The locally grown food movement has gained greater interest and popularity in Oldham County in recent years. As more families plant vegetable gardens or make large purchases at Farmers’ Markets the need for information and advanced cooking skills associated with food preservation become greater.

To meet this need the Oldham County Family and Consumer Science agent arranged a series of “Canning Boot Camp” classes. Time saving techniques and food safety requirements were stressed in each session. Participants received hands - on experience making strawberry jam. 

Written surveys completed at the end of each session indicated that all 30 participants felt that they had received enough information to feel confident to can high acid foods on their own. Fifty-percent believed that they were ready to try pressure canning. All participants replied that they could save $20 to $30 dollars a month on their food budgets by canning or freezing the food they grow themselves.