Home Canning - What is This About Headspace?

If this is your first attempts at Home CanningRecommended Amount of Headspace
you may be asking yourself, "What Is This AboutGenerally the amount of headspace needed varies
Headspace?" A good starting point would be tobased on what you are canning. Below is a quick
define headspace: this is the "space" from the topguideline to follow:
of canning jar (where the lid fits) to the point- Allow 1 inch for low acid foods such as
where the food or liquid fills the remainder of thevegetables and meats
jar.- Allow 1/2 inch for high acid foods like tomatoes
What's the Big Deal About Headspace?and fruits
You probably already know that there are a few- Allow 1/4 inch for jams, jellies, pickles and
rules to follow when it comes to safely canningrelishes
foods. But did you know that leaving headspaceNow imagine for a moment what your canned
allows for the expansion of foods and the bubblingfoods will look like after you've finished. Can't you
of liquids during the processing of your homejust smell the aroma of that fresh jam you
canning project? What if I told you that withoutpreserved as you pop open the lid and spread
the correct amount of headspace your jars wouldsome on a hot piece of toast for breakfast?
not seal properly; were you aware of that? OrDoesn't it please you to see the delight on your
that if too much space is allowed the food at thefamily's faces each time they take a bite. You are
top of the canning jar may darken due to airsure to gain respect and admiration for the gift
remaining in the top of the jar after processing.basket full of your home canned goodies you give
Having the right amount of space at the top ofto a co-worker for their birthday.
the jars allows a vacuum to form whileWhat are you waiting for? Get started on those
processing. The lid will then be able to seal uponhome canning projects now. Your family and
completion of the method.friends will be glad you did.