Food Preservation
Drying
What causes mold to form on foods during the drying process?
Causes and Suggestions: Incomplete drying will result in mold formation. Prevent this from occurring by testing several pieces for dryness. Foods that have not been checked for moisture will cause mold to form. Check food containers within one week for the presence of moisture. Dry the food again at 140 °F until moisture disappears. Containers that are not airtight will allow moisture to set in and mold to form. Prevent this by always using airtight storage containers.
What is the cause of the brown spots on the vegetables I dry?
Overdried vegetables result in the presence of brown spots. Prevent this by checking your vegetables periodically during the drying process. Too high drying temperatures will produce brown spotted vegetables. To eliminate, dry veggies at 140 °F.
How can I tell when fruit leather is dry?
Touch it; it should not be sticky. If it peels from the plastic and maintains its shape, it is dry.
What are other uses of a food dehydrator?
Besides being used during peak season to preserve food, a food dehydrator can be used for proofing breads, making yogurt or cheese, drying seeds, curing nuts, de-crystallizing honey and drying crafts.