Can I process tomatoes by turning them upside down instead of boiling the jars?
NO! I’m sorry but you can’t. It is completely unsafe. The processing time of high-acid canning is based on the acid levels of the contents. Tomatoes are on the border of high and low acid canning, meaning they require a longer processing time in order to prevent the growth of harmful bacterias such as botulism. In some cases of high-acid canning the acid levels are strong enough that even without the processing time there is sufficient acidity to prevent the growth of harmful bacterias. In these cases turning a jar upside down will most often sterilize the lids properly and prevent any bacterial or mold growth. In the even that something still grows, it is very unlikely to be harmful. THIS IS NOT THE CASE FOR TOMATOES. Without the proper processing time there is a chance you will fail to kill all of the bacteria spores, including dangerous spores that create botulism. The risk is not worth it. If you don’t want to water process your tomatoes you need to refrigerate them, though I stron
