So, you are interested in preserving your food at home using the canning method of home food preservation.  But, you are confused as to whether pressure canning or water bath canning is better?

We have been asked this question many times so decided to answer it clearly once and for all.  

What Is The Difference Between Pressure Canning And Water Bath Canning?

Both methods use water that is heated to a high temperature to render the food safe, with a long shelf life.  You should be able to enjoy flavorful foods that you have spent time, effort and money on preserving.  All this without worrying about food safety or being disappointed if your preserves develop fungus or mold.

To ensure this outcome, you need to understand the difference between canning under pressure, or using the water bath method of canning.  Each has its positives and drawbacks but basically, there are certain foods that can only be safely preserved using the pressure canning method. 

When you use pressure canning, the food is sterilized under high pressure, using steam and not just water.  So, the food items reach a temperature of 240° F and this kills ALL germs. 

If using the water bath canning method, cans and jars are boiled in water.  The water temperature reaches 212° F which should be hot enough, you would think, to kill germs. 

Unfortunately, it is not! Temperatures above this are required to kill botulism spores which can be dangerous, if not fatal.

What You Need For Pressure Canning

A pressure canner looks similar to a pressure cooker, but is a very different piece of equipment. 

It is much larger than a home-use pressure cooker.  More importantly, it has a highly accurate pressure gauge, conforming to USDA regulations.  This ensures that your preserved foods reach the right temperature at the correct pressure. 

What You Need For Water Bath Canning?

You can buy a special canning pot.  These are large and deep enough to hold the jars that you want to seal, and will usually include a rack.

The rack will keep your jars upright and also prevent them from bashing into each other during the preserving process. 

However, you can use any large pot with a tight-fitting lid that will hold your jars and cans.  You can even use a stockpot. 

Of course, if you do a lot of water bath canning, it is always best to buy a dedicated water bath canning pot.

This can be of the size and type you require for your needs.  They are available in different materials and metals.

Food that can be Pressure Canned and Water Bath Canned?

If you are new to canning or used only one method, you may well be confused as to which is suitable for different foods. 

Because of the temperature differences required in both methods, one is not suitable for all your canning requirements. 

Pressure canning is the safest method to use for low acid foods such as:

• Vegetables of all kinds, including artichokes, beans, corn, mushroom, potatoes, squash, peas, onions, carrots, okra, and spinach.
• Fruits like watermelon and cantaloupe.
• Chicken
• Meat (non-fatty)
• Seafood (non-oily)
• Cooked stews, stocks, and soups

You should use water bath canning only for foods that have a high acid content like:

• Jams
• Jellies
• Pickles
• Fermented foods
• Tomato and tomato sauces (with added vinegar or acid)
• Fruits
• Fruit juices
• Salsas and sauces

Different foods require different temperatures for preservation.  This ensures you kill any bacteria during the home food preserving process. 

The removal of bacteria and their spores prevents the food from being toxic or spoiling.  

In short, it is important to use the correct canning method for each food type.

Check out our Most Recommended Water Bath Canners For Jams And Jellies.

Why Can’t  I Just Use The Pressure Canning Method?

You would think that since pressure canning reaches a higher temperature it would be safe for all food types.  However, that is not the case. 

The fact is, if you were to use pressure canning for foods like jams, jellies, and preserves, you would spoil both the texture and taste.  Your food would be overcooked and mushy and liquids will be boiled, removing all nutrition. 

Also, if you were to add pressure to this preserving process, your jars will most likely explode. 

However, you can use a pressure canner for the water bath canning method.  Just don’t seal the lid, or keep the vents open to allow the steam to escape instead of building pressure. 

For greater safety, and depending on the pressure canner, simply replace the original lid with a tight-fitting lid.

In Summary

Pressure canning and water bath canning both have a place in my kitchen.  With a sprawling homestead garden and livestock, it is important for us to be able to preserve food to reduce waste.

The decision on which piece of home preserving equipment is right for you will depend on a few factors.  

Firstly, the food that you wish to preserve.  Some foods can only be safely processed under high temperatures and pressure.

Secondly, your budget.  There are many canners available on the market with varying price ranges.  Check our best canning review page for more information.

Thirdly, the size of your kitchen and storage space.  If you have space for only one device, then the pressure canner can be used for both pressure canning and water bath canning.