649517 Wed Sep 02 11:21:43 -0700 2009 2 41 Cookware 0 4999394 I am interested in buying a home vacuum food storage system, for storing frozen foods over the winter. The first thing that comes to mind is the ancient Seal - a- Meal. Although I am sure that they have updated their system since I owned one, 30 years ago, I think I am interested in something more rugged, but not quite commercial grade(or price). Quality is my priority. Any advice? Wed Sep 02 11:21:43 -0700 2009 50795 greenstate 1 5000044 I have a previous model (found it on closeout at Target for about $50) which was packed in a promotional box with a couple of lexan canisters (there's a hose that attaches to them and removes the air). Use it quite often. It's been pretty reliable. http://www.amazon.com/FoodSaver-Advanced-Design-Vacuum-Packaging-System/dp/B000AAYD6W/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=home-garden&qid=1251926683&sr=8-2 Wed Sep 02 14:28:31 -0700 2009 4999394 202198 ferret 1 5010122 Here's a recent thread on the subject: http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/634670 I recently retired my Seal a Meal, and I don't think they've updated the technology. It did the job, but the bags are so expensive ($0.30-$0.50 each) I found myself doing a cost-benefit analysis every time I wanted to so save something. I bought a Snorkelvac unit about a month ago and so far am quite happy. It's a scaled down version of commercial units and uses plain bags instead of the patented waffle-surfaced bags FS and SaM use. 8x10 bags are $0.06 each. http://www.vacnbags.com/ Two cautions: It's a bit more complicated to use (turn off power, extend snorkel, fit bag over snorkel, turn on power, etc). And it does not draw as strong a vacuum as my old Foodsaver did. But the scallops I sealed last month still look good. No ice, no freezer burn as far as I can tell. Here's where I got my sealer and bags: http://www.vacnbags.com/ Sun Sep 06 20:20:27 -0700 2009 4999394 53530 Zeldog