I couldn't find a discussion here for this. If there is one, please point me to it I want to ship a birthday cake in a jar to my grandson in Afghan. I know others do it, but I have read that once the jar is sealed with a vacuum, it becomes the perfect breeding place for botulism. I obviously don't want to make my grandson sick! He is in a "tent city" and it will take quite a while to be delivered to him. Do you think I should NOT take the chance? Any other ideas for a sweet treat in jar for his birthday that might be safer? I know that cakes and cupcakes in a jar are great, but it says everywhere that they should be refrigerated and/or frozen to prevent bacteria because of the acidity factor. I had all of my jars boiled and ready and then read about them being unsafe to ship. Sigh.... Your ideas would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

I don't think you should risk it. It just takes too long for it to be safe.

http://www.uga.edu/nchfp/publications/uga/uga_can_breads.pdf

http://extension.usu.edu/files/publications/newsletter/Food_Safety_Bulletin_No__008_(2007).pdf

This is a very good thread on sending cakes-in-a-jar to soldiers in the Middle East.
You will need to read the entire thread, though; it wanders a bit.

http://cakecentral.com/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&t=606603&postdays=0&postorder=asc&&start=0

thanks for the info! I think I will NOT send the cake in the jar. I would feel so horrible if he became ill. Maybe I will just take the jar and fill it with pre-wrapped brownies, candies, etc. and then decorate the jar I will look around for other ideas, too. I know that others have had great luck, but I just don't feel comfortable taking a chance. It seems that homemade is not quite as safe as store bought items with "preservatives" when you have to rely on a 3 week shipment! I'll just have to try and be a little inventive! Thanks!

That's a great idea. Send him all his favorite candies.