Michelle My Bell Posted June 30, 2008 Share Posted June 30, 2008 I just canned (with help) recently and made strawberry jam. Tonight we opened it, but I wouldn't let anyone eat it because I am afaid of Botulism. I suggested we feed it to the cat and see how he does, but they didn't like that idea. Anyhow, we followed all the canning rules, but one lady told me you should have to use a can opener to open your canned items. I just dug my nails under the seal and popped it off. It wasn't super easy, but it wasn't super difficult either. Should I be worried? Thanks for ANY help you can offer! Michelle Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pensguys Posted June 30, 2008 Share Posted June 30, 2008 I never used a can opener when my mom used to make her jelly. We'd pop the top off with a butter knife. As long as you hear the "sucking" sound/suction release, then I think you're okay. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
myfunnybunch Posted June 30, 2008 Share Posted June 30, 2008 I open mine with my fingernails as well. If it's any consolation, I had the same worry with my first batch of jam. :-) Except I tasted it myself. It was pretty darn good. We make all of our own jam now--strawberry, raspberry, blueberry, peach. Store jam just doesn't taste as good, and it's astronomically expensive! Cat Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
happyWImom Posted June 30, 2008 Share Posted June 30, 2008 If you heard it pop to begin with you are fine and if you had to dig under the seal with your nails then it was sealed. What you should be afraid of is the factory canned stuff. The father and brothers of a friend used to work in a jam factory, the stories they told..... We have been eating the homemade stuff for years with the only problem being when it runs out. What are the stories? Tell me! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Happy Posted July 1, 2008 Share Posted July 1, 2008 It's fine! Toast some bread and dig in. Refrigerate after opening if you prefer. Ours never lasted long enough to spoil. If you ever do not hear the pop or if there is mold or an icky smell, dispose of it. The only one I had spoil was one without a good seal. Pass me that jar, please. My toast is waiting. ;) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Heather in the Kootenays Posted July 1, 2008 Share Posted July 1, 2008 I used to feel the same but after years of eating my own jam, I've never had a problem. Listen for a pop and look for mould - you'll be fine. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cin Posted July 1, 2008 Share Posted July 1, 2008 My aunt use to can green beans and she would eat them even if they were 2-3 years old. If they pop, you're fine. The middle of the lid should be sucked down. It should NOT click until you unseal it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Quiver0f10 Posted July 1, 2008 Share Posted July 1, 2008 I would not eat it! For safety sake I would send all jars to me ASAP. :D Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ticklbee Posted July 1, 2008 Share Posted July 1, 2008 I would not eat it! For safety sake I would send all jars to me ASAP. :D LOL - The title of this thread made me laugh and then this! You guys are too funny. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Michelle My Bell Posted July 1, 2008 Author Share Posted July 1, 2008 Thanks everyone, I do think it is first time jitters. :tongue_smilie:I fed a little to the kitty last night (Hey don't judge! Its me or him!) and he is still leaping around. LOL Thanks again! Michelle Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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