Supply and demand issues are impacting homesteaders everywhere, especially when it comes to finding quality canning supplies. The reality is that this problem is not going away anytime soon, so what can you do? 

In this episode of Pantry Chat, Josh and Carolyn present some creative solutions you can try as well as the practicality and safety issues you need to look out for when exploring these alternatives.

In this Episode:

• Temps have gotten down to only 6 degrees already and sent Josh and Carolyn scrambling to get their final prep done for winter. 
• Carolyn has completely finished the family clothing switch, which has saved them so much money. (Household management video series available as well for reference.)    
• Josh has been getting the hay and feed ready for winter and laying down compost for the spring planting, as well as helping some new baby chicks adjust to the colder temps.  
• Where did these supply and demand issues originate from and why are factories so behind now?  
• How you can utilize resources close to you, like small out of the way grocery stores and even hardware stores to find supplies, as well as the big box stores and online retailers. 
• The pros and cons of buying manufactured lids from China on Amazon or other online retailers and why you need to be careful and do the right research. 
• What are the sizes you need to look for regular mouth jars and wide-mouth jars? 
• What are the safety protocols you should follow if you decide to reuse lids and why you should never store more than 2 years supply of reusable lids? (Do a refresh on the Top 5 Canning Mistakes Video).  
• What are one piece (one-part) lids and why the USDA recommends against using them and what you can do to get around this if you want to go this route? 
• Other jar options like glass jars (spaghetti) that could work for canning alternatives and the 3 things you need to look out for. 
• Is a water bath canner worth it right now?  
• What are some of the other preservation methods you can use to substitute for canning?  
• Why it’s smart to use your freezer and other storage options while you’re waiting for your supplies to arrive. 
• Question of the week: DC asks on preparing your garden and soil for winter, can you use chicken manure, even if it is fresh, and allow it to stay until Spring (even if it’s for 6 months out?)  

Resources: 

• BCS Two Wheel Tractors 
• Household Management Video Series 
• Top 5 Canning Mistakes Video 
• Follow Homesteading Family on Instagram
• Follow Homesteading Family on Facebook

And hey, don't forget to download this episode, like and subscribe, then share with your friends so more people can hear reliable homesteading advice.