PRESERVING TIPS

 

•   Always use recipes that have been safe, tested and newer than 1994, this is not the time to experiment

•   Pressure Canning method is used for Low Acid Foods for example: soups, meat sauces, vegetables, broths, beans, meats

•   Boiling Hot Water Bath method is used for High Acid Foods for example - jellies, fruits, pickled vegetables

•   Mason Jars can be used multiple times, make sure they have no chips on rim and scratches inside jar

•   Use seasonally locally grown food for preserving when possible

•   Ball and Kerr Lids can only be used once for processing

•   Rings/Bands can be used multiple times, make sure they are not bent of rusted

•   Pot –Use a non-reactive pot that is large enough to house a rack, jars with 1 – 2 inches of water covering jars

•   Never – can (process) vegetables, meats, soups, stocks, beans or any other LOW ACID FOODS in a Boiling Hot Water Bath Process, it must be processed in a Pressure Canner.

•  Use the "24 Hours from Vine to Brine" rule of thumb for processing

•  Create a preserving logbook or diary - include where food and recipe is sourced from and results

•  If using a glass stovetop check manufacturer’s guideline for canning, not all are approved

•  Pressure Canner’s Dial Gauge should be tested every year. Contact your local cooperative extension

•  Pressure Canner's seals should be checked along with making sure all valves are clear

•  Rings/Bands should be removed before storing jars

•  Jars should be stored in cool dark place

•  Check jars periodically for unsealed jars, bubbles, mold - use the rule - when in doubt, throw it out

•  5% Vinegar must be used for pickling vegetables

•  Bottled lemon juice or citric acid must be used when canning tomatoes, white peaches and figs or if recipe states

•  Canning Salt should be used for pickling; iodized table salt has an anti-caking compound which will cloud water

 

 

 

Helpful website links -

 

National Center for Home Food Preservation 

 

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National Institute of Food & Agriculture - Cooperative Extension List

all/Kerr Offical Website -