LEM Products Ground Meat Packaging System Review

First Thoughts on the LEM Products Ground Meat Packaging System

The LEM Products Ground Meat Packaging System promises to revolutionize the way hunters and home processors handle their hard-earned game. LEM Products, a name synonymous with quality meat processing equipment, aims to simplify and speed up the often tedious task of packaging ground meat for freezing. This kit boasts a poly bag tape machine, a roll of poly bag tape, and 50 one-pound wild game bags, suggesting a complete and ready-to-use solution.

My journey to finding this product started with a familiar frustration: freezer burn. I spent countless hours painstakingly wrapping ground venison in freezer paper, only to find the edges discolored and dried out after a few months. The appeal of a system that could drastically reduce packaging time while ensuring a tighter seal was undeniable.

Unboxing the LEM Products Ground Meat Packaging System, my initial reaction was one of cautious optimism. The poly bag tape machine felt surprisingly sturdy, though entirely plastic. The included bags seemed durable enough, and the roll of tape appeared ample. It certainly presented a more professional approach than my usual slapdash wrapping efforts.

I considered vacuum sealers, but they are costly, require specialized bags, and sometimes suck the moisture right out of the meat, affecting the texture. Freezer paper is cheap, but ineffective. The LEM Products Ground Meat Packaging System seemed to strike a balance between cost, convenience, and effectiveness. It was the best option.

First impressions were good, but not overwhelmingly enthusiastic. I was eager to see if this system could truly live up to its claims of speed and efficiency, and eliminate my persistent freezer burn problem.

Real-World Testing: Putting LEM Products Ground Meat Packaging System to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test of the LEM Products Ground Meat Packaging System took place in my garage, during my annual venison processing weekend. Freshly ground meat was the order of the day. I attached a separate 2-inch stuffing tube to my grinder, as suggested.

The process started smoothly, with the meat flowing easily into the bags. However, the bag-filling process required a learning curve to prevent air pockets. Sealing the bags with the taping machine was quicker than wrapping with freezer paper, but required a firm, even twist to ensure a tight seal.

My first few bags were not exactly works of art. Some had too much air. Some had crooked seals. But, after about ten bags, I started to find my rhythm and the process became significantly faster and more efficient.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of using the LEM Products Ground Meat Packaging System to package everything from venison and elk to ground beef, I have a much better sense of its long-term viability. The bags themselves have held up remarkably well in the freezer with no freezer burn, which was my primary concern.

The poly bag tape machine, being made of plastic, shows some minor scratches from repeated use, but continues to function flawlessly. Cleaning is simple. Any meat residue can easily be wiped off the machine and the bags are disposable.

Compared to my previous system of freezer paper, the LEM Products Ground Meat Packaging System is a clear winner. My meat stays fresher longer, and the packaging process is undeniably faster and less frustrating.

Breaking Down the Features of LEM Products Ground Meat Packaging System

Specifications

The LEM Products Ground Meat Packaging System includes the following key specifications:

  • Poly Bag Tape Machine: Designed for quickly and efficiently sealing poly bags. The machine is lightweight and constructed primarily of durable plastic.
  • Poly Bag Tape: Each roll provides approximately 1200 seals. The tape is designed to create a tight, secure closure on the bags.
  • 1 lb Wild Game Bags: The kit includes 50 one-pound capacity bags, specifically designed for packaging ground meat. The bags are made from a sturdy, freezer-safe material.
  • Compatibility: The system is designed for use with a grinder, utilizing a 2″ stuffing tube for direct filling. (Stuffing tube sold separately.)
  • Instructions: Detailed instructions are included to guide users through the entire process.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the speed, efficiency, and effectiveness of the meat packaging process. A robust tape machine ensures reliable sealing. Quality bags prevent freezer burn. And easy compatibility with standard grinders simplifies the workflow.

Performance & Functionality

The LEM Products Ground Meat Packaging System performs its primary function – packaging ground meat – quite well. The sealing process is significantly faster than traditional freezer paper wrapping.

The system’s strengths lie in its simplicity and speed. Once you establish a rhythm, packaging becomes a streamlined process. The main weakness is the need for a separate stuffing tube, which adds an extra purchase.

The system meets expectations for ease of use and preservation. However, it doesn’t exceed them dramatically. There are still some limitations, such as the bag size and the potential for air pockets if not properly filled.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the LEM Products Ground Meat Packaging System is functional and straightforward. The plastic construction is lightweight, making the tape machine easy to handle.

However, the ergonomics could be improved. The twisting and sealing motion can become somewhat repetitive and tiring during large processing sessions.

The system is user-friendly with a minimal learning curve. The included instructions are clear and easy to follow.

Durability & Maintenance

The poly bag tape machine, while primarily plastic, seems durable enough for home processing needs. With proper care, it should last for several seasons.

Maintenance is minimal. The system requires only occasional cleaning to remove meat residue.

Replacing the tape roll is a straightforward process. The bags are disposable, so there is no cleaning required.

Accessories and Customization Options

The LEM Products Ground Meat Packaging System primarily focuses on the core functionality of packaging ground meat. It does not offer extensive customization options.

The most common accessory is the 2-inch stuffing tube, which is essential for direct filling from a grinder, but sold separately. The system works best with LEM Products bags, however, other similar sized bags can be used, as well as generic poly tape.

Pros and Cons of LEM Products Ground Meat Packaging System

Pros

  • Significantly faster than freezer paper wrapping.
  • Helps prevent freezer burn, extending the life of stored meat.
  • Simple and easy to use with a minimal learning curve.
  • Lightweight and portable design.
  • Affordable solution for home meat processing.

Cons

  • Requires a separate 2-inch stuffing tube for grinder compatibility.
  • The plastic construction of the tape machine may not be as durable as metal alternatives.
  • Can be repetitive and tiring during large processing sessions.


Who Should Buy LEM Products Ground Meat Packaging System?

The LEM Products Ground Meat Packaging System is perfect for hunters and home processors who regularly grind their own meat. It is well-suited for those looking for a faster, more efficient, and more reliable way to package their game and avoid freezer burn.

This product might not be ideal for those who only occasionally process small quantities of meat. The initial investment in the system and accessories might not be justified for minimal use.

A must-have accessory is the 2-inch stuffing tube. Experimenting with different bag sizes and types could also be beneficial to optimize the system for specific needs.

Conclusion on LEM Products Ground Meat Packaging System

The LEM Products Ground Meat Packaging System offers a significant improvement over traditional freezer paper wrapping for ground meat. Its speed, efficiency, and ability to prevent freezer burn make it a worthwhile investment for serious hunters and home processors.

The price of $29.99 is justified by the time savings and improved preservation it provides. It represents a solid value for those who frequently package ground meat.

I would personally recommend the LEM Products Ground Meat Packaging System to anyone looking to streamline their meat processing workflow and ensure their hard-earned game stays fresh longer. Ditch the freezer paper and embrace a more efficient and effective solution. Your freezer (and your taste buds) will thank you.


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