BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – Wouldn’t it be nice to enjoy your garden or farmers market produce all year long? Whether just starting out, or updating your food preservation knowledge, join University of Illinois Extension for a free, timely, seasonal program all about canning. You’ll learn the step-by-step process to canning with a boiling water bath canner and pressure canner. Get your food preservation questions answered and you will be entered to win fabulous food preservation prizes.
Yes! You CAN: Preserving Safely program is from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 17 at the McLean County Extension Office (1615 Commerce Parkway, Bloomington, IL). In addition to the program, if you bring your dial pressure canner lid along with you, Extension staff will test it for free!
Did you know that dial-gauge pressure canners 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 harmful bacteria and microorganisms, which can lead to spoilage or build-up of toxins from Clostridium botulinum. Start off the preservation season safely by bringing your canner lid along to get tested.
There is no cost to attend but registration is required at go.illinois.edu/LMWnutrition or contact the McLean County Extension Office at 309-663-8306.
If you will need an accommodation in order to participate, please email Extension Nutrition & Wellness Educator Jenna Smith at jesmith6@illinois.edu or call the Extension office at 309-663-8306. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet your access needs.
SOURCE: Jenna Smith, Nutrition & Wellness Educator, Serving Livingston, McLean, and Woodford Counties
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