Pressure Canner Lid Clinic

Pressure canners are used to preserve low acid foods such as green beans, corn, okra, meats and other foods that have not been acidified. When a dial gauge canner is used, these foods must be processed at 240º F at 11 pounds of pressure for a specified period of time to kill the bacteria that causes botulism. Pressure canner gauges should be tested for accuracy at least once each year. Inaccurate gauges can lead to improperly processed food. Food that is not properly processed may cause food borne illness. Iredell Cooperative Extension will test dial-gauge pressure canner lids at South Iredell Senior Center on Tues., June 17 from 8-10 and on Wed., July 16 from 1-4. During the clinics, gaskets (seals) and valves will also be checked. Bring the lid of your presto-type dial-gauge canner. There is no charge for this service. Information on freezing and canning will also be available.