What types of food can you put in cans?

You can put a surprisingly wide variety of foods in cans! Here's a breakdown:

Commonly Canned Foods:

* Fruits: Peaches, pears, apricots, pineapple, cherries, berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), fruit cocktail

* Vegetables: Green beans, corn, peas, tomatoes, carrots, beets, spinach, asparagus

* Meats: Tuna, salmon, sardines, chicken, beef, ham, spam

* Soups: Tomato soup, chicken noodle soup, vegetable soup

* Beans: Kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, baked beans

* Other: Olives, pickles, pasta sauce, chili, fruit juices, coffee

Foods You Can Also Can at Home (with Proper Techniques):

* Produce: Applesauce, jams, jellies, pickles, relishes

* Meats: Meatloaf, chicken stew, ground beef

* Other: Chili, sauces, salsa, soups

Important Considerations:

* Food Safety: Canning is a process that requires precise techniques to ensure food safety. Improper canning can lead to bacterial growth and food poisoning.

* Acid Content: Acidic foods, such as fruits and tomatoes, are easier to can because the acidity inhibits bacterial growth. Low-acid foods, like beans and meats, require specific processing techniques to ensure safety.

* Preservation Methods: Canning relies on high heat to kill bacteria and create a vacuum seal that prevents spoilage. The canning process should be followed carefully, including the proper heating time and pressure.

Resources:

* National Center for Home Food Preservation: [https://nchfp.uga.edu/](https://nchfp.uga.edu/)

* Ball Canning Website: [https://www.freshpreserving.com/](https://www.freshpreserving.com/)

Tips:

* Use high-quality ingredients: The quality of your canned food is directly related to the quality of your ingredients.

* Follow tested recipes: Use reliable canning recipes and instructions to ensure safety and success.

* Use proper equipment: Invest in a good pressure canner and other necessary tools.

* Store properly: Canned goods should be stored in a cool, dark, dry place.

Let me know if you have any other questions about canning!