As the vibrant colours of summer fade and the chill of winter sets in, there’s no better time to capture the taste of the season. Preserving food is the perfect way to lock in the freshness of fruits and vegetables so you can enjoy them all winter long. Whether you’re new to canning or a seasoned preserver, food safety should always come first.
Here are 5 things to consider to ensure you are preserving food safely.
- Use proper canning jars and new self-sealing lids. It is not recommended to use old lids even if they seem to be in good condition.
- Follow the proper preserving processes when preserving food at home. If you’re new to canning, consider taking a food preservation course or workshop to learn the correct techniques. Safe methods ensure both quality and safety.
- Use up-to-date, tested home canning recipes. Follow the recipe carefully and don’t adjust ingredients, amounts or jar sizes.
- Consider freezing. You can freeze low acid food like vegetables, meat, poultry, seafood, and spaghetti sauce rather than canning them.
- Oil is not a preservative. Flavoured oils and pesto made with fresh herbs and garlic must be kept refrigerated and used within three days.
By following these guidelines, you can confidently enjoy your favourite seasonal foods long after the harvest has ended. Safe preservation keeps your pantry full and your meals flavourful all through the cold Canadian winter.
Want to learn more? Check out these other food safety articles to keep your kitchen healthy and your meals safe all year long!
