Is It Cheaper To Freeze Dry Your Own Food?

This article examines the upfront cost of a home freeze dryer, continuing operating expenses, including power, and the price per batch compared to pre-packaged choices to see whether freeze dry your own food at home is cheaper. We'll also explore the break-even point to help you estimate how long it will take to return your investment, depending on your consumption habits. Thus, you may assess home freeze-drying's suitability for your lifestyle and budget.    

Initial Costs of Freeze-Drying at Home

Typical home freeze dryers cost $2,000–$4,000. Price varies on dryer capacity and features, including vacuum pump options, automated valve control on the vacuum line, vacuum hose materials, etc. For example, a $2,999 standard size Stay Fresh freeze dryer can process 18 pounds of fresh food every batch. Operating expenses, including energy usage based on the model, must also be addressed.    

Operational Costs

Energy Consumption of Home Freeze Dryers

The average home freeze dryer might use around 1,000 watts. Assuming an average usage scenario of 24 hours for each batch and a $0.12 per kWh power tariff, the energy cost per cycle would be approximately $2.88. Moreover, efficiency relies on the model's insulation and ambient temperature, which affect the energy needed to sublimate ice without heat losses. 

Maintenance and Repair Costs

Vacuum pump oil must be replaced regularly. Depends on the type of vacuum pump used with a freeze dryer. Some hvac type of vacuum pumps requires an oil change every batch. Some 3-5 batches. An industrial pump typically requires an oil change every 20-30 batches. The vacuum pump oil runs at $25-40 a gallon, which is enough for 4-8 oil changes.

Electronics, and parts like door seal,  and refrigeration systems may also need maintenance. Relays and sensors usually cost around $10-$20. A door seal might cost ~$60. Though it is rare for refrigeration systems to fail within 3 years, once it fails it costs significantly more ( at least $300) to replace. 

Cost of Raw Materials

Cost Comparison: Fresh Foods vs. Pre-Packaged Freeze-Dried Food

A home freeze-drying system costs $2,000 to $4,000, so buying fresh items for freeze-drying demands a larger upfront commitment. Yet, raw fresh goods are cheaper per pound than freeze-dried ones. For instance, Trade Joe's sell a bag of 1.2 oz freeze-dried strawberries for $2.99, which is equivalent to $47.84 per lb, which costs much more than fresh strawberries per pound. 

Savings from Bulk Purchases and Seasonal Deals

Also, bulk buying and seasonal bargains may lower the cost of freeze-drying fresh items. E.g., buy tomatoes in season in summer to save above off-season costs. Plus, foods may be freeze-dried at their nutritional optimum for better quality and flavor. Buying berries, apples, and meats during sales may also lower prices per pound, rendering home freeze-drying cheaper. 

Long-Term Savings from Home Freeze-Drying

Initially, home freeze-drying involves large upfront costs due to acquiring a freeze dryer. However, freeze-dried meals may last up to 25 years if adequately preserved while lowering food waste. Freeze-drying seasonal vegetables and meats for long-term usage makes bulk purchases cost-effective. Over many years, that approach may save repeated shopping visits and the higher prices of pre-packaged freeze-dried goods. Thus, switching from commercial freeze-dried items to self-processing may amortize equipment costs for an ordinary home in a few years. 

Final Verdict

Along these lines, home freeze-drying's cost-effectiveness relies on upfront investment and operational expenses vs long-term savings. High initial cost and energy usage throughout 20-40 hour cycles are typical of quality units. Nevertheless, freeze dry your own food frequently amortizes these expenses for big families that can bulk-preserve seasonal produce or those with unique dietary requirements who need ingredient control. For long-term food storage or meal planning, preserving foods with flavor and nutritional value may be worth the initial investment. 

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