The food dehydration process is a method for removing moisture from food items to preserve them and create a dried product. This process allows for these items to become sustainable with the ability to be stored for longer periods of time. This process can be performed by using sun drying, oven drying or the use of a commercial food dehydrator. Sun drying requires several days extreme heat and sun. Oven drying can be done if the temperature of the oven can be maintained below 200 degrees. Electric food dehydrators are a small kitchen appliance that moves air through the machine and pulls the moisture from the food pieces.http://farmgal.tripod.com/Dehydrate.html

As one of the oldest methods for preserving food, dehydration has been used for thousands of years. Food was laid in the sun for days until it reached a dry state and could be stored throughout the winter months. The first food dehydrator was created by the French in 1795 and was used to preserve fruits and vegetables by providing an air flow to speed up the dehydration process.http://www.bedemco.com/fruit/dehydrate.htm Today, food dehydrators are used to preserve fruits and create fruit snacks from fruit purees. Jerky is made using beef, chicken, turkey and ham meats.http://www.dehydratorbook.com/food-dehydrator-recipes.html Vegetables are preserved to provide a longer shelf life and be used later in soups or other recipes. Foods can be dried to allow them to be taken on outdoor excursions and prevent spoilage.http://www.all-things-emergency-prepared.com/food-dehydrating.html