Home Food Preservation
Gardeners and other lovers of fresh produce are often interested in extending the season's bounty by learning more about preserving fruits and vegetables at home. Ohio State University Extension Family and Consumer Sciences teach the basics of home canning and preservation through demonstrations and workshops. We emphasize the science behind preservation so than everyone who cans or freezes fresh fruits and vegetables understands why certain procedures must be followed precisely to ensure a high-quality, safe product that they and their family can enjoy.
Home Food Preservation educational offerings typically address:
- Basic food safety principles.
- Proper home canning equipment including how to use a water bath canner and a pressure canner.
- Canning fruits and vegetables.
- Freezing fruits and vegetables.
- Drying fruits and vegetables.
Accessing reliable research-based resources from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, OSU Extension, and others.
Home Food Preservation classes are offered across the state of Ohio. If you cannot find a class close to you, contact:
Linnette Goard, Field Specialist, Food Safety, Selection and Management
email goard.1@osu.edu phone (330) 725-4911 ext 107
| County | FCS Educator | Phone | |
| Fayette | Pat Brinkman | brinkman.93@osu.edu | (740) 335-1150 |
| Hamilton | Jenny Even | even.2@osu.edu | (513) 946-8987 |
| Betsy DeMatteo | dematteo.15@osu.edu | (513) 946-8987 | |
| Hancock | Barb Brahm | brahm.1@osu.edu | (419) 422-3851 |
| Hardin | Kathy Oliver | oliver.1@osu.edu | (419) 674-2297 |
| Holmes | Kate Shumaker | shumaker.68@osu.edu | (330)674-3015 |
| Montgomery | Pat Holmes | holmes.86@osu.edu | (937) 224-9654 |
| Perry | Cindy Shuster | shuster.24@osu.edu | (740) 743-1602 |
| Ross | Lisa Barlage | barlage.7@osu.edu | (740) 702-3200 |
| Tuscarawas | Chris Kendle | kendle.4@osu.edu | (330) 339-2337 |
| Washington | Kathy Dodrill | Dodrill.10@osu.edu | (740) 376-7431 |
| Wayne | Melinda Hill | hill.14@osu.edu | (330) 264-8722 |
Upcoming Food Preservation Classes
| Date | Details | Location | Cost | Contact |
| March 20: 6:30-7:30 | Canning Meats, Soups, and Stews |
Highland Library 4160 Ridge Road Medina, OH 44256 |
$5 |
OSU Extension Medina County 330-725-4911X117 |
Resources
- National Center for Food Preservation
- OhioLine Food Preservation Fact Sheets
- So Easy to Preserve - book and DVD's

