Pros
1. Less Expensive
Canning your own food is more cost-effective than purchasing pre-packaged options like freeze-dried meals. By canning at home, you can save significantly on grocery expenses.
2. Customize Ingredients
When canning at home, you control the ingredients, ensuring freshness and avoiding allergens or dietary restrictions. For example, diabetics can tailor their canned goods to meet specific nutritional needs, and those with food allergies can safely avoid harmful ingredients.
3. Create Unique Recipes
The possibilities are endless when it comes to canning recipes. From sweet raspberry chocolate sauces to savory corn relishes, you can preserve your favorite flavors and experiment with new combinations.
4. Increased Self-Sufficiency
Canning helps you become more self-reliant. By growing your own produce and preserving it, you can stockpile food and reduce dependence on store-bought goods during emergencies.
Cons
1. Requires Knowledge
Canning is not a simple task. It requires understanding different methods, such as water bath and pressure canning, and knowing which method to use for specific foods.
2. Equipment Investment
You’ll need to invest in equipment like jars, lids, and a pressure canner. While water bath canning requires less specialized equipment, pressure canning offers more versatility.
3. Time-Consuming Process
From preparing ingredients to properly sealing jars, canning demands time and effort. Consider this commitment before beginning.
4. Shorter Shelf Life
Unlike freeze-dried foods with a 25+ year shelf life, canned goods typically last about one year. Proper storage between 50–70°F is essential to maintain quality.
Easier Food Storage Options
1. #10 Cans of Freeze-Dried Food
Freeze-dried foods in #10 cans are lightweight, have a shelf life of 25+ years, and are easy to prepare by simply adding water. Perfect for long-term storage.
2. EasyPrep Buckets
EasyPrep kits simplify food storage with ready-to-eat meals that just require water. They’re space-saving, lightweight, and offer up to 25 years of shelf life.
3. MREs (Meals Ready to Eat)
Trusted by the military, MREs are calorie-dense meals that require no preparation. They’re perfect for emergencies and come with heaters for convenience.
