Continuing Education Key To Proper Canning

As Northwest Fruits and Vegetables Role in, many will can to preserve the produce to enjoy year round.  But, as Lizann Powers Hammond, Food Preservation specialist with Washington State University Extension explains, it’s vital that proper canning protocol is followed.  She said failure to do so can open up those foods to bacteria and cultures that can be poisonous, and even deadly.  She says when canning it’s important to follow scientifically based canning steps and to not deviate.

“And that’s very hard, because if you are a cook, you’re use to canning things so it works how you like your taste.  The thing with canning is that’s a tested recipe, we know how it’s going to work in the jar.  You need to follow that, and if you want to jazz it up that’s after you open it.”

Powers Hammond adds social media is not a good place to get advice and tips on canning.

“To understand that just because you didnd’t have a problem doesn’t mean that under different circumstances someone wont.”

And to prevent that, Powers Hammond says it’s important you use a canning recipe with the most current scientific backing. She adds, when in doubt, call your local Extension office, they will have the latest information on proper canning.  Plus, be able to answer any questions you might have.

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