If you're in the market for a meat dehydrator, let's first discuss how they work. A meat dehydrator is an appliance that removes moisture in meat for its preservation. A dehydrator uses heat and air flow to reduce the water content of food. The water content of meat is anywhere from 50-75% depending on the animal. You might be asking yourself, why should I remove the water from my meat while trying to preserve it? The answer is simple; Dehydrating meat restrains various bacteria from growing and spoiling the food.
There are 3 main parts to a meat dehydrator; A heating element, fan and air vents. The heating element heats the food allowing the moisture to be released. The fans and vents then work together allowing moisture to be removed from the food. The process of drying meats can take hours and usually lowers the moisture content by 20 percent. So while shopping for a dehydrator that fits your needs, be sure to find one with these 3 basic elements. The key to successful meat dehydration is having the proper heat and airflow simultaneously. The most common use for a meat dehydrator is making jerky. Meat dehydrators usually dry meats at temperatures from 130 degrees to 155 degrees, which is usually used when preparing jerky.
There are various brands of meat dehydrators, but the most important part of buying any kitchen appliance is finding the perfect one for you. It's not so much about the brand as it is about the style. Remember, different brands have different drying techniques, find the one you like, and enjoy!