Canning is a great way to extend the life of fresh garden foods, but over time, your canner's dial gauge can change and give a false pressure reading. Accurate pressure is critical to safely preserve foods. If the temperature of the food within the canner is not high enough to kill harmful bacteria and microorganisms, your food may spoil or build up harmful toxins from Clostridium botulinum.

Illinois Extension recommends testing your dial-gauge pressure canners every year. We make it easy by providing free testing around the state. Contact your local Extension office to find the closest canner testing location or sign up for our free text program to receive a yearly email or text reminder to have your dial-gauge pressure canner tested.

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