Extension offers free pressure canner testing

Canning allows you to capture a bounty of fruits, vegetables, and meals to enjoy year-round. Home food preservation is science based, and it is important for equipment to be checked each year.

"Pressure canners make it possible to preserve low-acid foods, and over time, the dial gauge may become inaccurate and need calibration," said Laura Barr, a University of Illinois Extension nutrition and wellness educator. "If that happens, your foods may not reach the recommended pressure to be safely processed and preserved."

Barr said the recommendation is to test the dial gauge on the pressure canner once a year for safety. "Do it before you start canning for the season," she said.

University of Illinois Extension will offer free testing at the office in Kane County from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Monday, July 16. No registration is required.

Stop in during that time to get your annual check and pick up the newest information for food preservation.

The office is at 535 S. Randall Road, St. Charles, between routes 38 and 64 on the west side of Randall Road.

For more information on University of Illinois Extension programs, visit go.llinois.edu/extensiondkk/.

For more information on Nutrition and Wellness programs with Extension, visit go.illinois.edu/fcs.