EFFENNE® Unika PATENTED THE VACUUM PACKING SYSTEM FOR THE HOME We compliment you on your purchase and thank you for your confidence in us. You are advised to carefully read these directions, which will enable you to use the EFFENNE® Unika properly and obtain optimal results in terms of food preservation. Furthermore, we suggest you keep these instructions handy for further reference.
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS The manufacturer takes every step necessary to ensure utmost product quality and safety. However, as for all electrical appliances, you should follow some basic safety rules to avoid creating a hazard for people, animals and/or property. • Before using the appliance for the first time, and periodically throughout its life, check the power supply cord for any damage; if you detect any damage, do not plug it in.
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS Warning: Do not store the machine with the LOCK buttons engaged - Close the lid (4) and push down on the front corners of the lid with your thumbs, then push the LOCK buttons (7) into the locked position (fig. G). The appliance will automatically carry out the complete vacuum packing cycle. Wait until the SEAL light goes off (2). - Press down on the rounded recessed area of the manual valve (5) to release the lid (fig. H).
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS Warning: Do not store the machine with the LOCK buttons engaged 9 Vacuum packing in glass jars sealed with metal caps (Leifheit type) 125 mm), are to be used on jars for preserving food and bowls and receptacles made of tempered glass. The Universal Caps work just like the Caps for Executive containers. Use the large-sized cap attachment to pack foods in large-mouthed glass jars with a metal cap.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR CLEANING IMPORTANT: Always unplug the appliance before cleaning it. • Carefully wash your hands before proceeding to clean the appliance and its accessories. • Both before and after use, clean the exposed surfaces of the Unika® using a sponge moistened with a mild, non-abrasive dishwashing detergent. If any liquids accidentally get inside the appliance, do not connect it to the mains electricity supply and do not use it; contact your nearest dealer or authorised service centre.
TROUBLESHOOTING Rectangular EFFENNE containers do not maintain a vacuum The appliance does not work • Make sure the appliance has been plugged in properly. Check the electric socket by plugging another appliance into it. • The appliance will stop automatically if overheated. Allow it to cool down for 15 minutes and try again. • Check for faults in the power cord or the plug. Should you detect a fault, do not use the appliance. • Check that the vacuum indicator (15b) is completely depressed.
THE ADVANTAGES OF EFFENNE® VACUUM PACKING Foodstuffs like coffee, rice, flour and nuts will last much longer if they are vacuum packed. Fresh or perishable foods must in any case be frozen or kept in the fridge. This manual is the result of an objective verification report compiled, on behalf of AITA (Food Technology Association) by Prof. Luciano Piergiovanni, Chair of "Agri-food product conditioning and distribution technologies" at Milan University.
STORAGE LIFE WITH EFFENNE® Preservation times at atmospheric pressure Preservation times with EFFENNE® Refrigerated foods (5 ± 2 °C) Red meat White meat Whole fish Game Cooked pork products Sliced pork meats Soft cheese Hard and semi-hard cheese Vegetables Fruit 3-4 days 2-3 days 1-3 days 2-3 days 7-15 days 4-6 days 5-7 days 15-20 days 1-3 days 5-7 days 8-9 days 6-9 days 4-5 days 5-7 days 25-40 days 20-25 days 14-20 days 25-60 days 7-10 days 14-20 days 2-3 days 2-3 days 3-5 days 2-3 days 10-15 days 8-
ABOUT VACUUM PACKING The deterioration of food is caused by chemical reactions that occur in food which is exposed to the air, temperature, moisture, the action of enzymes, the growth of micro-organisms or contamination by insects. Vacuum packing reduces the absolute pressure of the air inside the package or container, by removing the oxygen and eliminating volatile compounds.
Vacuum packing for the fridge Repackaging pre-packed food For busy households, food can be prepared in advance, then vacuum packed and kept in the fridge for use at different times, ready to be heated as and when necessary. Many foodstuffs, like cheese and meat, are sold prepacked in factory-prepared vacuum bags. To retain the flavour and freshness of these foods, repackage them in EFFENNE® bags after the factory package has been opened.
POINTS TO REMEMBER In order to optimise the preservation of foods and ensure perfect hygiene, a number of important rules must be followed: • Make sure you wash your hands thoroughly and clean all the implements and surfaces you will be using to cut and vacuum pack the food. • If possible, wear gloves when handling the food. • Once perishable food has been packed, place it in the fridge or freeze it immediately, maintaining a constant fridge or freezer temperature.