Pressure canning testing available

Most county extension offices do pressure canning testing. Call your nearest county extension office to ask for details- Cedar County 276-3314, Vernon County 448-2560.

It is recommended that the gauges be tested every year to ensure accuracy and safety.

“An inaccurate gauge may prevent reaching the correct temperature for safe canning. If this happens, botulinum bacteria can grow and produce a deadly toxin,” said Stephanie Johnson, nutrition and health specialist, University of Missouri Extension.

According to Johnson, just because a jar seals does not guarantee that it is safe; only an accurate pressure gauge can do that.

The testing takes less than 15 minutes. It is recommended that you bring in the whole canner so it can be inspected, but all that will actually be tested is the lid.