Canned Peaches Buying Guide: What You Need to Know
Introduction
Canned and jarred peaches are a convenient and tasty option for those looking to incorporate the sweet fruit into their diets. Whether you're looking to make a pie, add some sweetness to your morning yogurt, or simply enjoy the fruit on its own, choosing the right peaches can make all the difference. In this article, we'll go over some key tips for selecting the best canned and jarred peaches.
Consider the Ingredients
When choosing canned or jarred peaches, it's important to pay attention to the ingredients list. The best options will only contain peaches, water, and sometimes a bit of sugar or natural sweetener. Avoid peaches that have been canned in syrup or have a long list of additives and preservatives. These ingredients can affect the taste and texture of the peaches, and may not be as healthy as those with fewer ingredients.
Check the Texture
Another important factor to consider when choosing canned or jarred peaches is the texture. The best options will have a soft and juicy texture, without being overly mushy or tough. Before purchasing, give the can or jar a gentle shake to see if the peaches move freely. This can give you an idea of the texture of the fruit inside. You can also look at the peaches through the transparent packaging to check for any signs of bruising or discoloration.
Look for Cans or Jars with a Tight Seal
Canned and jarred peaches should have a tight seal to ensure that the fruit stays fresh and retains its flavor. Before purchasing, check the lid of the can or jar to make sure it is securely fastened. Avoid cans or jars that have dents, rust, or other damage, as these can compromise the seal and lead to spoilage.
Choose Cans or Jars with a Consistent Shape
When it comes to canned or jarred peaches, consistency is key. Look for cans or jars that have a consistent shape, with the peaches arranged neatly in a single layer. Avoid cans or jars that have peaches of different sizes or shapes, as this can be a sign of poor quality.
Finally, don't forget to read the label for nutritional information before purchasing canned or jarred peaches. Look for options that are low in added sugars and sodium, and choose those that provide a good source of vitamins and minerals. This can help ensure that you are getting the most nutritional value from your canned or jarred peaches.
Conclusion
By considering the ingredients, texture, seal, shape, and nutritional information, you can choose the best canned and jarred peaches for your needs. Whether you're looking to add some sweetness to your recipes or simply enjoy the fruit on its own, these tips will help you select the best options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are canned peaches still healthy?
Yes, canned peaches retain their nutritional value and are comparable to fresh peaches. Research has shown that the nutrients in canned cling peaches are similar to those found in fresh freestone and cling peaches.
2. Is canning peaches worth it?
The decision to can peaches depends on your specific circumstances. If you want to save money, it's important to calculate the potential savings. For example, if a high-quality commercial quart of peaches costs $5, canning a bushel of peaches could save you around $55.
3. How soon after canning peaches can you eat them?
After canning peaches, you can consume them immediately if the jars have sealed properly. If they didn't seal, refrigerate and consume within a few days or reprocess in a water bath. Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dry place for 12-18 months, although they may still be safe to eat even longer.
4. Do you water bath canned peaches?
Yes, peaches have enough acidity to prevent the growth of the botulism toxin, making them suitable for water bath canning. To can peaches using the water bath method, you will need a water bath canner and follow the necessary steps for safe canning.
5. What is the healthiest canned fruit to eat?
Canned and dried fruits can be a healthy addition to your diet. Some healthy canned fruit options include tomatoes, pumpkins, and tangerines. Healthy dried fruits include apricots, prunes, and raisins. These fruits offer essential vitamins and minerals for your body.
6. Are canned peaches full of sugar?
Canned peaches typically contain syrup, which adds calories, carbs, and sugar. A 15-1/4 ounce can of sliced peaches with syrup contains about 200 calories, 25 grams of carbs, and 21 grams of sugar. It's important to consider the nutritional content and consume them in moderation.
7. Is it better to can or freeze peaches?
Freezing peaches is a simple way to preserve their flavors, as it locks in the fresh peach taste. This method allows you to enjoy the flavors of summer throughout the year. Canning is another option, and some people prefer pressure canning peaches. The choice depends on personal preference and storage options.
8. Do you need to add lemon juice when canning peaches?
It is recommended to add a little lemon juice to each jar before adding the peaches when canning. This helps ensure that the peaches reach safe acidity levels for canning. Blanching the peaches before canning can also make peeling them easier.
9. Are canned peaches raw or cooked?
Canned peaches are cooked, even if they are raw packed. This means that they will have a softer and more tender texture compared to fresh or frozen peaches. Canned peaches can be used in most baked recipes when fresh or frozen peaches are not available.
10. What is the best method of canning peaches?
Peaches can be canned using the water bath method or steam canning method. Some people prefer pressure canning peaches as well. The specific method chosen depends on personal preference. Yellow flesh peaches can be pressure canned at 6 pounds of pressure for 10 minutes at elevations below 2,000 feet.
11. How long to process peaches in boiling water bath?
For raw packed peaches, fill the jars with raw fruit, cut side down, and add hot syrup, leaving ½ inch headspace. Raw packed peaches require an additional 5 minutes of processing. Process pint jars for 25 minutes and quart jars for 30 minutes in a boiling water bath.
Editor's Notes
During our canned peach research, we found 26 canned peach products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 101,563 customer reviews through our big data system to write the canned peaches list. We found that most customers choose canned peaches with an average price of $16.62.
The canned peaches are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of canned peaches, including Del Monte, Dole, 365 by Whole Foods Market. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!
