Cost to can food?

[emelsea]

Does anyone know of a website that will help me calculate the cost of canning food? Even just an estimate?

I usually can my own tomatos, but I've found a source to buy Muir Glen organic tomatos for $.14/can. I'm thinking this might be the cheapest way to go.

Also...has anyone ever tried these tomatos? Do you like them?

[dogmom327]

I like Muir Glen tomatoes and that is an awesome price. I don't think you can come close to that unless you could get all your supplies for free. The only potential problem with Muir Glen is that the can lining has BPA in it. But then again, so do the typical canning lids.

For tomatoes you would need a pressure canner ($50+), canning jars ($3.50 doz. used up to $9 doz. for new), new lids every time ($2 doz.). There's also small stuff like a jar lifter, magnetic lid lifter, etc. The nice thing about canning is that once you're set up, it is cheaper but the start up costs are high.

[emelsea]

I already have all the supplies. I've been canning food for years, I just never sat down and determined how much it costs me - I just do it because my mom did it.