water immersion

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Steam Retort vs. Water Immersion Retort: Choosing the Right Process for Your Cannery

by Tim Arrowsmith March 31, 2026

Choosing the right retort system is a foundational decision for any canning operation. Steam retorts and water immersion retorts are the two primary technologies used in North America for thermally processing low-acid canned foods, and each has distinct advantages, limitations, and thermal characteristics.