Health is important to you and your family.
From food safety to chronic disease prevention and management to overall nutrition, Illinois Extension is committed to helping families across the state and beyond live the best versions of their lives. A variety of health and wellness programs and training opportunities are available for individuals, community groups, childcare providers, food service staff, and more through the Nutrition and Wellness team.
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Sourdough Bread: From Starter to Loaf
Discover the mysteries behind turning essential ingredients, flour, water, and salt, into flavorful loaves of sourdough bread with the help of wild yeasts and bacteria in the Sourdough Bread: From Starter to Loaf series, a two-part webinar presented by University of Illinois Extension.
This series will help you master the art and science of baking natural yeast bread; learn simple steps to create your own starter with just flour and water, and discover the benefits, techniques, and tips for perfecting your homemade bread.
Handouts:
- Sourdough Bread: 101 Handout
- Sourdough Bread: 101 - Sourdough Starter Recipe
- Sourdough Bread: From Starter to Loaf Webinars FAQs
How- To Videos:

The truth about seed oils
Seed oils have gotten some bad press lately, but there is no evidence that they are harmful, and in fact, they might even be helpful. Learn more in this week's Simply Nutritious, Quick, and Delicious blog!

Diabetes Life Lines
Explore resources, recipes, and available classes to help adults, youth, and their families manage diabetes.

Illinois Cottage Food
Review guidelines that growers and vendors must observe in preparation for farmers market sales.

Eat.Move.Save
Find foods that taste great and are easy to prepare and shopping tips to keep more money in your pocket.

Food Preservation Resources
Resources to help you safely preserve and store your fresh fruits and vegetables to enjoy all year long.

Feeding My Baby From Cradle to Table
Find out how to safely transition babies toward solid foods, prepare homemade baby food, and more!
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Simply Nutritious, Quick and Delicious Blog
Jenna Smith, Registered Dietitian and Nutrition and Wellness Educator, is here to guide you with insightful tips and creative recipes designed to make your meals both easy and enjoyable. Whether you're looking to simplify your meal prep, enhance the nutritional value of your dishes, or discover new flavors that delight your taste buds, this blog offers practical advice and delicious, health-conscious recipes tailored to fit your lifestyle.
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Free 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 at the Livingston, McLean or Woodford County Extension office. Once the lid is tested, you will be contacted about the results and for pick up.
Pressure canner testing is available at other Extension offices around the state as well. For more home preservation resources, visit the state Nutrition and Wellness page.
More Resources

Find Creative Ways to Use Leftovers
Store, freeze, or transform your leftovers to save time and money and prevent food waste.

Substitutions for Common Ingredients
When you don't have all the ingredients the recipe calls for, check here to find easy substitutions.

Identifying Reliable Health Information
Learn how to identify trustworthy sources for your important health and wellness information.
We are here to help.

Jenna Smith
