Glass jars are one of the oldest and most common materials used for preserving food. Initially, they were used for drinking, but in the late 18th century they became widely used for canning and preserving foods for the long term.
Glass has a number of advantages that make it ideal for storing and transporting food, which is why it is often a preferred choice for a variety of different types of products. These include:
It’s Non-Permeable
Unlike plastic, glass does not allow air or water to leak through, which means it is ideal for storing liquids and preventing them from spoiling or becoming contaminated. This makes it the perfect option for a wide range of products, such as jelly, honey, and jams.
It’s Easily Sterilized and Reusable
Another benefit of using glass is that it can be sterilized, which can help protect your food from bacteria and germs. This is important if you’re making something that needs to be preserved for a long time, such as homemade preserves or jams.
It’s Easy to Clean and Dishwasher Safe
Many glass jars are also microwave safe, which is helpful if you’re a busy cook and want an easy way to reheat leftovers. This is especially helpful if you’re using a dishwasher-safe lid that has a rubber seal.
It’s Designed to Last
The glass used in a glass jar is tempered by heating and cooling it over a period of time, which helps to strengthen the container. This is an important step, since the glass is vulnerable to breaking when it’s not tempered properly.
It’s Sterilized and Ensured of Being Food-Safe
The jars and bottles are then checked for quality before they’re sent to the end consumer. During this inspection process, the containers are cleaned and checked for any cracks or chips. If there are any, the glass is then moved to an annealing oven where it is heated and cooled evenly, which increases strength.
It’s Rodent and Insect Proof
Glass is also very insect and rodent proof because it doesn’t contain any plastic, such as BPA, which can attract pests to a food source. This is why many people choose to use glass jars for storing things like dried spices, herbs, and other dry ingredients.
It’s Recyclable and Durable
Unlike plastic, which can be difficult to recycle, glass is recyclable and can be recycled over and over again. This is especially useful if you’re trying to reduce your carbon footprint.
It’s Inexpensive and Reliable
Glass jars are also inexpensive, which is great news for people who like to can their own produce. Whether you’re making homemade pickles, sauces, or chutneys, these affordable jars are a great investment for your home kitchen.
It’s Decorative and Beautiful
The jars come in a variety of colors, which means that you can customize them to fit your home decor. They are durable and reusable, making them a smart buy for any family.
They’re also great for storing dried goods, such as flour and grains, or soaking beans or pasta in.