My preferences
As someone who has used both of these methods, I must say that my preference, unequivocally, is vacuum sealing. Let me tell you why.
It’s simpler.
That’s it, that’s the quote. I don’t have to guess or look up how many packets I need. I don’t have to do the calculations on how much additional it will cost to get the oxygen absorbers. When you use mylar bags and oxygen absorbers, you must always keep buying more. There is a cost element that is never satisfied. However, with vacuum sealing, you buy your machine (I found a great one at the thrift store for $7), and then you only have to continue buying the bags.
Now, with the mylar bags/oxygen absorber system, you still have to buy the bags, so with both, there will always be that cost. However, unlike mylar bags and oxygen absorbers which you often have to source online, vacuum sealing bags can easily be found at local stores. You can pick them up at your local super store with your milk and eggs.
Another factor in this is the versatility of vacuum sealing. You can use mylar bags with a vacuum sealer. You can open something up and then quickly reseal it, whereas with oxygen absorbers, you’d have to get all new packets to reseal it (which may not be a problem depending upon how you’re using your stored goods).
Now, that being said, for very long term storage, I understand the appeal of the mylar bag/oxygen absorber combo. For one, the bags are significantly thicker than vacuum sealing bags, to the point where it takes some extra effort to use them in a standard sealer. The mylar bags are much better against intrusions, particularly important if you are storing some things in a space like a garage, which is less temperature controlled and more exposed to elements than say, your kitchen pantry.
With that being said, for how I store and use things, for the ease of use and lower comparative costs, vacuum sealing wins the day.
