

It features several dehydrating modes - including fast, raw and a combination of both - which set it apart from competitors. ( A plastic tray version is available, as well, which we found helps with sticking.) We also love how quiet it was in comparison to most of the dehydrators we tested. In tests, we found that this machine dried jerky and apples efficiently and evenly, although we experienced some sticking to the metal. The Tribest Sedona Express is a solid digital food dehydrator with 11 stainless steel trays that accommodate a lot of dehydrating while requiring minimal space on your countertop. We found that while most dehydrators perform similarly, the biggest difference lies in their ease of use. In the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Culinary Innovation Lab, we tested nine different dehydrators of different sizes, shapes and styles.

Though you can dehydrate food like apples, mangoes, pineapples, tomatoes and beef for jerky the old-fashioned way (hanging it out in the sun) or by using a wide variety of appliances like some air fryers, toaster ovens and ovens, food dehydrators offer a more controlled environment with plenty of surface area to maximize your yield.

The process also retains more nutrients and extends shelf-life. Dehydrating concentrates the flavor of food, so dried herbs will taste stronger and fruits will taste sweeter. A dehydrator dries food at a low temperature over a long period of time, removing moisture from the food. If you buy in bulk or are looking for more ways to preserve produce when it's at its peak, like herbs from your garden, then a food dehydrator will level-up your cooking experience. We carefully reviewed this article in June 2023 and continue to stand by our top-rated picks.
