Vacuum Sealer - Plastic vs. Mylar bags

Anthony_Lopez · Apr 21, 2008

I keep all my hops in a cooler in the freezer, however since I bought a pound of centennial, I'd really like to break it into oz packs for ease of use. I know mylar packaging is superior, however it is much more expensive.

Whats everyone's thoughts on this issue? I can get a vacuum sealer for 40 bucks at Kmart that works with the standard plastic sheets.

conpewter · Apr 21, 2008

I just ordered a Seal-A-Meal (ebay) so I'm looking into this as well. I recently read on a grow-hops group that it may work to re-use those single serving potato chip bags, but I have not tried it yet.

homebrewer_99 · Apr 21, 2008

Most of us that buy in bulk use the Seal-A-Meal or some other brand.

You'll be OK.

Dr_Deathweed · Apr 21, 2008

I just use one of the $10 renyolds handi-vacs like BierMuncher does:

https://www.homebrewtalk.com/showthread.php?t=52705

raceskier · Apr 21, 2008

I use the Handi Vac as well. Works nicely, especially for $10. If you're getting one of the heat sealers, be aware that the normal food packaging LDPE melts at 120 deg C, while PET (Mylar) melts at 280 deg C. Big difference.

yello · Apr 21, 2008

I'm another Handi Vac user. For $10 it works like a charm, especially if you use the bags that the hops come in, sealed within the Vac bags.

Anthony_Lopez · Apr 21, 2008

My mother uses one for her landscaping company to preserve flower bulbs when she buys in bulk. She is sending me the Black and Decker that sells for about 40 bucks...

I found the mylar bags from a few sources, but DAMN its expensive!!!

camiller · Apr 22, 2008

I know that a couple of the homebrew wholesalers sell the same mylar "oxygen barrier" bags that they use to package their own hops in. Your LHBS might be able to order them for you.

Personally I use a foodsaver and the Wal-mart house brand bags (great value?). I am thinking that in a couple years when the hop yard gets to producing I might buy the mylar bags.

kazamanero · Nov 8, 2009

FYI...just went to the Reynolds website and the Handi-vac product was discontinued.

Bummer for those who found it....handy.

http://www.reynoldspkg.com/reynoldskitchens/handi_vac/en/home.asp

Vacuum Sealer - Plastic vs. Mylar bags

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