Best Freeze Dryer Accessories (2026): What to Buy Before Your First Batch
The freeze dryer is just the machine. It produces perfectly preserved food — but without the right bags and oxygen absorbers, that food won't last more than a few years. The storage system is as important as the freeze drying itself.
Order your mylar bags and oxygen absorbers before your freeze dryer arrives. You'll want them on hand for your first batch — don't let a $3,000 batch of food sit unsealed while you wait for shipping.
Here's exactly what you need and why.
Accessory Questions Answered
What size oxygen absorbers for freeze-dried food?
Use 300cc absorbers for 1-quart mylar bags and 2000cc absorbers for gallon bags. Matching absorber size to bag size is important — undersized absorbers won't remove enough oxygen for long-term storage.
How long does freeze-dried food last in mylar bags?
Properly sealed freeze-dried food in 7-mil mylar bags with oxygen absorbers lasts 25+ years. Thinner 3-mil bags and skipping oxygen absorbers reduce shelf life to 1-5 years. The bag quality and sealing process matter as much as the freeze drying itself.
Do I need a heat sealer for mylar bags?
Yes, for long-term storage you need a heat sealer capable of sealing 7-mil mylar. A standard FoodSaver works for FoodSaver-style bags but cannot seal thick mylar. Many owners use a basic impulse heat sealer ($30-50) dedicated to mylar work.
Can I reuse mylar bags?
Technically yes, but it's not recommended for long-term storage. The bag integrity diminishes after the first seal and cut. For short-term pantry rotation storage, reuse is fine. For 25-year storage, use a fresh bag every time.