AUGUSTA — University of Maine Cooperative Extension publishes information to help find, grow, use and store in-season fruits and vegetables in Maine. Visit extension.umaine.edu to order or download publications to fit the season, including June favorites: Bulletin #4047 “Let’s Preserve Strawberries,” Bulletin #4039 “Let’s Preserve Jams, Jellies and Spreads,” Bulletin #4380 “Canning & Freezing Quick Guides” and Bulletin #4256 “Vegetables and Fruits for Health: Peas.”
Freezing fruits and vegetables in season and making low-sugar jams and jellies are simple, effective ways to increase access to a year-round supply of local foods, cut back on sugar and reduce food expenses.
UMaine Extension educator Kathy Savoie recommends getting up-to-date information on the best methods, canners, jars and seals to use to ensure a safe result before preserving food. Recommendations are available from local UMaine Extension offices and online extension.umaine.edu/food-health, including upcoming food preservation workshops and how-to videos. For more information, call 207.581.3188; 800.287.0274 (in Maine).
—University of Maine Cooperative Extension
For more articles out of New England, click here.