An abundance of home grown fruits and vegetables often triggers the desire to can foods at home. While this can be a fun and rewarding way to keep foods long after the season ends, care must be taken to assure that foods canned at home are safe to eat.
Following research-based methods and using tested recipes are just things to consider when canning foods at home. Only recipes from reputable, researched based sources can be trusted as safe. Sources of tested recipes include the National Center for Home Food Preservation, USDA, and manufacturers of home canning equipment and supplies (Ball, Jarden, Surejell, etc.) . Recipes from cookbooks, out-dated Extension publications and the Internet should not be used.
Using the right equipment when canning also is important. Some foods can be preserved using a water bath canner but others must be processed in a pressure canner. Also, make sure that the equipment you have is in good working order. Experts advise that dial gauges on pressure canners be tested annually to make sure they are accurate. In addition, canners should be checked to make sure they are in good working order. Pressure canners can be tested at the Walker County Extension office by appointment free of charge.
Upcoming Food Preservation Events:
To register for Preserving the Harvest 3 Part Series in Huntsville, TX on March 7, 14, and 21. Click here.
To register for Preserving the Harvest 3 Part Series in Shepherd, TX on April 18-20. Click here.
To register for Preserving the Harvest 3 Part Series in Madisonville, TX on May 24-26. Click here.
Additional Resources:
Preserving Food: Jams & Jellies Booklet
Preserving Food: Pickled Products Booklet
Preserving Food: Canning Relishes Booklet
