With grocery prices on the rise, MSU Extension offers a solution for healthy, dollar-friendly meals. The new Online Home Food Preservation course, launched earlier this month, teaches up-to-date U.S. Department of Agriculture recommended methods for safe home food preservation.
“Home preservation stimulates the local economy and encourages individuals to grow their own gardens,” said Joyce McGarry, MSU Extension health and nutrition educator and home preservation course instructor. “It also allows individuals to feel confident in preserving what they grow and feeding their families safe, healthy foods.”
It is important for anyone preserving food to stay up-to-date on recommended USDA methods as recipes and procedures are continually being evaluated by researchers. A method and recipe that was valid 15 years ago may not be considered safe today.
Whether you grow your own fruits and vegetables or buy fresh produce in bulk, preserving food at home allows you to capture the nutrients of fresh food to consume at a later date. It can also save you money and trips to the grocery store later.
Online Home Food Preservation has a one-time $10 registration fee. No additional materials are necessary. The course is available online for up to one year. Each segment can be viewed individually or all seven courses may be completed at once. Segments are estimated to take about 60 minutes each.
For more information about Online Home Food Preservation or to register, visit the website or contact your local MSU Extension office or call 1 (888) 678-3464.