Canning Chaos: How the Pandemic Has Led to a Pickling Crisis

As I stood in my garden, surrounded by ripe tomatoes and cucumbers, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement and anxiety. It’s that time of year again - time to turn my harvest into delicious pickles and sauces. But little did I know, I was about to embark on a frustrating journey.

The Covid-19 pandemic has brought about a surge in gardening and home food preservation, leading to a scarcity of canning supplies. From Maine to Louisiana, gardeners are struggling to find the right size glass jars, lids, and bands. I’m not alone in my frustration.

“We have been everywhere,” said Vanessa Ware of Hurricane, West Virginia, who went to at least half a dozen stores after running out of supplies for her tomatoes, peppers, corn, and sauerkraut canning.

The canning industry is experiencing an unprecedented demand for supplies as more consumers prepare meals at home during the pandemic. According to a spokesperson for Newell Brands, owner of Ball, which produces Mason jars and other supplies, the demand is higher than ever before.

Canning supplies are flying off the shelves

The pandemic has led to a boom in gardening, with many people establishing or expanding their gardens due to fears of food shortages or apprehension about going to the grocery store. The master garden helpline at the University of Vermont Extension has received over 500 emails and phone calls since mid-March from new gardeners, those expanding their gardens, or seeking help with plant disease issues.

As I searched online for canning supplies, I was met with price gouging and empty shelves. It’s clear that I’m not the only one struggling to find the right supplies. The pandemic has brought about a new era of self-sufficiency, and it’s time for us to get creative with our canning supplies.

Gardening has seen a surge in popularity during the pandemic

As I finally found a store with the supplies I needed, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. It’s not just about the pickles; it’s about the sense of community and self-sufficiency that comes with growing and preserving our own food.

The joy of home canning

So, if you’re struggling to find canning supplies, don’t give up. Get creative, get resourceful, and remember that it’s all worth it for that delicious homemade pickle.