Save the Season

August 2025

Welcome to the tenth edition of UC Master Food Preserver Program’s monthly newsletter. Our mission is to extend culturally appropriate, research-based practices for preserving food in the home.


Each month, you’ll receive recipes, how-tos, and inspiration straight to your inbox. Thank you for subscribing and feel free to reply with any food preservation questions. 

Spotlighted: Michele Jones, Class of 2025 MFP Volunteer 



"I grew up watching my mother and grandmother preserve fruits and vegetables with skill and pride.

Now, I can honor my family’s legacy while confidently sharing safe, up-to-date information on food preservation with others in my community."


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Ice Ice Berry: Freeze Your Fruit Like a Legend

By Paige Weisskirch, UC Master Food Preserver Online Program Volunteer


Freeze it like Birdseye! Explore the chilly origins of frozen food and discover how to keep your berries delicious, versatile, and ready for anything, whether it's pies, smoothies, or unexpected guests. 


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Why Do My Pressure-Canned Jars Continue to Boil as They Cool on the Counter?

By Henry Shaw, UC Master Food Preserver Online Program Volunteer


If you've done any pressure canning, you've probably noticed something curious: the jars often keep boiling long after you remove them from the canner and place them on your counter. This bubbling can go on for minutes — or even hours. Believe it or not, that's a good sign! It usually means your jars have sealed properly. Let’s explore the science behind this fascinating process.  

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Making and Using Dehydrated Tomato Skins  

By Monica Gross, UC Master Food Preserver Online Program Volunteer


There are a surprising number of uses for tomato skins! This article explains how to make a powder out of tomato skins and how to use that versatile powder to boost flavor in your kitchen.


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Question to the Editor:

"I am canning pickles and realize I am short a couple of lids (the standard, two-part canning lids).


Is it okay if I just wash and re-use some lids that I canned with last year?"

Answer from a Master Food Preserver:

While you may reuse the metal screw bands, the flat lids with the sealant are designed to be used safely only once. There are some brands that make reusable lids, but unless the manufacturer clearly labels it as "reusable," it's a one-time use only.


To prepare your lids, always follow manufacturer instructions and wash in hot soapy water, dry and set them aside until needed. It's no longer a requirement to boil or pre-heat the lids before sealing your jars for most standard lids.


Have a Question? Submit yours here

Previous Courses for Peach and Zucchini Preserving Now On Demand



Click below to access the recordings of a few featured classes, via the statewide Past Online Events page.

Was this email forwarded to you from a friend? Click below to subscribe to the UC Master Food Preserver newsletter so you don't miss out on next month's edition!

Feel free to pass along Save the Season to a friend using the button below!

Upcoming Online Events (Register via: https://mfp.ucanr.edu/Upcoming Events/)

Ask a MFP - Live Q&A

August 6, 7:00PM PDT

Fun With Summertime Fruits

August 10, 2:00PM PDT

Preserving Tomatoes I: Canning Sauces and Jams

August 19, 7:00PM PDT

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