Product FAQs

General Questions

Can FoodSaver® Bags be washed?

Yes, but it depends on the previous contents of the bag. Bags that previously contained fruits, vegetables, breads and dry goods can be washed and reused. Bags that contained raw meats, fish, eggs or un-pasteurized cheese should be discarded after use because they may contain invisible bacteria that will remain after washing. Bags that contained greasy or oily foods should also be discarded, as they may be difficult to clean. FoodSaver® Bags can be washed by hand. Dry completely. They can then be re-vacuumed.

Are FoodSaver® bags BPA free?

Sunbeam Corporation (Canada) Limited is diligent in our efforts to ensure that our products are compliant with all industry standards, including the regulations set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Health Canada.

In response to your inquiry, none of our FoodSaver® branded bags, rolls or canisters contains Bisphenol A.

We understand your concern and hope that our response helps you in making informed decisions for you and your family.

Please let us know if you have any further questions or concerns.

Can FoodSaver® Bags be put in the microwave?

Yes. You can heat cooked foods, such as leftovers, in a FoodSaver® bag. The bags should never be used to cook raw foods. When microwaving, cut open a corner of the bag before putting it in the microwave so steam can escape. Avoid microwaving foods containing a lot of oil, as oil will get hot very quickly and could cause the sides of the bag to stick together.

Can FoodSaver® Bags be put in the freezer?

Yes. The bags are ideal for the freezer because they will keep all air and moisture out, preventing food from getting freezer burn and becoming dry and tasteless.

Can I vacuum package bread?

It is not recommended to vacuum package soft breads such as white bread. French bread and hard rolls must be frozen first, then vacuum packed.

Do I have to use the FoodSaver® Bags? Can I vacuum package in other plastic bags?

To vacuum package with the FoodSaver®, you must use the FoodSaver® Bags. They are specially designed to be strong enough for vacuum packaging and the waffle pattern in the bag is a patented design that makes sure air does not get caught in pockets around the food. FoodSaver® Bags have five layers, including an outer layer of nylon. This configuration completely prevents air and moisture from getting back into the bag and prevents odors from getting out or in. Other plastic bags allow air to seep through.

If you want to use your FoodSaver® appliance to re-seal, but not vacuum package a bag (without removing the air first) you can use it on Mylar type (strong, thin polyester) or stiff plastic bags, not any other types. For example, you can re-seal potato chip bags.

Are the FoodSaver® Bags & Rolls recyclable?

Yes, the bags are recyclable under the "Other" category. Please follow the recycling guidelines and requirements of your local municipality.

Are FoodSaver® Bags safe for food use?

Yes. The bags are made of materials that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has determined to be safe for food use.

What are Heat Seal Rolls?

FoodSaver® Bags and Rolls have not changed. The FoodSaver® bags are still made from the same, highest quality materials. We realize there are other storage methods, like foils, wraps and zipper bags, but these do not provide the same long term protection against freezer burn and spoilage as the patented FoodSaver® Sealing System. Our unique system takes the air our and keeps it out by creating a durable, airtight Heat Seal.

I have a different food packaging appliance made by another company. Can I use the FoodSaver® bags with it?

Our FoodSaver® Bags and Rolls are designed for FoodSaver® units only. The sealing bar on your unit may either be too hot, which will melt the bags, or too cool, which will result in a bag that is not sealed properly.

What is the difference between GameSaver® bags and FoodSaver® bags?

There is no difference in the design or the quality of the bags. GameSaver® bags and rolls are conveniently packaged with multiple rolls. FoodSaver® rolls are sold individually.

Will flour still get bugs in it after it is vacuum packed?

Insects and their larvae cannot survive in a low oxygen environment, such as that created when you vacuum package your dry foods such as flour, cornstarch, corn meal and cereals.

How thick are FoodSaver® bags?

All FoodSaver® brand heat-seal bags and rolls are constructed of multi-layer plastic for a durable, air-tight seal. FoodSaver® brand bags are constructed in the following thicknesses:

FoodSaver Bags – Heat-Seal (all)
Smooth side: 3mils thick
Textured side: 11.5mils thick

GameSaver Bags – Heat-Seal (all except Heavy Duty Bag; see below for specifications on thickness for this bag)
Smooth side: 3mils thick
Textured side: 11.5mils thick

GameSaver Heavy Duty Bag – Heat-Seal
Smooth side: 4mils thick
Textured side: 11.5mils thick

Why do FoodSaver® Bags cost more than other plastic bags?

Other plastic bags are usually made of one layer of polyethylene (a type of plastic). FoodSaver® Bags are 5-layer including an outer layer of nylon. The nylon layer not only makes the bags stronger, it also creates a complete air, moisture and odor barrier. Unlike other bags, FoodSaver® Bags can be simmered in water or microwaved (so you can reheat leftovers or pre-cooked dinners).

What are FoodSaver® Bags made of?

They are made of polyethylene (a type of plastic) with an outer layer of nylon for added strength and rigidity.

Can FoodSaver® Bags be re-sealed?

Yes. Just cut off the existing seal, remove as much food as you need, then re-vacuum package. Be sure to wipe off any food or grease residue inside the bag near the seal area. You can also re-seal FoodSaver® Bags after you have washed them.