Potatoes, Apples and Cider: Maine Foods for October

Contact: Kathy Savoie, (207) 780-4205

ORONO, Me.—University of Maine Cooperative Extension recommends its bulletins on in-season fruits and vegetables for consumers looking for information about using, preserving and storing agricultural products such as apples and potatoes.

Popular October bulletins such as “Let’s Preserve Apples” and “Vegetables and Fruits for Health: Potatoes and Safe Home Cider Making” are available online at extension.umaine.edu.

Extension Educator Kathy Savoie cautions that consumers should get up-to-date information before canning food. With the season’s first frost rapidly approaching, it is important for home canners to know that the USDA Complete Guide to Home Canning (2006 ed.) recommends that canners select only disease-free and frost-free, preferably vine-ripened, produce for canning.

Over the years there have been changes in scientific expertise as well as canning equipment, so there is new information on the best methods, canners,j ars, and seals to use to ensure a safe result. Updated recommendations are as close as one’s local UMaine Extension office. Visit extension.umaine.edu or call 800-287-0274 to find a local office and food preservation workshops.

UMaine Extension programs are open and accessible to all in accordance with program goals.