The Dangers of Raw Milk

Milk and milk products provide a wealth of nutrition benefits. But milk that has not been pasteurized can harbor dangerous microorganisms that can pose serious health risks to you and your family if consumed raw. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), from 1993 through 2012, there were 127 outbreaks linked to […]

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Wash your hands, not food packages

While wintery weather can bring with it dry, chapped hands, experts continue to recommend hand washing as one of the most effective means of helping to slow the spread of the coronavirus.  Experts believe that the coronavirus should not be considered a food safety hazard and increasing evidence suggests that consumers do not need to […]

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Safe Preserving Tips in the time of COVID-19

Whether you are new to canning, returning to canning because of the pandemic, or have always canned the bounty of your harvest, there are certain tips that will help ensure that your time and efforts lead to safe, healthy food for your family.  Use recipes that are up to date. Some canning recommendations have changed […]

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An update on safe use of steam canners

The University of Wisconsin-Madison conducted research showing that an atmospheric steam canner may be used to safely can naturally acid foods such as peaches, pears, and apples, or acidified-foods such as salsa or pickles. The steam canner uses only ~2 quarts of water (compared to 16 quarts, or more, in a boiling water canner) so […]

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Canning update: successful jar sealing

Successful jar sealing often begins, and ends, with the lids.  Home canning requires use of a 2-piece sealing system, a flat metal lid and a metal band. Several years ago, manufacturers such as Ball changed the design of the lids to increase rust resistance and seal-ability and most lids no longer need to be preheated.  […]

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Safe substitutions when canning

The safety of the food that you preserve for your family and friends is important to you. The University of Wisconsin Division of Extension supports using up-to-date, research-tested recipes so that you know that the food that you preserve is both safe and high in quality. Here are a few quick tips on changes and […]

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Food safety precautions for July 4th

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have released food safety and health tips for celebrating this 4th of July. Planning to enjoy a picnic, barbecue, or meal under the summer sun on this holiday weekend? Remember to pack your picnic basket with food safety in mind, […]

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At the end of canning, why wait 5-10 minutes?

Many current home canning recommendations suggest a 5 to 10 minute wait at the end of the canning process prior to removing jars from the canner. Why is this wait time now included in some canning recipes and it is necessary for safety? Some home canning recipes, such as the Ball (Fresh Preserving) recipe for Classic […]

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A fresh look at steam canning

It’s jam and jelly season! Let’s review the use of an atmospheric steam canner for canning acid foods. The University of Wisconsin-Madison conducted research showing that an atmospheric Steam Canner may be used to safely can naturally acid foods such as peaches, pears, and apples, or acidified-foods such as salsa or pickles. The atmospheric steam canner […]

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Food Safety News You can Use from the Division of Extension

Summer weather can bring heavy rains and power outages due to lightening and high winds. Extension has information that you can use to keep yourself and your family food-safe.

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