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The Extension Institute of Health & Well-Being works to catalyze positive change in Wisconsin families through evidence-based programs focused on nutrition, food security and safety, chronic disease prevention, mental health promotion, prevention of substance abuse and health insurance literacy.

Update: The Jar Sealed, is the Food Safe? And Other Questions

Cells and spores of C. botulinum. Image courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control. Tested recipes recommend glass Mason-style jars and 2-piece self-sealing lids for home canning.  In the past few weeks, one of the most frequently asked questions has been about jar sealing.  Handling jars and lids correctly will go a long way towards successfully preserving your garden’s […]

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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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