Time to think Canning/Preserving!

by Ira Richards

Due to the unusually high amounts of rain and early surge of late blight, among other things, it’s truly been an eventful summer for gardeners. And, while we respectfully acknowledge those who have lost significant portions of their livelihood, we optimistically turn our sights toward the latter part of summer…toward the harvest.

The crops are coming in! Although a few of our customers are telling us that they have lost a portion or have not seen particularly heavy growth from some plants, folks are now generally seeing fruits and vegetables ripe and ready for picking. As the blueberries finally turn their deep-blue hue and cucumbers reach full-size, many folks here in the Upper Valley have begun the process of preserving to allow for consumption long beyond the normal keeping time.

For anyone not familiar with the tradition of preserving (including canning, pickling, curing, jellying, freezing, dehydrating, etc. - terms which are sometimes used interchangeably), there is a certain sense of pride that comes from raising, harvesting, preparing and preserving your own produce. It is not only an activity that has been passed down for generations here in northern New England, but is increasing in popularity as more folks become concerned with both the cost and health problems associated with processed and manufactured foods.

According to the Ball Company’s Blue book of Preserving, foods for preserving can be generally divided into two categories: low-acid and high-acid. Depending on the classification, a different method of preserving is recommended due to the range of growing environments for molds, yeasts, bacteria, etc. Low-acid foods include most vegetables, meats & seafood, and soups, to name a few. High acid foods include most fruits, tomatoes, juices, pickles (vinegar-based), and more.

We stock a wide assortment of canning supplies including the following:

Seasoning Packets
Lime & Salt
Wax
Canning Pots
Mason and Jelly Jars with Lids
Meat Cures
Strainers & Funnels
Freezer Bags
Berry Baskets
Jar Lifters
Thermometers
Canning/Preserving “How To” Books
& More!

So if you are a seasoned canner or are giving it a go for the first time, be sure to come into West Lebanon Feed & Supply to stock up on all your supplies. Happy Preserving!

PS - Don’t miss our second-annual Pickling/Canning contest scheduled for Fall 2009 (date, times, and categories to be determined.) Check back on our website or in our store for more details and sign-up information.