Food was salted down, dried, put in lard and many other methods were used until glass jars for canning, the Mason jar, was invented in the 1800’s. This changed the eating habits of many families.
It was found that food, which was plentiful in the summer, was scarce in winter so some method had to be developed to preserve it. The invention of glass jars for canning opened an entirely new opportunity to save the summer food and enjoy it in the winter. Things such as apples could be preserved as applesauce or sliced apples to make pies and vegetables such as string beans, meat, tomatoes and many other foods were also canned.
Jars last for many years, however they can become unsafe if a person is not careful. A tiny nick in the edge of the jar opening can cause the jar not to seal, which can spoil the food. Also, glass jars for canning should be stored carefully when not in use, preferably with some type of covering over the opening. Some people use old lids, turned upside down, with the rings closed over them. This makes a secure covering and keeps out dirt and other contaminants.
Any glass jars for canning used for food must be carefully washing and then sterilized, in boiling water, before food preservation is done. Depending on the type of food being canned, one will use either an open kettle or a pressure cooker method. It is important that foods such as green beans be cooked in the pressure cooker as they spoil easily and can even cause death. Meat and most vegetables must also be canned this way.
The open kettle method is usually used with fruits such as peaches and pears. With this method there are four containers on the stove with boiling water. One holds lids and rims the other is what the jars are dipped in before filling. This makes the jars, lids and rims sterile and ready for the fruit. A small pan is where one sets the jar, to fill, and a large kettle is filled with boiling fruit.
Everything, when canning, must be sterile to prevent contamination and a spoiled product. It is amazing that these glass jars for canning can go through this process year after year without breaking. Glass jars for canning are constructed in such a way as to retain heat until the fruit cools and the lids seal. Using these glass jars for canning makes for a wonderful meal in the cold winter months.
