Test PB Collection: FTE

USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture - Four Funding OpportunitiesAlfalfa Seed and Alfalfa Forage System ProgramLink to Alfalfa Seed and Alfalfa Forage System Program WebsiteASAFS will support the development of improved alfalfa seed and forage production systems, practices, and supporting…

Canning Basics: Research disputes manufacturers' claims regarding safety. Electric “multi-use” pressure cookers are all the rage these days, with good reason.  One simple device can be used for many cooking applications, saving time and energy (as well as other benefits). Unfortunately, despite…

Canning Basics: If sub-zero, separate the gauge before storing the canner. There’s no question that a pressure canner can take up a lot of cabinet or pantry space.  As it’s an appliance that typically is not used on a daily or very frequent basis, many people opt to store their pressure canner in a…

Canning Basics: Annual test of dial gauge ensures accuracy. If you have a dial gauge pressure canner, its gauge should be tested annually for accuracy (pressure canners with weighted gauges do not need to be tested for accuracy).  Using a dial gauge that reads too high can result in under…

Canning Basics: Pressure Canner Maintenance A properly maintained and stored pressure canner will help ensure safe processing and years of use. Here are some brief tips on what to do before and after each use.Before each use inspect the vent, safety valve and gaskets and clean/replace as…

Minimum load guidance is good practice.  Several years ago, Ball published new guidance for the minimum number of jars (“minimum load”) that should be processed in each pressure canner load, stating that in order to ensure that proper pressure and temperature is achieved for safe processing, the…

Mineral deposits on pressure canners can be removed and prevented.  Aluminum pressure canners can become darkened on their insides over time. This discoloration, which is caused by the accumulation of mineral deposits, is not harmful. But should you find it unsightly, it’s fairly easy to remove.To do so…

Canning Basics: Use a weighted gauge to test a dial gauge's accuracy. Pressure canner dial gauges* should be tested annually for accuracy to ensure that food is not under-processed (and thus potentially unsafe) or over-processed (resulting in lower quality food). Many Cooperative Extension services will…

Canning basics: Always vent the canner prior to bringing it to pressure. When pressure canning, it’s very important to vent the canner prior to bringing it to the proper pressure for the food/recipe you are processing. Always. Even if your pressure canner manual does not include instructions for venting…