Common Canning Jars in Britain: A Legacy of Kilner or Modern Mason?

When discussing home canning practices across the pond, it becomes evident that there are significant differences between the UK and the United States. While many British individuals may refer to the process as ‘bottling,’ the specific jars they use have a rich history and vary widely from the more modern alternatives.

Initially, my assumptions about canning in the UK were shaped by American terminology. When I first encountered the term ‘canning’ in American contexts, I imagined that it referred to using tin cans. However, the traditional British method indeed involves the use of small glass jars, which is more akin to their American counterparts' term ‘preserving.’

The Kilner Jar Legacy

My mother and both grandmothers were regular users of Kilner jars. These jars are still widely available and are synonymous with heritage in the UK. The Kilner jar has been around for what seem to be ages, making it a staple in many British households for preserving their own homegrown fruits and vegetables.

Now, in an affluent community where one might expect a surplus of preserved produce, the use of these classic jars is surprisingly rare. Individuals with fruit trees in their gardens often fail to make the effort to harvest and preserve their produce, much less venture to forage for wild fruits. The Kilner Jar remains a familiar name, and its availability at stores like The Range ensures that it continues to be a cherished part of British culinary traditions.

The Transition to Mason Jars

However, the landscape of home canning in the UK has evolved. I remember growing up with a variety of fresh fruits from bushes and trees in our backyard, and my mother would preserve much of this produce for the winter months. While pressure canning is a technique mentioned in my schooling, I have never personally observed its use, and many in the UK remain unfamiliar with it.

Recently, I picked up mason jars for my home canning needs. Unlike Kilner jars, which might require specific attachments, the advantage of mason jars is that they are compatible with versatile sealing systems such as the FoodSaver. This adaptability makes mason jars a viable alternative for those seeking modern convenience without sacrificing the quality and heritage of home canning practices.

The primary advantage of mason jars is their widespread availability and compatibility with various modern sealing systems, making them an attractive choice for those looking to embrace traditional preserving methods without the limitations of older jar types.

Home Canning in the UK: A Vanishing Tradition

Despite their historical significance, home canning practices are becoming increasingly rare in the UK. Where once households brimmed with jars of preserved fruits and vegetables, modern lifestyle pressures and the availability of pre-packaged goods have led to a decline in this craft. Few people today have heard of or utilized pressure canning, a technique that was once widely known and frequently employed.

While the Kilner jar and its heritage remain strong, the rising popularity of mason jars and modern preservation techniques suggests a shift in how preservation is viewed in the current era. As a result, these traditional methods continue to fade from everyday life, making it essential for collectors and enthusiasts to document and preserve this unique aspect of British culinary history.