What causes mason jar breakage?
BERNARDIN® mason jars are designed to withstand the repeated heating, cooling and multiple uses associated with home canning. However, they must be handled correctly to avoid certain situations that may result in breakage. The three main causes of accidental jar breakage and preventative measures are outlined below. 1) SCRATCHES: Scratches especially those on the interior surface of mason jars, can weaken the glass and cause breakage when the jars are heated or handled. Scratches are caused by: • Metal utensils used to remove food from jars • Knifing out air bubbles using a metallic utensil • Cleaning jars with steel wool or a wire stem brush To ensure long lasting durability of your mason jars, clean them with a soft cloth and warm soapy water or in a dishwasher. Only use non-metallic utensils when removing bubbles and serving. Use jar lifters that have a coated surface over the metal. 2) THERMAL SHOCK: Although mason jars can withstand repeated heating and cooling, they are sensitive