Which is better overall: keg or jar?

Neither is always better. Kegs usually win on high-value crops, while jars often win on accessibility and early processing throughput.

Why does machine count matter so much?

Profit depends on completed processed units, not theoretical margin. If machine count is low, long cycle times can reduce realized income.

Should I switch from jars to kegs immediately?

Usually no. Transition in phases so your processing line stays productive while infrastructure catches up.

How do I test my own crop + machine setup?

Use the calculator to compare output under your current crop volume, harvest cadence, and machine inventory.

Keg vs Jar Profit Guide

The real question is not keg versus jar in isolation. The real question is what produces more completed sellable output per week at your current stage.

Kegs tend to dominate premium crop lines when you already have machine volume and consistent raw input. Their upside is excellent, but cycle duration can slow realized profit if machine count is low.

Preserves jars are often easier to scale and easier to keep active. In transition phases, this can beat higher-margin but underutilized keg setups. Utilization is the hidden metric that decides winners.

Build your processing plan in stages: initial jar-heavy line for stability, mixed line for flexibility, then targeted keg expansion where crop mix and machine count justify it.

Decision Framework

Measure weekly completed units, not only margin multipliers.
Keep machine uptime high before expanding premium lines.
Prioritize consistency when funds are needed for upgrades.
Shift crop mix when processing queue starts backing up.