We’ve been looking into these things, but so far only have experience with drying in a dehydrator. Apparently, freeze dried foods can last a lot longer; and it’s probably superior for things like fruit and meat.
However, it is extremely expensive, both time wise and in terms of money.
Our experience with drying things like apple slices and especially carrots (we’re currently trying zucchini for the first time) has been excellent. We buy the fruit or vegetables on sale, dry it, and pack it variously, depending on how long we’re hoping to store - some with oxygen absorbers, some just vacuum packed. My husband has also made excellent jerky.
One of the dehydrator companies has a shelf-life chart for dried foods here:
http://www.excaliburdehydrator.com/blog/how-to-extend-the-life-of-your-food/
-JT
That dehydrator looks like a more economical option. What size do you have and how much can you make per day? With harvest season right around the corner, it makes sense to stock up on fruits and vegetables.