Getting By
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“Rhubarbed” out because you have made just about every recipe you can think of with your rhubarb but do not want the rest to go to waste? Canning it may have come to mind. And, then, think of all of the rest of the produce that will be showing up all too soon. Do you have all of your canning supplies ready for canning season? Particularly, how long has it been since you had your pressure canner dial-gauge tested?
Why have your pressure canner dial-gauge tested? A dial-gauge should be tested for accuracy. Inaccuracies can happen over time due to it getting dropped, hit, malfunctioning, etc. An accurate dial-gauge is necessary to be sure you are processing low-acid vegetables, meats, fish and poultry correctly. If the dial-gauge is reading inaccurate, your canned goods may not be getting processed at the appropriate pressure and temperature necessary to kill bacteria and molds, such as the bacteria that causes botulism.
Where can you get your dial-gauge tested? MSU Extension here in Chouteau County. The office is located at 1308 Franklin St (green building next to the courthouse) in Fort Benton.
What is the cost to have the dial-gauge tested or pressure canner inspected? There is no cost, it is free.
Does a weighted-gauge needed to be tested? No, however, you should inspect the rubber gasket, if your pressure canner has one, to be sure it is flexible and soft, not brittle, sticky or cracked. (Do not rub with oil or grease it.) Also make sure any small pipes or ventports with openings are clean and open all the way through. You will want to check these same parts on your dial-gauge pressure canner.
Where can I find more information about canning and other types of food preservation? Always use reliable sources that offer current, research-tested procedures, recipes and timetables. Contact Janell Barber, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Agent, at 622-3036, janellb@montana.edu or stop by. Additionally, the National Center for Home Food Preservation is an excellent reliable source at http://nchfp.uga.edu/. Canning information published or handed down prior to 2006 may be incorrect and could pose a serious health risk.
Montana State University, US Department of Agriculture and Montana Counties Cooperating. MSU Extension is an equal opportunity/affirmative action provider of educational outreach.
