We get this question asked a lot here, so it’s time to address the subject in a blog. After doing my research, I’ve explored whether you should continue buying canned food for your food storage or jump on the trend of canning your own food. Stick around because the results might just surprise you!
Cost of Canning Equipment
When I was younger, my mom used to can food, and at the time, the price of jars was not very high. But over the years, home canning has gained popularity, and the cost of supplies has increased. A case of 12 Mason jars on Amazon is around $30, which includes the lids and screw tops. As a bonus, many sets now come with labels, making storage easier. These jars are durable and perfect for canning. When you divide the $30 by 12 jars, it comes to about $2.50 per jar. Some people have used the same jars for 15-20 years, which greatly reduces the overall cost.
Another way to save money is by sourcing used jars from friends, family, garage sales, or thrift stores. You could even get them for pennies! Just be sure to check the jar rims for any nicks or cracks, as these will prevent proper sealing.
Home Canned Food vs. Store Bought Food
When comparing home canning to buying store-bought canned food, it's essential to weigh the overall costs and benefits. If you plan on canning vegetables, you will need a pressure canner. Check out this link to find the best canners available. Investing in a good pressure canner is worth it, as it will last you a long time and allow you to can many jars.
For example, if you purchase a pressure canner for $100 and divide that by 12 months, it costs just over $8 per month. When you factor in the number of jars you’ll can, the cost per jar becomes minimal. Consider how much you would spend dining out over the course of a year—your pressure canner will pay for itself in no time!
How Much Time Does It Take to Can Food at Home?
Canning food does take time, but the duration varies depending on the food, processing time, and method. It’s crucial to set aside time for the canning process, but remember that once your food is canned, it's much faster to access and prepare than cooking fresh meals from scratch. On busy nights, it might be quicker to pull something from your food storage than ordering takeout!
Is It Worth It to Can Food at Home?
Ultimately, the decision to can food at home depends on your preferences. However, when you consider all the benefits—cost savings, self-reliance, and convenience—home canning can be a fantastic option. Having shelves lined with prepared food that doesn’t depend on the grocery store is an incredible feeling. In emergencies like power outages or bad weather, you’ll have immediate access to your food storage from the comfort of your home. 
Plus, on a busy night, you can quickly open a jar and have a home-cooked meal on the table in less time than it would take to pick up fast food. Sources: melissaknorris.com