Hop Storage

I've bought a couple pounds of hops. They are vacuum sealed right now. Any one got any thoughts on if it's worth vacuum re-sealing them once opened. I don't have a vacuum sealer - but can get get one - but is it cost effective? Does vacuum sealing reduce degradation significantly enough justify the cost.

They're Cascades - 8% - and I'll use them in 3 - 4 months.

Thanks
Ian

I dont know as I just started vacuum sealing my hops, but get the vacuum sealer anyway, they rock. I vacuum seal everything now.

It's worth it. Once you start sucking, you will be amazed at all the things you can find to suck.

Yes Suck them ther hops..................

Id like to know as well. I have 2 pounds of cascades in double ziplock bags (1# each) in my freezer. Will they keep with continued use?

Get a foodsaver! You can use it for grains too. If your a serious brewer you won't regret buying one.

I just keep mine ziplocked. I figure they should be fine as long as I use them in the next few months.

It may help with longer term storage, however I don't have the money.

If you want a foodsaver keep an eye out for deals, a week ago foodsaver was selling a newer model for $46 on sale with free shipping.

gpogo said:

If you want a foodsaver keep an eye out for deals, a week ago foodsaver was selling a newer model for $46 on sale with free shipping.

Click to expand...

Yeah, on Friday they had the V2860 on sale for $44.
FoodSaver V2860 Vacuum Sealer Kit $44 + s/h - SlickDeals.net Forums

I bought one of these on sale at the grocery store for less than $5. I haven't used it yet. But, I like the concept.

The Handi-Vac is okay if you're not using it too often. I picked one up at the grocery for $4 and I've used it on some hops. Initially, three out of eight bags didn't hold a vacuum for more than a few hours. I then read on the web site to run your finger over the little target thingy on the bag after sealing. This seemed to fix the problem, but we'll see how long they hold.

I think the Handi-Vac is a good temporary solution and I do like the fact that you can re-use the bags, but I'm keeping an eye out for another good deal on one of the better FoodSavers.

Yes, buy a vacuum sealer. They are fantastic. As others said, you'll use it for plenty of other things. I can justify buying several pounds of hops at a time now.

Plus, who homebrews because it is cost effective?