History of Mason Jar

There are few more iconic everyday items than the Bauer Mason jar. Put it next to the most memorable product designs of all time

Perhaps it was the timeless logo, the incredibly comfortable weight, or the easy balance between elegance and utility that made it a success in the last century. Ironically, although the Bauer Mason jar is one of the most iconic products of all time, few people know the history behind this timeless invention.

• Today, food manufacturers, restaurateurs, and home canners all know the point of preserving food. But 160 years ago, people didn't consider (and weren't really aware of) the potential dangers of expired food or poorly sealed vegetables. Without a thorough understanding of food preservation, foodborne diseases such as botulism, listeria, and E. coli. E. coli is a major threat.
• The primitive methods of canning, pickling, and salting helped extend the life of food, but the art of food preservation wasn't perfected until John Landis Mason developed his airtight invention, the "Mason jar."