That was pretty cool!

I'm always on the lookout for new ways of preserving food.

Oh, and in case you don't have a food saver mason jar vacuum sealer lid, you can vacuum seal dry goods using a container made from PVC piping, sealer, and end caps. Use a brake bleeder, and you don't even have to use a food saver!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lkGH21AopVQ

As far as the Freeze dryer, I think it's a great investment. Even if you don't grow everything to freeze dry, there are usually a good number of sales throughout the year. Eggs go on sale in springtime, around $4 per 5 dozen. I'd love to know how rhubarb does in the freeze-dryer! And freeze-dried strawberries? YUM.