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Canning

Several jars of canned jellies lined up on a pantry shelf.

Canning is a method used for the preservation of a variety of foods, including vegetables, fruits, and meats. Pressure canning or water bath canning is used to preserve food based on the acidity level of the selected food. When proper canning practices are followed, the quality of fresh foods can be extended to safely consume many months beyond their usual expiration and decline in quality.

All Canning Content

Canning supplies arranged on a kitchen counter.

Home Food Preservation Self-Study Course

This course provides research-based information on food preservation.

Home canning supplies and canned vegetables arranged on a countertop.

Master Food Preserver Volunteer Program

If you enjoy preserving food, volunteering and helping your community, SDSU Extension's Master Food Preserver volunteer program may be for you!

Jars of home-canned peaches.

Choosing a Liquid for Home-Canned Fruit

Interested in canning fruit at home? Learn some expert tips for selecting the proper liquid for your canning objectives.

Home canning supplies and canned vegetables arranged on a countertop.

Preservation

SDSU Extension provides established and trusted research-based food preservation information.

A dial pressure canner gauge

Testing Dial Pressure Canner Gauges

For accuracy before use, it is recommended that dial gauges get tested each year. Gauges that read high cause under-processing and may result in unsafe food.

Crate of harvested green tomatoes in a garden.

How to Handle Those Green Tomatoes

With cooler temperatures and decreased daylength, gardeners may have an abundance of green, unripened tomatoes this fall. Learn some delicious ways to use them in the kitchen along with some expert tips for ripening them!

A variety of fresh fruits and vegetables displayed on a countertop.

Pick it! Try it! Like it! Preserve it!

Pick it! Try it! Like it! Preserve it! materials are filled with tips for selecting, preparing, and preserving a wide variety of fruits and vegetables.

Woman preparing fresh herbs for canning in glass jars.

General Kitchen Safety for Food Preservation

Kitchen safety during preservation is just as important as using a safe, evidence-based preservation method. Kitchen cleanliness can affect the safety of the preserved product.

Cover of the USDA Complete Guide to Home Canning

Importance of Evidence-based Food Preservation and Where To Find Information

The key to a safe and delicious product starts with the preservation recipe. View some recommended resources that offer safe, evidence-based recipes and step-by-step preservation method procedures.

Several canning jars filled with tomato sauce and herbs.

The “Why” Behind Unsafe Canning Practices

When choosing a food preserving method, it’s important to investigate the science behind the process and choose a method that has been researched and proven safe. This is especially important when it comes to canning.