Canning Apple Butter Discoloration

by Morgan
(Oregon)

This is my first year canning apple butter so I am not sure if this is normal or if something went wrong with my process.

I made the apple butter per the directions in my Ball Canning Cookbook, processed for the said amount of time, etc. However, now that I am starting to pull some of them out to prepare as gifts for Christmas I am noticing that all of the jars of apple butter I made have a grayish discoloration at the top of the jar that is about 1/4-1/2 inch thick.

I'm wondering did something oxidize, did the jars not seal properly, is it safe to eat, etc.

Do you have any experience with discoloration? The lids all seem to be properly sealed so I'm not sure what could be causing the problem.

Thanks for your help!
Morgan

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Answer:
I have not had a problem with discoloration. This is one of those safety issues that I just can not answer. Without seeing the apple butter it is hard to know what it might be.

My suggestion is to call your local extension service and see if they can help. Here is a link to extension services listings

Sorry I could not be of more help.