Food preservation is an ancient art practiced since early civilization. Advances in technology have led to new methods of food preservation such as canning, freezing, and irradiation.
Tools and Methods for Preserving Food
The Five Main Tools
In modern times, there are five main tools used in food preservation:
- Canning
- Freezing
- Irradiation
- Salt curing and smoking
- Preserving in oil
Common Preservation Techniques
Canning, freezing, and drying are the most common methods for preserving foods at home today. However, there are many other methods, Some foods, like fresh fruit, are really easy to preserve. Here are five methods of food preservation that will allow you to have fruits and veggies year-round.
Refrigeration and freezing are probably the most popular forms today. Freeze-drying removes all moisture so taste is unaffected.
Essential Equipment
The tools that make canning and preserving easier include:
- Measuring cups for dry and liquid ingredients
- Measuring spoons
- Potholders
- Kitchen towels and paper towels
- Heat-resistant rubber spatulas
- Vegetable peeler
- Lemon juicer
- Cutting board
- Scissors
Additional helpful tools:
- Food chopper with multiple inserts
- Blanching and steaming basket
- Glass jars and lids
The Importance of Food Safety
Food preservation is the process of treating and handling food to stop or slow down spoiling, which is caused by the growth of bacteria, yeasts, and molds.
Common Preservation Methods
Among the oldest methods are drying, refrigeration, and fermentation. Modern methods include canning, pasteurization, freezing, irradiation, and adding chemicals.
Importance and Factors in Preservation
- Extends shelf-life
- Prepares various food types for desired shelf-life and uses available equipment
Ten Types of Preservation
- Minimal processing – root cellars, cool storage, room temperature
- Drying/dehydrating
- Canning – water bath, steam, pressure
- Freezing
- Freeze drying
- Fermentation
Canning Items
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Pot holders, towels, spatulas
- Peeler, juicer, board, scissors
Preservation maintains nutrient value, texture, and flavor – often seen as desirable qualities like with cheese and yogurt.
Using these methods ensures extending the shelf-life of produce from your garden and can add to your stockpile for long-term situations. It’s advisable to invest in a reputable canning book or guidelines.