Choosing a Commercial Food Dehydrator

A commercial food dehydrator does just what the name suggests — it takes the moisture out of ingredients so they’re lighter. This not only expands the shelf life of perishables but also helps retain more natural vitamins and enzymes, as well as flavor. Whether you’re looking to create new menu items or just reduce kitchen waste, a food dehydrator is an excellent option for any restaurateur.

When you think of a commercial dehydrator, meat jerky might come to mind, but there are many other ways to use this versatile appliance. You can make fresh herbs more portable, rehydrate fruits for cocktails and garnishes, or preserve vegetables for future cooking. A dehydrator can even help you cut down on kitchen costs by reducing your need for expensive preservatives.

Enhance Your Culinary Experience with a Food Dehydrator

Choosing the right commercial food dehydrator depends on how much space you have available for it, as well as what features are most important to your business. Look for options with digital timers that let you know when your products are ready, as well as a built-in thermostat that allows you to regulate the temperature of the machine. Some models include dual zones so you can stagger batches or dry foods that require different temperatures.

Choose a stainless steel model for durability, and opt for one that includes large commercial size trays for easy loading. Be sure to slice your foods into uniform pieces so they dehydrate evenly. Avoid overlapping foods that dry at different rates, as this can cause them to taste bad or develop mold. Lastly, be sure to store your dehydrator in a safe place away from excessive moisture, heat or dust.