Get Ready Now for Fall Food Preservation

As cooler days and nights approach, fall food preservation season is just around the corner. Whether you plan to can tomatoes, freeze garden vegetables, make jams and jellies, or dry fruit, a little preparation now can make preservation season safer and less stressful.

Start by checking your equipment. Pull canners, jars, racks, and other supplies out of storage and inspect them before you need them. Check jars for cracks, chips or other damage, and make sure your canning equipment is in good working condition. It is important to use only canning jars. Pressure canners with dial gauges should...