Food Preservation Classes Scheduled For June

SPRINGFIELD — Home food preservation has changed since our grandmothers put food up many years ago. This is especially the case when it comes to how we destroy microorganisms during the canning process.

University of Missouri Extension food preservation classes can help consumers learn how to combat this threat of food-borne illness and preserve their harvest safely.

Three separate MU Extension food preservation classes have been scheduled at Metro Appliances and More in Springfield during June.

Participants can learn about making jams and jellies, salsa, and pressure canning, according to Lindsey Stevenson, University of Missouri Extension nutrition and health education specialist and class instructor.

“These classes will provide step-by-step instructions on how to do food preservation using the most current researched recipes and procedures,” said Stevenson.

Participants will have opportunities for hands-on learning. Each attendee will also receive a current set of MU Extension guides on food preservation so they can follow along on their own at home after the class.

“The goal of this program is to provide participants with a solid foundation in home canning and preserving. Participants will learn how to make jellies/jams and salsas and learn proper pressure canning processes,” said Stevenson. “Canning safely is more than simply sealing food in a jar.”

University of Missouri Extension classes are for beginners to food preservation, but can also be a good refresher course for those with experience. The following classes will be held at Metro Appliances and More, 3252 N. Glenstone, Springfield.

Classes are:

• 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m., Monday, June 12: Jams and Jellies, $15 per person

• 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m., Tuesday, June 20: Pressure Canning, $15 per person

•10 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturday, June 17: Combination classes of Jams and Jellies, Salsa and Pressure Canning, $45 per person

The preferred method of registration is online at http://extension .missouri. edu/greene. If that is not an option for you then deliver a check and registration to Greene County Extension, 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield, Mo.

Additional questions can be answered by calling 417-881-8909.