Discussions

there can be an extra step over using freezer bags, but I can't walk to the store once in the time it takes me to put a cookie sheet of bagged hamburger in the freezer and vacuuming them in the morning let only 6-8 times for single packs. Runny stuff I freeze in a bread pan etc... and bag the next day. The flat bricks stack real nicely in the freezer.

We bought the ziploc brand one from Target and LOVE it!! We buy the bags in the States but I'm pretty sure they sell them here too. I don't find them too pricy.  
 
I freeze my meat thawed and don't have issue with blood or juice. I freeze soup and chili and sometimes that liquid comes into the machine but nothing major at all. I usually just use the pulse and seal option on those instead of the vacuum seal

We bought one 2 years ago from cabelas we love it we actually just bought a second one we use them all the time. Most defiantly worth the money. I blanched and vacum sealed a 100 lbs of veggies this fall with mine as well as bulk meat and it was easy.

oldshoemaker said "A friend of mine had one years ago and used it a lot. He'd bring in stews and different sausages (German fellow), etc... throw them in the microwave at work and when they puffed up lunch was ready. I cheaped out and bought one of the less expensive ones that use the thinner cheaper bags. HUGE MISTAKE!!!Couldn't nuke the packages and didn't keep stuff as well as the better machine you're looking at.     I've had the better one for a few years and swear by it. I haven't thrown anything out of the freezer in years and I can now buy the Walton size tray of meat at $3.00/lb instead of paying $4.00/lb for a chop for my supper. Even if you factor in the cost of the bags (they do also have reusable "tupperware" available)mine paid for itself in about 6 months. "

Old shoemaker - what kind of Foodsaver do you have? Checked dome out at Cdn tire and Walmart and there are a few different ones.

Mine is the Food Saver model V2040.

We have one from Costco. The refills seem pricey but they last a long time. I use it all the time. Items last way longer than regular freezer bags. Ours has a few options so you can choose the best option for the type of food you are freezing.  

Thankyou everyone for your comments on Foodsaver vacuum sealers. After much research I have decided to go with the one from Costco. Just called & they are in stock for $169.99. Costco person said they sell a lot of them & they are a popular machine. Can't wait to get mine this weekend.