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What are the benefits of air dried and freeze dried food?
Shopper’s Guide to Air Dried vs Freeze Dried Foods
What is the difference between air dried and freeze dried? Take a look at our dried comparison chart below. Also you will see some of our customer favorites if you’re a first time buyer. Still not sure? All of our dried food is offered in a variety of package sizes, so try some of the small retail bags first, then stock up on your favorites using our economical bulk options. Please note “Dehydrated” is often generically used to describe “Air Dried”.
AIR DRIED | FREEZE DRIED | |
---|---|---|
Process | Evaporation. Food is exposed to heated air and water escapes. | Sublimation. Food is placed in a refrigerated vacuum where ice disappears in the form of escaping water vapor. |
Shelf Life | 18 months or more | 24 months or more |
Cost | Very cost effective | Less cost effective |
Flavor | Good | Excellent |
Nutritional Value | Excellent | Excellent |
Cooking Recommendations | Perfect for cooking applications such as homemade soups, casseroles, and sauces. | Eat as is or add to trail mixes, salads, smoothies, cereals, or desserts. Perfect for cooking applications as well. |
Weight and Size | Lightweight and very compact. | Extremely lightweight, not compact. |
Durability | Durable - resists crumbling apart, even when cooked. | Fragile – can crumble or crush easily. |
Storage | No refrigeration. Store in a sealed bag. To keep longer than 18 months, visit Sorbent Systems for packaging ideas. | No refrigeration. Store tightly sealed in a good moisture barrier bag. To keep longer than 24 months, visit Sorbent Systems for packaging ideas. |