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Food Acidity
The lower the acid content in the food, the greater the potential for spoilage and
contamination. Many foods such as fruits are high in acid where as others such as meats, dairy
products and sea foods have low acid levels. (see charts below)
Proper Pressure Canning minimizes the possibility of spoilage and contamination.
Apples
Oranges
Applesauce
Peaches
Apricots
Pears
Berries
Pickled Beets
Cherries
Pineapple
Cranberries
Plums
Fruit Juices
Rhubarb
Examples of High Acid Foods
Asparagus
Mushrooms
Beans
Okra
Beets
Peas
Carrots
Potatoes
Corn
Seafood
Hominy
Spinach
Meat
Winter Squash
Examples of Low Acid Foods
Pressure Canning Guide
Raw Packing and Hot Packing
Fresh foods contain air. The shelf life of canned food depends on how much air has been removed
during the canning process. The more air removed, the longer the shelf life.
Raw Packing
is the process of canning fresh but unheated foods. The process causes foods such as
fresh fruit to float in their jars. Raw packed foods tend to lose color over time. Raw packing may be
preferable in some recipes.
Hot Packing
is the process of canning foods that have been pre-cooked prior to packing them in their
jars. This reduces the air in the food.
Regardless of the method used, all liquids added to the foods should always be heated to a boiling
point. This will remove excess air, shrink the foods, prevent floating and create a tighter seal.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Altitude and Pressure Canning
The temperature at which water will boil can vary depending upon your location in regards to sea level.
The Power Cooker PLUS will operate properly up to a maximum altitude of 2,000 ft. above sea level. Do
not use this unit for pressure canning above an altitude of 2,000 ft.
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