Canning and Preserving

Before refrigerators were invented, people needed clever ways to keep food from going bad. Canning is one of those ways. When food is canned, it is sealed tightly in jars or metal cans and heated to kill germs. This keeps the food safe to eat for months or even years.

How Canning Works

First, food is prepared by washing, peeling, or cooking it. Then it is placed into clean jars or cans. The containers are sealed tightly so no air can get in. Next, they are heated to a high temperature to kill any bacteria inside. When the jars cool down, the lids seal even tighter, keeping the food safe and fresh.

The History of Canning

Canning was invented in 1809 by a French man named Nicolas Appert. He figured out that food sealed in glass jars and heated would last much longer. Soon after, tin cans were invented in England. Canned food was very important for soldiers and sailors who needed food that would not spoil. Today, canning is still used in homes and factories around the world.

Fun Facts

• Canned food can last for years and still be safe to eat.
• The can opener was invented 48 years after the can was invented.
• During the Civil War, canned food helped feed soldiers on both sides.

Did You Know?

Napoleon Bonaparte helped inspire the invention of canning because he needed a way to feed his large army!