High-Tech Housewares

There are several good reasons to vacuum-seal your food: It stays fresh longer, has a longer freezer or shelf life, doesn't dry out and is easier to store. But most consumer sealers are cumbersome space hogs that wind up stashed in the basement instead of in the kitchen, where they're needed. Enter the Frisper Freshkeeper, a compact and — dare we say ­— cute vacuum sealer that sits on your countertop without taking up more room than a package of pita. Just fill up an included Vac-Snap plastic bag with food and clamp the Frisper's mouth closed on the edge of the bag. The unit, which looks something like an oversized computer mouse, sucks the air out of the bag and then heat-seals the puncture point. You can also use the Frisper to protect nonfood items such as silverware, photos or other items that would be damaged by corrosion or moisture. Sure beats finding a top for your Tupperware, too.

Retail price: $79.99 (additional bags are available at $11.99 for 20 quart-sized bags; or 14 gallon-sized bags)

Available at: www.oliso.com, Bloomingdales, Linens 'n Things, Sharper Image

by Rich Maloof for MSN Tech & Gadgets