An Update on Safe Use of Steam Canners

Back to Basics steam canner The University of Wisconsin-Madison conducted research showing that an atmospheric steam canner may be used to safely can naturally acid foods such as peaches, pears, and apples, or acidified-foods such as salsa or pickles.  The steam canner uses only ~2 quarts of water (compared to 16 quarts, or more, in a […]

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Using a Steam Canner (Instructions & Resources)

Are you looking to do some food preservation using a steam canner?  Check out this publication for Using a Steam Canner for Home Preservation before you get started!  Find trusted recipes, resources, and best practices brought to you by Safe & Healthy Food for Your Family!

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Food Safety & COVID-19: Do We Need to Worry About Food Packaging?

Stories in the news have prompted consumers to ask questions about the survival of the coronavirus on food packaging surfaces.  Laboratory studies have shown that the virus that causes COVID-19 can survive on surfaces for up to several days and China recently banned food imports from several counties after finding viral RNA on food packaging. Is this cause for concern? […]

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Canning Update: Successful Jar Sealing

Successful jar sealing often begins, and ends, with the lids.  Home canning requires use of a 2-piece sealing system, a flat metal lid and a metal band.  Several years ago, manufacturers such as Ball changed the design of the lids to increase rust resistance and seal-ability and most lids no longer need to be preheated.  Boiling […]

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Safe Substitutions when Canning

The safety of the food that you preserve for your family and friends is important to you.  The University of Wisconsin Division of Extension supports using up-to-date, research-tested recipes so that you know that the food that you preserve is both safe and high in quality.  Here are a few quick tips on changes and […]

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At the End of Canning, Why Wait 5-10 Minutes?

Many current home canning recommendations suggest a 5 to 10 minute wait at the end of the canning process prior to removing jars from the canner.  Why is this wait time now included in some canning recipes and it is necessary for safety?  Some home canning recipes, such as the Ball (Fresh Preserving) recipe for Classic Strawberry Jam, include as […]

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