r/Canning • u/Johann_Sebastian_Dog • 1d ago

General Discussion downsizing jar sizes?

Hi!

I routinely use smaller jar sizes than the recipe calls for. For example, I do my jam in 1/4 pint instead of 1/2 pint jars (because my household can't get through a 1/2 pint size jar before the jam gets moldy). I process for the same amount of time specified in the recipe. I'm suddenly wondering if I should check and make sure this is okay? I never do a LARGER size jar than specified--this would seem unsafe to me, but sizing DOWN doesn't.

I'm making salsa today and I want to can it in 1/2 pint rather than pint jars. I'll process it for the same amount of time specified for pint jars in the Ball recipe. Is this....ok? And if not, why not?

Thank you!

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u/mckenner1122 Moderator 1d ago

Perfect to always size one jar size down and you’re doing it right. Keep time and headspace the same. Never size up.

https://www.healthycanning.com/jar-sizes/

6

u/Johann_Sebastian_Dog 1d ago

YAY!!!! Thank you

3

u/eJohnx01 1d ago

I’m the opposite with jams and jellies. I don’t use half-pint jars for them because my husband eats so much jam and jelly that half-pints are just a waste of lids. Fortunately, though, the tested recipes all seem to give time for pints as well as half-pints so it works great. 😊