Follow jar filling instructions closely to ensure a proper seal.
Kimberly Baker, ©2023, Clemson University Extension
Directions for filling canning jars are included in the canning recipes recommended by USDA and Clemson. Following these directions carefully is critical. The safety of a specific process has been determined for the specific food, the specific procedures for food preparation and the specific directions for filling jars provided in the recipe. Canning directions for whole kernel corn, lima beans, and green or English peas specify filling them loosely into canning jars and not shaking or pressing them down. Because they are so starchy, these vegetables absorb packing water and swell significantly during pressure canning; for the same reason, they require more headspace than other low acid foods. (The recommended headspace for raw-packed quarts of large limas is 1¼ inches; for raw-packed quarts of small lima beans, it is 1½ inches.)
Sources:
- HGIC 3051. Most Frequently Asked Canning Questions
- HGIC 3240 Canning Beans, Corn and Peas
- USDA. NIFA. 2009. Complete Guide to Home Canning. Agriculture Information Bulletin 539.
- E.L. Andress and J.A. Harrison. 2006. So Easy to Preserve. 5th ed. Cooperative Extension, The University of Georgia, Athens, GA. Available at http://setp.uga.edu
