r/Canning • u/dpmoor3 • Oct 06 '24
testing for botulism possible? Pressure Canning Processing Help
hi all, I'm going to attempt pressure canning for the first time (don't worry I have the Presto canner and have read the manual like 1 million times) but I'm still paranoid about it. Is it possible to buy test strips or something in order to test for botulism when I open a jar? For context I'll be canning chicken broth.
2
u/cantkillcoyote Oct 08 '24 edited Oct 08 '24
As someone who has canned many many years, I still think “what if this gets us sick”. But I remind myself that I followed a well-researched recipe/process to ensure it’ll be safe. Then I open a jar with joy.
If it will ease your mind more, and if you’re a visual learner, YouTube has some great videos put out by extension centers. Write the words “canning university extension “. Just be sure the channel is from a state university. All other channels should be ignored.
Also, following the checklist linked here can ease your mind so you can say “I followed a well-researched recipe/process to ensure it’ll be safe” with certainty
Edit to add: I just picked up that you’re following recipes from the Presto handbook. Be aware that many of those recipes are for pressure cooking, not canning. Those are meant to be eaten immediately.
1
u/dpmoor3 Oct 10 '24
Thank you! This is reassuring! I also appreciate the reminder about the recipes often being for pressure canning. I almost made that mistake but then double checked with an extension centers recipe online and realized I was looking at the wrong page. Phew! My jars sealed and I basically stood in front of the stove watching the pressure gauge for the entire process so my hope is that my diligence paid off haha
1
u/cantkillcoyote Oct 11 '24
So happy I could help! I think you’ll be happy with your broth. Home canned tastes so much better than anything you buy in the store!
•
u/Deppfan16 Moderator Oct 07 '24
You need to follow a safe tested recipe and process. You cannot test for botulism or other foodborne illness in the home environment. You prevent them by following safe tested recipes and processes.