A Mason jar is a molded glass jar that is originally used in canning to preserve food. Other common names for the original Mason jar include Ball jars (after the Ball Corporation), fruit jars and simply glass canning jars. All Mason jars are not created equal.

Do mason jar lids fit Ball jars?

Available in regular mason jar and wide mouth sizes. Bands, caps and lids are interchangeable with Ball or Kerr jars. Regular Mouth Lids for preserving fit all regular mouth glass preserving jars.

What is a substitute for Mason jars?

Weck jars Weck jars are a popular alternative to Mason jars, made in Germany with glass lids and rubber sealing rings. They can be used for canning, although this method is not approved by the USDA.

What is the difference between wide mouth and regular mouth Mason jars?

While jar shape can help you choose storage method, the jar mouth size can depend on a variety of factors. Regular Mouth work best with pourable foods such as jams, jellies, salsas, sauces, pie fillings, and vegetables. Wide Mouth allows for easier filling and works best with whole fruits and vegetables.

Why do Mason jars have 2 piece lids?

Two-piece lids allow you to reuse the canning ring many times over while replacing only the recyclable flat plastisol-lined lid between uses.

How do I know if my Mason jar is wide mouth?

All you need to look at is the diameter across the mouth of the Mason jar, edge to edge.

How many times can you use a Mason jar lid?

The simple answer is no: Canning lids are designed for one-time use. Using them more than once may result in your jars not sealing properly. These lids have a special sealing compound around the rim that is only good for one use.

What is the point of Mason jars?

A Mason jar, named after American tinsmith John Landis Mason, who patented it in 1858, is a molded glass jar used in home canning to preserve food. The jars mouth has a screw thread on its outer perimeter to accept a metal ring or band.

How old is my Kerr Mason jar?

Check the jar from top to bottom. The Kerr name will be embossed on the glass. There are some general guidelines to approximate the date of a vintage Kerr jar between 1915 and 1930. The finish on a fruit jar can tell you roughly about the date it was made.