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Canned foods are a blessing since they allow you to preserve out-of-season foods safely for later consumption. So, here’s our list of the best pressure canners to help you store food easily. As store-bought canned food may have preservatives and other chemicals, you can prepare canned food at home with these pressure canners. These kitchen appliances sterilize and preserve low-acid foods for later.
Generally, there are two types of pressure canners–dial gauge and weighted gauge. Dial gauge canners are home canning supplies that require manual adjustment of the heat source to maintain pressure. However, the weighted gauge pressure canners are canning equipment that hold the pressure themselves. The latter type doesn’t require you to continuously keep an eye on it. They are available in various sizes and have different features and functions. Check out these time-tested and expert-recommended pressure canners and choose a suitable one for your pantry.
Top Picks
What Is The Difference Between Pressure Canner And Pressure Cooker?
A pressure cooker cannot be used for canning, but a pressure canner can be used for cooking as well as canning.
As the important part of canning is based on destroying harmful microbes, pressure canners are larger than cookers. They also hold heat and pressure for longer periods than the pressure cooker.
9 Best Pressure Canners To Preserve Food In 2024
1. Best Heavy-Gauge:Presto Pressure Canner and Cooker
Image: Presto The dial pressure gauge of the pressure canner makes it easy to control the temperature while canning. Its cover lock ensures the pressure build-up if the canner lid is closed correctly, making it safe for use. The canner can hold up to 20-pint jars, 24-half-pint jars, or 7-quart jars, setting it apart from other large-capacity canners. Here’s a review video detailing a tester’s experience with using the pressure canner.
Pros
- 12-year limited warranty
- Large size
- Warp-resistant heavy-gauge aluminum ensures fast and even heating
- Includes 76-page instruction and recipe book
Cons
- Does not work with convection cooktop
"Having used this Presto canner for years, I find it pratical, particularly for homemade stocks. It's effective, and despite the need for constant monitoring, it's an asset for food preservation."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 14,327 independent reviewers on Amazon have acknowledged the product's durability and functionality.
2. Best Aluminum Finish: All American Store Pressure Canner and Cooker
Image: All American Store The time-tested 10.5-quart All-American pressure canner and cooker can hold up to four-quart jars or seven-pint jars. Made from cast aluminum and a satin finish, the canner is easy to clean. The easy-to-read steam gauge and automatic pressure release are its key features. Have a look at a reviewer testing the product in this video.
Pros
- No gaskets for sealing
- Easy to open and close
- Different ranges of psi
- Sturdy phenolic top handle
Cons
- Heavy to use
"I found the pressure cooker straightforward to use. The no rubber gasket feature and its large capacity have won me over. Despite being slightly heavy, it's a worthy investment."
Quick tip3. Best Heat-Resistant:T-fal Pressure Canner
Image: T-fal The UL-certified pressure canner comes with two canning racks that can hold up to seven-quart, 16-pint, or 26-half-pint jars. Made from polished aluminum, the T-fal canner has three cooking pressure options – 5, 10, or 15 psi. Learn more about this stovetop model in this video.
Pros
- Sure-locking system for safe use
- Heat-resistant
- Heavy-gauge rust-proof aluminum build
- Includes cooking rack and recipe book
Cons
- Parts may need frequent replacement
"I've had six of these pressure cookers over the years, and they've consistently performed well. While it lacks a higher pressure setting, it's efficient, easy to maintain, and perfect for beginners."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Do not miss out on this product that has earned 6,857 positive reviews on Amazon.
Presto Pressure Canner and Cooker Best Heavy-Gauge | All American Store Pressure Canner and Cooker Best Aluminum Finish | T-fal Pressure Canner Best Heat-Resistant | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 12 Pounds | 14.8 Pounds | 14.77 Pounds |
| Wattage | 1000 watts | 1000 watts | 1000 watts |
| Dimensions | 15.5"D x 17.5"W x 13.5"H | 12.7"D x 13.2"W x 12.2"H | 15.39"D x 19.33"W x 16.26"H |
| Color | Silver | Silver | Silver |
| Material | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 14,327 | 7,785 | 6,857 |
| Price | $156.97 | $499.95 | $105.29 |
4. Best Easy-To-Use:Granite Ware Pressure Canner, Cooker, and Steamer
Image: Kitchen Crop The Granite Ware pressure canner comes with a three-piece pressure regulatory system. It is simple and easy to use. There are two sizes available – 12-quart and 20-quart. The product also includes a steamer and a canning rack.
Pros
- Jiggler over-pressure gauge allows you to hear pressure build-up
- Kills the bacteria found in low acid foods
- Does not change in the food flavor
Cons
- Small pint jar capacity
"In comparison to my previous pot, this canner is astonishing with its quick heat-up feature. The gauge aren't great, but the glass lids are, and despite not being huge, it's sturdy, easy to maneuver, and ideal for making chili or tomato sauce."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
About 955 reviewers on Amazon have given their seal of approval to the product.
5. Best BPA-Free:Zavor Duo Pressure Canner Set
Image: Zavor This expert-recommended ten-quart pressure canner set comes complete with a canning rack, jar wrench, jar lifter, magnetic lid lifter, BPA-free funnel, BPA-free ladle, BPA-free bubble remover, pressure cooking recipe book that features canning recipes for pressure canners, and home canning cookbook. The complete set lets you use the water bath canning method, which is best for preserving low-acid foods.
Wattage: 1000 watts | Product Dimensions: 17.7″D x 10.7″W x 10.4″H | Item Weight: 12.38 pounds
Pros
- Ten-year warranty
- Two pressure options at 15 psi and 8psi
- Allows water bath method and pressure canning method
- Ergonomically designed handles
Cons
- May seem difficult to close the lid
"I found the canner smaller than expected, holding fewer jars than desired. However, the bonus items it comes with, especially the water bath, have a pleasing quality and contribute to the overall experience."
Do remember6. Best Sure-Locking System:Mirro Pressure Canner/Cooker
Image: Mirro Made from polished aluminum, the pressure canner is rust-resistant and easy to clean. There are three pressure options between 5, 10, and 15 psi, making it one of the best high-pressure canners. The sure-locking system reduces the risk of spilling and is safe to use.
Pros
- Durable pressure canner
- Safety window to release excess pressure
- Reusable overpressure plug
- Limited ten-year warranty for canner
Cons
- Uses gaskets might need periodic replacement
- Less holding capacity
"Using this pressure cooker for my veggie supplies has been a joy. It handles bulk cooking with mason jars and bags. Overall, I find it useful."
7. Best Dishwasher-Safe:Nesco Smart Pressure Canner and Cooker
Image: Nesco The Nesco smart pressure cooker is a wonderful choice for those looking to buy a multi-functional appliance. Its digital display has automatic presets for canning, steaming, slow cooking, and pressure cooking, making it one of the most versatile programmable pressure canners. The digital canner pot is dishwasher-safe.
Pros
- Safety lock lid
- Includes standard and high-altitude limiting valves
- Side handles for safe handling
Cons
- Not compatible with traditional stovetop
- Small holding capacity
"As a novice, I found this pressure canner great for small batches. It's user-friendly and fits wide-mouth jars. The heiht could be better, but it's still convenient to use."
Quick tip8. Best Rust-Resistant:Barton Pressure Canner and Cooker
Image: Barton Deluxe pressure dial gauge of the canner registers precise pressures important in high-altitude areas. The sure-locking system makes the product safe to use as the lid does not open when pressurized. It comes with canning racks, making it one of the most convenient stovetop canners.
Item Weight: 13.17 pounds | Product Dimensions: 14″D x 19″W x 14.25″H | Color: Polished Aluminum | Material: Polished Aluminum
Pros
- Rust-resistant
- Heavy-gauge aluminum build
- Prevents food from sticking to the bottom
- Compatible with most stoves
Cons
- Not suitable for recipes above 12 psi
- May not be induction compatible
"I appreciate the sturdy build of this canner. The lack of additional weight for the pressure regulator is a bit inconvenient, but it offers good performance when locked well."
9. Best Temperature Control:Instant Pot Max Pressure Cooker and Canner
Image: Instant Pot If you are looking for an expert-recommended electric canner, opt for this instant pot. This modern pressure canner can be programmed easily with a large touchscreen where you can set the time, temperature, pressure level, etc. It is made from food-grade 304 stainless steel and features among the best multi-function pressure canners.
Pros
- Accurate temperature control
- UI certified with 13 safety features
- 100% recyclable packaging
Cons
- Small holding capacity
"Although not the largest, I love using this for baking or slow-cooking. I faced a minor issue with the steam release valve, but once that was solved, everything was smooth sailing. It's easier to use than all the previous models Ihave used."
How To Choose The Right Pressure Canner?
Here are a few points to consider while buying a pressure canner.
- Size: Choose from the varied pressure canners depending on the size of the family and the food. The sizes are listed in quarts.
- Stovetop compatibility: Consider your stovetop and check for compatibility with the pressure canner you plan to buy.
- Parts: Canners with parts, such as gaskets or pressure valves, might need periodic replacement.
- Safety: Consider the safety features of pressure canners, including pressure release valves, to ensure an accident-free and safe pressure canning experience.
- Maintenance: The weighted gauge canners usually need lesser maintenance.
- Additional features: Opt for models that come with rack systems or jar lifters for pressure canners for better convenience.
How To Use A Pressure Canner?
The following points give a basic idea about operating a pressure canner.
- Adhere to the usage rules provided in the pressure canning guides.
- Check there are no blockages and calcium deposits.
- Canner should be positioned at the center above the burner.
- Use a jar lifter to place jars in the canner.
- For jam-packed foods, you should take water to 180 °F, and for raw, filled foods, it should be 140°F.
- Check if the cover of the canner is fastened properly.
- Adjust the pressure settings according to the foods.
- Monitor the heat to keep a reliable pressure built-up.
- Allow the canner to cool off naturally once the cooking is complete. If your canner uses a gasket, you can also release the pressure through it to speed up the cooling process.
- Do not force open a pressure cooker.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use mason jars in a pressure canner?
Classic mason jars are long-lasting and are designed for home canning. They don’t seal the jar too hard or crumble under high steam pressure. These jars also have a robust build.
2. When should I use a pressure canner?
Pressure canners are used to store low-acid foods to avoid food-borne botulism, an infection caused by foods that are not canned or stored properly (1). You may store soups, vegetables, stews, meats, and seafood in pressure canners.
3. Can I repurpose a used pressure canner?
Yes, you may reuse your old pressure canners as they have a strong build and can be used for storage. However, ensure you wash them well before reusing them.
4. How heavy is a pressure canner?
The weight is not a deciding factor, but the pressure your canner holds matters. Dial gauge pressure canners allow you to manually adjust the pressure, but weighted ones tend to hold and manage pressure on their own.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Sakshi John is a skilled product writer and reviewer specializing in home products and kitchenware. After researching several products and considering user reviews on multiple websites, she has compiled this list of time-tested and best pressure canners for your kitchen. Sakshi has also included a buying guide to help you select the right pressure canner. Moreover, she also tells you about the different types of pressure canners and gives you the basics of operating them.
The Bottom Line
Canning food for longevity at home using a pressure canner is a better alternative to store-bought canned foods. That way, you can stay away from preservatives and harmful chemicals. The best pressure canners to preserve food are available in various sizes. So, consider how much food you would want to store before investing in one. It helps when you buy a low-maintenance pressure canner such as the Presto Pressure Canner and Cooker, as many canners come with parts that might need periodic replacement. Moreover, when you buy a pressure canner like the All American Store Pressure Canner and Cooker, compatible with stovetops, canning food at home gets super easy.
Infographic: Tips For Using A Pressure Canner
While a pressure cooker is a common and essential kitchen appliance, a pressure canner is a unique appliance used for cooking and sterilizing things. They are bigger and are typically used in food storage services for packing and canning food safely to extend shelf life. Explore the tips for using pressure canners in the infographic below to ensure safe and proper usage.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
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