Food Pre-Packaged in Vacuum Bags

Food Pre-Packaged in Vacuum Bags - From above of bunch of tomatoes with raw asparagus put into transparent plastic bags on white table near citrus fruits and garlic bulbs

I often purchase chicken and fish that have been vacuum packed at the factory. Is the food, never having been exposed to air, susceptible to botulism or other anaerobic organisms? Is it best to sous vide these in their frozen state?



Best Answer

I wouldn't advice either one.

If you sous vide from frozen, your cooking times are going to be off. You might end up with it undercooked in the middle unless you significantly increase the cooking time.

And I've only done it in the packaging once. Never again, as there was little to no flavor to it. (no browning, no seasoning). The only time that I might be willing to re-try it would be if I went to the partially-prepared section, and got the ones with marinade already in the bag.




Pictures about "Food Pre-Packaged in Vacuum Bags"

Food Pre-Packaged in Vacuum Bags - Top view of colorful rotini in opened glass jar and fusilli in white bags near empty recycling white bags on table
Food Pre-Packaged in Vacuum Bags - Faceless person demonstrating recycling bag with pistachios
Food Pre-Packaged in Vacuum Bags - Assorted natural products and food in glass jars and paper packages on shelves in self service eco shop



How long does food stay good in vacuum sealed bags?

Food Lasts Longer Most vacuum sealed foods will last in the refrigerator for 1-2 weeks, which is much longer than the typical 1-3 days food will last when stored conventionally in a refrigerator.

CAN YOU CAN food in vacuum sealed bags?

Yes, it can be done. You're looking for retort pouch canning. Various places will sell you the bags, and you can vacuum seal them with a chamber vac, though you may need an upgraded heat bar. Then you can process them in a pressure canner (or preferably autoclave).

Can you vacuum seal prepared food?

Once the food is cooled to at least room temperature vacuum sealing is the perfect method for safely storing cooked food, and extending its shelf life.

What foods use vacuum packaging?

Today, vacuum packaging is common for long duration storage of dry foods like cereals, nuts, cured meats, cheese, and smoked fish, as well as short duration storage of fresh foods like vegetables, meats, and liquids.



Top 5 Best Vacuum Sealer Bags in 2021 Reviews Buyer’s Guide




Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

Images: Karolina Grabowska, Sarah Chai, Sarah Chai, Sarah Chai