Which food dehydrator is better – Stainless or Plastic?

The debate continues as to which food dehydrator is better – stainless or plastic? Some believe plastic food dehydrators work better since they have been around for lots of years. Others would argue that a stainless steel dehydrator would give a healthier and better result when drying fruits and vegetables compared to a plastic one. If you ask my opinion, I would go for a stainless steel food dehydrator for several reasons.

Benefits of Using Dehydrator made from Stainless Steel:

One, most dehydrators made from steel are being used in commercial kitchens and restaurants for many years. It’s a definite proof of both quality and durability.Just imagine, a plastic food dehydrator can only process a handful of food and would easily wear down especially if it is used very often. I can see a stainless food dehydrator lasting longer than a plastic one on bust restaurants and kitchen.

Durability Matters!

In terms of durability, stainless steel dehydrators are tough and can be used every day. The plastic ones may start to give the same type of quality but would later on slowly fade and become very inefficient when it comes to drying fruits and veggies. Rarely do I see plastic dehydrators lasting longer than stainless steel. Also, steel does not fade or would not discolor from hard everyday use. The colors of plastic dehydrators lose its hue especially when the machine is used often. Steel is rust proof so you would not have any worries of any food contamination. With a plastic food dehydrator, the paint would usually peel and can land on the food that was processed.

Speaking of food contamination, I can see that a stainless steel design is not porous; meaning those germs and other organisms cannot find a place to stay and develop. It can also be easily cleaned and disinfected which would look like brand new. I also believe that stainless steels are safer especially when it is used at home with kids. Stainless steel food dehydrators have special mechanisms that allow the machine to work efficiently. Others have advanced features that automatically turn off once processing of food is done.  It is also considered as one of the most sanitary materials for use in the kitchen because the surface will not affect the food itself. Lastly, most home and industrial kitchens would prefer equipping the place with several stainless steel fixtures and items. So if all the other appliances are stainless steel, it would make more sense to have the food dehydrator as the same.

The only disadvantage that I see is that in terms of price, plastic food dehydrator would come up on top. You can find several affordable dehydrators made from plastic in supermarkets. Most stainless steel food dehydrators can be very expensive especially the branded ones. But at least I can be assured that the amount I would be paying to purchase a stainless type would give me quality and would last for a very long time as a return of investment. Here is a review of some of the best food dehydrators available in the market.