ZWILLING Vacuum Sealer Bags Review Durable, Reusable, Perfect for Sous Vide and Meal Prep

Description

Sleek Design and Practical Build

The ZWILLING Fresh & Save 10-pc Vacuum Sealer Bags (Model 36800-220) instantly caught my attention with their clear, BPA-free plastic material. These bags are straightforward yet incredibly effective in appearance. The medium size is ideal for a variety of uses, from prepping meals to storing leftovers. The easy-zip closure is honestly a lifesaver; it’s so intuitive that even my kids managed to seal their snacks without spilling anything. The added silicone valve for vacuum sealing looks simple but works wonders when paired with the vacuum pump.

I also appreciate the durable build of the bags, as they hold up well even after repeated use. Unlike some flimsy competitors, these don’t feel like they’ll tear easily, even if you overfill them a little. They’re freezer, microwave (without the vacuum seal), and dishwasher safe, which means I’m not constantly worried about ruining them.

Performance and Functionality

I’ve tested these vacuum sealer bags for various purposes, and I have to say, they perform exceptionally well. The vacuum seal process is quick and seamless. You dock the handheld pump on the valve, press a button, and within seconds, the air is gone. I love the fact that the pump automatically stops when the job is done, so there’s no guesswork involved. This feature makes the bags perfect for preserving food up to five times longer than traditional non-vacuum storage methods.

One of my favorite uses has been sous vide cooking. These bags hold up beautifully in the hot water bath, and I didn’t notice any leakage or weakening of the material. I also tried marinating chicken under vacuum, and it was ready with full flavor in just 30 minutes. Plus, the liquid barrier ensures that no marinade or sauce gets sucked into the pump, which is a massive plus.

Key Benefits

• Keeps food fresh up to five times longer, reducing waste significantly.
• Versatile use: Ideal for sous vide, snack storage, meal prep, and freezing.
• The easy-zip closure guarantees a secure seal with minimal effort.
• Reusable and dishwasher safe, making them eco-friendly and convenient.
• Works seamlessly with the ZWILLING vacuum pump for quick air extraction.

Areas of Concern

While I’m mostly satisfied, there are some less favorable aspects worth noting:

• The bags are medium-sized, which can be limiting for larger cuts of meat or bulkier items.
• No vacuum pump included in the set, so you’ll need to purchase it separately if you don’t already own one.
• Over time, the silicone valve might wear out with repeated use, though I haven’t encountered this personally yet.

Competing Products

When comparing these vacuum sealer bags to other options like FoodSaver or Anova bags, the ZWILLING bags stand out for their durability and easy-zip closure. FoodSaver bags, while reliable, often feel bulkier and less flexible, especially when storing smaller items. Anova’s bags are great for sous vide but lack the versatile usability these offer, like being dishwasher-safe or having a practical liquid barrier.

That said, the lack of included pump could be a downside for some users, as both FoodSaver and Anova offer complete kits. However, the cordless design and German engineering of the ZWILLING system make it a top choice for anyone who already owns the pump.

Value for Money

This product feels like a smart investment for anyone who prioritizes reducing food waste and maximizing freshness. While the upfront cost of buying the bags and pump might seem steep, the long-term savings on food spoilage and the convenience they offer easily justify it. The reusability also means you’re not constantly buying replacements, which is a win for both your wallet and the environment.

I’m particularly impressed by the thoughtful design details, like the silicone valve and easy-zip seal. These features add to the overall cost-efficiency of the product by ensuring that each bag can be used multiple times without losing its integrity.

In my opinion, these vacuum sealer bags are an excellent choice for anyone looking to step up their meal prep game or preserve food in a more efficient way. While they’re not without their flaws, the ZWILLING Fresh & Save system delivers on its promises of quality and performance.

Additional information