


I have been using my old mason jars and the lids for 7 years now and decided to get a new batch of mason jars from Target last weekend for both meal prep and canning. Upon opening the box, I noticed the jars weight significantly less than my old mason jars and when I tapped them, the sound was very different as well.
My partner and I washed the lids and temperately left them in a glass container, when we took them out, there’s tons of orange stains. Originally we thought it was just rust which we did have when first getting the mason jars years ago. But this time, it looks almost like the orange stains come from the colored rim of the lid. What is it? Is it safe to can the fruits and veggies with these lids?
by TheoreticalViking14

6 Comments
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It looks like the rusted. Why would you leave them in an enclosed container and not like a colander to dry out?
Also new lids need to be used every time. Were you reusing lids for 7 years?
It’s the gasket material. I’ve seen this on a bunch of new lids.
At least the red splatter. The edges of the lids will rust if you leave them wet also. So you are probably seeing the splotchy gasket splatter, and a little fresh rust juice.
Wash/dry by hand and give them a good inspection for damage or uneven gaskets, but they are probably good.
I keep the lids in the box until I need to use them, then they get a very quick rinse with hot water and that’s it.
Are those name brand lids? Jars can be reused for decades but lids are single use.
I’ve noticed lids lately have the gummy stuff smeared all over the inside of the lid.
Have you been reusing canning lids for 7 years? Like actually canning with them, or are they 7 years old and this is the first time you’ve used the lids for canning?
Either way, buy new lids…
Jars are fine to use for a while.