Non-stick mats are not always necessary depending on the type of product you are dehydrating. For example, beef jerky with liquid marinades can stick to the stainless steel mesh, making non-stick mats ideal. Also, thinly sliced food that may be more delicate can produce higher quality products using non-stick mats. Non-stick mesh mats are good for solid foods and make cleaning up a lot easier. We also sell non-stick solid mats for powders and fruit roll-up purees.