Dehydrated food is food that has had most of its moisture removed, which helps to preserve it for longer periods. This process can involve air drying, freeze drying, or using heat. By removing water, the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold is inhibited, making the food shelf-stable and lightweight, which is ideal for storage and transportation. Common examples of dehydrated food include fruits like apples and bananas, vegetables such as carrots and peppers, and meals like instant oatmeal. Dehydrated foods are often used in camping, hiking, and emergency preparedness due to their long shelf life and ease of preparation.