Are you a gardener or just a lover of fresh produce? Extend the season’s bounty by learning more about home-preserving fruits and vegetables. In Ohio, “Freezing and Canning Workshops” are being presented by Ohio State University Extension Educators throughout the state. Find out if there is a workshop near you by checking out local county websites. Search for (county).osu.edu.
The workshops will focus on the basics of home canning and preservation and is appropriate for people with all levels of experience, emphasizing the science behind preservation. We want everyone who cans or freezes fresh fruits and vegetables to understand why certain procedures must be followed precisely to ensure a high-quality, safe product that they and their family can enjoy.
Classes will address:
- Basic food safety principles.
- How to use a water bath canner and a pressure canner.
- Canning tomatoes, pickling, and making jams and jellies.
- Freezing fruits and vegetables.
- Accessing resources from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, OSU Extension, and other research-based food preservation information.
Program are usually free or low-cost and open to anyone, but reservations may be required. USDA Home Canning Guide are also available at your local OSU Extension Office at a cost of $10, and pressure canner dial gauge testing is available for an additional $5. All pressure canner dial gauges should be tested for accuracy each year.
Even if you do not live in OHIO, check out your local Extension Office for canning and freezing information.
