Online Class: How to Can, Freeze, Dry and Preserve Food

In this course you will learn about the tradition of canning and preserving, how to get started, deciding what to can and preserve, the various methods of canning and preserving (such as freezing, canning, drying, smoking, etc.), water bath and pressure canning, tools of the trade, as well as how to make jams and jellies, condiments, and even your own beverages.

$95.00
no certificate
- OR -
$120.00
with CEU Certificate*
Start Right Now!
$120.00 (with CEU Certificate)
Taking multiple courses? Save with our platinum program.
 
  • 11
    Lessons
  • 26
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 6
    Hours
    average time
  • 0.6
    CEUs
 
 

Course Description

Preserving Culinary Heritage: The Guide to Canning and Food Preservation

The allure of a home-canned jar of jam or the smell of freshly preserved pickles is something that transcends generations. While our ancestors preserved food out of necessity, many today are drawn to canning and preserving to capture the flavors of each season, ensure the quality of their food, and embrace sustainable living practices.

Canning and preserving have experienced a resurgence in recent years. According to the National Center for Home Food Preservation, there has been a 15% increase in people expressing interest in home canning since 2022. With the rise in organic gardening and farm-to-table dining, more people are eager to preserve their fresh produce and homemade concoctions.

Your Journey Through the Art of Preservation

This comprehensive course offers a deep dive into the world of canning and preserving, catering to both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts. It aims to equip students with practical skills, historical insights, and safety knowledge to ensure a delightful and productive canning experience.

  1. Introduction to Canning and Preserving: Begin with an exploration into the rich history and traditions of food preservation.
  2. Getting Started in Canning and Preserving: Familiarize yourself with initial preparations, including sourcing quality produce and setting up your workspace.
  3. Freezing Your Foods: Discover the science behind freezing, techniques to retain flavor and texture, and suitable foods for this method.
  4. Canning Foods: Understand the different canning processes, from water bath to pressure canning, ensuring longevity and safety.
  5. Jams and Jellies: Dive into the sweet world of preserves. Learn about the role of pectin, sugar ratios, and how to achieve the perfect consistency.
  6. Pickles, Chutney, Ketchup, and Relish: Explore the tangy side of preservation, from fermentation basics to achieving the right balance of flavors.
  7. Fruits, Veggies, and Berries: Learn techniques specific to different types of produce, ensuring optimal flavor and nutrient retention.
  8. Preserving Beverages: Juice, Cider, and More: Explore the liquid realm of preservation, from clarifying juices to pasteurization processes.
  9. Canning and Preserving Other Foods: Expand your repertoire with methods tailored for meats, seafood, and herbs.
  10. Canning and Preserving for Special Diets: Adapt preservation methods for dietary needs, including low-sodium, sugar-free, and sulfite-free diets.
  11. The Secrets to Success and Getting Started: Harness expert tips and best practices, ensuring you're set for success in your preservation journey.

More than Just a Culinary Skill

While the practical skills you'll acquire are invaluable, this course also sheds light on the myriad benefits of canning and preserving:

  • Quality Control: When you can and preserve your foods, you know precisely what goes into each jar—no more unpronounceable ingredients or unwanted additives.

  • Sustainability: By preserving seasonal produce, you reduce food waste and reliance on out-of-season imports, contributing to a more sustainable food system.

  • Economic Savings: With preserved foods on hand, you can significantly reduce grocery bills, especially during off-seasons.

  • Safety First: Proper preservation isn't just about taste—it's vital for health. This course prioritizes teaching students to reduce safety risks, ensuring that your preserved goods remain safe for consumption.

Unlocking the Treasures of Home-Preserved Foods

The act of preserving foods is both an art and a science. Beyond the delightful tastes and homemade labels, lies the essence of capturing moments—a summer's ripe berry or an autumn's fresh apple cider—and making them timeless.

This course offers an integrated blend of theoretical knowledge, hands-on practice, and interactive sessions, ensuring a holistic learning experience. By the end of your journey, you won't merely understand the mechanics of preservation; you'll appreciate the traditions, joys, and flavors behind every jar you seal.

Join us today as we delve into the vibrant world of canning and preserving, unlocking culinary treasures that delight the palate and warm the heart. Let's create, savor, and celebrate the bounty of nature together!

Courses Frequently Bought Together:

Course Motivation

If you are like most Americans, you have never even come close to canning or preserving. In recent decades it has become a bit rare for people to take part in this age-old process. Tell someone that you are going to spend the weekend canning some fruits and vegetables and you will probably get a few raised eyebrows. But if you could peer into a looking glass at the things your ancestors did just decades ago, you would see that canning and preserving played a big role in the food system.

With modern technology, people canning and preserving their own food largely fell by the wayside. Once used as a means to preserve food that you could later enjoy throughout the year, modern transportation has made it possible to walk into a grocery store just about anywhere in the country and get just about any type of produce in the middle of January! This was simply unheard of decades ago.

How We Got Here

At one time, and not so long ago, people ate according to what was in season and readily available at the market, from their garden, or from a local source. When transportation systems began making it simple to transport produce around the world during any given month, people no longer felt they needed to preserve their summer stock. Instead, they would simply go to the grocery store and buy their blueberries flown in from Chile in December.

While we have been busy flying in and purchasing food from around the world, we have lost sight of something that is part of our tradition. Most of us have left canning and preserving behind, not knowing the smallest thing about how to go about doing it, or why we even should care to. But as with most things, what is old is new again, and canning and preserving is now increasing in popularity.

Benefits of Canning and Preserving

In the last couple of years there has been a vast increase in the number of people who have become interested in having their own gardens, as well as canning and preserving, which often go hand-in-hand. Some of the reasons why so many people have taken an interest in returning to their canning and preserving heritage include:

  • Environmental. Many people have learned about the environmental damaged caused by flying out of season produce from around the world. Flying berries thousands of miles, for example, creates a big environmental footprint because of all the fuel and resources that are used. The "food odometer," or "food miles," as many people refer to it, has become an important issue for many people. If you can preserve locally grown food for later use, it just makes sense to do so. Often times the food today is more well-traveled than the person about to eat it.

  • Localism. There has been a return to eating locally in the last couple of years. Locavores, as they are now referred to, are those people who try to eat all foods that have been grown or produced within 100 miles of their home. There are several reasons for doing this, including that it is better for the environment, it supports local farmers, and because the food is more nutritious. While food is flying thousands of miles to hit the store shelves, it is losing nutritional value all along the way. If you can grow your own food or purchase from farmers in your area, the food will have a better chance of retaining its nutritional value by the time you are able to get it.

  • Tradition. There are many people that turn to canning and preserving as a way to keep some of their family traditions intact. For example, even though they know they could easily go buy jam at the grocery store, there is a sense of tradition and pride that comes from creating and preserving your own. It's a tradition that many people want to learn, preserve, and pass on to future generations.

  • Freshness. Again, when you get foods from the produce section at the grocery store, there is a good chance they have come from around the world. Because of this, the freshness is not always ideal. Canning and preserving allows you to take your food while at its peak of freshness and save it for later use.

  • Health. Throughout the year, you can get a vast array of canned goods at the grocery store at any time. Problem is, you have no control over the amount of sodium in them, or the bisphenol A (BPA), which has been used in the can lining. Typical canned goods at the store rely heavily on using salt to preserve the food and flavor, which can lead to an over-consumption of salt that may be associated with health problems. BPA is a chemical used in the lining of most canned goods. It leaches into the foods that are in the can. It has been linked to health problems such as cancer, developmental issues, and early puberty. Canning and preserving your own foods will produce healthier options, as you can control the amount of sodium and keep out the BPA.

  • Economics. With the economy leaving many people to struggle in recent years, it has also helped create a renewed interest in canning and preserving ones own food. Produce in the stores is not always affordable for many people. This is especially true of those things that are typically considered out of season and only available because they have been brought in from another country. Money can be saved by canning and preserving foods when they are in season, and then using them later in the year when they are not. Some people are drawn to canning and preserving simply because it makes good economic sense.

 

Choosing Canning and Preserving

For whatever reason, you have chosen to learn more about canning and preserving. Good for you! As you have just learned, there are some great reasons to do so, some of which you may not have been familiar with yet. Canning and preserving is a process that is easier than you probably think, especially after you get the process down. And you will be glad you did! Not only will you be proud of the work you put in to do it, but you will also reap the host of other benefits already discussed.

In this course, you will learn about how to get started with freezing, canning, juicing, and so much more. So sit back, relax and learn about a process that your ancestors used for years. Turns out, our technology hasn't been so good for all areas of modern food production. They were really on to something big!

  • Completely Online
  • Self-Paced
  • 6 Months to Complete
  • 24/7 Availability
  • Start Anytime
  • PC & Mac Compatible
  • Android & iOS Friendly
  • Accredited CEUs
Universal Class is an IACET Accredited Provider
 

Course Lessons

Lesson 1: Introduction to Canning and Preserving

In this lesson you will be introduced to the basics of what canning and preserving is, and why people do it. Additional lesson topics: Canning Benefits; Introduction 42 Total Points
  • Lesson 1 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Canning and Preserving; Reasons for Taking this Course
  • Complete Assignment: An Introduction
  • Complete: Lesson 1 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 1 Exam

Lesson 2: Getting Started in Canning and Preserving

In this lesson, you will learn more about how to get started, what to can and preserve, and tools of the trade. Additional lesson topics: National Center for Home Food Preservation; Acidity Levels; Preserving foods 37 Total Points
  • Lesson 2 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Preserving Foods
  • Complete: Lesson 2 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 2 Exam

Lesson 3: Freezing Your Foods

In this lesson, we will go over the basics of freezing as a way to preserve foods. Additional lesson topics: Freezing Foods; Blanching; From Fresh to Frozen 37 Total Points
  • Lesson 3 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 3 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 3 Exam

Lesson 4: Canning Foods

This lesson will look at the basics of canning, including what it is, tips for success, and how to do it. Additional lesson topics: Canning Dont's; Canning Basics; Canning FAQs 37 Total Points
  • Lesson 4 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 4 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 4 Exam

Lesson 5: Jams and Jellies

In this lesson, we will look at the popularity of preserving jams and jellies, and the basics of how it is done. Additional lesson topics: Fabric Jar Toppers; Canning Jam; Jams and Jellies 137 Total Points
  • Lesson 5 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 5 Assignment
  • Complete Assignment: Making Your Own Jelly or Jam
  • Assessment: Lesson 5 Exam

Lesson 6: Pickles, Chutney, Ketchup, and Relish

In this lesson, we will look making your own condiments, ranging from pickles and relish, to chutney and ketchup. 37 Total Points
  • Lesson 6 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 6 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 6 Exam

Lesson 7: Fruits, Veggies and Berries

In this lesson, we will look at some tips for getting the best results when it comes to canning and preserving fruits, veggies, and berries. Additional lesson topics: Preserving Fruits; Freezing Fruit; Preserving Vegtables 37 Total Points
  • Lesson 7 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 7 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 7 Exam

Lesson 8: Preserving Beverages: Juice, Cider, and More

In this lesson, we will look at the process of preserving beverages. Additional lesson topics: Canning Milk; Juices and Cider 37 Total Points
  • Lesson 8 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 8 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 8 Exam

Lesson 9: Canning and Preserving Other Foods

In this lesson, we will look at some of the other types of foods that you may can and preserve, such as herbs, meats, and more. Additional lesson topics: Dehydrating Meat; Preserving Meat 37 Total Points
  • Lesson 9 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Canning
  • Complete: Lesson 9 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 9 Exam

Lesson 10: Canning and Preserving for Special Diets

This lesson focuses on canning for special diets, such as low sodium, reduced sugar, etc. 137 Total Points
  • Lesson 10 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 10 Assignment
  • Complete Assignment: Botulism
  • Assessment: Lesson 10 Exam

Lesson 11: The Secrets to Success and Getting Started

This lesson focuses on tips that will help you be successful, and how to get started. Additional lesson topics: Canning Safety; Canning Recipes; Tipnut.com 91 Total Points
  • Lesson 11 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Let us know what you think of this course; Program Evaluation Follow-up Survey (End of Course); Course Comments
  • Complete: Lesson 11 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 11 Exam
  • Assessment: The Final Exam
666
Total Course Points
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Describe what canning and preserving and why it's beneficial to do it.
  • Describe how to get started in canning and preserving.
  • Describe freezing your foods.
  • Describe canning foods.
  • Summarize preserving jams and jellies, pickles, chutney, ketchup, and relish
  • Summarize preserving fruits, veggies and berries.
  • Summarize preserving beverages.
  • Summarize canning and preserving for special diets.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 

Additional Course Information

Online CEU Certificate
  • Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
  • Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
  • Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
  • View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
  • Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media
Document Your CEUs on Your Resume
 
Course Title: How to Can, Freeze, Dry and Preserve Food
Course Number: 8900298
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: This course is online and available in all 50 states including: California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Texas.
Last Updated: November 2023
Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Class
CEU Value: 0.6 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).
Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.
Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams
Course Fee: $120.00 U.S. dollars

Choose Your Subscription Plan

Course Only
One Course
No Certificate / No CEUs
$95
for 6 months
 
Billed once
This course only
Includes certificate X
Includes CEUs X
Self-paced Yes
Instructor support Yes
Time to complete 6 months
No. of courses 1 course
Certificate Course
One Course
Certificate & CEUs
$120
for 6 months
 
Billed once
This course only
Includes certificate Yes
Includes CEUs Yes
Self-paced Yes
Instructor support Yes
Time to complete 6 months
No. of courses 1 course
Platinum Yearly
ALL COURSES
Certificates & CEUs
$189
per year
 
Billed once
Includes all 600+ courses
Includes certificate Yes
Includes CEUs Yes
Self-paced Yes
Instructor support Yes
Time to complete 12 Months
No. of courses 600+
Platinum 2 Years
ALL COURSES
Certificates & CEUs
$299
for 2 years
You save $79.00!
Billed once
Includes all 600+ courses
Includes certificate Yes
Includes CEUs Yes
Self-paced Yes
Instructor support Yes
Time to complete 24 Months
No. of courses 600+
 

Student Testimonials

  • "I found it very informative. There are so many things to master that I've learned. Very glad that I found you on the web!!!" -- Leslie S.
  • "Overall the course was very informative. I have been preserving food for years but this course opened my eyes to new ways of preserving food. Foods that I had not ever thought of to can or preserve. So I am now very excited about experiencing new ways." -- Nancy G.
  • "Lovely teacher." -- Stephanie B.
  • "The entire class was helpful. Great teacher." -- Stephanie B.
  • "What was most helpful was the detailed info and pictures which were very instructive." -- Jack D.
  • "What was most helpful were the step by step instructions." -- Melody-Ann W.
  • "I found the entire course very informative. I have been freezing for years and I was able to confirm that I have been doing it properly as well as ways to freeze food I have not tried yet." -- Linda H.
  • "This class was full of valuable information--I loved it! It helped so much with what to do with the produce from my garden this year!" -- Nora B.
  • "I appreciated all the feedback the instructor gave. All the material presented in the course was well defined and explained." -- Joanne L.
  • "The instructor is fabulous!!!" -- Peggy O.