When it comes to home canning, two names that often come to mind are Kerr and Ball. Both brands have been synonymous with canning supplies for decades, and their lids are a crucial component in ensuring the safety and quality of homemade preserves. But are Kerr and Ball lids the same? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of both brands, explore their product offerings, and examine the differences and similarities between their lids.
A Brief History of Kerr and Ball
To understand the relationship between Kerr and Ball, it’s essential to look at their individual histories.
Kerr: A Legacy of Innovation
Kerr was founded in 1903 by Alexander H. Kerr, who developed a revolutionary new canning jar that featured a wide mouth and a screw-on lid. This design made it easier for home canners to fill and seal their jars, and it quickly gained popularity. Over the years, Kerr continued to innovate, introducing new products and technologies that helped to establish the brand as a leader in the canning industry.
Ball: A Name That’s Been Around for Over a Century
Ball, on the other hand, has been around since 1880, when Edmund B. Ball founded the Ball Brothers Glass Manufacturing Company. Initially, the company produced glass jars and other containers, but it wasn’t until the early 20th century that Ball began to focus on canning supplies. Today, Ball is one of the most recognizable brands in the canning industry, and its products are used by home canners around the world.
The Relationship Between Kerr and Ball
So, are Kerr and Ball the same company? The answer is a bit complicated. In 1993, the Kerr brand was acquired by the Newell Brands company, which also owned the Ball brand. This meant that both Kerr and Ball were now under the same corporate umbrella. However, despite being owned by the same company, Kerr and Ball continued to operate as separate brands, each with their own product lines and marketing strategies.
A Merger of Equals
In 2015, Newell Brands announced that it would be merging the Kerr and Ball brands into a single entity, known as the Jarden Home Brands company. This merger brought together the resources and expertise of both brands, allowing them to create new products and technologies that would benefit home canners.
Kerr and Ball Lids: What’s the Difference?
Now that we’ve explored the history of Kerr and Ball, let’s take a closer look at their lids. While both brands offer high-quality lids that are designed to ensure safe and reliable canning, there are some differences between them.
Design and Construction
One of the main differences between Kerr and Ball lids is their design and construction. Kerr lids feature a more traditional design, with a rounded edge and a smaller diameter. Ball lids, on the other hand, have a more modern design, with a squared-off edge and a slightly larger diameter.
Table: Kerr vs. Ball Lid Dimensions
| Lid Type | Diameter | Edge Type |
|---|---|---|
| Kerr | 2.75 inches | Rounded |
| Ball | 2.85 inches | Squared-off |
Materials and Coatings
Another difference between Kerr and Ball lids is the materials and coatings used in their construction. Both brands offer lids made from tinplate steel, but Ball lids also feature a BPA-free coating that helps to prevent corrosion and ensure a tight seal.
Table: Kerr vs. Ball Lid Materials and Coatings
| Lid Type | Material | Coating |
|---|---|---|
| Kerr | Tinplate steel | None |
| Ball | Tinplate steel | BPA-free |
Are Kerr and Ball Lids Interchangeable?
One of the most common questions among home canners is whether Kerr and Ball lids are interchangeable. The answer is a bit complicated.
Compatibility Issues
While both Kerr and Ball lids are designed to fit standard canning jars, there may be some compatibility issues to consider. Kerr lids, for example, may not fit as snugly on Ball jars, and vice versa. This can lead to a poor seal and potentially spoil your preserves.
Using Kerr Lids on Ball Jars
If you’re looking to use Kerr lids on Ball jars, it’s essential to ensure that the lids are compatible. Kerr lids are designed to fit Kerr jars, but they may also work on Ball jars with a few modifications. You can try using a Kerr lid on a Ball jar by applying a thin layer of lid wax or petroleum jelly to the rim of the jar. This will help the lid to seal more securely.
Using Ball Lids on Kerr Jars
Similarly, if you’re looking to use Ball lids on Kerr jars, you may need to make some adjustments. Ball lids are designed to fit Ball jars, but they may also work on Kerr jars with a few modifications. You can try using a Ball lid on a Kerr jar by applying a thin layer of lid wax or petroleum jelly to the rim of the jar.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Kerr and Ball lids share some similarities, they are not the same. Both brands offer high-quality lids that are designed to ensure safe and reliable canning, but there are some differences in their design, materials, and coatings. When it comes to interchangeability, it’s essential to consider compatibility issues and make any necessary modifications to ensure a secure seal.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a seasoned home canner or just starting out, it’s essential to choose the right lids for your needs. By understanding the differences between Kerr and Ball lids, you can make informed decisions and ensure that your preserves are safe and delicious. So, the next time you’re shopping for canning supplies, be sure to check out both Kerr and Ball lids – you might just find that one brand is better suited to your needs than the other.
Recommendations
Based on our research, here are some recommendations for home canners:
- If you’re looking for a more traditional lid design, Kerr might be the better choice.
- If you’re looking for a more modern lid design with a BPA-free coating, Ball might be the better choice.
- If you’re looking for a lid that’s compatible with both Kerr and Ball jars, consider using a universal lid that’s designed to fit multiple jar types.
By following these recommendations, you can ensure that your preserves are safe, delicious, and made with the highest quality lids available.
What are Kerr and Ball lids, and how are they used in canning?
Kerr and Ball lids are two popular brands of lids used in home canning. They are designed to fit onto glass jars and create a vacuum seal, allowing for the preservation of food through heat processing. The lids are typically made of metal and have a rubber ring that helps to create a tight seal. Both Kerr and Ball lids are widely used by home canners and are considered to be reliable and safe options for preserving food.
The lids are used in conjunction with a screw band to secure them to the jar. The screw band is tightened to create a tight seal, and then the jar is processed in a boiling water bath or pressure canner to kill off any bacteria and create a vacuum seal. Once the jar has cooled, the screw band is removed, and the lid is left in place to maintain the seal. Kerr and Ball lids are designed to be used once and then discarded, as reusing them can compromise the safety of the food.
Are Kerr and Ball lids interchangeable?
Kerr and Ball lids are generally considered to be interchangeable, meaning that a Kerr lid can be used on a Ball jar and vice versa. However, it’s always best to check the manufacturer’s recommendations before using a lid from a different brand. Some lids may have slightly different designs or features that could affect their compatibility.
That being said, many home canners have used Kerr and Ball lids interchangeably without issue. The key is to make sure that the lid is properly seated on the jar and that the screw band is tightened correctly. It’s also important to follow safe canning practices and to always check the seal of the jar before storing it. If you’re unsure about the compatibility of a particular lid and jar, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and use a lid from the same manufacturer.
What are the differences between Kerr and Ball lids?
While Kerr and Ball lids are similar in design and function, there are some subtle differences between the two brands. One of the main differences is the design of the lid itself. Kerr lids have a slightly different shape and design than Ball lids, although both are designed to fit onto standard-sized glass jars.
Another difference is the material used to make the lids. Kerr lids are made from a slightly thicker gauge of metal than Ball lids, which can make them slightly more durable. However, both brands are considered to be reliable and safe options for home canning. Ultimately, the choice between Kerr and Ball lids will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the canner.
Which brand is better, Kerr or Ball?
Both Kerr and Ball are well-established and reputable brands in the home canning industry, and both have their own strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, the choice between the two brands will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the canner.
Some home canners prefer Kerr lids because of their slightly thicker gauge of metal and unique design. Others prefer Ball lids because of their wide availability and reputation for reliability. Both brands are considered to be safe and effective options for home canning, and the choice between them will ultimately depend on individual circumstances.
Can I reuse Kerr or Ball lids?
No, it’s not recommended to reuse Kerr or Ball lids. Both brands are designed to be used once and then discarded, as reusing them can compromise the safety of the food. The rubber ring on the lid can become damaged or worn out after a single use, which can affect the seal of the jar.
Reusing lids can also increase the risk of spoilage and foodborne illness. Home canning is a precise process that requires careful attention to detail, and reusing lids can introduce variables that can affect the safety of the food. It’s always best to use new lids for each canning project to ensure the best possible results.
How do I store Kerr and Ball lids?
Kerr and Ball lids should be stored in a cool, dry place to preserve their quality and effectiveness. It’s best to keep them away from direct sunlight and moisture, as this can cause the rubber ring to deteriorate.
It’s also a good idea to store lids in their original packaging or in a protective container to prevent them from getting damaged or bent. This will help to ensure that the lids are in good condition when you’re ready to use them. Always check the lids for any signs of damage or wear before using them, and discard any lids that are damaged or show signs of deterioration.
Are Kerr and Ball lids BPA-free?
Yes, both Kerr and Ball lids are BPA-free. BPA (bisphenol A) is a chemical that was once commonly used in the manufacture of plastics and metal coatings. However, it has been linked to health concerns and is no longer used in the production of canning lids.
Both Kerr and Ball have committed to using BPA-free materials in their lids, which provides an added layer of safety for home canners. This means that you can use Kerr and Ball lids with confidence, knowing that they are safe and non-toxic. Always check the manufacturer’s website or packaging for the most up-to-date information on BPA-free status.