Two classes for gardeners offered to help preserve foods

July 14, 2009

CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. -- With the increase in vegetable gardening this year, residents might be interested in a couple of classes offered at the Penn State Extension office.

The first is "Preserving the Harvest." It will cover the basics of food preservation. You will learn how to preserve foods safely and prevent spoilage from bacterial molds.

You will learn about what equipment you need to preserve foods and about the proper procedures to follow for freezing, water bath and pressure canning. If you have a pressure canner, you can bring along your lid to have your dial gauge checked for accuracy after the class.

The class will be held Thursday from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Franklin County Ag Heritage Center, 185 Franklin Farm Lane in Chambersburg. To register, call 717-263-9226. The cost is $5.

The second class is on pressure canning, which is the only safe way to preserve low-acid foods such as vegetables, meat and soups. Find out more about what equipment to use, how to can foods safely and how to prevent spoilage. Approved recipes will be shared with the class, as well as canning tips and troubleshooting. Your lids can be tested at this class also. It will be held July 29 at 6:30 p.m. at a cost of $7. The meeting will be held at the Ag Heritage Center, 185 Franklin Farm Lane, Chambersburg. To register, call 717-263-9226.

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