The Canning Industry. 421 
CURED FRUIT PRODUCT IN POUNDS. 
Kinp, 1894 1895 1896 1897 
ReaIS1TSiicc,acaruteedoea 103,000,000 91,360,000 68,250,600 93,704,000 
Prunes..., +» 44,750,000 64,500,000 55,200,000 97,780,000 
Peaches .. ++ 30,540,000 24,500,000 16,460,000 27,150,000 
Pears daice wees aaa 6,530,000 5,400,000 9,650,000 6,350,000 
ADriCotss.xseaerseedens 28,750,000 10,650,000 6,740,000 30,125,000 
Dried Grapes . 4, 500,000 4, 250,000 2,690, 000 3,450,000 
4,560,000 2,350,000 5,250,000 
2,750,000 2,160,000 3,250,000 
4,500,000 2, 100,000 3,250,000 
1,350,000 625,000 285,000 
213,820,000 166,225,600 270,594,000 
THE CANNING INDUSTRY. 
Fruit canning began in California about forty years ago, 
but during the last two decades has attained its greatness, and 
is 10w promising much wider extension. The process is sim- 
ple, and yet is attended at every point, from the purchase of the 
fruit to the sale of the product, with operations which require 
experience, wisdom, and good judgment. It will be obviousty 
impossible to give in print a guide to the pursuit of such an 
industry. The principles involved in the process of commercial 
canning are, of course, the same as rule in the old kitchen 
processes, but to secure uniformity and cheapness of product a 
vast number of manipulations and appliances have been de- 
vised. These begin with the manufacture of the cans and at- 
tend the product to the end, and the realization of the commercial 
and uniform production which they assure involves the em- 
ployment of large capital and the keenest business ability. The 
canning interest has, therefore, segregated itself more and more 
widely from the growing interest. Orchard canning on a small 
scale which was once thought feasible has passed out of sight 
except as it is seen to lie in the foundations of a few of the 
smaller canneries which have been built upon it. It seems 
clear now that as a rule the fruit grower’s duty to the canning 
interest ceases with the production of acceptable fruit unless 
individuals or associations can command capital enough to enter 
the field on equal vantage with the large commercial canneries. 
Capital is flowing toward the business; the field for the product 
seems to be constantly expanding, and canning centers are mul- 
tiplying throughout the State wherever ample supplies of good 
fruits and vegetables are available. ; 
Varictics for Canning —The table previously given showing 
the fruits which enter in various amounts into the canned 
product gives a general idea of what fruits should be planted to 
minister to the canner’s demand. As.to varieties, it is not easy 
