Note: The training period for UC Master Food Preservers of Sacramento County runs from January through June. Applications typically open in the fall prior to this training period. Please submit your information using the training interest form below to receive updates about the next UC Master Food Preserver training.
2027 Master Food Preserving Training Information and Application
Overview
Want to become a certified UC Master Food Preserver in Sacramento County? Want to teach our community how to safely preserve food at home? Fill out this training interest form, and we will contact you with details about our next training.
Why become a UC Master Food Preserver?
- It's a great way to contribute to our community. Every year, we perform thousands of hours of volunteer service to help keep the Sacramento community safe and healthy.
- As a Master Food Preserver, you get to meet and work with a group of passionate, Sacramento-area food enthusiasts.
- Being a Master Food Preserver is an excellent way to learn and stay up-to-date on the latest preserving methods and issues in food safety.
The Sacramento Training Program
UC Master Food Preserver trainees in Sacramento County participate in a thorough 13-session program of instruction in home food preservation. Classes are taught online through Google classroom with trainees statewide. Labs are completed locally at the Sacramento Branch Center Kitchen (4145 Branch Center Road, Sacramento CA 95827).
- Food safety
- Canning with boiling water, steam, and pressure
- Fermenting
- Pickling
- Fruit Spreads
- Dehydrating fruits and vegetables
- Freezing foods
- Low acid canning (pressure canning).
The program is rigorous: between January and May trainees meet several times a month on Saturdays for 7 hours (10 AM - 4 PM) each class. Instructors use lectures and hands-on labs to teach the food preservation techniques during classes, with additional study time and home projects required. Regular written tests and a final examination prepare the trainees to begin their first year educating our community.