commonly asked questions about our Harvest Right Freeze Dryers
Freeze Dryer Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to our Freeze Dryer FAQ page, where you can find answers to the most
Why Freeze Dry
Benefits
Freeze Dryer Details
Pharmaceutical and Scientific
1. Emergency Preparedness
There is no better way to prepare for an emergency than with a home freeze dryer. Freeze-dried food is perfect for emergency food supplies, bug out bags, 72-hour kits, and other survival packs. With a home freeze dryer, you will be prepared for any kind of emergency.
Natural Disasters
Most people will be affected by some type of serious disaster in their lifetime. Home freeze drying puts you in control of your family’s survival, no matter the circumstances.
Man-made Disasters
Man-made disasters such as war, explosions, chemical spills, and terrorism, cause human suffering, loss of life, and food shortages. Freeze drying gives you peace of mind in case any of these worst-case scenarios occur.
Financial Disasters
A home freeze dryer allows you to easily preserve large amounts of food and create a high quality emergency food supply, so you can take care of yourself and loved ones in case of job loss or financial downturns.
Save Money
Buying freeze-dried food from a store is expensive. The food is often full of salt and other preservatives and the limited choice means you buy meals you may not even like eating. Freeze drying your own meals and produce is a great way to save money when building your emergency food supply.
2. Gardening
A Harvest Right freeze dryer allows you to keep your home-grown fruits and vegetables fresh for years and years. Freeze drying at home is the very best way to preserve your garden harvest. It truly is the gardener’s best friend.
Better Than Canning
Freeze drying causes very little damage to the nutritional value of fresh food. This preservation method preserves nearly all of the nutrients found in the food prior to being freeze dried. Whereas, canning and other preservation methods can destroy much of the nutrition found in fresh food.
Better Than Dehydrating
Heat can affect taste, color and texture causing your garden produce to look and taste very different. Freeze-dried food, in contrast, looks and tastes just like the food did when fresh.
Save Food and Money
Freeze drying the food you grow in your garden is the best way to preserve your harvest and helps you save money on your grocery costs.
3. Food Storage and Preservation
Perfectly preserve all your favorite foods with very little effort. Easily create a home food supply that is tastier, healthier, and more diverse than any other food preservation methods.
Canning
Freeze drying causes very little damage to the nutritional value of fresh food. This preservation method preserves nearly all of the nutrients found in the food prior to being freeze dried. Whereas, canning and other preservation methods can destroy much of the nutrition found in fresh food.
Dehydrating
The process of dehydrating affects the taste, color, and nutrition. Dehydrating destroys nearly half of the nutritional value. Freeze-dried food, in contrast, preserves nutrition and looks and tastes just like it did when fresh.
Store-Bought Food Storage
With a home freeze dryer you can control the quality, taste, and natural goodness of the food you are storing. Plus, the cost of your food storage will be far less.
4. Healthy Living
Healthy
Unlike canning and other ways of preserving food, freeze drying causes very little damage to the nutritional value of your food. Freeze-dried foods retain nearly all of the nutrients.
Special Diets
A home freeze dryer can help you make sure you always have access to fresh, tasty food that works with your dietary considerations. Freeze-dried food is perfect for those who eat gluten-free, raw food, vegan, vegetarian, paleo, or suffer from food allergies.
Prevent Food Waste
The average American family wastes a lot of food. A recent study by the USDA found that the average American wastes about one pound of food per day, which can cost the average family up to $2,400 per year. Preserve the healthy food you buy or grow with a home freeze dryer and save money by eliminating waste.
5. Camping & Hunting
Harvest Right lets you freeze dry your own food at home to be used on your next hike, backpacking adventure, hunting trip, or campout. It is lightweight, has less salt, and tastes better than anything else that will fit in your backpack. It’s perfect for every outdoor enthusiast.
Hiking & Backpacking
Freeze dry your favorite food and enjoy it on the trail during your next hike or backpacking adventure. It is lightweight and easy to prepare (just add hot water). Take your favorite homemade or restaurant meals.
Hunting & Fishing
Avid hunters and fishermen can end up with too much meat or fish all at once. Now you can freeze dry any extra, whether cooked or raw. When you rehydrate the food, you won’t know the difference between fresh and freeze dried.
Camping
There is no reason why you shouldn’t enjoy your favorite meals at your next campsite. You can freeze dry lightweight, easy-to-prepare meals that will taste fantastic. In fact, you can eat as well in the wild as you do at home.
On the Road
RV and trailer food should be delicious, lightweight, easy-to-prepare, and not require refrigeration. Freeze drying at home allows you to easily create weeks’ worth of food for the next time you decide to hit the road
6. Pet Nutrition
With Harvest Right’s home freeze dryer, you can feed your pets the healthy, preservative-free, home-prepared food they deserve and crave. There are many reasons to feed your pet home freeze-dried food.
Healthy
Feeding your pets freeze-dried food is a great way to keep them healthy. Many feel a raw diet of freeze-dried food is best for pets.
Less Expensive
Freeze-dried pet food and snacks can be very expensive. Freeze drying at home lets you provide freeze-dried food for your pet at a fraction of the cost.
Happy Pets
Some pets have very finicky tastes. Freeze drying at home lets you discover what freeze-dried food your pet loves most and, since you control the ingredients, you can fully trust the food you’re feeding to your pet.
Benefits
Preserve your garden produce, create the perfect emergency food supply, make camping meals and healthy snacks. Unlike other methods of food preservation, freeze drying does not shrink or toughen the food, and retains flavor, color, and nutrition.
100+ Foods You Can Freeze Dry
The possibilities are endless! Get started with our list of 100+ foods that you can freeze dry!
Nutrition
Freeze drying maintains nearly all of the nutritional value of fresh food. Other methods of preservation, such as canning and dehydrating, use high temperatures that destroy much of the food value.
Freeze Dried - Nearly All
Dehydrated - 60%
Canned - 40%
Shelf Life
Refrigerated, frozen, and canned food just don’t last very long. Freeze dried food will last up to 25 years and does not need to be to be rotated like other foods. Freeze dried food is perfect for home storage.
Taste
Harvest Right freeze dryers produce food that looks and tastes better than store-bought freeze dried food. Experience the Harvest Right difference!
Versatility
Freeze drying works great for fruits and vegetables, but unlike other options, it also perfectly preserves meat, fish, dairy, eggs, ice cream, and even fully-cooked meals.
Fun
Discover how fun and delicious freeze-dried desserts and snacks can be! From freeze-dried ice cream to gummy bears and the very favorite – Skittles! There is such a demand for freeze-dried candy that many businesses specializing in freeze-dried sweets are taking off.
Save
Not only will the food you freeze dry at home look and taste better than store-bought freeze-dried food, it’s much less expensive! Freeze dry all of your leftover meals, and you’ll save even more money.
Easy
If you can press a button, you can freeze dry! Simply press start on the touch screen, and the patented Smart Freeze© technology senses when it’s done. Everything is automatic.
Freeze Dryer Details
Small Freeze Dryer:
- Capacity of each batch is a 6 to 10 lbs. of fresh food
- In a year, one can freeze dry up to 1,800 lbs. or more of food
Medium Freeze Dryer:
- Capacity of each batch is 10 to 15 lbs. of fresh food
- In a year, one can easily freeze dry up to 3,000 lbs. of food
Large Freeze Dryer:
- Capacity of each batch is 18 to 27 lbs. of fresh food
- In a year, one can easily freeze dry up to 5,000 lbs. of food
X-Large Freeze Dryer:
- Capacity of each batch is around 40 to 50 lbs. of fresh food
- In a year, one can easily freeze dry up to 10,000 lbs. of food
- Capacity of each batch is a 6 to 10 lbs. of fresh food
- In a year, one can freeze dry up to 1,800 lbs. or more of food
Medium Freeze Dryer:
- Capacity of each batch is 10 to 15 lbs. of fresh food
- In a year, one can easily freeze dry up to 3,000 lbs. of food
Large Freeze Dryer:
- Capacity of each batch is 18 to 27 lbs. of fresh food
- In a year, one can easily freeze dry up to 5,000 lbs. of food
X-Large Freeze Dryer:
- Capacity of each batch is around 40 to 50 lbs. of fresh food
- In a year, one can easily freeze dry up to 10,000 lbs. of food
How Does The Freeze Dryer Work?
The entire process is automatic.
1. Raw or cooked foods are placed in the freeze dryer where they are frozen to between -30 degrees and -50 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Once frozen, the freeze dryer creates a vacuum in the food chamber.
3. As the food is gradually warmed, the water turns to vapor and evaporates out of the food (sublimation).
4. When dry, the freeze dryer notifies the user that the process is complete by sounding an audible beep.
5. You can then remove the freeze dried food from the dryer and place it in vacuum-sealed containers that are moisture and oxygen proof (preferably a mylar pouch or a can) to ensure freshness until opened.
6. When water is added to the food, it regains its original fresh flavor, aroma, texture, and appearance!
1. Raw or cooked foods are placed in the freeze dryer where they are frozen to between -30 degrees and -50 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Once frozen, the freeze dryer creates a vacuum in the food chamber.
3. As the food is gradually warmed, the water turns to vapor and evaporates out of the food (sublimation).
4. When dry, the freeze dryer notifies the user that the process is complete by sounding an audible beep.
5. You can then remove the freeze dried food from the dryer and place it in vacuum-sealed containers that are moisture and oxygen proof (preferably a mylar pouch or a can) to ensure freshness until opened.
6. When water is added to the food, it regains its original fresh flavor, aroma, texture, and appearance!
What Size Are The Freeze Dryers And How Much Do They Weigh?
Small 16.5" W x 18.5" D x 25" H Color: 91 lbs. Stainless: 98 lbs.
Medium 18" W x 21.25" D x 28.5" H Color: 119 lbs. Stainless: 127 lbs.
Large 20.25 " W x 23.75" D x 30.75" H Color: 143 lbs. Stainless: 150 lbs.
X-Large 23.25 " W x 33.7" D x 35.6" H Color: N/A, Stainless: 258
Medium 18" W x 21.25" D x 28.5" H Color: 119 lbs. Stainless: 127 lbs.
Large 20.25 " W x 23.75" D x 30.75" H Color: 143 lbs. Stainless: 150 lbs.
X-Large 23.25 " W x 33.7" D x 35.6" H Color: N/A, Stainless: 258
What Type Of Food Can Be Freeze Dried?
You truly can freeze-dry almost anything. All kinds of fruits, vegetables and meats taste wonderful when freeze dried. That includes things like tomatoes, apples, bananas, strawberries, peaches, green beans, peppers, onions, potatoes, spinach, shrimp, pork, beef, turkey and even ice cream.
Your favorite meals that include meat may be easily freeze dried. Foods like lasagna, rice dishes, cheese macaroni, chili, beef stew, chicken a la king, casseroles, shrimp, lobster, pulled pork, pasta sauces or scrambled eggs are perfect for this process.
You will find that it is a delight to experiment with different foods and meals in your freeze dryer. A great way to start is by picking meals that are already favorites in your home.
Your favorite meals that include meat may be easily freeze dried. Foods like lasagna, rice dishes, cheese macaroni, chili, beef stew, chicken a la king, casseroles, shrimp, lobster, pulled pork, pasta sauces or scrambled eggs are perfect for this process.
You will find that it is a delight to experiment with different foods and meals in your freeze dryer. A great way to start is by picking meals that are already favorites in your home.
How Much Food Can Be Freeze Dried In Each Batch?
Small
6-10 lbs. of fresh food will fit in our small freeze dryer. It is not uncommon for customers to freeze dry up to 1,800 lbs. of fresh food in just 1 year. Tray space= 434 sq. inches
Medium
10-15 pounds of fresh food will fit in our medium size freeze dryer. It is not uncommon for customers to freeze dry up to 3,000 lbs. of fresh food in just 1 year. Tray space= 675 sq. inches
Large
18-27 pounds of fresh food will fit in our large freeze dryer. It is not uncommon for customers to freeze dry up to 5,000 lbs. of fresh food in just 1 year. Tray space= 1,107 sq. inches
X-Large
40-50 pounds of fresh food will fit in our X-Large freeze dryer. It is not uncommon for customers to freeze dry up to up to 10,000 pounds of fresh food in just 1 year. Tray space= 2,251 sq. inches
6-10 lbs. of fresh food will fit in our small freeze dryer. It is not uncommon for customers to freeze dry up to 1,800 lbs. of fresh food in just 1 year. Tray space= 434 sq. inches
Medium
10-15 pounds of fresh food will fit in our medium size freeze dryer. It is not uncommon for customers to freeze dry up to 3,000 lbs. of fresh food in just 1 year. Tray space= 675 sq. inches
Large
18-27 pounds of fresh food will fit in our large freeze dryer. It is not uncommon for customers to freeze dry up to 5,000 lbs. of fresh food in just 1 year. Tray space= 1,107 sq. inches
X-Large
40-50 pounds of fresh food will fit in our X-Large freeze dryer. It is not uncommon for customers to freeze dry up to up to 10,000 pounds of fresh food in just 1 year. Tray space= 2,251 sq. inches
How Long Does It Take To Freeze Dry Each Batch?
It typically takes between 20 to 40 hours to complete the process. Food type and quantity will affect the freeze-dry cycle. Things like meat, peas and corn dry quickly, while squash and watermelon can take longer. The thickness of the food slices will affect the cycle time too.
Most importantly, your machine senses when the food is ready (alerting you with a beep) so you don’t have to guess when to stop the freeze-dry cycle.
Most importantly, your machine senses when the food is ready (alerting you with a beep) so you don’t have to guess when to stop the freeze-dry cycle.
Is It OK To Freeze Things Prior To Placing In The Freeze Dryer?
Yes! It is a great idea to put frozen products into your freeze dryer. Your machine will accept pre-frozen foods and cool them even further, to around -40 degrees F.
What Components Make Up a Freeze Dryer?
The freeze dryer unit itself as well as a high-quality vacuum pump that sits outside the freeze dryer.
What Maintenance Is Required For A Freeze Dryer?
The freeze dryer itself requires little to no maintenance. However, as shown below, all freeze dryers come with a high quality vacuum pump, which requires some maintenance, mainly adding and draining oil.
The vacuum pump comes equipped with an initial supply of oil. There are 3 cups of oil in a vacuum pump that need to be changed regularly to keep a freeze dryer running efficiently. This is a simple process, and requires little effort.
Each freeze dryer also includes a stand-alone oil filter. The filter cleans the oil and allows you to keep reusing your oil as if it were new. Using filtered oil in each batch is a great way to save money and be more eco-friendly, while also helping your vacuum pump perform as efficiently as possible.
The vacuum pump comes equipped with an initial supply of oil. There are 3 cups of oil in a vacuum pump that need to be changed regularly to keep a freeze dryer running efficiently. This is a simple process, and requires little effort.
Each freeze dryer also includes a stand-alone oil filter. The filter cleans the oil and allows you to keep reusing your oil as if it were new. Using filtered oil in each batch is a great way to save money and be more eco-friendly, while also helping your vacuum pump perform as efficiently as possible.
What Type of Power Do The Freeze Dryers Use? How Much Will It Cost To Run?
Harvest Right has taken every precaution to make this appliance run as affordably as possible.
Small and Medium
Our small and medium freeze dryers use a standard 110 volt outlet.
At peak, the freeze dryer draws about 15 amps, but on the average about 9 to 11 amps (990-1210 watts) of power per hour. A dedicated 20 amp circuit is recommended. Your freeze dryer will cost an estimated $1.25-$2.80 a day, depending on power costs in your area.
Large
Our large freeze dryer requires a 110 volt (NEMA 5-20) outlet
At peak, the large freeze dryer draws about 15 amps, but on the average about 10 amps (1500 watts) of power per hour. A dedicated 20 amp circuit is required. Your freeze dryer will cost an estimated $2.00-$3.00 a day, depending on power costs in your area.
X-Large
Our x-large freeze dryer requires a 110 volt (NEMA 5-20) outlet
At peak, the x-large freeze dryer draws about 17 amps, but on the average about 13 amps (1600 watts) of power per hour. A dedicated 20 amp circuit is required. Your freeze dryer will cost an estimated $4.00 a day, depending on power costs in your area.
Small and Medium
Our small and medium freeze dryers use a standard 110 volt outlet.
At peak, the freeze dryer draws about 15 amps, but on the average about 9 to 11 amps (990-1210 watts) of power per hour. A dedicated 20 amp circuit is recommended. Your freeze dryer will cost an estimated $1.25-$2.80 a day, depending on power costs in your area.
Large
Our large freeze dryer requires a 110 volt (NEMA 5-20) outlet
At peak, the large freeze dryer draws about 15 amps, but on the average about 10 amps (1500 watts) of power per hour. A dedicated 20 amp circuit is required. Your freeze dryer will cost an estimated $2.00-$3.00 a day, depending on power costs in your area.
X-Large
Our x-large freeze dryer requires a 110 volt (NEMA 5-20) outlet
At peak, the x-large freeze dryer draws about 17 amps, but on the average about 13 amps (1600 watts) of power per hour. A dedicated 20 amp circuit is required. Your freeze dryer will cost an estimated $4.00 a day, depending on power costs in your area.
Pharmaceutical
Patented technology keeps the product fresh, and preserves the potency, color, shape and nutrition of any organic material. Perfect for freeze drying herbs, oils, medicines, remedies, pharmaceuticals, and compounds.
Scientific
Harvest Right scientific freeze dryers are remarkable, and a perfect addition to any laboratory. Our scientific freeze dryer can be completely customized with your preferred processes. You can have multiple manageable profiles, each providing the ability to automatically power on and off the condensing unit and the vacuum pump in conjunction with ascending, controlled temperature and time settings.
