Food waste is a significant problem in households worldwide. We purchase groceries with the best intentions, but life happens, and sometimes those fresh ingredients end up spoiling before we can use them. That’s where vacuum sealing comes in. By removing air from specially designed bags or containers, vacuum sealers dramatically extend the shelf life of your food, preserving freshness and preventing freezer burn. This can lead to significant savings over time, not to mention reducing your environmental impact.
FoodSaver is a well-known and trusted brand in the world of vacuum sealing. They offer a wide range of models to suit different needs and budgets. Among their offerings, the FoodSaver FM2100 stands out as a particularly appealing option. It’s a compact, user-friendly vacuum sealer that’s designed for everyday use, making it a popular choice for individuals, couples, and smaller families.
This article provides a comprehensive and unbiased review of the FoodSaver FM2100. We’ll delve into its key features, explore its pros and cons, discuss its performance in real-world scenarios, compare it to other models, and ultimately, help you decide if it’s the right vacuum sealer for your kitchen. If you’re new to vacuum sealing or have limited counter space, keep reading – this review is especially for you.
Understanding the Core Features and Specifications
Let’s take a closer look at what makes the FoodSaver FM2100 tick. Knowing the specifications and design will give you a clear picture of its capabilities.
Design and Size: Compact and Kitchen-Friendly
The FoodSaver FM2100 truly shines in its compact design. Space is often a premium in many kitchens, and this model is thoughtfully engineered to take up minimal countertop real estate. Its dimensions are such that it can be easily stored in a cabinet or pantry when not in use. The relatively light weight also contributes to its portability. The build quality of the FoodSaver FM2100 is solid, utilizing durable plastics that feel sturdy and well-assembled. The exterior is typically a clean, modern design, which blends seamlessly into most kitchen decors. It’s not just about functionality; it’s about fitting seamlessly into your lifestyle.
Core Functionality: Sealing with Ease
The primary function of the FoodSaver FM2100, of course, is vacuum sealing. The process is straightforward. You simply place the open end of a FoodSaver bag filled with food into the vacuum channel, close the lid, and press the “Vacuum & Seal” button. The machine automatically removes the air from the bag and then seals it shut. The entire process is quick and efficient. The learning curve is minimal, making it perfect for beginners.
The Value of the Seal Only Function
A particularly useful feature of the FoodSaver FM2100 is the “Seal Only” function. This allows you to create custom-sized bags from a roll of FoodSaver bag material. You seal one end of the roll, fill the resulting bag with food, and then use the “Vacuum & Seal” function to complete the process. This provides a greater degree of flexibility and reduces waste. Additionally, the seal only function is great for resealing chip bags or other bags you want to close up.
Extending Capabilities with the Accessory Port
The FoodSaver FM2100 includes an accessory port, which expands its capabilities beyond basic bag sealing. This port is compatible with a range of FoodSaver accessories, such as jar sealers and zipper bags. This allows you to vacuum seal foods in mason jars for pantry storage or use zipper bags for convenient grab-and-go snacks. While accessories are purchased separately, the presence of this port enhances the versatility of the FM2100.
Protecting Delicate Foods with CrushFree Instant Seal
The FoodSaver FM2100 incorporates a valuable feature called CrushFree Instant Seal. This is especially helpful when sealing delicate foods like berries, pastries, or even fragile leafy greens. This feature allows you to stop the vacuum process at any time before it crushes the food.
Understanding the Indicator Lights
The FoodSaver FM2100 features indicator lights that provide real-time feedback on the sealing process. These lights indicate when the machine is powered on, when the vacuum process is in progress, and when the sealing process is complete. This visual feedback is helpful for ensuring that the machine is operating correctly and that the sealing process is successful.
What Comes in the Box
The FoodSaver FM2100 typically includes a starter kit of FoodSaver bags and/or a roll of bag material. This allows you to begin vacuum sealing immediately. The exact contents of the starter kit may vary depending on the retailer or promotion.
Power and Performance Details
The FoodSaver FM2100 operates on standard household voltage. The strength of the vacuum seal is generally adequate for most everyday food storage needs. While it may not be as powerful as higher-end models, it’s sufficient for preventing freezer burn and extending the shelf life of most foods. The noise level during operation is generally moderate. It’s not overly loud, but it’s not completely silent either.
Delving into the Pros and Cons
Every product has its strengths and weaknesses. Let’s honestly assess the advantages and disadvantages of the FoodSaver FM2100.
The Upsides: A List of Advantages
- The compact size of the FoodSaver FM2100 is a major advantage, especially for those with limited kitchen space.
- Its ease of use makes it an excellent choice for beginners who are new to vacuum sealing.
- It effectively preserves food, preventing freezer burn and extending shelf life.
- The “Seal Only” function offers flexibility in creating custom-sized bags.
- The CrushFree Instant Seal protects delicate foods.
- The price point is generally more affordable than higher-end FoodSaver models, making it accessible to a wider range of consumers.
The Downsides: Areas for Potential Improvement
- The vacuum sealing power may not be as strong as more expensive models, potentially affecting the long-term storage of certain foods.
- It may lack built-in bag storage or a cutter, requiring manual cutting and potentially adding to the mess.
- The FoodSaver FM2100 may not be suitable for heavy-duty, continuous use in a professional kitchen or for processing large quantities of food regularly.
- While not excessively loud, the noise level during operation could be a consideration for some users.
Putting it to the Test: Real-World Usage
How does the FoodSaver FM2100 perform in practical, everyday situations? Let’s explore its performance with different food types, seal quality, and ease of maintenance.
Handling Different Food Types
The FoodSaver FM2100 generally performs well with a variety of food types, including meats, vegetables, and dry goods. However, sealing juicy foods can present a challenge. To minimize issues, it’s recommended to pre-freeze juicy foods for a short period before vacuum sealing or to use paper towels to absorb excess moisture.
Assessing Seal Quality and Food Preservation
The seal quality produced by the FoodSaver FM2100 is typically reliable, creating an airtight barrier that effectively prevents freezer burn and maintains freshness. Foods stored using the FoodSaver FM2100 generally stay fresh for a significantly longer period compared to traditional storage methods like plastic bags or containers.
Cleaning and Maintenance: Keeping it Running Smoothly
Cleaning the FoodSaver FM2100 is relatively straightforward. The drip tray, which catches any excess liquids, can be easily removed and washed. The exterior of the machine can be wiped down with a damp cloth. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the sealing strip, can help ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Comparing to the Competition
How does the FoodSaver FM2100 stack up against other vacuum sealers in its class?
The market offers many compact vacuum sealers. The FoodSaver FM2100 often competes with models from brands like Nesco and Seal-a-Meal. While some competitors may offer slightly lower prices, the FoodSaver FM2100 often distinguishes itself with its established brand reputation and the availability of a wider range of compatible accessories.
What Customers Are Saying
Customer reviews provide valuable insights into the real-world performance and user experience of the FoodSaver FM2100.
Many users praise the FoodSaver FM2100 for its ease of use, compact size, and effectiveness in preserving food. Common complaints often revolve around its sealing power. Overall, the customer sentiment is generally positive.
Evaluating Value and Price
The FoodSaver FM2100 is typically priced competitively within the compact vacuum sealer market. Its value proposition lies in its combination of affordability, ease of use, and effectiveness in preserving food. The long-term savings from reduced food waste can justify the initial investment.
Final Thoughts: Is the FoodSaver FM2100 Right for You?
In conclusion, the FoodSaver FM2100 is a solid choice for individuals and smaller families looking for a compact, user-friendly vacuum sealer. It’s particularly well-suited for beginners who are new to vacuum sealing. It is a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to reduce food waste, save money, and enjoy fresher food for longer. While it may not be the most powerful vacuum sealer on the market, it offers a compelling balance of features, performance, and affordability. So, if you are looking for a compact and efficient method to preserve your food, the FoodSaver FM2100 might be your next kitchen appliance.
Where to Purchase (Optional)
The FoodSaver FM2100 is widely available from major retailers, including Amazon, Walmart, and Target, as well as directly from the FoodSaver website.
