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Check Canning Lids for Defects

lid defect
Uneven sealing compound
Photo: courtesy Susan Stich

Canning lids are essential for canning food. When preparing lids to use, take a look at them to be sure they are in good condition to reduce problems after canning.

Always used new lids, never reuse canning lids as the rubber seal is already indented and the lid was likely bent when removing it from the jar.

Wash new lids in hot, soapy water. That’s it! Do not boil them as that step is no longer required. Boiling the lids can lead to seal failures.

Look at the underside of the lid. Defects can happen, such as the irregular sealing compound on the lid in the picture. This can lead to seal failures. Contact the manufacturer to report the problem.

 

About Karen Blakeslee

The Rapid Response Center was formed in 1995 as a resource for Kansas State University Research & Extension Agents. Resource topics included Food Science, Human Nutrition, Food Service, Textiles, Home Care and other consumer topics. Since that time, the Center has grown to be of valuable assistance to Kansas State University Extension Specialists in those areas.