Equipment  Item Number: equipment

The primary equipment necessary for drying are drying racks and storage containers.

• Drying Racks-Proper ventilation is required when choosing a drying rack.  Cookie sheets will not work because air cannot reach the undersides of food.  Choose racks made from wood slats or stainless steel mesh.  Do not use racks made of galvanized screen, aluminum, copper, fiberglass, or vinyl.  The metals in these may cause an acid reaction that forms harmful components.  Copper destroys vitamin C, aluminum causes an off-flavor in sulfured fruit, fiberglass may leave dangerous splinters, and vinyl melts.
• Storage Containers-Use containers that are moisture and vapor-proof with tight fitting lids.  Vacuum sealable bags would be ideal, you may also use glass jars, plastic freezer bags, or coffee cans.