Vacuum sealing isn’t just for bags—you can also seal tubes of food like tomato paste, frosting, or even homemade purees to keep them fresh and prevent oxidation. This technique is perfect for saving leftover ingredients that come in metal or plastic tubes, as well as for portioning your own fillings. By removing air and creating an airtight seal, you extend the shelf life and maintain flavor, making it a practical kitchen hack.
Ingredients
- 1 tube of food (e.g., tomato paste, frosting, or puree) – any size
- Vacuum sealer with a hose attachment (or a handheld vacuum sealer)
- Vacuum sealer jar or a wide-mouth mason jar with a vacuum lid
- Optional: plastic wrap or a small piece of parchment paper
Instructions
- Prepare the tube: If the tube is unopened, you can vacuum seal it as is. If it’s partially used, wipe the opening clean and press out any air by rolling the tube from the bottom, then cap it tightly.
- Choose your vacuum method: For unopened tubes, use a vacuum sealer with a hose attachment and a vacuum jar. Place the tube inside the jar, ensuring it fits without blocking the lid’s seal.
- Attach the hose: Connect the hose to the vacuum sealer and the jar lid. Turn on the sealer and run it until the vacuum cycle completes, which typically takes 20–30 seconds for a standard jar.
- For opened tubes: If you don’t have a jar, wrap the tube in plastic wrap or parchment paper, then place it in a vacuum seal bag. Use the “moist” setting if available, and seal the bag, removing as much air as possible.
- Check the seal: After vacuuming, the tube should be firm and tight. If you see any air bubbles, repeat the process.
- Label and store: Write the date on the tube or bag with a marker. Refrigerate if the food requires it, or store in a cool, dry place for unopened tubes.
Tips
- Use a jar for liquids: If your tube contains a runny liquid, vacuum sealing in a jar is safer than a bag, as it prevents leaks and messes.
- Don’t over-vacuum: Some tubes are delicate and may collapse or crack under strong vacuum pressure. If you notice deformation, stop the cycle early.
- Keep tubes upright: When vacuum sealing in a jar, keep the tube upright to prevent any residual contents from blocking the vacuum port.
- Substitute for a jar: No vacuum sealer? You can use a straw to manually suck out air from a zipper bag, but this is less effective and not recommended for long-term storage.
Serving Suggestions
Vacuum-sealed tubes are great for keeping ingredients ready for your next recipe. Use the sealed tomato paste for a quick pasta sauce, or the frosting for decorating cupcakes. Since the tube is sealed, you can easily slice off what you need and reseal it, making it a convenient pantry staple.
Variations
- Homemade purees: Fill a reusable silicone tube or a pastry bag with your own puree, then vacuum seal the bag for portioning.
- Spice pastes: Curry pastes or herb blends can be vacuum-sealed in tubes to preserve their aroma.
- Freeze for later: Vacuum-sealed tubes can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw in the refrigerator before use.
Storage and Reheating
Once vacuum-sealed, unopened tubes can be stored in a cool, dark pantry for up to 1 year, or as indicated by the manufacturer’s best-by date. Opened tubes that are vacuum-sealed should be refrigerated and used within 3–4 days. To reheat, simply squeeze out the desired amount and warm it in a saucepan or microwave—no need to unseal the entire tube. Do not vacuum-seal tubes that require refrigeration and leave them at room temperature; always keep them chilled.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I vacuum seal any tube? Most metal and plastic tubes work, but avoid tubes with sharp edges that could puncture the bag. If in doubt, use a jar.
Will vacuum sealing extend the shelf life? Yes, by removing oxygen, you slow down oxidation and microbial growth, but it doesn’t make food shelf-stable. Always follow the original storage instructions.
What if my tube is too long for a jar? You can cut the tube in half and seal each piece separately, or use a larger vacuum bag with the hose attachment.
Can I vacuum seal a tube that has been opened and is sticky? Yes, just wipe the opening clean and seal it tightly. If the tube is too sticky, wrap it in plastic wrap first to avoid mess.
Is it safe to vacuum seal tubes with liquid? Yes, but use a jar to prevent liquid from being sucked into the vacuum sealer. Always use the “moist” setting if available.
Can I reuse the vacuum-sealed tube? Absolutely. Once you’ve used the contents, you can wash the tube (if it’s reusable) and refill it with your own mixture, then vacuum seal again.
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