Salt in Canning (2024)

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Martha Zepp, Penn State University

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With the exception of fermented pickles and sauerkraut, salt is an optional ingredient.Salt can be omitted for canning tomatoes, vegetables, meats, poultry, and seafood since the amount added does not contribute to the safety of the food. However, in fermented sauerkraut and brined pickles, salt not only provides characteristic flavor but also is vital to safety since it favors the growth of desirable bacteria while inhibiting the growth of others. Therefore, do not attempt to make sauerkraut or fermented pickles by cutting back on the salt required.

Let's Preserve: Ingredients in Home Food Preservation provides a description of the various types of salt listed below and recommendations for their use.

• Canning salt or pickling salt *Note- This is the preferred choice for canning, pickling, and sauerkraut.
• Table salt
• Kosher salt
• Sea salt
• Salt substitutes

Ways to Reduce Sodium and Add Flavor

• Lower the sodium content of sauerkraut or pickles by rinsing the product with water just before heating and serving.Never do this before canning. Lowering the salt content of fermented products before canning will lower the acid content (raise the pH) and possibly render the product unsafe to eat or quick to spoil.
• Serving foods with spices and herbs adds flavor without the addition of salt.
• Prepare your own seasoning blend by combining several spices or dried herbs. Store tightly covered.
• Canning and freezing may intensify the flavor of herbs.Use sparingly at first until you determine the suitability of a particular herb.
• According to the National Center for Home Food Preservation the flavor of some spices and herbs are changed during freezing.

Remember

• Salt is an optional ingredient for canning foods except for fermented products.
• Most vegetables and meats are frozen without salt.
• Salt and sodium may cause foods high in fat such as bacon to become rancid more quickly.
• Salt substitutes are not safe for fermented foods.
• Foods canned or frozen without salt may be seasoned with salt, spices, and herbs before serving.

References

1. National Center for Home Food Preservation

2. Zepp, M., Hirneisen, A., Laborde, L; "Let's Preserve: Ingredients in Home Food Preservation," Penn State Extension, 2019.