Home Canning - 3 Mistakes to Avoid When You Are Home Canning

The economy is struggling and many people are looking to save money. More people grew their own produce in home garden this year and that means that many of them will try their hand at home canning some of their harvest. If you or someone you know is new to home canning make sure you don't make one of these common mistakes.

#1 - Not Processing Foods Using the Proper Method - There are two methods of canning. One is using a boiling water canner and the other uses a pressure canner. It is extremely important that you process foods using the correct method. Acid foods such as fruits, fruit juices, jams, jellies, pickled foods, and tomatoes can be safely canned by the boiling water canner method. However, low acid foods like meat, most vegetables, and other recipes such as soups that contain both acid and low acid foods need to be processed by the pressure canner method. Also make sure you process your canned goods for the correct amount of time and increase the time, if necessary, based on your altitude.

#2 - Not Cleaning The Rims of the Jars - Another common mistake is not wiping the rim of the jar clean after you have ladled you recipe into the jar before you place the lid on it. If you leave food residue on the rim of the jar, you will not get a proper seal when you process your jars.

#3 - Not Using Canning Jars - Many people try to reuse commercial glass jars that were intended for one use only for canning. These jars are not safe for home canning. Canning Jars are specifically designed for the bands to screw on to ensure a proper seal. Canning jars are also made to withstand the heat and pressure of canning especially in when using the pressure canner method.

Home canning can be very rewarding and fun. Just make sure you avoid these three mistakes when canning your foods.

And if you would like more information about canning and canning supplies please visit our website at [http://www.jrkfamilyoutdoors.com/canning] You can receive 18 free videos that answer many questions about home canning just by signing up for our newsletter.

By: Rhonda Percell - Wife, Mother of 3, and owner of JRK Family Outdoors

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