Genius - Vacuum packaging machines Magic Vac - Free user manual and instructions

USER MANUAL Genius Magic Vac

Data la continua ricerca tecnologica nel settore, FLAEM NUOVA si riserva il diritto di apportare modifiche tecniche e funzionali al prodotto senza alcun preavviso.15 THE VACUUM PACKING SYSTEM FOR THE HOME Mod. MAGIC VAC Genius We compliment you on your purchase and thank you for your confidence in us. You are advised to carefully read these directions, which will enable you to use the Mod. MAGIC VAC Genius properly and obtain optimal results in terms of food preservation. Furthermore, we suggest you keep these instructions handy for further reference. - APPLIANCE NAMES and FUNCTIONS page 15- IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS page 16-17- OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS page 18-19 • Making bags from MAGIC VAC

rolls page 18 • Vacuum packing with MAGIC VAC bags cut from a roll or pre-cut bags page 18 • Vacuum packing in MAGIC VAC

Executive containers or with MAGIC VAC Universal Caps page 18 • Vacuum packing in MAGIC VAC

Family containers page 18-19 • Vacuum packing in glass jars page 19 • Vacuum packing with MAGIC VAC bottle caps page 19 • Vacuum packing with cap attachment page 19- CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS page 20- TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS page 20- TROUBLESHOOTING page 21- INFORMATION ON VACUUM PRESERVATION OF FOODSTUFFS page 22-26 • THE ADVANTAGES OF MAGIC VAC

VACUUM PACKING page 22 • STORAGE LIFE WITH MAGIC VAC page 23 • ABOUT VACUUM PACKING page 24 • HOW TO PRESERVE FOOD IN MAGIC VAC BAGS page 24-25 • HOW TO PRESERVE FOOD IN MAGIC VAC CONTAINERS page 25 • POINTS TO REMEMBER page 26- MAGIC VAC AVAILABLE ACCESSORIES page 75-76 APPLIANCE NAMES and FUNCTIONS (1) START/STOP/MAN SEAL switch – Performs the following operations: • START - the appliance is turned on; • STOP - the appliance is turned off; • MAN SEAL - the sealing process is started at any time.(2) ON/VACUUM/SEAL indicator light - Shows the appliance status: • Green (ON) - the appliance is performing the vacuum packing cycle; • Yellow (VACUUM) - the MAX vacuum level has been reached; • Red (SEAL) - the appliance is performing the sealing process.(3) Tube air inlet - To insert the connection tube to jars, containers, universal caps, bottle caps etc. (4) Lid manual valve - Press it to open the lid at the end of the cycle.(5) Lid - Opening the lid into the fixed raised posi-tion allows you to position the bags before starting the vacuum packing process. See illustrations on page 1. (6) Vacuum locks - In the locked position they secure the lid in place while the vacuum pack-ing cycle is under way in bags, jars and contain-ers; they release automatically. (7) Sealing gasket - It presses the bag on the seal- ing bar. (8) Airtight gaskets - They guarantee that a vac- uum will be maintained in the chamber, thus allowing air to be removed from bags and containers.(9) Sealing bar - Teflon-coated heating element that seals the bag and prevents it from sticking to the bar.(10) Tray-shaped vacuum chamber - To position the open end of the bag inside the chamber, draw air from the bag and collect any excess liquid.(11) Non-slip feet - The feet prevent the appliance from slipping during use. PATENTED CONTENTS

SECTION 1 SECTION 216

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS The manufacturer takes every step necessary to ensure utmost product quality and safety. However, as for all electrical appliances, you should follow some basic safety rules to avoid creating a hazard for people, animals and/or property.

• This appliance can be used by children aged from 8 years and above and persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities or lack of experience and knowledge if they have been given supervi- sion or instruction concerning use of the appliance in a safe way and understand the hazards involved. Children shall not play with the appliance. Cleaning and user maintenance shall not be made by children without supervision.

• Before using the product for the first time and periodically during its lifetime, check the power cord to make sure it is intact; if you observe any damage do not insert the plug, since the power cord must be replaced with a special cord available from your dealer or an authorised service centre.

• Carefully read the directions before using your MAGIC VAC

and keep them handy for future reference.

• The appliance is not designed for continuous operation. Do not carry out more than one complete cycle every 2 minutes. In extreme ambient conditions, an intensive use of the appliance may trigger the automatic thermal protection devices. In such a case you must wait until the appliance cools down enough in order to reset the safety devices.

• Do not use the appliance on or in proximity to hot surfaces.

• The casing of this appliance is not protected again the penetration of liquids.

• Do not draw liquids into the vacuum chamber. Should this happen, immediately dry the vacuum chamber.

• Do not immerse the appliance in water and do not use it if the cord or plug are wet; should they get wet during use, immediately pull out the plug wearing dry rubber gloves. Do not remove or touch the appliance under water until you have pulled out the plug. Do not use the appliance after its removal from water (take it immediately to an authorised service centre or your dealer).

• To avoid burns, do not touch the sealing bar while using the appli- ance.

• Never use adapters for power supplies different from the one indi- cated on the bottom of the unit (plate details).

• Always unplug the appliance after you finish using it.

• Do not open or tamper with the appliance. Servicing may be per- formed by authorised personnel only. Any unauthorised repairs will invalidate the warranty.

• The Manufacturer, the Retailer and the Importer are responsible for safety, reliability and performance only if: a) the appliance is used in accordance with the operating instructions; b) the electrical system of the premises where the appliance is used is in conformity with current laws.17 Use only original MAGIC VAC

bags and accessories SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!

• Using Mod. MAGIC VAC Genius at high altitude (over 1000 m.): the machine comes with a device working on a differential basis since it measures the difference between the external pressure (room) and the internal vacuum level. This means that in presence of the same internal pressure the device operation will depend on the external pressure. Therefore when using Mod. MAGIC VAC Genius at high altitude, with vacuum-packing cycle already started, the warn- ing light (2) may stay green and the air in the bag is sucked. In this case, to terminate the vacuum-packing operation use the manual sealing function “MAN SEAL” described on page 18 and contact an authorised dealer or your preferred supplier.

original bags is highly recommended. If other types of vacuum bags are used to carry out multiple vacuum packaging operations, the plain side of the film should be laid face down onto the sealing bar.

• No lids or use containers that have cracks or is damaged! This text is for users in countries except European countries: - This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including chil- dren) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given super- vision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety. - Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance.18 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS Before use, always thoroughly clean your appli- ance and any accessories coming in contact with food (containers, caps, jars etc.) as directed in the “CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS” paragraph. 1 Positioning the appliance Position the appliance in a dry place on a level surface, making sure that the work area in front of the appliance itself is clear of obstacles and there is enough room to accommodate the bags with the food to be packed. Plug the power cord into a power socket corresponding to the voltage of the appliance (see technical details). 2 Tips on using bags MAGIC VAC

bags are available in two widths: 20 and 30 cm. Choose the bag size suited for the food you intend to preserve. Check that the bag you are going to use is at least 8 cm longer than the food to be packaged, taking into account an additional 2 cm for each time the bag will be subsequently reused. Note: If you are using pre-cut bags, go directly to step 4 below. 3 Making bags from MAGIC VAC

rolls - Unroll a bag of suitable length and cut it using the MAGIC Cutter (12) as shown in Fig. A, moving it from rim to rim. Now you can seal an open side of the cut bag as follows: - Lift the lid (5) and turn it in the open position. - Position either of the two open ends of the bag on the sealing bar (9) with the smooth side up (fig. B).

Warning: be careful not to let the bag hang over into

the vacuum chamber (10) or on the sealing gasket (8). - Close the lid (5) and push down on the front cor- ners of the lid with your thumbs, then push the two vacuum locks (6) into the locked position (fig. C). - Press the START/STOP/MAN SEAL switch (1). The appliance will automatically carry out a vacuum packing cycle (fig. D). Wait until the ON / VACUUM / SEAL light goes off (2). - Press down on the rounded recessed area of the manual valve (4) to release the lid (fig. E). - Lift the lid (5) and remove the bag. - Check the quality of the seal obtained, which should appear as a regular, wrinkle-free crosswise strip with no internal ridges in the bag. (fig. F) 4 Vacuum packing with bags cut from a roll or pre-cut bags - Lift the lid (5) and turn it in the open position. - Place food in the bag without creasing it exces- sively or stretching surfaces. Eliminate any liquids or food residues from the area inside the bag that will be sealed. - Place the bag and its contents in front of the appli- ance and place the open end inside the vacuum chamber (10) (fig. G). - Close the lid (5) and push down on the front cor- ners of the lid with your thumbs, then push the two vacuum locks (6) into the locked position (fig. H). - Press the START/STOP/MAN SEAL switch (1). The appliance will automatically carry out a vacuum packing cycle (fig. I). Wait until the ON / VACUUM / SEAL light goes off (2 ). - Press down on the rounded recessed area of the manual valve (4) to release the lid (fig. L). - Lift the lid (5) and remove the bag. - Check the quality of the seal obtained, which should appear as a regular, wrinkle-free crosswise strip with no internal ridges in the bag. (fig. M) - You can turn the appliance off at any time by pressing again the START/STOP/MAN SEAL switch (1). If necessary, release the vacuum locks (6), by pressing down on the front corners of the lid with the palms of your hands. 5 Using the MAN SEAL function (1) During the automatic packaging cycle, you can prevent delicate foods from being crushed by the vacuum by activating the sealing function at the right moment. To do so, press and hold down the START/STOP/MAN SEAL switch (1) until the ON/ VACUUM/SEAL red light starts blinking (2). Release the button and wait until the end of the cycle, when the ON/VACUUM/SEAL light goes off (2). 6 Vacuum packing in MAGIC VAC

Executive con- tainers or in containers sealed with MAGIC VAC

Executive containers and the MAGIC VAC

Universal Caps with star-shaped knob (see fig. N) make vacuum packing easier, because the con- nection hose can be directly introduced into the knob central hole (see fig. N). MAGIC VAC

Universal Caps, available in two diam- eters (100 mm and 125 mm), are to be used on jars for preserving food and bowls and receptacles made of tempered glass. The Universal Caps work just like the Caps for MAGIC VAC

Executive containers.

WARNING: When using Universal Caps do not use

plastic or glass containers that are not suitable since they could implode under the vacuum pressure of the appliance and cause injury. - Fill the container leaving at least 3 cm of room between the contents and upper rim and posi- tion the lid on the container. Turn the knob to the “VACUUM” position”. (fig. N) - Connect the container lid knob to the air inlet (3) of the appliance by means of the connection hose (13). (fig. N) - Lock the lid (5) by pushing the vacuum locks (6) and press the START/STOP/MAN SEAL switch (1); the appliance will automatically carry out a vacuum packing cycle and turn off on its comple- tion. - Remove the hose from the container lid knob. - Turn the knob to the “CLOSED” position. - To open the containers turn the knob to the “OPEN” position, you should hear a hissing of air as it enters the container. This sound guarantees that the contents have been packed in a vacuum.

Vacuum packing in Family MAGIC VAC

containers Multipurpose containers ideal for storage of fre- quently used products such as dry and fragile foods; powder foodstuffs; fresh, pureed or strained fruit and

WARNING: DO NOT LEAVE THE LID WITH LOCKS ENGAGED WHEN THE UNIT IS NOT IN USE.19

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS vegetables. Their transparency and design makes them attractive to display on kitchen shelves while ensuring that their contents are clearly visible. - Fill the container leaving at least 3 cm of room between the contents and upper rim and position the lid on the container. Lock the safety catches (16) before starting the vacuum process. (fig. O) - Connect the container lid to the air inlet (3) of the appliance by means of the connection hose (13) (fig. O / fig. P). - Lock the lid (5) by pushing the vacuum locks (6) and press the START/STOP/MAN SEAL switch (1); the appliance will automatically carry out a vacu- um packing cycle and turn off on its completion. - Remove the hose from the container lid. - Once a vacuum is formed, the vacuum indicator (15) of the container should be depressed and it should remain depressed throughout storage of the vacuum-packed food item. Should this indica- tor return into a raised position, it means that there is no longer a vacuum inside the container. - Press the central button to open the containers (14) (fig. O / fig. P). 8 Vacuum packing in glass jars sealed with metal caps (Leifheit type) Use the large-sized cap attachment to pack foods in glass jars with a metal cap. - Fill the container leaving at least 3 cm of room between the contents and upper rim. - Connect the cap attachment (15) to the air inlet (3) of the appliance by means of the connection hose (13). Place the cap attachment directly on the jar with the metal cap only (16) and press down, mak- ing sure it fits correctly (fig. Q). - Lock the lid (5) by pushing the vacuum locks (6) and press the START/STOP/MAN SEAL switch (1); the appliance will automatically carry out a vacu- um packing cycle and turn off on its completion. Make sure that the cap attachment holds firmly, keeping it pressed with the your hand. - Disconnect the hose from the cap attachment. Remove the cap attachment from the jar. - Apply the ring (17) supplied with the jar and screw it down all the way (fig. Q). - To open a glass jar vacuum-sealed with a metal cap, use the cap opener provided (the side with writing should be turned up). Position the cap opener as shown in figure R and gently pry open the cap until the vacuum is released. Remove the metal cap. This accessory allows you to reuse the cap. 9 Vacuum packing with MAGIC VAC

Bottle Cap may be used to seal part- ly filled bottles of wine or non-fizzy beverages. Using the Bottle Cap will allow you to create a vacuum inside the bottle so as to slow down oxidisation and preserve the freshness and flavour of its contents for a longer time. - By means of the connection hose (13) connect the air inlet (3) of the appliance to the MAGIC VAC

Bottle Cap (18) (fig. S). Press the Cap firmly into the bottle. - Lock the lid (5) by pushing the vacuum locks (6) and press the START/STOP/MAN SEAL switch (1); the appliance will automatically carry out a vacuum packing cycle and turn off on its comple- tion. - Disconnect the hose from both the Bottle Cap and the appliance immediately. - To open a bottle sealed with the MAGIC VAC

Bottle Cap, simply pull the cap out of the bottle. You will hear the air rushing into the bottle. 10 Vacuum packing with Cap Attachment in MAGIC VAC

Executive containers or in containers sealed with MAGIC VAC

Universal Caps with the previous model of knob To use the Cap Attachment in MAGIC VAC

Executive containers or in containers sealed with MAGIC VAC

Universal Caps with the previous model of knob, read the instructions supplied in our web page www.flaemnuova.it

WARNING: DO NOT LEAVE THE LID WITH LOCKS ENGAGED WHEN THE UNIT IS NOT IN USE.20

IMPORTANT: Always unplug the appliance before cleaning the MAGIC VAC

• Carefully wash your hands before proceeding to clean the appliance and its accessories.

• Both before and after use, clean the exposed surfaces of the MAGIC VAC

using a sponge mois- tened with a mild, non-abrasive and solvent-free CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS dishwashing detergent. If any liquids accidentally get inside the appliance, do not connect it to the mains electricity supply and do not use it; contact your nearest dealer or authorised service centre.

• For information on how to clean MAGIC VAC

accessories (containers, caps, jars etc.), see the instructions included in the accessory kit. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Disposal: In conformity with Directive 2012/19/EC, the symbol shown on the appliance to be disposed of indicates that this is considered as waste and must therefore undergo “sorted waste collection”. The user must therefore take (or have taken) the above waste to a pre-sorted waste collection centreset up by the local authorities, or else give it back to the dealer when purchasing a new appliance of the same type. Pre-sorted waste collection and the subsequent treatment, recovery and disposal operations favour the production of appliances made of recycled materials and limit the negative effects of any incorrect waste management on the environment and public health. The unlawful disposal of the product by the user could result in administrative fines as provided by the laws transposing Directive 2012/19/EC of the European member state in which the product is disposed of. Dimensions 39 (L) x 14 (D) x 10 (H) cm Weight 3.15 kg The performance of MAGIC VAC

systems has been tested by AITA (Italian Association of Food Technology) see page 23. Electromagnetic compatibility The Mod. MAGIC VAC Genius has been engineered to meet current electromagnetic compatibility require- ments. However if you suspect that the appliance is interfering with the operation of your TV, radio or other electrical unit, try relocating the appliance until the interference ceases. Alternatively try plugging the appliance into a different power socket. Voltage Marked 230V~50Hz 300W 115V~60Hz 220V~60Hz 100V~50/60Hz21 TROUBLESHOOTING The MAGIC VAC

• Make sure the MAGIC VAC

has been plugged in properly. Check the electric socket by plugging another appliance into it.

will stop automatically if over- heated. Allow it to cool down for 15 minutes and try again.

• Check for faults in the power cord or the plug. Should you detect a fault, do not use the appli- ance. The MAGIC VAC

fails to apply the first seal on the bag cut from the roll

• Make sure the bag cut from the roll is prop- erly positioned as described in the paragraph: “Making bags from MAGIC VAC

does not create a complete vacuum in the bags

• To seal the bag properly, you must make sure that the open end remains completely inside the Vacuum Chamber.

• Make sure that the Sealing Bar, the Sealing Gaskets and Airtight Gaskets are free of impuri- ties. After cleaning them, put them properly back in place.

bag might have a hole in it. To check the bag, seal it with air inside, place it underwater and apply pressure on it. The appear- ance of bubbles means that there is a leak. Reseal or use another bag. The MAGIC VAC

does not seal the bag properly

• If the Sealing Bar overheats and melts the bag, you may have to raise the Lid and allow the Sealing Bar to cool down for a few minutes.

is built in conformity with cur- rent safety standards. Overheating will cause it to turn off automatically. Allow the appliance to cool down for 15 minutes and try again. The MAGIC VAC

bag does not maintain a vacu- um after being sealed

• Leaks along the seam may be caused by creases, crumbs, grease or liquids. Reopen the bag, clean the upper inside part of the bag and remove any foreign material from the Sealing Bar before resealing it.

• Check that the bag has no holes in it which have caused air to leak in. Use paper napkins to pro- tect any sharp edges on the contents of the bag. The MAGIC VAC

does not create a vacuum in the containers

• By means of the Connection Hose, connect the container lid (or the Cap Attachment if necessary) to the Air Inlet of the appliance.

• Leave enough room (at least 3 cm) between the contents and the top of the jar or container.

• If liquids come out during the vacuum-packing process, remember that they must first be chilled in a refrigerator, not left at room temperature.

• Check that the rim of the jar or container and the universal lid are not damaged in the sealing area. Wipe the rim and cap clean with a cloth moistened with lukewarm water and repeat the vacuum-packing process.

• Make sure that the gasket of the container cap or the universal cap is set properly in place and is not damaged. MAGIC VAC

Universal Caps do not maintain a vacuum

• Make sure that the arrow on the knob of the container cap is positioned on “VACUUM” before creating a vacuum in the container and it is posi- tioned on “CLOSED” after a vacuum is formed.

• Make sure that the O-ring beneath the knob of the container cap or the universal cap is set prop- erly in place. MAGIC VAC

Family containers do not maintain a vacuum

• Make sure that the gasket beneath the central button (14) of the container cap is set properly in place.22

VACUUM PACKING This manual is the product of collaboration between the Flaem Nuova Research and Development Division and Prof. Luciano Piergiovanni, Chair of “Agri-food product condi- tioning and distribution technologies” at Milan University. Vacuum packing will revolutionise the way in which you buy and keep food. By keeping food under vacuum (i.e. without air), the shelf-life of foods is greatly extended, whether it is kept in the larder, fridge or freezer. Air can make food rancid and stale, it can cause it to ferment, dry out, and it may even cause freezer burns. Vacuum packing keeps your food fresher and more flavourful for longer. Now you can pack fresh food bought from the mar- ket, or food picked from your vegetable garden, in handy portions for future use, even in large quan- tities. Food bought already vacuum-packed, like cheese and meat, will retain its flavour and freshness once opened, without problems of moisture and mould, if it is vacuum-packed after use in MAGIC VAC

bags and containers. Meat, fish and vegetables can be frozen without the risk of frost burns and will keep their freshness and quality. Foodstuffs like coffee, rice, flour and nuts will last much longer if they are vacuum packed. Fresh or perishable foods must in any case be frozen or kept in the fridge. The original quality of the food must be of the very highest order, in terms of freshness and environmental hygiene, when you decide to vacuum pack it. There are in fact no preservation methods which will transform a poor product into a good one. Always keep your MAGIC VAC

, bags and containers handy and you will quickly appreciate the many advantages and ease of use that MAGIC VAC

offers when it comes to preserving the quality of food. Consult the “Food preservation times with MAGIC VAC

” chart to see how vacuum packing can extend the life of any food without in any way altering or impairing its taste, smell, appearance, hygiene and nutritional value.23

Approximate values which in any case depend on pack integrity and on original food quality characteristics. These values also refer to packaging obtained with machine- “original” bags/rolls, containers and accessories combination. The times shown on the chart cannot be guaranteed with use of bags/rolls, containers and accessories of other brands. The manufacturer therefore disclaims liability. IMPORTANT: Keep perishable foods in the freezer or fridge. Vacuum packing extends the life of food, but does not turn it into a “preserve”, i.e. a stable product at ambient temperature. Refrigerated foods (5 ± 2 °C) Red meat 3-4 days 8-9 days White meat 2-3 days 6-9 days Whole sh 1-3 days 4-5 days Game 2-3 days 5-7 days Cooked pork products 7-15 days 25-40 days Sliced pork meats 4-6 days 20-25 days Soft cheese 5-7 days 14-20 days Hard and semi-hard cheese 15-20 days 25-60 days Vegetables 1-3 days 7-10 days Fruit 5-7 days 14-20 days Cooked and refrigerated foods (5 ± 2 °C) Purees and vegetable soups 2-3 days 8-10 days Pasta and risotto 2-3 days 6-8 days Boiled and roast meats 3-5 days 10-15 days Desserts with llings (cream and fruit) 2-3 days 6-8 days Frying oil 10-15 days 25-40 days Frozen foods (-18 ± 2 °C) Meat 4-6 months 15-20 months Fish 3-4 months 10-12 months Vegetables 8-10 months 18-24 months Food at ambient temperature (25 ± 2 °C) Bread 1-2 days 6-8 days Packed biscuits 4-6 months 12 months Pasta 5-6 months 12 months Rice 5-6 months 12 months Flour 4-5 months 12 months Dry fruit 3-4 months 12 months Ground coee 2-3 months 12 months Powder tea 5-6 months 12 months Freeze-dried products 1-2 months 12 months Powdered milk 1-2 months 12 months Preservation times at atmospheric pressure Preservation times with MAGIC VAC ®24

ABOUT VACUUM PACKING

The deterioration of food is caused by chemical reactions that occur in food which is exposed to the air, temperature, moisture, the action of enzymes, the growth of micro-organisms or contamination by insects. Vacuum packing reduces the absolute pressure of the air inside the package or container, by removing the oxygen and eliminating volatile compounds. The oxygen in the air causes food to deteriorate, firstly through a process of oxidation, causing the loss of nutritional values, flavour and all the food’s quali- ties. Air also promotes the growth of most micro- organisms and causes the frost burns which occur on frozen food. Vacuum packing extends the shelf life of many fresh foods, by reducing oxidation and preventing the proliferation of microbes (bacteria and mould). However, many fresh foods contain sufficient mois- ture to encourage the growth of micro-organisms that can grow with or without air. To prevent the deterioration of such foods, they must be preserved at low temperatures. Micro-organisms like mould, yeast and bacteria are present everywhere, but they can cause problems only in certain conditions. For example, mould will not grow in environments with a low oxygen content, or in the absence of mois- ture or humidity. To grow, yeast requires moisture, sugar and a moderate temperature, but it can grow in the presence or absence of air. Refrigeration slows the growth of yeast and freezing blocks it completely. Bacteria can multiply with or without air, depending on their type. Clostridium Botulinum is a very dangerous type of bacteria which can develop in environments which do not contain acids, are without oxygen and are exposed to temperatures in excess of 4°C for long periods of time. Foodstuffs vulnerable to attack by Clostridium Botulinum are those with low acidity (like red meat, poultry, fish, seafood, olives in brine, eggs, mush- rooms and vegetables) and medium acidity foods like virtually all vegetables and many fruits (ripe tomatoes, onions, red pepper, figs and cucumbers). To prevent contamination by this bacterium, it is essential to observe the basic rules of hygiene and, to prevent its harmful proliferation in preserved foods, they must be refrigerated for short periods and/or frozen for long-life preservation. However, such foods must be eaten immediately after heating. Important: you must consume immediately any food which has been heated while still sealed in MAGIC VAC

bags. Leaving the food to cool slowly at room tempera- ture in the sealed vacuum bag may cause several harm- ful micro-organisms to multiply, in just a few hours, to values that are health-threatening. Several enzymes found in foods cause increasingly noticeable changes in colour, structure and flavour; such changes depend on the preservation time, tem- perature and, above all, the presence of air. To halt the action of enzymes, vegetables must be blanched briefly using steam or a microwave oven. Food which contains a high percentage of acidity, like most fruits, do not require blanching. The absence of air created by the vacuum will in any case slow down or prevent the action of these enzymes. Insect larvae are frequently found in many low water content or dried foods which have not been vacuum packed or frozen, and they can develop during preservation and thus contaminate the food. Some products like flour and grain might contain larvae, but using MAGIC VAC

vacuum packing will stop them developing into insects. HOW TO PRESERVE FOOD IN MAGIC VAC

BAGS Vacuum packing for the freezer First of all, use the freshest possible food. The MAGIC VAC

system will allow you to retain all the freshness of the food only if it is properly preserved. Some foods have a soft consistency which could be dam- aged by vacuum packing the product when fresh. To prepare delicate foods like meat, fish, berries, bread, etc., it is advisable to pre-freeze them first. In the first twenty-four hours there is no risk of freezer burns, so you can vacuum pack the products frozen the previ- ous day in MAGIC VAC

bags, and then keep them in the freezer for long periods so as to preserve all the nutritional values and flavour of the product you have packed. When vacuum packing soups, stews or other liquid food, pre-freeze it in a pan or high-strength dish. When the food becomes solid, vacuum pack it, add a label and replace in your freezer. To vacuum pack vegetables, peel them and then blanche them briefly in boiling water or a microwave oven until they are warm but still firm. Then vacuum pack them in convenient portions. If the food is not pre-frozen, leave an extra 5 cm in the length of the bag to allow for expansion due to freezing. With regard to meat and fish, it is advisable to place the food on a paper towel and vacuum pack it with the towel in the bag. This will absorb any moisture in the food. To preserve food like focaccia, crêpes and small hamburgers, stack them on top of each other, plac- ing greaseproof paper or film between each piece. This will make it easier to remove some of the food, repackage the rest and replace it immediately in the freezer. Vacuum packing for the fridge For busy households, food can be prepared in advance, then vacuum packed and kept in the fridge for use at different times, ready to be heated as and when necessary. Vacuum packing for the larder Even foods that can keep at room temperature (like, for example, coffee, flour, pasta, sugar, etc.) can ben-25 efit from vacuum packing. If these products are to remain unused for several days, such as when you go away on holiday, it is advisable to protect all foods by vacuum packing. They will keep better and moisture, mould and insects will not attack and ruin them. Defrosting MAGIC VAC

bags To defrost vacuum packed food such as meat, fish, fruit, vegetables or other delicate foodstuffs, place it on the lowest shelf in the fridge to defrost slowly; bread and focaccia should be left at room tem- perature, while soups or other liquid foods should be immersed in hot water still in the vacuum bags until they reach the right temperature. When you leave food at room temperature or heat it in a bain- marie, make sure you cut one corner of the bag to let the steam escape. When the food has been defrosted, it must be consumed immediately. Do not re- freeze it Repackaging pre-packed food Many foodstuffs, like cheese and meat, are sold pre- packed in factory-prepared vacuum bags. To retain the flavour and freshness of these foods, repackage them in MAGIC VAC

bags after the factory package has been opened. Pre-packed foods must always be consumed by the use-by date shown on the original package. They must also be handled with the greatest care and hygiene when repackaging. Useful tips… - For food with tapered ends or sharp edges, like bones and spaghetti, pad the edges with paper towels to prevent perforating the bag. - Fragile and delicate foodstuffs like strawberries, crackers or biscuits should be preserved in MAGIC VAC

containers. - There are many non-food products which can be vacuum packed, such as camping equipment including matches, first aid kits and clean, dry clothes. You can even preserve the emergency tri- angle in the car. Silverware and collections can also be vacuum packed to protect the items against oxidation, etc. HOW TO PRESERVE FOOD IN MAGIC VAC

Warning: Do not use plastic or glass containers that

are not suitable since they could implode under the vacuum pressure of MAGIC VAC

and cause injury. Freezing in containers To freeze food in plastic containers use only MAGIC VAC

containers or, in the case of glass receptacles, used tempered glass suitable for freezer tempera- tures. Vacuum packing food in containers Vacuum packing in containers is ideal for products that you use frequently. Dried foodstuffs like pasta, rice, flour, sugar, crisps, savouries or biscuits, and pet food, will maintain all their shape and freshness. Salad foods and vegetables can be cleaned for the whole week and kept in a MAGIC VAC

container. They will remain firm and fresh. To absorb excess moisture, fold a paper towel and place it on the bot- tom of the container.

Warning: Liquids must be cooled before vacuum pack-

ing. Hot liquids will expand and leak from the container during depressurising. Food in powder or granule form can be covered with a paper towel before vacuum packing. This will prevent the powder or granules from getting into the vacuum paths or being deposited in the Vacuum Cap seal. Oil used once for frying can be filtered, cooled, vacuum sealed in a MAGIC VAC

container and kept in the fridge. This will enable you to use the oil again at least once, since it has been preserved in an air- less and cold environment, thereby retaining its characteristics. Larder items like flour, rice and cake mixes stay fresh for longer if they are vacuum packed. Nuts and condiments retain their flavour and will not become rancid. Marinating To marinate meat, poultry or fish, use the square “quick marinating” Executive container (ACO1073) and follow the instructions regarding how to use the container it self. The food will be marinated in 20 minutes as if it had been marinated all night! Tips for preserving food in jars To preserve food in jars, use lids which have been checked and are free from defects. To create and maintain a good vacuum, the seals of the lids must be in perfect condition. To keep the lids in good condition, immerse them in boiling water for three minutes and then rub the dry seal with a drop of oil. This will restore the necessary elasticity to the seals of the lids.26

In order to optimise the preservation of foods and ensure perfect hygiene, a number of important rules must be followed:

• Make sure you wash your hands thoroughly and clean all the implements and surfaces you will be using to cut and vacuum pack the food.

• If possible, wear gloves when handling the food.

• Once perishable food has been packed, place it in the fridge or freeze it immediately, maintaining a constant fridge or freezer temperature. Do not leave the food for a long time at room tempera- ture.

• Place the containers of vacuum packed food care- fully in the fridge or freezer so that the food will cool rapidly to a low temperature.

• After opening tinned food or food that has been factory vacuum packed, it can be vacuum packed again. Follow the instructions to cool the food after opening and put it away as soon as it has been vacuum packed.

• Pre-packed foods must in any case be consumed by the use-by date shown on the original package.

• Once you have warmed up or defrosted perish- able food, it must be eaten. Do not eat perishable food if it has been left at room temperature for many hours. This is especially important if the food has been prepared with a dense sauce, in a vacuum pack or in other low-oxygen content environments.

• Do not defrost food in boiling water or using other All rights reserved. Partial or total reproduction prohibited. heat sources, unless the food in question is liquid (soups, juices, etc.).

• Vacuum packing extends the life of dried food. Food which has a high fat content becomes rancid due to oxygen and heat. Vacuum packing extends the life of food like nuts, coconuts, or cereal prod- ucts. Store in a cool, dark place.

• Vacuum packing will not extend the life of fruit and vegetables such as bananas, apples, potatoes and several vegetables, unless it has been peeled prior to vacuum packing.

• Soft foods and food with a delicate structure (like fish, berries, etc.) must be pre-frozen for one night before they can be vacuum packed and placed in the freezer.

• Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage give off gas when they are vacuum packed fresh for storage in the freezer. To prepare these foods for vacuum packing, heat and freeze them.

• To ensure correct and safe vacuum packing, use only original MAGIC VAC

Executive e as Tampas Universais MAGIC VAC

Executive ou as Tampas Universais MAGIC VAC

Cod. 17994-0 Rev. 09/2017 © 2017 FLAEM NUOVA

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