The Canning Process

Canning is a way to keep food fresh for a very long time. Food is sealed inside metal cans or glass jars. The sealed food can last for months or even years without going bad.

How Canning Was Invented

Canning was invented in 1809 by a French man named Nicolas Appert. Napoleon, the French leader, wanted a way to feed his soldiers on long marches. He offered a prize to anyone who could preserve food.

Appert discovered that heating food in sealed glass jars kept it fresh. A few years later, an Englishman named Peter Durand started using tin cans instead of glass. This made canned food stronger and easier to transport.

How Canning Works

Canning works by sealing food in an airtight container and heating it. The heat kills bacteria and germs that make food spoil. Because no air can get in, the food stays safe to eat.

Today, you can find canned fruits, vegetables, soups, and meats at every grocery store. Many families also can their own food at home using glass jars. Canned food is great for emergencies because it lasts so long.

Fun Facts

• Canning was invented to feed soldiers in Napoleon's army.
• Some canned food found on old ships was still safe to eat after 100 years.
• About 34 billion cans of food are produced every year.

Did You Know?

The can opener was not invented until 48 years after the tin can! Before that, people used knives and chisels to open cans.