Pressure Canning

A controlled method used for preserving foods with a pressure canner, also referred to as a pressure cooker, that is used for the heating and cooking process. Food contents are put into individual containers that are evenly placed together in the canner pot containing water. The contents are heated to a very high temperature under pressure to produce steam that cooks, sterlizes and seals the food airtight in the containers. As the pressure increases in the pressure canner, the hot steam is forced through the food to cook and preserve it thoroughly. Pressure canning is a method commonly used to preserve fruits, vegetables, meats, poultry, fish, and other food items.