Tag: Water bath canning

According to the National Center for Home Food Preservation (NCHFP), adding sugar to canned fruit is not necessary for safety. The answer to "can you can fruit juice without sugar?" is a resounding yes, making it a viable and healthier option for preserving your favorite flavors. The canning process relies on heat and proper sealing for safety, not sugar.

The acidity of a food, measured by its pH level, is the single most important factor in determining the safe canning method. Understanding what are acidic canned foods is crucial for home preservers, as it dictates whether a simple boiling water bath is sufficient or if a high-pressure canner is required. This guide breaks down the science behind food acidity and its role in safe canning practices.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), home-canned foods are the most common source of foodborne botulism outbreaks in the United States. This makes understanding how to tell if canning failed a critical skill for home preservers.