Author: Arlene J. Clark

This post will break down the differences, explain when to use each, and help you make informed decisions in your kitchen. In short, kosher salt and canning salt are not the same due to their varying purity and the presence of anti-caking agents. For safe and effective home canning, only use canning salt, which is…

In short, canning typically uses metal cans or glass jars heated to high temperatures to sterilize food, often requiring specialized equipment for sealing, while bottling generally refers to sealing food or beverages in glass bottles, sometimes involving pasteurization rather than full sterilization. The choice depends on the food type, desired shelf life, and available tools.…

When did canning start? The origins of food preservation through canning trace back to a pivotal moment in history driven by military necessity. This revolutionary process not only changed how food was stored but also profoundly impacted global exploration, warfare, and daily life. Understanding this history reveals the ingenuity behind a practice we often take…

Choosing the right type of salt for preserving food can significantly impact the taste, texture, and safety of your canned goods. While both canning salt and regular table salt appear similar, their compositions differ, leading to distinct outcomes in your preserving efforts. Understanding these differences is crucial for anyone looking to achieve consistent, high-quality results…

Kayak oil canning, a disconcerting flex or buckle in a kayak’s hull, can leave paddlers worried about their vessel’s integrity. This phenomenon is more common than many realize and can stem from a variety of factors, ranging from manufacturing processes to environmental conditions and usage. Understanding what causes kayak oil canning and how to effectively…

Cold pack canning, often called raw pack canning, involves placing food directly into jars without pre-heating. Hot pack canning, conversely, involves heating food before packing it into jars. Each method has distinct advantages and is suited for different types of foods to ensure optimal preservation and quality. Key Takeaways What is Cold Pack Canning? Cold…

Canning tomatoes are a special variety of tomatoes specifically cultivated for their excellent qualities when preserved through canning. These tomatoes are prized for their thick flesh, low water content, and ideal acidity, which contribute to a superior texture and flavor in your canned goods. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know…

Simply put, vacuum sealing is ideal for short-to-medium term food storage in the freezer, refrigerator, or pantry, preserving quality and preventing freezer burn. Canning is a long-term preservation method that renders food shelf-stable at room temperature, suitable for bulk storage and emergency preparedness. Key Takeaways What is Vacuum Sealing? Vacuum sealing involves removing air from…

Deciding between steam canning and pressure canning can be confusing for home preservers. Both methods are designed to preserve food, but they serve different purposes and require distinct equipment. Understanding the fundamental steam canning vs pressure canning differences is crucial for safely and effectively preserving your harvest. This guide breaks down what each method entails,…