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Whole pomegranate, open pomegranate and pomegranate arils on gray background
Read article: Practice mindfulness while opening pomegranates
Practice mindfulness while opening pomegranates
Once (maybe twice) each winter, my rural grocery store will stock whole pomegranates. They are a highlight of my winter fruit picks because of their...
Store front with sign reading "Thrift Store"
Read article: Shop wisely when thrifting for cooking tools and appliances
Shop wisely when thrifting for cooking tools and appliances
What's safe to bring into my home? I think about this topic often when I shop in thrift stores. I like...
Eggs in wood and wire box
Read article: Make use of your extra farm eggs
Make use of your extra farm eggs
"I have more eggs in the summer than I know what to do with," said a community member calling into my office. If you have...
Pour jam into jar
Read article: Why is open kettle canning unsafe?
Why is open kettle canning unsafe?
Canning food at home has been around since the early 1800s, with the first mason jar designed for canning distributed in 1884. Canning, freezing, and...

News Releases

four photos of food safety in a commercial kitchen
Certified Food Protection Manager Training Offered
Do you currently have a position handling food or are you looking to find a job in the food industry?  If so, consider becoming a Certified Food Protection Manager. The Illinois Department of Public Health requires retail food establishment managers to obtain an American National Standards...
yellow and blue background; laptop with canning photo
Prepare Now: Yes, You Can! Home Food Preservation Webinars
With a mild winter upon us, many are already dreaming of outdoor adventures and planning their springtime planting. While it's still a few months before we can dig into the dirt and prepare our gardens, why not use this time to learn a new skill?Stay warm this winter, and join us for our...
Extension educator teaching an in person class with audiencie
Illinois Extension's health education transforms lives in Illinois communities
URBANA, Ill. — In line with Illinois' land-grant mission, University of Illinois Extension develops educational programs, fosters knowledge, and builds partnerships to support individuals and communities. In 2023, the team members working in Extension's Family and Consumer Sciences program areas...

Videos

How to Use Pressure Canners: Canning with Confidence

Take the pressure out of pressure canning.

Pressure canners provide the only safe method for preserving low-acid foods, such as green beans, meats, squash and pumpkin, and stews, soups, and broths. Only pressure canners can reach the required temperature of 240 °F to kill the deadly...

How to Use Steam Canners: Canning with Confidence

Steam canning is a safe alternative to boiling water bath canning for preserving many high-acid foods, including most fruits, preserves, and pickled vegetables.

In this webinar you will learn how to use a steam canner, become familiar with recommended food processing times, and watch a...