Can a Mirro 8-Quart Pressure Cooker Be Used for Canning?

Canning used to be a common method of preserving food before modern refrigeration was readily available. The method lost popularity over the past few decades as alternate food preservation methods were perfected, and commercially produced food gained popularity based on taste and convenience. Lately, canning foods at home has gained popularity once again as cooks seek out economical and preservation-free ways to feed friends and family.

Home Canning

Safety/Health Concerns

Pressure Cooker Gauge

Using pressure cookers for canning is not recommended based on their construction which, unlike traditional canners, does not have enough metal for adequate heat retention or adequate room for the water needed to surround the canning jars. Even the larger pressure cookers are inadequate to provide the required heating and cooling times and environments to prevent bacterial growth in canned foods, especially those low in acid. This bacterial growth can cause food poisoning, including botulism.
.

Mirro Guidelines

Stove Top Canner

The Mirro manufacturing guidelines state the Mirro 8-Quart Pressure Cooker is not suitable for canning. The Mirro Company, as well as others, makes larger pressure cookers including ones called Pressure Cookers/Pressure Canners.

USDA Standards

Vegetables for Canning

To adhere to USDA standards, these appliances must have both a wire canning rack and the capacity to hold a minimum of four quart-sized jars. These models may be safe but the USDA recommends verifying the safety of individual models before purchase and/or use. Most home canning guidelines suggest using a manual stovetop canner to ensure safe canning of foods.

Pressure Cooker Positives

Although largely dismissed as preferred canning appliances, pressure cookers are popular appliances that significantly reduce cooking times (up to 70 percent) while retaining food nutrients often depleted or lost using conventional cooking methods.

Safe Canning Guidelines

Home canning books are available at bookstores and libraries. Many are published by canning jar and equipment manufacturers and others are not brand affiliated. The most important factor to consider when choosing a canning book is to make sure it contains the latest information available; check the publication (not the reprint) date. In addition to changes in available equipment, food safety guidelines change as technological and biological testing advances are made.

References

• USDA Guidelines
• Amazon Books
• Ball Canning Guidelines