ChangeLoc Vacuum Bags - Starter Pack product reviews

Having tried a number of vacuum-seal bags and devices over the years, I wasn't expecting much from these bags. They look too simple to use, and there wasn't even a heat-sealed edge or clip to hold the bag shut... I mean, you roll up the bag and pump the air out? Surely that can't work?

Well, it did. And pretty well too, I might add. As a basic test I vac-packed a couple of sandwiches... nothing too messy, in case the bag failed for any reason. After 2 days, the bag was still air-tight and the sandwiches, alas, were about a quarter of their 'freshly made' thickness... vacuum sealing is hard on soft foods and tends to flatten them.

The next test was something a little more daring... beef casserole with sauce! To avoid dribbling sauce all over the counter while I rolled the bag top, I popped it into a plastic storage container with a lid. The vacbag was basically there to act as a sealant, holding the lid in place in case of bumps or knocks in transit, since I was planning to take this out on my daily travels and stop off to eat somewhere. To ensure freshness, I popped the now-vac'd bag in the fridge overnight. The next morning revealed a well-sealed package ready to go... however, by lunchtime some air had managed to work it's way into the bag. Though it was still sealed and relatively vac'd, there was definite airspace... so take care if you plan to refrigerate container-loads. What I suspect actually happened was air trapped in the container itself leaked out to equalise pressure on both sides of the lid, rather than any air getting into the bag itself.

Other experimental sealings included packaging up handfuls of muesli, salad dressings (be VERY careful sealing liquids though, as they can get into the valve and clog it, or just get sucked right out entirely, forcing a hefty clean of the pump.), important documents (eg. Passport and a bit of travelling cash), and even camera film (for those who still use emulsions instead of electrons.) All of which passed the tests as well, or better, than expected. Again, I *must* stress the importance of caution and care when dealing with liquids of any variety. When you apply a vacuum, it wants out... and will make all efforts to do so.

Overall, though the basic kit includes only three medium bags, 3 valves and the pump, this is enough to get you started and show off the versatility of this kit. It's so easy to use, with no fancy gizmos or machines required... and if you find the sticky tabs on the bag are losing their stick, fear not! Combine this with the powers of the Magic Lock Bag Sealer, and you have a greatly extended lifespan for your ChangeLoc bags. If all else fails, purchasing new bags is an option too. You may also want to invest wisely and get a handful of the larger bags and more mediums while you are at it. The only thing you need to keep in mind when you read the packaging is that this was made in Korea, so there are some strange and confusing instructions. For example: It clearly states "DO NOT USE IN A MICROWAVE" - then proceeds to tell you how to use it in a microwave. Don't! Just be safe and do not use it in the nukebox. Problem solved.