Published originally on my blog on 21 May 2011
Sterilization is essential for removing bacteria, yeasts, and fungi, ensuring the food you store in jars stays safe. Using unclean jars can lead to contamination and quick spoilage of the food. The process of sterilizing jars is both quick and simple, so it's important not to skip this step when planning to to preserve jams, marmalades, jellies or chutneys.