ZWILLING Vacuum Sealer Bags Review Medium Size for Meal Prep and Sous Vide Cooking

Description

Advantages of the ZWILLING Fresh & Save 10-pc Vacuum Sealer Bags

I’ve spent some time with the ZWILLING Fresh & Save 10-pc Vacuum Sealer Bags (model 36800-220), and I must say, they’ve become a game-changer for me in the kitchen. These BPA-free vacuum bags keep food fresh up to five times longer than standard storage methods, and that alone has been a huge plus. From meal prepping to storing leftovers, these bags have streamlined the way I handle food storage.

The easy-zip closure is one of the best features. It ensures a tight, leak-proof seal, so I never have to worry about messy spills in the freezer or fridge. Whether I’m freezing soups or marinating meat for grilling, these bags hold up incredibly well. Additionally, their freezer, microwave (without vacuum seal), and dishwasher-safe design really caught my attention. It’s rare to find reusable bags that are this versatile.

Here are a few of the standout positive features I’ve noticed:

• Keeps food fresh up to five times longer, reducing waste.
• Reusable and durable design, perfect for everyday use.
• Sous vide compatible, which allowed me to try cooking restaurant-level dishes at home.
• Dishwasher-safe and BPA-free materials, prioritizing safety and convenience.

Weaknesses of the Product

While I’ve largely enjoyed my experience with these vacuum sealer bags, they’re not without their drawbacks. For instance, the manual operation mode might not be ideal for someone looking for a fully automated system. I have to admit, the process requires a bit of patience when sealing multiple bags in a single go.

Another point worth mentioning is the limited size options included in the set. With only 10 medium bags, I sometimes find myself needing larger or smaller sizes for specific tasks. It would have been great if the kit offered more variety.

Here are a few areas for improvement I’ve noted:

• Manual operation mode can feel slow compared to automated sealers.
• Limited size selection might not suit everyone’s storage needs.
• Initial cost of investing in reusable bags may deter some users, even with long-term savings in mind.

Design and Build Quality

The design of these reusable bags is both practical and thoughtful. Each bag features a silicone valve and plastic construction, ensuring that the vacuum seal stays secure. The bags feel sturdy in hand, and I haven’t experienced any issues with tears or leaks. The clear plastic material is a nice touch, as it makes it easy to see what’s stored inside without having to open them.

One design element that I found particularly helpful is the liquid barrier near the vacuum valve. It prevents liquids from being sucked into the pump during vacuum sealing, which is crucial when dealing with marinades or soups. This small feature added a lot of convenience to the overall experience.

Ease of Use and Features

Using the vacuum sealer bags with the accompanying vacuum pump is ridiculously simple. I just had to fill the bag, zip it closed, and dock the pump onto the valve. A single button press was all it took to remove air, and the pump stopped automatically when the vacuum was tight enough. The intuitive operation made it easy for me to jump right in, even without prior experience.

Another feature I loved is how quickly it marinated meat. Normally, marination takes hours, but under vacuum, the flavors infuse in just 30 minutes. This has been a lifesaver when I’ve forgotten to prep dinner in advance.

The bags are also compatible with the ZWILLING Culinary World app, which helps track the freshness of stored food. While I didn’t use this feature extensively, I can see how it would be useful for someone with a packed fridge or freezer.

Competing Products

When comparing these vacuum sealer bags to other brands, one thing that stands out is their reusability. Many competing options tend to be single-use, which isn’t as eco-friendly or cost-effective in the long run. I’ve tried generic vacuum bags before, but they often lacked the durability and tight seal that the ZWILLING bags provide.

That said, some competitors offer automated sealing systems that might appeal to users looking for a more hands-off approach. However, those systems usually come with a higher price tag and bulkier equipment. In contrast, the compact nature of ZWILLING’s handheld pump makes it ideal for smaller kitchens or limited storage space.

Value for Money

For me, the price-to-quality ratio of these vacuum sealer bags is solid. While the initial investment might feel steep, the durability and reusability make it worthwhile over time. I’ve already noticed how much I’m saving by keeping food fresh longer and reducing waste. Plus, the convenience of having versatile, dishwasher-safe bags adds to their overall value.

Compared to disposable options, this set feels like a wise choice for anyone looking to save money in the long run. Whether you’re into meal prepping, sous vide cooking, or simply want to cut down on food waste, these bags offer a lot for their price point.

Additional information