If you’re a restaurant owner or chef, you know that food waste can be a major issue that cuts into your bottom line. One solution to this problem is investing in a commercial food dehydrator. These powerful machines allow you to preserve excess produce and ingredients, reducing waste and saving you money in the long run.
Commercial food dehydrators are also incredibly versatile. They can be used to dry fruits and vegetables for use in salads and garnishes or to create unique and flavorful seasonings and spices. They’re even capable of drying meats and fish, making it easy to create your own jerky or fish chips.
By using a commercial food dehydrator, you can ensure that you’re always making the most of your ingredients, minimizing waste and maximizing flavor. So why not invest in one today and take your restaurant’s culinary creations to the next level?
List of The Best Commercial Food Dehydrators:
- Commercial Stainless Steel Food Dehydrator
- COSORI Premium Food Dehydrator Machine
- Proctor Silex Commercial 78450 Food Dehydrator
- Excalibur 3926TB 9-Tray Electric Food Dehydrator
- Tribest Sedona Express SDE-S6780-B Digital Food Dehydrator
- Ivation 6 Tray Commercial Food Dehydrator Machine
- Magic Mill Commercial Food Dehydrator Machine
- Excalibur EXC10EL Electric Food Dehydrator
- STX International STX-DEH-1200W-XLS Dehydra Commercial Grade Stainless Steel Digital Food Dehydrator
- Biochef Kalahari Food Dehydrator
Commercial Food Dehydrators Review
10. Biochef Kalahari Food Dehydrator
If you are looking for strength and vitality, none other appliance but this one may come handy for you. It is manufactured by use of the premium stainless steel materials and is hence pretty tough. Its benefits stretch beyond merely being stronger and longer-lasting. The item also enables more precise actions and controls.
It also possesses a mix of parts, components, and controls that are all geared to your better performances and top-notch outcomes. These include the BPA-free construction, 24-hour timer, LED display unit, and the tempered glass door. They allow for smoother operations and overall application.
Key Features
- Brand: Biochef, known for high-quality kitchen appliances
- Build and Capacity:
- All stainless steel construction
- Available in 8, 10, or 16 trays for versatile drying options
- BPA-free materials
- Display and Controls:
- LED display for easy monitoring
- 24-hour timer for precise dehydration
- Door and Accessibility:
- Tempered glass door for easy viewing
- Temperature Range: Adjustable temperature settings for different types of food
- Design: Modern, sleek design suitable for any kitchen
What We Like
- Durable Construction: Made of stainless steel, ensuring longevity and robustness
- Versatile Capacity Options: Choice of 8, 10, or 16 trays to fit various needs
- User-Friendly: LED display and 24-hour timer make it easy to use and control
- BPA-Free: Safe for food contact
- Clear Viewing: Tempered glass door allows you to monitor the drying process without opening the door
- Adjustable Temperature: Suitable for dehydrating different types of food
What We Don’t Like
- Size: The larger models may take up significant counter space
- Price: Higher price point compared to some other dehydrators
- Weight: Stainless steel construction makes it heavier and less portable
9. STX International STX-DEH-1200W-XLS Dehydra Commercial Grade Stainless Steel Digital Food Dehydrator
Out of all the dehydrators we have around, this is the one whose dehydration power is extremely potent. It stands at a whopping 1,200W and is hence capable of impacting whole recipes in no time. Making this even more possible is the comfortable temperature range of 97 °F – 165 °F (36 °C – 74 °C).
You will generally find it a lot easier to handle and engage. That stems from its exceptionally sound control that is entirely digital and automated. The control gives you the leeway to engage every part and component without putting too much of your effort and attention to it.
Key Features
- Brand: STX International, known for robust commercial-grade kitchen appliances
- Build and Capacity:
- Stainless steel construction
- 10 trays for large batch dehydration
- 1200 watts of drying power
- Temperature Range: Adjustable up to 165 degrees Fahrenheit, suitable for making jerky
- Timer: 15-hour timer for precise drying control
- Design: Sleek, professional-grade design
What We Like
- High Power Output: 1200 watts ensures efficient and fast drying
- Large Capacity: 10 trays allow for large quantities of food to be dehydrated simultaneously
- Durable Construction: Stainless steel build enhances longevity and robustness
- Versatile Temperature Settings: Adjustable up to 165 degrees Fahrenheit, making it suitable for various types of food including jerky
- User-Friendly: Digital controls and 15-hour timer for easy operation
What We Don’t Like
- Size: Takes up significant counter space due to its large capacity
- Weight: Heavy due to stainless steel construction, making it less portable
- Noise Level: Can be noisy during operation
8. Excalibur EXC10EL Electric Food Dehydrator
Have many other tasks to do or take care of at the same time? Choose to work with this fully automated dehydrator. It boasts of the 99-hour timer that is truly capable of scheduling the dehydration exercise to a time that is wholly comfortable for you.
Then again most of its parts and components adjust to allow for smoother operation and engagement all the while of use. Auto shut-off features lastly round up the sum total benefits it potentially has to bring along. As you may have already guessed, this one stops the item after staying idle for some time.
Key Features
- Brand: Excalibur, a renowned name in food dehydrators
- Build and Capacity:
- Stainless steel construction
- 10 trays for large batch dehydration
- 600 watts of power
- Temperature Control: Adjustable temperature settings with a maximum of 165 degrees Fahrenheit
- Timer: 99-hour timer with automatic shut-off
- Design: Sleek silver finish with a glass door for easy monitoring
What We Like
- Large Capacity: 10 trays provide ample space for dehydrating large quantities of food
- Efficient Drying: 600 watts of power ensure quick and efficient dehydration
- Durable Construction: Stainless steel build offers durability and longevity
- User-Friendly Controls: Digital controls with a 99-hour timer and automatic shut-off for convenience
- Clear Viewing: Glass door allows for monitoring without opening the dehydrator
- Temperature Versatility: Adjustable temperature settings up to 165 degrees Fahrenheit, suitable for various types of food
What We Don’t Like
- Noise Level: Can be noisy during operation
- Weight: Heavy due to stainless steel construction, making it less portable
- Mesh Size: Trays have a wider mesh, requiring liners for small items to prevent them from falling through
7. Magic Mill Commercial Food Dehydrator Machine
If you have never attempted to use these machines before or are just a starter in this field, this is the one we would most likely recommend for the job. It is comparatively easier to set up for eventual use by virtue of containing only simpler parts and components.
Further to the above, the item also has a digital timer that regulates the pace of the dehydration processes. All the parts adjust to suit the unique needs at any given time. Being highly versatile, you will find it truly amazing for tackling all kinds of recipes.
Key Features
- Brand: Magic Mill, a trusted name in food dehydrators
- Build and Capacity:
- Stainless steel construction
- 6 trays for versatile drying options
- Temperature Control: Adjustable temperature settings for different types of food
- Timer: Digital timer with automatic shut-off
- Design: Modern design with a glass door for easy monitoring
- Additional Functions: Keep Warm function to maintain optimal temperature
What We Like
- Durable Construction: Stainless steel build ensures longevity and durability
- Versatile Capacity: 6 trays provide ample space for dehydrating various foods like jerky, dog treats, herbs, meat, beef, and fruit
- User-Friendly Controls: Digital timer and adjustable temperature settings for precise drying
- Clear Viewing: Glass door allows for easy monitoring without opening the dehydrator
- Keep Warm Function: Maintains optimal temperature for extended periods
- Even Drying: Efficient airflow system ensures consistent drying across all trays
What We Don’t Like
- Size: May take up significant counter space
- Weight: Heavy due to stainless steel construction, making it less portable
- Tray Spacing: Limited space between trays may require slicing food thinner for effective drying
6. Ivation 6 Tray Commercial Food Dehydrator Machine
Wishing numerous recipes at a time? You have to pick and make use of a dehydrator that is heavily compartmentalized and able to handle multiple recipes simultaneously. None beats let alone comes even closer to this one. Its flagship trait is the six spacious trays.
It is in the trays that you stash the recipes you would want to dehydrate at that time. Indeed, the appliance is able to accommodate the bread, vegetables, snacks, fruits, jerky, and beef, to name but a few! Its dehydration power stands at the impressive 600W while it is on the whole sets up easily.
Key Features
- Brand: Ivation, known for durable kitchen appliances
- Build and Capacity:
- Stainless steel construction
- 6 trays, each 13” x 12”
- BPA-free materials
- Temperature Control: Digital thermostat adjustable from 95°F to 167°F
- Timer: Digital timer with automatic shut-off, can be set in 30-minute increments for up to 24 hours
- Fan: Rear-mounted automatic fan for even drying
- Design: Modern design with a clear glass door for easy monitoring
- Additional Features: Dishwasher-safe removable trays and drip tray for easy cleaning
What We Like
- Durable Construction: Stainless steel body and trays enhance longevity and durability
- Versatile Capacity: Six trays provide ample space for dehydrating a variety of foods like jerky, herbs, meat, fruits, and vegetables
- Even Drying: Rear-mounted fan ensures consistent drying across all trays
- User-Friendly Controls: Digital temperature and timer settings offer precise control
- Easy to Clean: Removable, dishwasher-safe trays and drip tray make cleaning convenient
- Health-Conscious: BPA-free materials ensure food safety
What We Don’t Like
- Size: Can take up significant counter space
- Weight: Heavy due to stainless steel construction, making it less portable
- Noise Level: Can be noisy during operation
5. Tribest Sedona Express SDE-S6780-B Digital Food Dehydrator
Is your intended area of use sensitive to the risks of noise pollution? If it is, you have to choose a super quiet dehydrator of this kind. Its motor is super silent and is thus unlikely to inflict too much noise pollution on you. The structure of the item itself is also awesome.
It comes in the form of the BPA-free plastic material that is safer for you and the foods you prepare. Also, the item is non-flammable and is yet again safer. The set of TST precision controls also abound for your own use and engagement. They allow you to key in precise parameters while in use.
Key Features
- Brand: Tribest, known for quality kitchen appliances
- Build and Capacity:
- Alloy steel construction
- 11 stainless steel trays
- Compact design with a glass hinged door and internal LED light
- Temperature Control: Digital thermostat adjustable from 77°F to 167°F
- Timer: Two-Stage Sequential Temperature Timer (TST) for precise dehydration
- Fan: Central single-fan technology for even airflow and rapid dehydration
- Design: Compact and space-saving design suitable for kitchen counters
- Additional Features: Easy-to-clean trays, washable and reusable air filter, catch tray for debris
What We Like
- Durable Construction: Alloy steel body and stainless steel trays ensure longevity and durability
- Even Drying: Central single-fan technology ensures consistent drying across all trays
- User-Friendly Controls: Digital temperature and timer settings offer precise control
- Compact Design: Saves kitchen counter space while providing ample drying capacity
- Easy to Clean: Removable, dishwasher-safe trays and washable air filter make cleaning convenient
- Quiet Operation: Minimal noise level makes it one of the quietest food dehydrators
What We Don’t Like
- Tray Fit: Trays may require rotation for uniform drying
- Weight: Heavy due to steel construction, making it less portable
- Availability of Accessories: Difficulty finding compatible silicone sheets and trays
4. Excalibur 3926TB 9-Tray Electric Food Dehydrator
In the course of eliminating the moisture contents of the foods, it is not uncommon for the active ingredients to be also lost. This is not great at all as the benefits that the foods have the potential to give off may similarly vanish in thin air.
To preserve the nutrients, you have to undertake the dehydration exercise slowly and steadily. That is something that is only achievable if you choose a specially designed dehydrator of this kind. It is on the whole slow and hence boosts your immunity considerably. That way, it preserves the enzymes and the nutrients at the same time.
Key Features
- Brand: Excalibur, renowned for high-quality food dehydrators
- Build and Capacity:
- 600 watts of drying power
- 9 trays, offering ample space for dehydrating large quantities of food
- Temperature Control: Adjustable thermostat from 105°F to 165°F, suitable for dehydrating various types of food, including meat for jerky
- Timer: 26-hour timer with automatic shut-off for convenient and precise drying
- Design: Sturdy black design with easy-to-remove trays for hassle-free cleaning
What We Like
- Large Capacity: 9 trays allow for significant batches of food to be dehydrated at once
- Adjustable Thermostat: Wide temperature range makes it versatile for different types of food
- Timer Function: 26-hour timer with automatic shut-off adds convenience and safety
- Ease of Use: Simple controls and easy-to-understand instructions
- Durable Build: Sturdy construction ensures longevity and consistent performance
- Ease of Cleaning: Removable trays and separate mesh screens make cleaning straightforward
What We Don’t Like
- Noise Level: Some users find it noisier than expected
- Size: Large footprint requires considerable counter space
- Learning Curve: While generally easy to use, some users may need time to master optimal settings for different foods
3. Proctor Silex Commercial 78450 Food Dehydrator
Do you plan to use the dehydrators repeatedly for an added duration of time? We are pleased to announce to you the existence of this one. It is manufactured using the strongest materials that are similarly capable of extending its longevity of use. The materials used are also safer for your foods.
Its motor yields a whopping 1,200W of power that is indeed well able to dry your foods faster and in a manner that is truly efficient. A horizontal airflow fan also exists to confer the coolness and ventilation you badly need to preserve the health of your foods.
Key Features
- Brand: Proctor Silex Commercial, known for durable kitchen appliances
- Build and Capacity:
- Stainless steel construction
- 10 trays for large batch dehydration
- 1200 watts of power
- Temperature Control: Digital thermostat with adjustable temperature settings
- Timer: Digital timer for precise drying control
- Design: NSF approved for commercial use
What We Like
- High Power Output: 1200 watts ensures efficient and fast drying
- Large Capacity: 10 trays allow for dehydrating large quantities of food simultaneously
- Durable Construction: Stainless steel build enhances longevity and robustness
- User-Friendly Controls: Digital temperature and timer settings for precise and easy operation
- Commercial Approval: NSF approved, making it suitable for professional kitchens
- Versatility: Adjustable temperature settings suitable for various types of food
What We Don’t Like
- Size: Takes up significant counter space
- Weight: Heavy due to stainless steel construction, making it less portable
- Noise Level: Can be noisy during operation
2. COSORI Premium Food Dehydrator Machine
Making use of these appliances is one thing. Having the mess handled and cared for later on is yet another thing altogether. For your own safety and utmost peace of mind as you leverage the benefits of these appliances, you need one that is comparatively simpler to keep clean after use.
We invite you to attempt your fate on this one. It possesses some 6 trays that are all dishwasher-safe. It is on these trays that you stash the recipes and has them impacted by the dehydrator. Each component bears the stainless steel makeup that is similarly resilient to the spates of dirt.
Key Features
- Brand: COSORI, known for high-quality kitchen appliances
- Build and Capacity:
- Stainless steel construction
- 6 trays, each 13″x12″
- Holds 7.57 lbs of raw beef
- 6.5 square feet of drying space
- Temperature Control: Adjustable up to 165°F
- Timer: Digital timer for precise drying control
- Design: Modern silver finish
What We Like
- Durable Construction: Stainless steel build ensures longevity and robustness
- Large Capacity: 6 trays provide ample space for dehydrating various foods like jerky, herbs, meat, fruits, and yogurt
- Efficient Drying: 6.5 square feet of drying space ensures even and effective dehydration
- User-Friendly Controls: Digital temperature and timer settings for precise and easy operation
- Versatility: Suitable for making dog treats, jerky, and dehydrating various types of food
- Compact Design: Modern and sleek design fits well in any kitchen setting
What We Don’t Like
- Size: Takes up significant counter space
- Weight: Can be heavy due to stainless steel construction, making it less portable
- Noise Level: Some users may find it noisy during operation
1. Commercial Stainless Steel Food Dehydrator
To accrue precise outcomes, you need an appliance that allows you to easily monitor the contents that exist in it. This one has a glass window that is transparent and also able to let you monitor the interior contents in real-time. With it at your fingertips, you will never miss the outcomes you need.
A cooling system also forms a vital part and aspect of this machine. The system plays the role of reducing the heat output that the motor manages to give off when operating. That way, it spares the recipes from sustaining heat loss and the attendant loss of nutrients in the process.
Key Features
- Brand: Unspecified, professional-grade food dehydrator
- Build and Capacity:
- All stainless steel construction
- 10 trays for large batch dehydration
- 1000 watts of power
- Temperature Control: Adjustable thermostat for precise temperature control
- Timer: Digital timer for precise drying control
- Design: Modern, professional household dryer
- Recipes: Comes with 67 recipes
What We Like
- Durable Construction: Stainless steel build ensures longevity and robustness
- High Power Output: 1000 watts provides efficient and fast drying
- Large Capacity: 10 trays offer ample space for dehydrating various foods like jerky, herbs, meat, fruits, and vegetables
- User-Friendly Controls: Digital temperature and timer settings for precise and easy operation
- Recipe Inclusion: Comes with 67 recipes, providing a variety of options for users
- Versatile: Suitable for preserving the nutritional value of food
What We Don’t Like
- Size: Takes up significant counter space due to its large capacity
- Weight: Heavy due to stainless steel construction, making it less portable
- Noise Level: Can be noisy during operation
Ultimate Guide to Buying a Food Dehydrator
Food dehydrators are versatile kitchen appliances that allow you to preserve a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, herbs, and meats. By removing moisture, dehydrators extend the shelf life of your foods while retaining their nutritional value. This guide will help you choose the best food dehydrator for your needs, covering key features, pros and cons, and frequently asked questions.
Key Features to Consider
1. Build and Capacity
- Material: Stainless steel is durable and long-lasting, ideal for heavy use.
- Number of Trays: More trays mean higher capacity. Consider your typical batch size.
- Tray Size: Larger trays can hold more food, speeding up the dehydration process.
2. Power and Efficiency
- Wattage: Higher wattage means faster and more efficient drying. Look for models with at least 500 watts for home use.
- Fan Location: Rear-mounted fans ensure even drying without the need to rotate trays.
3. Temperature Control
- Adjustable Thermostat: Allows for precise control of drying temperatures, essential for different types of food.
- Temperature Range: Ideal dehydrators should have a wide range, from 95°F to 165°F, to accommodate various foods.
4. Timer
- Digital Timer: Provides precise control over drying times and ensures you don’t over-dehydrate your food.
- Automatic Shut-Off: Adds safety and convenience by turning off the dehydrator after the set time.
5. Ease of Use and Cleaning
- Digital Controls: User-friendly interfaces make setting temperatures and timers straightforward.
- Removable Trays: Easy-to-clean trays, especially those that are dishwasher safe, save time and effort.
6. Design and Noise Level
- Compact Design: Space-saving models are ideal for smaller kitchens.
- Noise Level: Some dehydrators can be noisy. Look for models with quieter operation if noise is a concern.
Frequently Asked Questions
A food dehydrator is a kitchen appliance that removes moisture from food to preserve it. It uses a combination of heat and airflow to dry food items, making them shelf-stable and extending their storage life.
Dehydrating food helps retain its nutritional value, reduce food waste, and allows you to enjoy seasonal produce year-round. It’s also a cost-effective way to make healthy snacks like fruit leathers, jerky, and dried herbs.
Consider factors like build quality, capacity, power, temperature control, ease of use, and noise level. Determine your typical usage and choose a model that fits your needs and kitchen space.
Most food dehydrators have removable trays that can be washed by hand or in a dishwasher. Clean the exterior with a damp cloth. Regular cleaning prevents food residue buildup and ensures efficient operation.
Yes, but it’s best to dehydrate foods with similar drying times and temperatures together. Mixing foods with strong flavors (like onions) with other items may result in flavor transfer.
Higher wattage generally means faster drying times and better efficiency. However, it also means higher energy consumption. Choose a wattage that balances your needs and energy efficiency.
Drying times vary based on the type of food, thickness, and water content. Fruits and vegetables can take anywhere from 4 to 12 hours, while meat for jerky might take 6 to 10 hours.
Yes, dehydrators are great for making natural pet treats. Ensure the ingredients are safe for your pets, and avoid using any seasonings or additives that could be harmful.
CONCLUSION
Investing in a food dehydrator can significantly enhance your food preservation efforts and offer healthy, homemade snack options. By considering the key features, pros, and cons of each model, you can make an informed decision that suits your needs and budget. Happy dehydrating!