We all know that the art of canning is a method that has been used for decades. It is a safe and reliable technique to preserve food. But, there are still some very serious potential risks when canning, especially if you’re not aware of canning safety.
It might be a boring topic to discuss, but it’s one of the basic things you should know before you start canning foods. When I was starting with my canning journey, I always made sure to diligently follow the safety guidelines that my Nana had taught me. To ensure the proper preservation of food and avoid potential health risks, it was essential that I comply with these tips and take the necessary precautions while canning.
Nana’s Canning Safety Tips
I’m sure you also want to be safe when canning, so here are some of the canning safety tips that you should know. Home canning is easy and convenient, but you should be able to do it the right way.
Use the Right Equipment
You probably wondered if it’s possible to can foods without a canner and use your oven or pressure cooker. Well, I have thought of it as well since I don’t have enough space in my kitchen for a pressure canner. But I let go of that thought because Nana always told me to use the right canning equipment. And the right equipment would be a pressure canner!
I understand that you want to explore different methods of canning. However, it is essential to use a proper canner to avoid any potential risks and ensure the safety of the food you are preserving.
Depending on the food, the safest way to can it has different temperatures and processing times. If you don’t follow these rules, bacteria and other harmful microorganisms can grow. Also, oven canning might not seal the jars well enough, which could lead to spoilage or contamination.
Use the Right Jars and Lids
Another important canning safety tip that my Nana always ensures to remind me of is to use or reuse only those canning jars specifically manufactured for the purpose of home canning. This is extremely important because general glass jars, such as mason and pickle jars, may not be thick enough to withstand the high temperatures needed for proper food preservation.
Additionally, these containers are not designed with the same airtight seals as standard home canning jars, which means they are more likely to leak liquid during processing and increase your risk of spoilage.
When selecting canning jars for your preserving needs, it is essential to consider each jar’s size, style, and capacity. Consider if you need them to be wide-mouth or standard-mouth, pint or quart, and what size lids will match the particular type of jar you’ve chosen. You must use the right lid for the specific type of jar to ensure a secure seal during the canning process.
Inspect and Clean the Equipment
Before canning, I always inspect the jars I use, carefully examining them for cracks or chips. Even if you have just purchased new jars, it is essential to inspect them and clean them thoroughly to ensure that the final product is safe and of the highest quality.
It is also essential to make sure that your canner is in top condition before you begin using it. Carefully inspect the canner for any signs of damage or leakage, and if necessary, have it repaired or replaced with a new one. By doing so, you will be able to ensure that your canning process runs smoothly and safely.
Use USDA-approved Canning Techniques
If you’re like me, you might use the same family recipes that have been treasured and shared over the years – they may even date back generations! But it’s important to make sure your canning techniques are up-to-date. After all, safety is key when it comes to preserving food for later. So take a few moments to double-check that your methods comply with modern standards before starting.
Follow the Processing Time
Patience is essential when it comes to canning, as adhering to the precise processing time for each recipe is critical to ensure the successful and safe preservation of food. Taking shortcuts or failing to wait out the instructed process could result in spoiled or unsafe food, so you must remain patient and follow instructions carefully.
Know what Food Shouldn’t be Canned
When it comes to canning, you should never process certain foods in a pressure canner. Although you can pressure can these low-acid vegetables, such as green beans, corn, and peas, it does not always guarantee the absolute safety of these items.
In the same way, you should never can dairy products like milk, cheese, and cream because they go bad quickly and make it easy for bad bacteria to grow. Also, fried foods, eggs that have been pickled, and thickened liquids like gravies and sauces should not be canned because they can contain harmful bacteria and go bad.
Additionally, some fruits may require special preparation before you can them. It is important to always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines when selecting foods to preserve in order to ensure their safety for consumption.
Always New Lids
When it comes to canning jars, they are usually reusable. But canning lids are not! This is because lids become damaged over time and may not form an airtight seal when reused. So, it’s safer to use new canning lids always.
Also, bacteria or other contaminants can accumulate on reused lids, making them dangerous for food preservation. Therefore, it’s important to make sure that you use fresh lids every time you go through the canning process.
Follow Approved Recipes
It is essential to follow approved home canning recipes to produce excellent results. Canning food at home may be a rewarding experience. Some of my grandmother’s most cherished recipes were passed down to me, and there’s no doubt that she tested and validated each one to ensure its quality.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your canning process is both safe and successful. This way, you can store your beloved foods for a longer time without compromising their flavor or texture. With the right guidance and a few essential supplies, you can confidently begin easily preserving your favorite dishes. So consider this advice and enjoy the fruits of your labor for many months to come!
