Prepare Fruit Choose fresh, firm fruits for canning. The sooner you get them from the Garden to the jar, the better. For even cooking, sort fruits for size and ripeness. Wash all fruits thoroughly, whether or not they will be pared. Handle gently to avoid bruising.
Dirt contains some of the bacteria hardest to kill.
Some peeled or cut fruits darken when exposed to air. Drain before canning. Drain fruit before canning. If Desired Sugar helps canned fruit hold its shape, color and flavor but is not needed to prevent spoilage. Fruits also can be packed in boiling hot water or juice.