Understanding core health and wellness topics are an important aspect of your family's overall well-being. From food safety to nutrition to chronic disease prevention and management, Illinois Extension is committed to helping families across the state and beyond live the best versions of their lives.

Considering taking the Certified Food Protection Manager Course and Exam, learning more about heart-healthy eating, managing diabetes, providing some worksite wellness classes in your local business, school foodservice trainings, bringing in nutrition or food safety education into a high school classroom, or curious how long to keep food, can, freeze or dry food, and safely store it? Contact Lisa Peterson, Nutrition & Wellness Educator, about upcoming programs, scheduling programs, and any nutrition or food safety-related questions or check out a non-exhaustive list of potential program offerings. 

 Dial Gauge Pressure Canner Testing 

 Dial pressure canner gauges need to be tested once a year. Over time, a dial gauge’s calibration can become inaccurate and show an incorrect pressure. If the pressure is even slightly lower than recommended, the internal temperature of the food will not be high enough to kill all the bacteria, and harmful toxins can build up and cause illness or death. 

To get your pressure canner dial gauge tested, drop off your lid with a name and phone number at the Christian, Jersey, Macoupin, or Montgomery County Extension office. Once the lid is tested, you will be contacted about the results and for pick up. Testing is offered at no cost.