The Freeze-Drying Process

How It's Made

A lot of fresh red strawberries

Step 1. Source Fresh Produce

We only use fresh Australian produce and never anything below top quality. All fruits and vegetables are locally sourced from farms and farmers' markets in Victoria.

Fresh red strawberries being washed by a stream of water

Step 2. Purified Washing & Preparation

Before freezing, all produce is thoroughly washed and prepared using reverse osmosis purified water - one of the most advanced water filtration methods available. This removes impurities, minerals and contaminants, ensuring the cleanest possible starting point while preserving the natural integrity of the food.

Sliced strawberries being frozen by the freeze-drying process

Step 3. Rapid Freezing

The prepared produce is quickly frozen at extremely low temperatures. This fast freezing step locks in freshness, structure and nutrients, preventing cell damage and maintaining the food's natural taste and appearance.

A large and empty metallic industrial freeze-drying machine

Step 4. Vacuum Environment

Once frozen, the food is placed into a specialised freeze-drying chamber. A carefully controlled vacuum environment is created, setting the stage for moisture removal without compromising the food's structure.

Rows of sliced freeze-dried strawberries sitting on a metal tray

Step 5. Sublimation Process

Using gentle, controlled heat, the frozen water inside the food is converted directly from ice to vapour, skipping the liquid stage entirely. This removes moisture while keeping the food's shape, texture and nutritional profile intact.

A sealed packet of Outback Bites freeze-dried strawberries being held up in the warehouse

Step 6. Sealed for Long-Lasting Freshness

After drying is complete, the result is a lightweight, shelf-stable product that looks and tastes like fresh food. Each batch is immediately sealed to protect against moisture and oxygen, locking in flavour, colour and goodness for long-term storage.

See It In Action

Why Outback Bites

Australian Only Produce / No Added Sugars or Additives

Long Term Shelf Life

100% Natural

Just Add Water or Ready to Eat Now

FAQs

Freeze-Dried Food

Freeze-dried foods are designed for longevity. Because the process removes almost all moisture, these products can remain stable and safe to eat for years without refrigeration or preservatives - perfect for long-term storage, emergency preparedness, travel packs and pantry organisation.

Yes. Unlike traditional dehydration or heat-based methods, freeze-drying retains up to 97% of the food's original vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and natural compounds - so you get the goodness of fresh produce with a far longer shelf life.

With the water removed, freeze-dried foods are significantly lighter than their fresh or dehydrated counterparts. That makes them ideal for hiking, camping, road trips and any adventure where weight matters.

Freeze-drying is one of the only preservation methods that keeps the food's natural flavour, colour, shape and texture. The cellular structure stays intact, so what you're eating looks and tastes just like the fresh version - because it is.

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