U of I Extension Educator to Share Updated Guidelines of Safe Canning

CHARLES, Ill. – Wouldn’t it be nice to enjoy your garden vegetables or farmers market produce all year long? Whether just starting out or updating your knowledge, join University of Illinois Extension Educator Laura Barr for one of three upcoming seasonal programs on home food preservation.

“Canning is a simple, smart way to make the most of the fresh produce available this time of year,” Barr said. “Food preservation is in a resurgence, with more people supporting local economies, growing their own food or simply wanting to enjoy the taste of summer in the cold of winter. However, it is important to know the latest scientific updates on the canning process, as we preserve, serve and share our foods.”

The focus on evidenced-based practices and scientific principles is a mission of U of I Extension, said Barr. During a “Yes, You Can: Preserving Food Safely” session, you will learn the basics of food preservation, receive up-to-date food safety guidelines, understand the latest scientific methods, pick up recipes and ideas, and can have your pressure canner gauge tested.

“If you have a dial gauge pressure canner you need to get it tested once a year,” Barr added.

There are three choices throughout August for the “Yes, You Can: Preserving Safely” presentation. The dates and locations are as follows:

• In Kane County, on Aug. 2 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Extension Office, 535 S. Randall Road, St. Charles.
• In Kendall County, on Aug. 15 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Extension Office, 7775B Illinois Route 47, Yorkville.
• In DuPage County, on Aug. 16 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Extension Office, 1100 E. Warrenville Road, Naperville.

Register online at go.illinois.edu/extensiondkk. There is a $7 fee per person, which will cover the educational session and pressure canner gauge testing. Youth must be accompanied by a participating, paid adult. Registration closes one week prior to each class, and space may be limited. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, please notify at least two weeks prior to the session date.

For questions regarding this program, contact Laura Barr at llbarr@illinois.edu or 630-584-6166. For more information on University of Illinois Extension programs, visit go.llinois.edu/extensiondkk/.  For more information on Nutrition and Wellness programs with Extension, visit go.illinois.edu/fcs.