & excited to have our salad last up to 2 weeks instead of the longest we have kept it was 4 days & thrown away leftovers. The bags; we froze our vegetables & when needed we just put it in a pan of boiling water & in less than 15 minutes we had the tastiest, freshen veggies with our meal. Leftovers vacuum and sealed for next meal....love it!! Our frozen pizza was great, not that freezer rubbery peiceses you get.
I just ordered 3 more for our kids.
I just ordered 3 more for our kids.
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