We are so proud of the amazing job that our Grow Appalachia participants are doing with their gardens this year!  We would like to share some of their photos.

 

In our Grow Appalachia program, food preservation has always been a key part of our curriculum.  By learning safe preservation techniques, we can enjoy our homegrown produce throughout the entire year.  There are many health benefits in food preservation, including limiting salt, sugar, and preservatives often found in commercially canned food.   You can preserve fruits and vegetables at their peak ripeness, locking in flavor and nutrients that might lost in produce purchased at grocery stores, where the produce may travels long distances.  

Sarah King, from the Fentress County, Tennessee extension office, led a very informative class on boiling water canning and pressure canning.  The class included a presentation on researched based canning methods,  food acidity and safety,  step by step procedures for canning with water bath canners and pressure canners, and an equipment demonstration.