Reviving the Craft of Home Canning: A Journey Back to the Essentials

Growing up in Southeastern North Carolina, my childhood was filled with the vibrant energy of life on a farm. With hands often dirtied from grading bell peppers and hearts full from the simple joys of a day spent under the sun, I learned lessons that shaped my appreciation for food preservation. The long hours spent canning tomatoes or making strawberry jam alongside my grandmother now resonate profoundly with me.

While my younger self sometimes saw these tasks as burdensome chores, the rewards throughout the year were undeniable. There is something entirely magical about pulling a jar of summer’s bounty off the shelf in winter; it’s a bursting reminder of warm days, home—as well as a connection to our roots.

The Shift in Trends: Canning Through the Ages

Canning at home was once a common necessity, especially peaking during World War II when food preservation was essential for many households. However, this tradition saw a significant decline in the following decades due to industrial advancements and changing societal structures. It felt like a forgotten art until the pandemic gave rise to a remarkable resurgence in home canning—a trend that appears to be here to stay.

Today, while canning may not be a requirement for most, it serves as a cherished hobby for many. As more individuals cultivate home gardens, the desire to preserve the fruits of labor becomes strong. Some are drawn by nostalgia, while others revel in the satisfaction of mastering a new skill that enables them to share delicious home-preserved treats with family and friends.

The rewarding process of home canning is becoming popular again.

Safety First: The Importance of Knowledge in Canning

As the canning community expands, so does the potential for misinformation. Newcomers often face an overwhelming amount of advice, some of which can be dangerous. Simple mistakes such as using untested recipes, modifying ingredient ratios, or neglecting to check pressure canner gauges can lead to foodborne illnesses like botulism.

Canning can indeed be a joy, but understanding its intricacies is crucial. Knowing how to handle tools correctly and where to locate tested recipes can make all the difference in ensuring safety for ourselves and our loved ones. Having the right knowledge empowers us to embrace this time-honored tradition without fear.

A Hands-On Opportunity: Join the Canning Class

If you’re eager to dive into this rewarding world, I invite you to join a hands-on canning class scheduled for October 7 from 1-3 p.m. Here, we will be canning dill pickles, taking a deep dive into the canning process while answering any questions you may have regarding home food preservation.

Avery Ashley, the Family & Consumer Sciences Agent from Brunswick County, will lead the class. With years of experience in teaching pickling, fermentation, and pressure canning, she is sure to provide valuable insights.

The class will take place at the N.C. Cooperative Extension - New Hanover County Center and Arboretum. It’s open to everyone, regardless of experience level—whether you’re a novice or just seeking a refresher. But be sure to register soon, as spots are limited! The cost is only $15, and with hands-on activities planned, space is constrained to make sure everyone gets a turn at the action. Register here.

Join us at the N.C. Cooperative Extension Center for a transformative canning experience.

Embracing Tradition in a Modern World

Reflecting on my childhood memories, it is clear that home canning is more than just preserving food; it’s an art form that connects us to our past while enabling us to cultivate new experiences in the present. While today’s world embraces fast-paced living, the tradition of preserving food allows us to slow down, savor the moment, and rejoice in the simple act of cooking and sharing.

As I embark on this journey of rediscovery, I am excited to share the joys and knowledge of home canning with others. Let’s embrace this authentic tradition and make it a part of our lives once again, ensuring that nothing goes to waste and every flavor is celebrated.

Let’s preserve not just our food, but our culinary heritage!