UW-Extension specialist Heather Quackenboss says the COVID-19 pandemic was the perfect time for people to get into gardening and preserving. Even the start of the pandemic in Wisconsin fell on the beginning of garden season — March.
But the wave of new interest in canning surprised jar and lid manufacturers, Quackenboss explained. Home canning was actually on the decline, so companies such as Ball and Kerr have been unable to meet the unexpected demand for supplies over the past year.
That’s right, the canning supply shortage is still going on. And while glass jars can be reused, their metal lids cannot. Quackenboss recommends buying supplies when you see them if you know you’ll be canning this summer. Otherwise freezing or freeze-drying food is an option.
Patti James says
I am disappointed that the picture of the preserved foods shown in this article, while very attractive, are not in standard jars and lids. All the examples are not safely canned. I am sure there were pictures that could be found of properly processed produce to use. This is important for food safety of consumers who can for themselves.
Dianne says
There has been a lid shortage since before the pandemic and surely by now the company (Ball and Kerr are the same company) could have increased production. Lids that I have found have quadrupled in price and I bet they won’t go back down.
Lana says
I’ve unfortunately ordered some inline which came from China. Not worth the money. And it’s hard to find true Ball/Kerr products online at any cost. You have to read all the info carefully. There’s a brand called Choice. The name is printed on the lid similar to Ball & Kerr. Made in China and not good quality.