A Cardboard Solar Food Dehydrator

Reader Contribution by Lindsey Siegele

A solar food dehydrator is the perfect option for preserving produce while saving energy. At MOTHER EARTH NEWS, we love the idea of eating locally-grown fruits and vegetables year round, and food drying is a great way to make that happen. If you think finding or building a food dehydrator will be a chore, the Do-It-Yourself archives have a surprise for you: A Solar Food Dryer from Cardboard Boxes.

In 1981, this project was touted for its impressive price tag: less than $1! If you choose to make your own food dehydrator following these instructions today, we can’t guarantee that same price, but if you already have some of these materials lying around (such as cardboard boxes, tape or paint), you might get pretty darn close.

Now is the time to take advantage of the sun’s rays. Having delicious produce throughout the winter will be worth the effort.

For more information about preserving food — from canning to freezing — read Eat Locally Grown Food All Year.

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