Meats, like beef, poultry and fish, generally only stay fresh for about six months when stored in the freezer using conventional methods. With the FoodSaver® Food Preservation System, you can extend that shelf life to about two to three years. Vegetables are also well-suited for freezer storage, but it's important to blanche these foods before vacuum sealing, as this may further extend the shelf life from eight months to about two to three years. Your freezer is not the only place where a vacuum sealer can have a significant impact on food quality. Cheese generally lasts between one to two weeks when stored in ordinary bags and containers, but using a vacuum sealer extends that length between four and eight months.