FAQ's: Mason Jars

The typical jars used for home canning are named after John L. Mason, the inventor of the first common canning jar. Mason jars are sold at most supermarkets and hardware stores. They come in several brands; for best results, we suggest using Ball® and Kerr® brands or Benardin® (a Canadian brand) with your FoodSaver® appliance.

There are two sizing aspects to consider:

The diameter of the mouth opening. Mason jars are available in two different diameters: wide-mouth and regular. (Note: Regular jars are sometimes incorrectly referred to as narrow-mouthed jars.) FoodSaver® Jar Sealers come in both wide-mouth and regular sizes.

The volume capacity. Wide-mouth and regular mason jars are available in a range of sizes including the 4 oz., half-pint, pint and quart.

Only certain types of Mason jars can be stored in the freezer. If you plan to vacuum package and freeze in Mason jars, you need to buy the Mason jars that are labeled "Can or Freeze Jars." These jars are designed with an opening that is wider than their base in order to allow liquids to expand. To allow for expansion, leave at least one inch of space in the quart-size jars and a half-inch for smaller jars when filling.

The FoodSaver® Jar Sealer is designed for Ball® and Kerr® brand wide-mouth and regular mason jars. Wide-mouth Jar Sealers can only be used with wide-mouth jars. Regular Jar Sealers are only for regular mason jars.

FoodSaver® Jar Sealers designed to fit Benardin® Mason jars sold in Canada.