Nesco FD-75PR Snackmaster Pro Dehydrator Review

Nesco is a company which has been in the market for over 3 decades and it is known for its innovative food dehydrators. One of the leading dehydrator models in the market, the Nesco FD-75PR Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator is perfect for not only advanced users, but beginners as well. With over 600 watts of power, this is a dehydrator which is perfect for drying food fast.

With a contemporary Vita-Save exterior made of contemporary granite, the Nesco FD-75PR Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator enables users to dehydrate food without losing vitamins and key nutrients. An adjustable thermostat, an expandable design and a practical drying system for even and rapid dehydrating makes this 600W food dehydrator a top performer..

If you want a budget-friendly, top performing dehydrator, the Nesco FD-75PR Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator is perfect for health conscious customers who want to dry food items cutting down on any additives or preservatives.

Fruits, vegetables and jerky can be dried in hours instead of days, unlike other dehydrators. Its patented Converga-Flow air drying system is perfect for fast, nutritious and even drying. With its unique technology, flavors do not mix and there is no additional worry of liquid dripping into the chamber, as this dehydrator has a top-mounted fan.

A 600 Watt wattage and an adjustable thermostat means this dehydrator can process meats, vegetables, fruits, flowers, herbs, seeds and even craft items! If you don’t want to spend a lot of cash, and want a dehydrator that is high on performance and aesthetics, the Nesco FD-75PR Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator should be your choice.

One of the newest dehydrators in the Nesco, American Harvest line of products, it has a sleek design and immense drying power which makes it perfect for drying beef, venison, and even fish jerky. Maximum speed and quality are the key reasons many customers opt for this model.

Quick Overview of Nesco FD-75PR Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator

Features of Nesco FD-75PR Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator

The features of the Nesco FD-75PR Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator are detailed below, so that you can find out more about this powerful electrical cooking appliance.

• Wide Application

  The Nesco FD-75PR offers the user a wide range of applications from drying beef, turkey and fish jerky to making homemade yoghurt. You can make trail mix, dried fruit snacks such as banana chips, and dry fruits such as watermelon, honeydew, mangoes and cantaloupes at a fraction of the price. From dried herbs and spices to potpourri and dried flowers, you can use this multipurpose dehydrator for cooking and craft both.

• Five Circular Trays

  The unit has a total of five circular trays, to which an additional 7 can be purchased and added. The maximum number of trays is, therefore, 12. Along with the stackable, switchable trays, there are inserts which permit smaller food items such as liquids, purees, spices and herbs to be dried in the dehydrator. The trays are stacked on a base unit. The round trays are slightly smaller than the FD-80 model. Though you only need to use as many trays as required, a minimum of 4 trays are recommended in the instruction manual for this dehydrator. The trays are simple to assemble and disassemble. This eases cleaning and preparation. Each tray is 13.5 inches in diameter with a drying area of one square feet. The total drying area of 5 square feet can be increased to a maximum of 12.

• Top Mounted Fan and Heater

  The FD-75PR has a fan and 2400 RPM motor in the power head assembly atop the stacked trays. The fan and the motor at the top of the dehydrator ensure that these components stay clean, as food cannot drip or fall onto them. This also protects the fan and motor mechanism from damage caused by liquids, small food bits or seeds falling into them.

• Compact and Versatile

  Varied temperature control and adjustable thermostat of 95-160 F make this compact, lightweight unit easy to use. The dehydrator is modular up to 12 trays and it can be used for a wide variety of fruits, vegetables and food stuffs.

• Safety and Nutrition

  The external walls of the the trays of the Nesco DF-75PR Snackmaster Pro Food dehydrator are built from opaque Vita-Save material that prevents light from reaching and harming the nutritional value of the food being dehydrated. The food contact surfaces of this dehydrator unit are also made of BPA-free ABS plastic.

• Converga-Flow Drying Technology

  The Nesco FD-75PR Snackmaster Pro Food dehydrator has a Converga-Flow drying system. This forces air through the pressurized external chamber downwards, and horizontally across the center columns of the trays. This has three benefits namely reduction in dehydrating time, prevention of flavor mixing and no need for tray rotation. As the system enables air to flow to the outer compartment and then move in a radial direction inwards across each tray, quick dehydrating is the result. The machine can dry foods with high moisture content in just a matter of hours, as a result of this. The horizontal heat distribution system ensures that the food does not lose its color, flavour, or nutritional value.

• Hassle-Free Maintenance

  The Clean-A-Screen flexible screen available with this unit ensures that screens can be flexed to remove sticky fruits and small items like herbs and spices do not fall into the gap between the tray spokes.

• Easy to Use for Liquids and Small Items

  The unit can be expanded to 12 trays and the space between trays is 1 inch. Spokes in the trays are removable to provide vertical space for larger food items and small jars. Moreover, Fruit Roll Sheets with “no-spill” technology are there to dry liquid or semi-liquid items like pureed fruit to ensure fruit leathering. The sheets just need light oiling to make the leather of the fruit easy to remove.

• Lightweight and Portable

  Weighing only 8.4 pounds with a folding handle atop the unit, the Nesco FD-75PR Snackmaster is easy to open or adjust. The handle folds at an angle into the recess so it is in line with the body of the unit when not in use. Easy to move and carry, this dehydrator is perfect for small spaces or large kitchens both.

• Adjustable Thermostat

  The dehydrator can preserve different types of food, as it has a wide temperature range. The adjustable thermostat of 95-160oF means that high as well as low heat consuming products can be dried using this dehydrator. Adaptability ensures amazing results.

• Detailed Instruction Manual and Additional Accessories

  The unit comes with a 52-page detailed instruction and recipe book. The combined user manual and recipe book also comes with a pair of Fruit Roll Sheets, Clean-A-Screens, jerky spice flavor and cure packs.

What Comes with the Nesco FD-75PR Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator

The Nesco FD-75PR Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator has additional accessories and inclusions which are presented below:

• Instruction Manual Cum Recipe Book

  The 52-page instruction manual contains many easy to make recipes as well, so that the user can utilize the dehydrator to the fullest extent possible. The manual also guides the customer about how to assemble and operate the unit. New methods of preparing food that are part of the recipe book are an added advantage.

• 5 Drying Trays

  Each tray is 13.5 inches in diameter and occupies one square feet of drying space. Maximum number of trays is 12, making the final drying space 12 square feet.

• 2 Fruit Roll Sheets

  A set of 2 Fruit Roll Sheets with zero-spill lips are also included for dehydrating semi-liquids and liquids such as soups and sauces or fruit rolls.

• 2 Flexible Clean-A-Screens

  The flexible Clean-A-Sheets are perfect for drying sticky herbs, potpourri, and spices.

• 2 Mesh Sheets

  This permits the air to circulate freely in the dehydrator.

• 2 Solid Sheets

  The solid sheets enhance the drying process in the dehydrator.

• 3 Jerky Flavor Sachets/ Spice Cure Packets

  The jerky spice or cure packs come in original flavors to facilitate the dehydration process.

Full Technical Specifications of the Nesco FD 75PR Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator

The Nesco FD-75PR Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator has impressive technical specifications presented below:

• Product Size and Weight

  The dimensions of the Nesco FD-75PR are 13.5 x 10.9 x 13.3(in inches) which makes it ideal for those with space constraints. This lightweight, portable dehydrator weighs 8.4 pounds. The total drying space of the unit is 5 square feet.

• Color and Materials

  The unit is available in a White Granite speckle. It has a grey trim. The Nesco FD-75PR is made from plastic that is opaque. The advantage of this is that it blocks the light, preserving nutrients in food being dried. The plastic unit is BPA-free.

• Adjustable Thermostat Range

  The Nesco FD-75PR Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator has a temperature range of 95-160 degree F. The higher end of the range of temperature of around 155-160 degrees F ensures safe meat jerky dehydration. Higher lifecycle thermostat offers the best results and a wide adaptability to drying different kinds of food stuffs and items.

• Power Consumption

  The Nesco FD-75PR has a heating element with a power rating of 600 Watts. Including the fan, the whole unit is rated at 650 Watts. The appliance runs to the supply voltage of 120 volts AC.

• Airflow System

  The FD-75 has the Converga-Flow patented airflow system which uses radial heating. The trays have a hole at the center and specialized air channels at the perimeter. The forcing of the air down the exterior chamber and horizontally across the trays into the center channel makes even, nutritious drying easy.

• Capacity

  The FD-75PR is a dehydrator which is medium sized and can be expanded easily. It has 13.5 inch diameter 5 trays, with less than 1 square feet of drying. The dehydrator has a base drying area of 5 square feet, expandable to 12, with the addition of 7 more trays.

• Controls

  The controls of this unit are at the top of the machine. The power head holds the motor and fan. No timer or power switch is there. Instead, there is a temperature control knob with recommended temperature settings for various food types. With a heavy duty 2400 RPM motor and upgraded electrical components, the FD-75PR is advantageous.

• Warranty

  There is a 1 year limited warranty which is not extendable.

Best Things About the Nesco FD-75PR Food Dehydrator

The Nesco FD-75PR Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator has many benefits for the quality-conscious, budget seeking consumer, as seen below:

• Horizontal Drying

  This is an awesome feature to help items dry faster. The Converga-Flow patented technology ensures that there is no need for tray rotation. It also works well through radial air action that dries food evenly, while preserving its aroma, color, and nutritional value.

• Versatile

  The Nesco FD-75PR is a top performer on account of its adjustable thermostat. The expandability to 12 trays ensures that this dehydrator can be used to dry everything from seeds and herbs to spices and meats. So, whether you want to dry flower bouquets or fruit wreaths, or make mix trail or the perfect homemade yoghurt, this is the perfect dehydrator for you. There is a provision for dehydrating large as well as small food items, liquids and semi-liquid items.

• Easy to Clean

  The Nesco FD-75PR is dishwasher safe, and the easy-to-slide trays make cleaning extremely simple. The fan and motor are mounted on the top so there is no chance of spillage or dripping. The Clean-A-Screen flexible screen is an added advantage, which makes this a low maintenance dehydrator. The Nesco FD-75PR is also easy to disassemble and reassemble following the cleaning. Circular trays are compact and easy to wash in a dishwasher as well.

• Sleek Design

  The compact dimensions and sleek appearance of this dehydrator are an added advantage. It fits into counter tops of kitchens quite effectively.

• Rust Proof, Efficient Machine

  Quiet operations, uniform drying and beneficial accessories are not the only benefits. This unit is also rust proof and has durability. Accessories can be easily attached to the dehydrator and the incredible voluminous capacity permits many food items to be dried at one shot, making this economical and efficient.

• Warranty and Detailed Instructions

  The 52-page recipe book cum manual offers detailed instructions on cooking and assembling the dehydrator. The model also comes with a 1 year warranty, making it easy to seek maintenance services or replacement parts.

Bad Things About Nesco FD-75PR Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator

While there are many advantages of owning this dehydrator, there are a few drawbacks as well, detailed below:

• Lack of Timer

  The timer is missing from this dehydrator unit. So the user has to connect the dehydrator with the outlet timer, if they want to keep a record of the duration of drying.

• No Switch

  No on/off switch means that this is not such a simple dehydrator, when it comes to operations. The unit must also be unplugged following its use.

• Limited Expandability

  Though coming with a set of 5 trays, the Nesco FD-75PR expands to just 12. This is very low compared with the Nesco-American FD-1010 Gardenmaster which offers up to 30 maximum trays, for example.

• Difficulty in Using the Trays

  The stackable trays need to be lifted to monitor the food, and this interrupts the airflow. There are no brushes for cleaning up the trays and grids, so this can be another problem, when it comes to cleanup and maintenance.

• No Automatic Shut Off System

  Another drawback of this dehydrator is that there is no automatic shut off system.

• Not Enough Power

  The dehydrator, despite a 2400 RPM motor, lacks the ability to withstand heavy duty use.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Customers buying the Nesco FD-75PR may have a lot of questions. This FAQ section will provide answers to many queries.

Q: Can I Dehydrate Strawberries in the Nesco FD-75PR Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator?

According to the instruction manual, fruits, vegetables, herbs, meats, fish, flowers, seeds, semi liquid and liquid items can be dehydrated. So, you can use this dehydrator for drying strawberries.

Q: Does the Dehydrator Come with a Timer Switch?

The Nesco FD-75PR Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator does not come with a timer switch. You have to connect the dehydrator to the outlet timer if you want to be precise about the duration for which the drying takes place.

Q: How Many Trays Are There in Total and How Many Can Be Used for Fruit and Meat Jerky?

While there are 5 trays to dehydrate on, which can be used for fruits or meat jerky, there are also two pairs of inserts inserts. The difference between the inserts is that a single pair is for drying finer items while the other is for liquid ones.

Q: Does This Dehydrator Run on 240v AC as Well?

Sorry, this dehydrator does not run on 240v AC. It can only run on the standard American voltage supply of 120 v AC. To make it run on 240v AC, you will need a converter, which is relatively inexpensive and can easily be purchased online.

Q: Can I Insert a Wall to Place a Bowl in the Dehydrator to Make Homemade Yoghurt?

The Nesco Convert-A-Tray can be purchased from the company website. You need a CT-2SGP for the FD-75PR. The center grid of this accessory can be removed. This increases the tray height and is perfect for making yoghurt in a bowl.

Q: What Is the Wattage of This Dehydrator?

It is 600 watts in wattage.

Q: Does This Dehydrator Have an Automatic Timer for Shutting Off or a Switch?

No, this dehydrator does not have an automatic timer or a switch. You need to remove the plug to stop usage.

Q: What Are the Power Demand Specifications?

For this dehydrator, any 20 amp outlet will do.

Q: Where Is the Fan Located?

The fan along with the motor, is mounted on top of the dehydrator to prevent dripping and spillage on its mechanism.

Conclusion

With the Nesco FD-75PR Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator, the patented Converga-Flow drying system, the Vita-Save radiation blocking technology, and the Clean-A-Screen flexible screen are just some of the many unique features. The top mounted fan protects the system from spillage and dries food in a nutritious and even manner preserving the value and aroma of the items.

Nesco has been in business for the last 30 years and dehydrators like the Nesco FD-75PR show why this company is so successful. With an adjustable thermostat, expandable capacity for drying more items, easy drying of items and an attractive speckled grey design, the FD-75PR is perfect for use, whether you are just starting out or an advanced user.

Enjoy fast drying of food items with the Nesco 75PR Snackmaster that retains the vitamins and nutrients, but removes the preservatives and additives that these items contain. WIth the Nesco FD-75PR, you have a cost efficient, energy saving device that offers very little maintenance worries and comes with a year long warranty. Opt for this extraordinary food dehydrator, if you want quick action and budget-friendly prices that ensure this is a value-for-money purchase.

Check this Product on Amazon →