OHA release - OSU helpline answers questions about proper and safe food preservation row of jars of canned veggies. Canning is a great hobby… it's not only fun and delicious, but also economical. It must be done safely, however, to prevent foodborne illnesses. (Read: Home Canning and Botulism). During peak canning season (July to October), you can call Oregon State University’s (OSU) free food preservation helpline to get advice for the best and safest way to can your fruits and vegetables. The helpline is staffed by certified Master Food Preserver volunteers across Oregon who can provide a wide range of information, including how to safely prepare canned salsa, fruits and seafood, safe storage temperatures, and where to get your pressure canner gauge checked. In 2024, the volunteers fielded 723 calls. Proper canning will remove oxygen, destroy enzymes, and prevent the growth of undesirable bacteria, yeasts, and molds. The food will retain nutrients and flavor and last much longer. However, canning foods incorrectly can create the perfect environment for harmful bacteria to grow and cause botulism—a rare but potentially deadly illness. Safe canning tips include: Make sure to use the right equipment for the kind of foods you are canning, including the right-sized pressure canner. Low-acid foods such as corn, green beans, mushrooms, potatoes, and most other vegetables must be canned under pressure to be safe. After canning, check that your cans are properly sealed. Label and date your jars. Home-canned food should be thrown out after a year.  Keep jars in a clean, cool, dark, dry place between 50 and 70°F. Stack jars no more than two high so you don’t damage the seals. Once a jar is opened, must be refrigerated. Another great source for food preservation information is the National Center for Home Food Preservation at the University of Georgia. OSU’s Food Safety and Preservation helpline takes calls Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., until October 10. Call 800-354-7319, and feel free to leave a message after hours. Learn more from OSU Extension Service’s Home Food Preservation program here, including details about food preservation events in your area.