Canning supplies: Still a problem

Once in a while I dip into the issue of canning supply shortages, wondering what the status is. I’ve noticed there seems to be some canning jars in local grocery stores again, though lids still seem to be missing. But what’s going on in the wider world?

So this morning I got onto the Lehman’s website (which is kind of my “indicator” source) to see what’s up. Looks like supplies are still sold out. Here’s the announcement for regular-mouth canning jars:

Underneath the entry is the note: “Due to high demand, the vendor has been sending supply of styles that vary. We are sorry for the inconvenience, but we cannot guarantee a particular style.“

Same thing for all jar sizes, such as wide-mouth quart.

Canning lids, of course, are completely gone. I’ve always kicked myself for not getting a few shipments of bulk lids when they were available. Despite mostly using Tattlers, I like having disposable lids as well.

Lehmans has been hammering at the doors of their suppliers, to no avail:

Reusable lids still seem to be in stock, which was nice to see (although the reviews indicate some people aren’t familiar with how to use them).

Next, I checked pressure canners. As you might have guessed, none are available. Here’s a mid-range All-American canner:

(A quick check on the All American Canner website confirms the lack of availability.)

I checked in with Glenda Lehman Ervin, VP of Marketing, to get her take on the situation. She wrote back and said:

“Yes, canning supplies are very difficult to get, as are certain Lodge cast iron products, wood cook stoves and Berkey water filters.

We ask customers to please be patient – we are working on increasing our communication on the status of back orders.  We do recommend placing an order to reserve your place in line!”

This is an immensely frustrating situation for retailers. Remember, they can’t sell what they can’t get.

What has been your experiences, dear readers? Do you have any suggestions for those looking for canning supplies?