We have had several previous discussions on using older lids and many do it. So basically it is your choice.

They have no expiration dates so assuming good storage over time and assuming they aren't previously used ones they should be fine. The worst that can happen is that they won't seal so you might have to reprocess a few jars but that happens even with new lids.

Try a few of them first time around and see how they do.

Dave

We teach people to buy new lids each year. However, the shelf life of lids is between 5 and 7 years. I store lids longer than a year.
As said, you will just have to try them if you want to and see how they do. Haven't seen them that cheap for many years.
Most likely, unless the compound seems "gummy" or brittle, they should work.

When my MIL passed away I found 40-50 year-old boxes of lids in her canning pantry. I used them. Every one sealed.

I'm not recommending using 50-year-old lids, but unless exposed to extremes of heat or cold or barring other damage, older lids should work just fine. It can hardly be worse than some of the current complaints about present-generation lids.

Carol

Thanks for your replies. sorry I did not do a search first - I actually never thought other people would have rings that old. I do usually search before asking ;(

I used them today, (well, some of them) and all but one sealed, but I think that might have been the jar that tipped as I put it in the canner.

Thanks again!

I have used some in the past that were over 10 yrs. old and they still worked. Just be sure to wash/clean & dry them prior to use. Once in awhile I would have one fail, but not often.

Just opened a new box of jars. All of the lids were face up with the sealant contacting the jars. Everyone single one of them has the imprint of the jar in the sealant on the lid. Anybody else have this happen? I am pretty sure the lids shouldn't be used for canning, so I am off to hunt for some lids. Just wondered if anybody else noticed this and if they felt ripped off about it as well.

Yes it happens since the new packaging of the jars started and believe me - numerous compalints have been filed with Ball over the issue. They claim it is due to improper storage of the boxes by vendors - weight from stacking them.

But IME once warmed in hot water for use they seal fine.

Dave