Dehydrator Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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dehydrator
[diหhiหdreษชtษ(r) ]
Definition
food preservation
A dehydrator is an appliance used to remove moisture from food, preserving it for longer periods. It works by circulating warm air around the food, which helps to evaporate moisture. Dehydrators are commonly used for making dried fruits, vegetables, and meats like jerky. They retain most of the nutrients in the food, making them a popular choice for health-conscious individuals. By reducing moisture content, dehydrators also minimize the risk of spoilage and enhance flavor concentration.
Synonyms
drying machine, food dehydrator.
Examples of usage
- I used a dehydrator to make apple chips.
- The dehydrator helped preserve our summer tomatoes.
- She prepared homemade jerky using her new dehydrator.
- The fruit dehydrator is great for healthy snacks.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
History
- Dehydration methods have been used since ancient times, with civilizations drying fruits and meats in the sun for preservation.
- In the 19th century, the invention of canning methods led to the development of dehydrators as a commercial food preservation tool.
Science
- Dehydrators use warm air to evaporate moisture, creating an environment where bacteria and mold cannot thrive.
- Moisture levels below 15% in food are crucial for long-term preservation, leading to products with concentrated flavors and nutrients.
Culinary Arts
- Dehydrated fruits can be used as healthy snacks, packed with vitamins and fiber, popular in hiking and camping communities.
- Culinary enthusiasts utilize dehydrators to create unique seasonings and powders from vegetables and herbs.
Health
- Using a dehydrator allows for healthier snack options with no added preservatives or sugars compared to commercial dried products.
- Dehydrated foods can retain most of their nutrients, making them a convenient option for maintaining a balanced diet.
Origin of 'dehydrator'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'dehydrate' comes from the Greek word 'hydor' meaning water, combined with the prefix 'de-' meaning removal.
- Originally used in the science of food preservation, the concept of dehydration dates back thousands of years.
The word 'dehydrator' comes from the term 'dehydrate', which itself is derived from the prefix 'de-' meaning 'removal' and 'hydrate' which refers to the presence of water. The concept of dehydrating food has been utilized for centuries as a means of preservation, dating back to ancient civilizations where drying methods were used for fruits, meats, and herbs. The modern electric dehydrator was developed in the 20th century, reflecting advances in technology and a greater understanding of food preservation techniques. Initially, these devices were quite rudimentary, but over time, they have evolved to offer temperature controls and efficient air circulation, improving their effectiveness in drying a variety of foods while retaining flavors and nutritional value.