A vacuum blender having a vessel, a motor base containing a motor having a motor drive shaft, a blade holder having a blade with a blade shaft for engaging the motor drive shaft, and a fan connected to the motor drive shaft. The blender includes a conduit system for the passage of air from the vessel to an area in proximity to the fan before passing to the outside of the motor base. The conduit system is connected to a valve system, preferably including a three way valve or Venturi valve. The fan and blade are capable of being selectively actuated using a gear or clutch system, preferably operated by firmware. The invention is capable of evacuating air from the vessel before blending of the food contents occurs.