MSU Extension Food Preservation

Do you have questions about safely preserving food at home? MSU Extension’s food safety experts can help. Call our Food Safety Hotline at 1-877-643-9882, Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

To learn more about the approved methods of preserving food at home, review our Michigan Fresh Food Preservation Fact Sheets:

• Basics of Atmospheric Steam Canning
• Basics of Dehydrating Produce
• Basics of Pressure Canning
  • Using a Weighted Gauge Pressure Canner (Video)
  • Using a Dial Gauge Pressure Canner (Video)
• Basics of Water Bath Canning
  • Using a Water Bath Canner (Video)
• Blanching and Freezing Produce

Other helpful resources to review:

• Salsa 101
• Unsafe Food Preservation Methods
• Home Food Preservation Videos:
  • Measuring Headspace
  • Freeing Air Bubbles When Home Canning
  • Filling Jars
  • Fingertip Tight
  • Using a Weighted Gauge Pressure Canner
  • Using a Dial Gauge Pressure Canner
  • Using a Water Bath Canner 
  • Acidifying Home Canned Tomatoes

For reliable research-based home preserving recipes visit:

• USDA Complete Guide to Home Canning
• National Center for Home Food Preservation

To learn more about our offerings, please visit our events calendar to find upcoming food preservation programs that fit your schedule. Not seeing an upcoming class in your area? Contact us at your county MSU Extension office for more information about this program in your area.