Mike CHS
Herd Master
I forgot to mention that point. Mine is more updated but I rotate the trays every couple of hours and I have a large number of them.
Yes, we have a good vacuum sealer.
So it sounds like this whole dehydrating process isn't as mysterious as the manufacturer's manual implies.
Thanks to all who have read/responded. You all are very helpful.
Won't promise that this is the last question, so... can you over-dry?
The manual makes a big deal about not over-drying but doesn't give any guidelines, other than fruit 8 - 12 hours. I presume the shorter time is for less quantity and the longer time is for a fully loaded multi-tray array... or am I overthinking the whole thing?
I know what dried fruit looks and feels like: pliable, not crunchy. What happens when you go beyond to the crunch stage? The manual has me thinking that the fruit is ruined. What's wrong with crunchy apple slices... snack food, right?
BYHers are the best resource one can have!
I have an old Nesco, four trays..NO fan. Only controls are opening the vents at top more or less.Hey, only $8 at Habitat, barely used and works great. SO...the thing I see no one has mentioned --maybe I am only one with this type-- but you must move tray order, to get optimum overall results. Plus, I find that some things (most) need to have the pieces moved during the drying. I actually have to remove some before all are complete. This has to do with the size of the pieces, the moisture in each piece, plus the location ON the tray. Some are just "done" sooner.
Again, much may have to do with mine being one that relies on the heat circulation by drawing air thru the bottom, over the heat coils and up thru the center holes, as well as those in trays, and out the top vents. Even with the more advanced models, no doubt there is a need to consider the size of pieces and moisture content. Ripe fruits have more sugars, moisture, etc.
I use mine for fruits, mostly but, have done some veggies. Plan to use it for more next spring as a way to preserve in a different manner than freeze & can.
I have not found a need to rotate trays or move food pieces. Mine has a strong fan and a thermostat along with the heater and fan in the top.
I don't have the "new" model...so mine is strictly air in, air out, heat in between.
No fan, no thermostat or even a temp gauge. That's why I need some manual assist.
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I run up to 10 trays so I do rotate so that most everything gets done around the same time since it usually gets done long after my normal bed time.![]()
I have that same meat grinder, bought it new 35 years ago! I even loan it around the neighborhood. It works for me!
No it doesn’t. I paid $60 for it and 35 years later similar grinders are about the same price. Hmm.... I wonder where mine/yours was made and where they are made now?