Before Purchasing a Food Dehydrator: How to Choose One

There are many benefits to creating dried or dehydrated foods. Dehydrated foods do not spoil easily like fresh foods and as such bacteria is not likely to grow as it would in foods that are highly concentrated with water. Water creates an opportunity for mold and microorganisms. Dried fruits can be made into leathery fruit snacks like fruit roll ups, and without the preservatives, which is a healthy snack alternative. Dried vegetables can be added to soups and casseroles and salads and countless cooking recipes. Dried foods can be rehydrated when ready to use, or they can be kept in its crisp state for added texture. Before purchasing a Food Dehydrator, which is one of the most sophisticated, yet easiest methods to drying fresh foods, there are several things you need to consider.

First, see if your family is interested in dehydrated and dried foods. Purchase some dried apricots or apples and see if your family enjoys snacking on them. Make some trail mixes using various dried fruits you can buy from bulk containers at organic grocery stores. Mix them with some raisins and seeds or nuts and store in little snack size food storage bags. Purchase some dried tomatoes and mushrooms and try using them in sauce or soup. Get a feel for how dried foods incorporate into your recipes and cooking style. Add dried fruits to hot oatmeal and cold cereals and smoothies and dips and yogurt. If you see your family enjoys the taste and texture then you know dried foods would not be wasted in your house and you can approach food dehydration with the knowledge that the foods will be practical and convenient as well as nutritious.