Open Kettle Canning - Inverting Jars

Why do some recipes call for inverting jars for 2 days?

Sharon's Answer

Most likely you have a recipe that uses a method called open kettle canning . It is an outdated method that is not recommended anymore. I find it is usually used with jam recipes.

In this method you simply heat the foods and pour into sterilized jars place the lids and instead of processing them simply turn them on their tops and let them cool.

Often a seal is created with this method and so it is assumed that the food is sterilized and safe. However, when the food is transferred to the hot jars it is exposed to the air and any utensils used. There is a possibility that the food may become contaminated.

You have food that is sealed but not necessarily sterilized. Bacteria or other spoilers may be there.

I still know women who do this. And even though they have not had any problems I figure the little amount of extra work to process the jars is minimal. After all the hard part is all done why not go the extra safety mile.