The dictionary defines ‘conditioning’ as a means to change a behavior or strengthen muscles. In the realm of food preservation safety, ‘conditioning’ is the process used to equalize moisture left in food after dehydrating to decrease the chance of spoilage or mold growth. While conditioning could be used for all dried foods (herbs, vegetables, and fruits), conditioning is most important for fruit including tomatoes.
Dehydrated foods in jars – Photo: Canva.com
The moisture content of home dried fruit should be about 20 percent1 or less when removed from the dehydrator or oven. However, due to the size of the pieces, location in the dryer, or uneven drying, the remaining moisture may not be evenly distributed among the pieces. Even drying can be hard to obtain in a home dehydrator and naturally some pieces will likely have more than a 20% moisture. Because there is no sure way to test for moisture at home, conditioning becomes necessary and is the last step before final storage. Conditioning is not necessary if the fruit is dried for immediate snacking rather than storage; dried fruit for snacking should be stored in the fridge and eat within 3-4 days.
Conditioning is easily done following these steps:
Cool foods on trays and test for dryness. Dried fruits should be leathery and pliable when cool. Squeeze a handful of the fruit. If no moisture is left on the hand and pieces spring apart when released, they are dry.2
Place the food into non-porous, food grade containers (glass or clear plastic jars work great) filling about two-thirds full. Seal the container with a lid.
Shake or stir the contents daily for 10-14 days. During this time, the drier pieces will absorb the excess moisture of the less dried pieces.
Check for condensation on the lid or sides of the container or food pieces sticking together. Also, look for signs of spoilage. If condensation is noted, return the food to the dryer for additional drying time followed by another conditioning. If there is any sign of mold, discard the product.
If drying the same food in successive batches, freshly dried fruit may be added to a conditioning batch within the first five days with conditioning time lengthened to accommodate the additional food.3 Conditioning is also recommended for fruit leathers.
What about conditioning vegetables and herbs? It is easier to tell when vegetables and herbs are thoroughly dry. Dried vegetables should be hard and brittle. For more information on individual vegetables, check out Drying Vegetables – 9.308 to help determine dryness. Herbs are dry when they are crisp and crumbly. Conditioning of vegetables and herbs is an option to reduce concern.
Once fruit is conditioned, it is ready for packaging in glass jars, food-grade plastic containers or plastic food-storage bags. The packaging used should provide an airtight seal. An oxygen or moisture absorber may be added but is not necessary. Packaging in smaller amounts is recommended as once the package is opened, quality begins to deteriorate; the food may lose flavor or absorb moisture and odors from the air. Storing in a cool, dry, dark location is best. The same packaging recommendations apply to vegetables and herbs.
So while the dictionary doesn’t define the conditioning of dried foods, perhaps a third definition should be added. Conditioning is an essential step in the safety of dried foods, particularly fruits and tomatoes.
Sources:
So Easy to Preserve, 6th edition. Page 341. University of Georgia Cooperative Extension
I am a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a BS in Home Economics Education and Extension and from Colorado State University with a MS in Textiles and Clothing. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, gardening, quilting, cooking, sewing, and sharing knowledge and experience with others.
Calcium Chloride is a firming agent that can be used in quick-processed pickles for crispness. It works by firming the natural pectin of the vegetable. It should not be confused with table salt, which is sodium chloride.
Calcium chloride products – Photo: mrgeiger
Currently, calcium chloride is available to consumers as a granular product under the labels of Ball Pickle Crisp® and Mrs. Wages Xtra Crunch®. Regardless of the label, both are pure, certified food-grade calcium chloride. (Non-food-grade calcium chloride should not be used for home canning.) Calcium chloride is a safe, non-toxic food additive that has been tested and approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), World Health Organization (WHO), Canadian Food Inspection Agency, and European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).
Calcium chloride may be used in place of food-grade lime (calcium hydroxide) to firm pickles. However, it does so with less fuss and offers the same great taste and crispness. Firming with lime is traditionally done by soaking fresh cucumbers in a lime-water solution before pickling them; during the soaking, the calcium hydroxide binds with the pectin in the cucumber making it stronger. Excess lime absorbed by the cucumbers must be removed by additional rinsing to make pickles safe; pickling lime raises the pH (more alkaline) and has been linked to botulism. Because calcium chloride does not have the hydroxide component of lime, it does not change the pH (acidity) of pickled food or pose a food safety risk. No soaking and rinsing is involved when calcium chloride is used. Rather, a small amount of the calcium chloride granules is added to each jar of pickles before sealing, following the manufacturer’s directions. (Calcium chloride should not be added to a vat during brining or fermentation of pickles.)
Calcium chloride will not replace the crispness that is lost from fresh produce. That crispness comes from the vegetable’s natural pectin, so starting with fresh-picked, top-quality produce is best.
There are other uses for calcium chloride beyond pickle crispness. It is used by brewers, cheese- and wine-makers and has been found to improve the texture of canned apple slices, pears, and peaches. Consumers report using it when canning whole tomatoes to hold the tomatoes together. Calcium chloride may impart a bit of a salty taste but adds no sodium.
Calcium Chloride products have an indefinite shelf life but are sensitive to moisture and will clump and become hard when exposed to humidity, so it is important to keep the granules as dry as possible; store the products tightly sealed in a cool, dry location.
Reference to any commercial product, process, or service, or the use of any trade, firm, or corporate name is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement, recommendation, or certification of any kind. Persons using such products assume responsibility for their use and should make their own assessment of the information and whether it is suitable for their intended use in accordance with current directions of the manufacturer.
I am a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a BS in Home Economics Education and Extension and from Colorado State University with a MS in Textiles and Clothing. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, gardening, quilting, cooking, sewing, and sharing knowledge and experience with others.
Tomatoes can be preserved by freezing, canning, or drying with good results. For best results, remove the skins of all varieties of tomatoes before preserving them.
Dipping tomatoes in boiling water for removing skin.
Removing tomato skin, sometimes called peeling or skinning, means removing the outer covering or skin from a fruit or vegetable, usually with a knife—like peeling an apple or a potato. My grandma said, ‘slip the skin,’ which seems more appropriate for removing the skin from a tomato. The process is simple:
Dip tomatoes in boiling water for 30 to 60 seconds until the skins split or wrinkle.
Dip into cold water, slip off the skins, and remove the cores.
It is recommended that the skin of all varieties of tomatoes be removed before canning, including cherry tomatoes. If you have a lot of tomatoes and time is short, they may be frozen with skins on (or removed). When the tomatoes are thawed, the skins will slip right off. Tomatoes that have been frozen and thawed may be used in place of canned tomatoes in any recipe or canned following a tested recipe.
Removing the skins is important for these reasons:
Most tested recipes for tomato products were prepared and tested with skins removed. Therefore, the processing time is based on a peeled tomato unless stated otherwise. Skins may interfere with the necessary uniform heat penetration in the canning process resulting in underprocessing and an unsafe product.
The skins of fruits and vegetables are sources of bacteria, yeasts, and molds. Some of these contaminants are removed when produce is washed with cool water, but removing it all is impossible. The bacterial load is reduced by peeling or slipping the skins, resulting in a safer final product.
The texture of the skin may be undesirable in the finished product. Tomato skins do not break down well, often leaving chewy bits in the product.
The flavonols in tomato skin impart a bitter taste.
So bite the bullet and slip those tomato skins. While skinning the tomatoes might take time, it is an important step when canning tomatoes. That extra time ensures that the product is safe to consume when the jar is opened and tastes good.
I am a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a BS in Home Economics Education and Extension and from Colorado State University with a MS in Textiles and Clothing. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, gardening, quilting, cooking, sewing, and sharing knowledge and experience with others.
Canning, pickling, freezing, drying, and fermenting are well-known methods of preserving fruits and vegetables for future use. These processes have been used for generations and made simpler and safer over time with the help of science and innovation. Freeze drying (lyophilization) is a more recent option for home food preservation due to the advent of home freeze dry units. HarvestRight, a company in Salt Lake City, Utah, introduced a freeze drying unit for home use in 2018, opening new opportunities for home food preservation. Early in 2023, a second company, Prep4Life, introduced a slightly different freeze drying unit for home use known as THE CUBE; Prep4Life is also a Utah-based company.
Freeze drying unit exhibit at retail location – Photo: mrgeiger
Freeze drying is not a new process. The process may date back to the 13th century, with the Incas using a simple process to preserve potatoes in the Andes. The first patent was issued in 1934. During World War II, it was used to safely transport blood serum and penicillin to the battlefield. In the 1950s–1960s, freeze drying was viewed as a multi-purpose tool for pharmaceuticals and food processing and became a major component of space and military rations. Freeze drying has been widely used in the food industry for some time to extend the shelf-life of food while maintaining quality (think berries in commercial cereals that feature real berries) and offer consumers fast meal prep, emergency preparedness, and portable food. Freeze-dried foods also offer convenience as some foods can be eaten “as is” (except for raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs), added directly to recipes, or rehydrated and used as fresh food.
In a nutshell, freeze drying works by dropping the product temperature to <-40F, then reducing the pressure and adding heat to allow the frozen water in the product to change directly to a vapor (sublimate). Per HarvestRight, the process removes 98-99 percent of the moisture in food yet retains 97 percent of the nutrients, natural enzymes, and original flavor and color, making it a superior method for preserving food [1]. Additionally, freeze-dried foods are easy to use; food returns to its original pre-freeze dried state by just adding water. Since nearly all water has been removed, freeze-dried food is light, making it a favorite for camping and backpacking. A 10-pound bag of fresh apples weighs about one pound after freeze drying. Further, freeze dried foods supposedly have a 25-year shelf-life under proper storage conditions.
To date, very little university research has been done on in-home freeze drying; specifically research on how long the food retains quality and nutritive characteristics [3]. Utah State Extension staff has been experimenting with the HarvestRight dryers. In a recent webinar, they stressed that freeze drying produces high quality foods that are safe as long as they are handled properly prior to freeze drying, dried thoroughly, packaged appropriately, and used or prepared correctly once the packaging is opened. It is important to note that freeze drying does not kill bacteria or other microorganisms; they remain viable, but dormant, despite the extreme conditions of freeze drying. Any bacteria or microorganism on raw foods prior to freeze drying will reactivate upon rehydration. Therefore, food items that are traditionally cooked before eating must also be cooked before eating as a freeze-dried food.
Nearly any food item can be freeze dried—fruits, vegetables, herbs, meats (cooked and raw), eggs, dairy, meals, casseroles, desserts. Utah State recommends that vegetables be blanched prior to freeze drying to prevent discoloration. Food high in fat content, high in sugar content, and baked goods such as breads, cakes, muffins, etc do not freeze dry well and should be avoided. Sugar causes foods to expand.
To ensure the safety and quality of freeze-dried foods, basic food safety principles must be used in preparation, product must be completely dried (crisp), and product must be stored properly. Proper packaging is crucial to extend the shelf life of freeze-dried foods and prevent contamination or spoilage. The storage container must eliminate oxygen, light, and moisture. In order of long-term to short-term storage, the following containers may be used: Mylar® bags, vacuum-sealed canning jars, #10 cans, vacuum sealed bags, and PETE re-sealable containers. An oxygen absorber must be enclosed in the container to remove or decrease the available oxygen in the package to help maintain product safety, quality, and extend shelf life. Foods should be stored in a cool, dark place.
For long-term storage, PET or PETE (Polyethylene terephthalate) food grade, non-toxic plastic pouches, also known as “mylar bags” are excellent. The opaque (silver) Mylar® bags are preferred; they block out air and light during storage, can be resealed once opened and take up less space than glass jars or cans. Mylar® bags with a clear side are not long-term air tight [3]. Mason canning jars can be used if they are vacuum sealed with a vacuum sealing machine capable of using a jar sealing device. Metal cans have a zero oxygen transfer rate and are great for long-term storage [4]. However, a #10 can contains a large amount of dried food which must be used at the time of opening or resealed in another container. Vacuum bags and re-sealable containers have short-term oxygen barrier qualities.
Oxygen absorbers do not have a long shelf life; as soon as they are exposed to air (oxygen), they start to absorb and are spent when they become hard. They are available in different sizes (measured in cc’s); contents and container size should be considered when purchasing absorbers. The smaller the container the less cc’s needed. There is no harm in using a larger than needed absorber and would be preferred to one that is too small [3]. When a container is opened, the absorber should be replaced before resealing.
A freeze dryer is not a fancy food dehydrator. While a freeze drying unit and a dehydrator both remove moisture from food so that microorganisms cannot grow and enzyme action is slowed down, a dehydrator uses low heat and a fan to remove 80-90 percent of the moisture content from food[5]. While dehydration is a very acceptable means of food preservation, it differs from freeze drying in several ways: – foods shrink up and develop a leathery feel and appearance; – foods do not return to their natural state; – foods retain less of their nutritional value; – foods have a 4 months to 1 year shelf life; – fewer foods are successfully dehydrated; – foods rehydrate slowly.
There are many advantages to freeze drying. Besides holding nutritive value, it allows one to utilize garden produce at the peak of harvest, buy in bulk, save money over commercially prepared freeze-dried foods, offers a long shelf life, preserve foods that cannot be typically preserved, and offers compact, lightweight storage. Some disadvantages pointed out by Utah State Extension include unit size, noise, time for drying and allowing freezer to unthaw, cleaning, sanitation, and maintenance, small batch sizes, and cost—cost of the machine as well as machine accessories, packaging supplies, sealers [10], and electricity. In addition, reconstituting freeze-dried foods is somewhat experimental. Utah State Extension specialists suggest starting with a small amount of water and giving ample time to reabsorb; there is no need to rehydrate herbs, onions, or bell peppers as they can be added directly to foods and will absorb moisture from the food. Buying a Home Freeze-Dryer: What to Know Before You Goand Let’s Preserve: Freeze Dryingoffer more information.
The options for food preservation are many.Each method offers pros and cons to preservation and storage. If long-term food storage or portable food storage is the goal, freeze-drying is an option to consider. HarvestRight machines are available at several retail outlets. The Cube is available from the Prep4Life company. Imagine rehydrating lasagna on a camping trip!
Schmutz, Andrea and Callie Ward. 2 May 2023. Freeze Drying. Utah State University. Preserve the Harvest Webinar.
Reference to any commercial product, process, or service, or the use of any trade, firm, or corporate name is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement, recommendation, or certification of any kind. Persons using such products assume responsibility for their use and should make their own assessment of the information and whether it is suitable for their intended use in accordance with current directions of the manufacturer.
I am a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a BS in Home Economics Education and Extension and from Colorado State University with a MS in Textiles and Clothing. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, gardening, quilting, cooking, sewing, and sharing knowledge and experience with others.
A pressure canner is the only safe method for canning low acid foods—red meats, seafood, poultry, and low acid vegetables. Ensuring your pressure canner is working properly and in good condition is critical to producing unquestionably safe products every year.
Two pressure canners, one with dial gauge (rear) and one with a weighted gauge (front). Canner in front shows a cutaway to inside the canner. Image source: USDA Complete Guide to Home Canning, 2015.
Dial Gauges Must be Tested Annually for Accuracy
Most of today’s pressure canners have either a dial gauge or weighted gauge for indicating and regulating the pressure. There is one exception; the All American brand has both a dial and weighted gauge. For canners having a dial gauge, safe canning beings with getting the gauge checked for accuracy yearly or before the start of the canning season. A dial gauge has movable parts which can go out of calibration. Gauges that read high cause under-processing and may result in unsafe food. Clostridium botulinum bacteria are the main reason why low-acid foods must be processed with the correct pressure and time to be safe. Gauges with low readings may cause over-processing which is not a food safety issue, but rather a food quality issue. Pressure adjustments can be made if the gauge reads 2 pounds high or low. Gauges testing more than 2 pounds of difference, should be replaced. The dial gauge should also be checked if any of the following conditions exist: cover has been submerged in water or dropped, gauge lens is broken or has fallen out, parts are rusty, pointer is not on “0”, or for any reason you believe the gauge may not be accurate. The dial should be replaced if it is cracked, rusted, or the glass is missing. Gauges on new canners and replacement gauges should be tested before use.
Weighted gauges do not require testing for accuracy because they cannot go out of calibration.
Dial Gauge Testing Services
There are several services that provide dial gauge testing.
Local County Extension Office – Many County Extension Offices have the equipment and trained personal for testing the National (National Pressure Cooker Company), Magic Seal (sold by Montgomery Ward), Maid of Honor (sold by Sears, Roebuck and Company), or Presto® brands. Check with you local office for availability or to find out about testing events in your area. AnswerLine (800-262-3804 or 515-296-5883) can help residents of Iowa and Minnesota find a location for testing in your area.
Presto – National Presto Industries will test dial gauges at no charge provided it is one of the following brands: National (National Pressure Cooker Company), Magic Seal (sold by Montgomery Ward), Maid of Honor (sold by Sears, Roebuck and Company), or Presto®. Check out the Care and Maintenance Guide at Go.Presto.com for information on how to send a gauge for testing.
Hardware Stores – some hardware stores also offer this service. Call before you go.
All-American – For testing of All-American dial pressure gauges, contact Wisconsin Aluminum Foundry, 920-682-8627. The weight is more accurate than the gauge and customers should use the weights to attain the correct pressure. If the weight begins to rock at the desired pressure and the gauge is off by more than 2 psi the company recommends replacing the gauge. The gauge is primarily used as a reference to know when the unit is at 0 psi and can safely be removed and the canner opened.
Canner Manufacturers – For pressure canner brands not aforementioned, contact the manufacturer of the unit.
After testing is complete, you will get a Canner Dial Gauge Testing Report or similar. It is a good idea to keep the reports for reference.
In addition to getting dial gauges checked, there are a number of other items to check out to make sure that the canner is in good working order for canning season. If any of the following do not check out, they should be replaced or cleaned as needed.
Annual Pressure Canner Checklist
✔
Handles*
Secure.
✔
Canning Rack*
Jars must be off the bottom of the canner during processing to reduce stress on the glass. Rack should be free of rust and strong enough to support weight of jars.
✔
Gasket
The intense heat of pressure canning may cause the gasket to shrink or crack allowing air and steam to escape under or around the lid. Under normal conditions, the gasket should be replaced every three years or sooner if steam or water is coming out around the lid or if a hissing sound is detected. Wash the gasket to remove any food deposits or grease that may have accumulated on the gasket. Also wash the gasket trough before replacing the gasket.
✔
Pressure Plug
The pressure plug should be replaced at the same time that the gasket is replaced. Many gasket replacements come with the pressure plug as well.
✔
Vent Tube
Corrosion of any sort, water deposits, food debris, etc., in the vent pipe can cause a build-up of pressure inside the canner that is not registered on the dial or it can prevent the weight from jiggling. Use a pipe cleaner to brush along the sides and clean away any deposit that my be there.
✔
Weights
Most weighted gauge canners use a three-piece system–a center piece that fits onto the vent pipe and two rings that slip over the center. Each piece measurers 5 pounds of pressure. If 15 pounds of pressure are needed, all three pieces are used together. For 10 pounds of pressure, use the center piece and one ring. For 5 pounds of pressure, only the center piece is needed. Another type of weighted gauge is a round disc that is turned to the appropriate poundage needed and placed on the canner.
✔
Manual*
The manual that came with the canner is invaluable for learning more about the canner, model number, etc. If the manual has become lost, the Pick Your Own website has a listing of canner manuals to download. If the canner is several years old, there is a good chance that the processing information in the manual is out of date. Should this be the case, replace the manual with the USDA Complete Guide to Home Canning (2015) (purchase or download).
*Also apply to a water bath canner.
Replacement Parts
Replacement parts are available at some hardware stores or stores that also sell food preservation equipment. Parts may are also be purchased directly from some of the manufacturers. The Pressure Cooker Outlet has replacement parts for many makes and models of canners. Parts can also be found at Amazon.com. Be sure to know the canner model number and part number of the needed item (may be found in the canner manual). The model number can be found on the bottom of the canner, the handle, or the lid.
Start the canning season off right. Get the gauge tested and make sure that your canner meets all check marks.
I am a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a BS in Home Economics Education and Extension and from Colorado State University with a MS in Textiles and Clothing. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, gardening, quilting, cooking, sewing, and sharing knowledge and experience with others.
The most recent edition of Foods for Iowa 4-H Fairs – Quick Reference Guide (Current Year)now includes a tested, homemade buttercream frosting that is safe and acceptable for baked goods exhibited or displayed at Iowa 4-H fairs. Identifying a safe “buttercream frosting” recipe for exhibit has been a source of confusion for 4-H members and their families as well as County Extension Educators and fair judges. Store-bought, commercially prepared frostings that are shelf stable are also acceptable for food product exhibits.
Food products exhibited at 4-H Fairs must be shelf stable or stable (non-perishable) at room temperature and not require refrigeration to be safe. Due to the various ingredients and quantities that may be incorporated into a homemade frosting, many frostings require refrigeration to be unquestionably safe. Three factors play a role in determining the safety of a frosting: acidity (pH), water activity (Aw), and percent of soluble solids (%Brix).
The acidity (pH) of a frosting is affected by the ingredients used. Traditional frostings made with dairy or eggs tend to increase pH making them more basic than acidic and susceptible to spoilage. Therefore, frosting made with cream cheese, whipped cream, or eggs requires refrigeration to inhibit spoilage and molding despite the fact that frostings are laden with sugar, known for its ability to inhibit microbial growth.
Water activity (Aw) is the measure of available water in a food product that can support microbial growth and affect the quality and safety of food. This differs from moisture content which refers to water bound to ingredients within the food. The FDA has established that a water activity (Aw) value greater than 0.85 on a scale of 0 (bone dry) – 1.0 (pure water) indicates a high-risk food product capable of facilitating the growth of microorganisms in the product. Sugar may lower the Aw while water or dairy can increase the Aw; fat has no effect on Aw.
Percent soluble solids (%Brix) in a frosting is determined by the amount of sugar available to bind up the available water to reduce bacterial growth. As %Brix increases, Aw decreases.
Due to these factors, frostings are considered TCS, foods that require either temperature or time control for food safety. TCS foods may allow pathogens to grow and possibly produce toxins when held at temperatures between 41-135 degrees F. (For additional information see: Food Safety of Frostings and Fillings by K-State Research and Extension.) To be considered a non-TCS food, the percent soluble solids (%Brix) must be above 65% and the Aw value less than 0.85.1
There are numerous recipes for buttercream frosting. It is not a given that all buttercream frostings meet the %Brix and Aw requirements to be a non-TCS food or safe without refrigeration. To determine the safety of a vanilla buttercream frosting for Iowa 4-H exhibits, three members of the AnswerLine team prepared an adapted version of the Simple Buttercream Frosting tested and considered stable at room temperature by K-State Research and Extension. Milk (dairy) was substituted for heavy cream in the K-State recipe. The frostings were prepared at the individual homes of the team members using the same butter and powdered sugar; the percent of milk fat and vanilla extract were the two variables. The three samples were submitted to the Iowa State University Food Quality and Safety Laboratory for analysis of water activity and %Brix with results shown in the table below.
Table 1. Average water activity and % soluble solids of frostings tested.
Sample
Water Activity
% Soluble Solids
Sample 1 – Skim milk
0.788± 0.003
68.60 ± 0.30
Sample 2 – 2% Milk
0.812 ± 0.004
67.83 ± 0.23
Sample 3 – Whole Milk
0.808 ± 0.006
67.17 ± 0.35
All three samples met the requirements of a non-TCS food as recommended by K-State Research and Extensionexhibiting an average Brix of 67.87% and an Aw value of 0.803.
Tested Vanilla Buttercream Recipe Required for use with Iowa 4-H Fair Food Product Exhibits. (All Iowa 4-Hers must reference this blog in their write-up for full credit if a homemade frosting is used in the exhibit. Any change or addition of ingredients will be unacceptable and will result in disqualification.)
1 cup unsalted butter, slightly softened 4 cups powdered sugar ¼ teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 Tablespoons dairy milk (skim, 2%, or whole)
Beat the butter, salt, and vanilla together until fully combined on medium speed. Reduce speed and add the powdered sugar and milk. Add the milk a teaspoon at a time to achieve the right consistency for the way you want to use the frosting. DO NOT use more than 2 tablespoons of milk. Slowly increase the speed of the mixer and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
What Does This Mean for Iowa 4-H Food Products?
It is highly suggested that exhibits be presented without frosting unless the frosting is part of the exhibit goal.
Example 1: My goal is to bake an angel food cake for exhibit at the fair. No frosting is needed for this exhibit. Cake recipe should be included with the exhibit.
Example 2*: My goal is to bake and frost a chocolate cake for my Dad’s birthday. I will also exhibit asimilar cake and frosting at the fair. Cake should be frosted with the tested vanilla buttercream frosting or with a commercially prepared frosting to assure that it is not a TCS food. No chocolate, cocoa, or other ingredient should be added to the tested recipe or commercial frosting. Recipe for cake and frosting (if homemade) should be included with the exhibit, along with this blog.
Example 3*: My goal is to learn to make a cake and a frosting for exhibit at the fair. Cake should be frosted with the tested vanilla buttercream frosting; no chocolate, cocoa, or other ingredient should be added to the tested recipe. Cake and frosting recipes, along with this blog, should be included with exhibit.
*For examples 2 and 3, another option is to prepare the product using any frosting desired; before serving, take pictures of the frosted product. Exhibit the product without frosting at the fair and note in the write up that the product is being exhibited without frosting due to food safety concerns. Add pictures of the frosted product to the write up and include the product recipe with the exhibit.
Homemade Cream Cheese, German Chocolate or Coconut-Pecan, Ganache, or 7-Minute frostings or fillings are not to be exhibited at the fair. They are potential TCS foods due to the range of water activity (Aw) in various recipes and should be stored in the refrigerator.
Decorator frostings of any type may be used when the goal is to decorate a cake. The cake may be food, cardboard, or Styrofoam and will be judged on design, neatness, originality, skill, and technique; the cake will not be tasted or judged on product characteristics.
Fresh or canned fruit, vegetable, or zest should not be used as decoration or garnish on a baked product or decorated cake.
When a glaze is desired, it should be made with powdered sugar and water only. No fruit juice or zest should be added.
Plan ahead for a successful fair experience. 4-H members are encouraged to call or email AnswerLine with questions about their food project prior to exhibit.
By Shannon Coleman, Associate Professor and State Extension Specialist, Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Iowa State University; Terri Boylston, Associate Professor, Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Iowa State University; Marlene Geiger, Beth Marrs, and Rachel Sweeney, Consumer Specialists AnswerLine, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach; Karen Blakeslee, Extension Associate, Kansas State University Research and Extension. February 2023.
I am a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a BS in Home Economics Education and Extension and from Colorado State University with a MS in Textiles and Clothing. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, gardening, quilting, cooking, sewing, and sharing knowledge and experience with others.
Monk fruit sweetener is currently trending as a popular consumer choice as an alternative to sugar. Accordingly to market analysis by Data Bridge, the monk fruit sweetener market is expected to witness market growth at a rate of 5.40% in the forecast period of 2021 to 2028 and is expected to reach USD of 0.30 billion by 2028. The market is driven largely by health conscious consumers’ demand for a naturally derived sweetener, diabetic patients, and the awareness of negative health effects of sugar: obesity and diabetes. The added functional properties—anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic—are also driving the growing popularity of monk fruit sweeteners.
Monk fruit- whole, halved, and extracted powder. Photo: Canva.com
What is Monk Fruit Sweetener?
Monk fruit sweetener is derived from monk fruit, a small, green melon, actually a gourd, known as luo hang gu; it is native to southern China. Growing as a vine, monk fruit is an ancient fruit thought to have been cultivated by monks as early as the 13th century in the misty mountains of Guilin and used as a medicinal herb in traditional Chinese medicine. The fruit itself is unpleasant to eat. Instead, it is dried and used to make extract, granulated sweetener, powdered sweetener, and syrup. Monk fruit is marketed under a variety of labels ranging from pure sweetener to added ingredients such as erythritol which may cause digestive issues for sensitive individuals.
The sweetness of monk fruit does not come from glucose or fructose; rather it is from mogrosides, an antioxidant extract of the fruit. Containing zero calories, zero carbs, and paleo-safe, monk fruit sweeteners are approximately 100-250 times sweeter than traditional table sugar. Monk fruit sweetener is less sweet than stevia which is approximately 300 times sweeter than table sugar. When added to foods and beverages, a little goes a long ways.
Are Monk Fruit Sweeteners Safe?
Monk fruit was “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) by the FDA in 2010 for use in food and beverages. While no human studies have been done, monk fruit is said to be safe for diabetics, children, and pregnant and breastfeeding women. Monk fruit sweeteners have not been studied for weight-loss.
What are the Benefits or Drawbacks of Monk Fruit Sweetener?
In addition to the aforementioned benefits, monk fruit is said to be more palatable as it does not have the aftertaste that many users detect in other sweeteners. Further, it does not raise blood glucose levels or have side effects like gas or bloating that are often associated with some sweeteners.
Monk fruit sweetener is pricey due to the expense of processing and importing from China. The price, however, may be offset by the fact that only a small amount is used. For example, only a pinch of pure monk fruit sweetener may be needed for sweetening beverages and smoothies and if used for baking, 1-2 teaspoons may be equivalent to 1 cup of sugar. While it is not readily available at many supermarkets, it can be ordered from various websites. Some consumers have noted that it does not dissolve easily and they do detect a slight aftertaste. The sweetener tends to become sticky when exposed to air so storing in an airtight container avoids this problem.
How is Monk Fruit Sweetener Used in Cooking, Baking, and Preserving?
Monk fruit sweeteners should not be substituted 1:1 for sugar unless the manufacturer indicates so. Some monk fruit sweeteners are made with a mix of sugar alternatives and/or fillers, so be sure to read the label. Recipes and tips for cooking and baking can be found on the website of some of the monk fruit sweetener labels. Available as a granular, powder, and syrup, each type works best in different applications. Stable at high temperatures, the sweetener does not burn or give a sour taste when used for baking and cooking.
Baked products made with a sugar substitute may have different characteristics than those made with sugar. Using a sugar substitute may affect the texture, color, volume, structure, flavor, and keeping qualities. Sugar, like every ingredient, serves a purpose in baked goods beyond adding sweetness and flavor. Sugar contributes to moistness by binding water, provides structure and leavening, aids in browning and crispness via the maillard reaction, and acts as a preservative by slowing bacterial growth. While some functions and characteristics can be replaced by sugar substitutes, others are unique to sugar.
When used for baking, pure monk fruit sweetener may be less desirable as it does not have the bulk that sugar provides to a recipe. When mixed with erythritol, baking is more successful as erythritol adds bulk to the recipe resulting in a product that looks and tastes more like a product made with sugar.
Monk fruit sweetener should not be used for canning. To date, there has been no testing with monk fruit sweeteners to determine their effects on pH in home canned foods. Utah State Extension offers this explanation: “The sweetness of monk fruit does not come from the traditional fructose sugar molecule in the fruit. The monk fruit sweetener chemicals are extracted from the monk fruit and then blended with something to bulk it up. Each product might be different regarding pH and what is called the pH buffering capacity.” For this reason, canning with monk fruit sweeteners is currently not recommended.
Freezer jams and jellies can be successfully made with monk fruit sweeteners along with a freezer pectin. Monk fruit can also be added to fruits prior to freezing.
Monk fruit sweetener is a safe alternative to sugar and one way to reduce consumption of added sugars and/or manage caloric intake. It is important to do your research and know what you are buying for your intended use. Be sure to read the label and use the product correctly.
Reference to any commercial product, process, or service, or the use of any trade, firm, or corporate name is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement, recommendation, or certification of any kind. Persons using such products assume responsibility for their use and should make their own assessment of the information and whether it is suitable for their intended use in accordance with current directions of the manufacturer.
I am a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a BS in Home Economics Education and Extension and from Colorado State University with a MS in Textiles and Clothing. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, gardening, quilting, cooking, sewing, and sharing knowledge and experience with others.
Cookie decorating is one of the most beloved holiday traditions. Royal Icing is the traditional icing used for glazing cookies, piping decorations, or assembling the walls of gingerbread houses. It dries and hardens quickly and is easy for nearly anyone to achieve decorating success! Made traditionally from egg whites and powdered (confectioners’) sugar, it is an easy icing to prepare. However, if raw egg whites are used, the icing may be a health risk.
It is a well-known fact that eggs may contain the bacteria, Salmonella Enteritidis (SE), that can cause foodborne illness. Researchers say that if present, the SE is usually found in the yolk, but the possibility of SE in egg whites cannot be ruled out. To eliminate risk and be certain of a safe frosting, raw egg whites should be replaced with lightly cooked egg whites, meringue powder or dried egg whites, or pasteurized egg whites when making Royal Icing.
Lightly Cooked Egg Whites. Use the following method provided by South Dakota State University which can be used for Royal Icing and other frosting recipes calling for raw egg whites. In a heavy saucepan, the top of a double boiler, or a metal bowl placed over water in a saucepan, stir together the egg whites and sugar from the recipe (at least 2 tablespoons sugar per white), water (1 teaspoon per white) and cream of tartar (1/8 teaspoon per each 2 whites). Cook over low heat or simmering water, beating constantly with a portable mixer at low speed, until the whites reach 160° F. Pour into a large bowl. Beat on high speed until the whites stand in soft peaks. Proceed with the recipe. Note that you must use sugar to keep the whites from coagulating too rapidly. Test with a thermometer as there is no visual clue to doneness. If you use an unlined aluminum saucepan, eliminate the cream of tartar or the two will react and create an unattractive gray meringue.
Meringue Powder. Meringue powder is available in specialty stores wherever cake decorating supplies are sold. Meringue powder is composed of cornstarch, dried egg whites, sugar, citric acid and some stabilizers. It’s perfect for making royal icing. There is usually a recipe on the package. If not the following recipe for Royal Icing works well:
4 cups powdered sugar 3 tablespoons meringue powder 1/3 cup, plus 2-3 tablespoons, warm water, divided desired food coloring In large mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, merinque powder and 13 cup water. Beat on low speed until combined. Increase speed to medium-high and beat 8-10 minutes, addined 2-3 tablespoons warm water, as necessary. Icing should be stiff enough to hold peak when tested. Color as desired.
Dried Egg Whites. Dried egg whites are just that, 100 percent powdered egg white; they require no refrigeration. Dried whites are pasteurized by heating to the required safe temperature. Like meringue poweder, the egg white powder can be reconstituted by mixing with water. The reconstituted powder whips like fresh egg white and, because it is pasteurized, can be used safely without cooking or baking.
Pasteurized Egg Whites. Pasteurized egg whites are of two types—pasteurized in-shell eggs or liquid pasteurized egg whites. Pasteurized in-shell eggs are available at some grocery stores. Shells of such eggs are stamped with a red or blue “P” in a circle. Whites of pasteurized shell eggs may appear slightly cloudy compared to fresh eggs. Liquid pasteurized egg whites are found in the refrigerated section of the grocery store in a milk-like carton usually near the regular eggs. According to the FDA, both of these products are safe to consume raw. Use these two products like raw whites in the recipe.
Keep unused icing covered at all times with a damp cloth or tightly wrapped to prevent drying and caking. For longer keeping time, store in the refrigerator for up to three days or freezer for up to three months. In addition to preventing food borne illnesses, refrigeration seems to help with separating. (If separation occurs–yellowish liquid on the bottom—just remix.).
Make sure that your holiday cookies or gingerbread houses bring nothing but joy! Avoid raw egg whites when making your decorating frosting.
I am a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a BS in Home Economics Education and Extension and from Colorado State University with a MS in Textiles and Clothing. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, gardening, quilting, cooking, sewing, and sharing knowledge and experience with others.
Mug of eggnog in moose mug on holiday decorated table – Photo: mrgeiger
Eggnog and holidays seem to go hand in hand. While prepared eggnog is readily available at the supermarket, there is nothing like homemade eggnog. Since eggs are a main ingredient of homemade eggnog, homemade eggnog has the potential to spoil holiday fun and cause Salmonella poisoning from the use of raw or undercooked eggs. Salmonella bacteria is a potential risk even when refrigerated eggs with clean, uncracked shells are used.
How to convert a special family eggnog recipe into a safe recipe
Use a cooked egg base. FoodSafety.gov recommends a cooked egg base for eggnog. This is especially important if you are serving people at high risk for foodborne infections: young children and pregnant women (non-alcoholic eggnog), older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. Eggs must be cooked to 160 °F to kill bacteria that may be present such as Salmonella. A cooked egg base or custard is made by heating half of the the milk and/or cream to almost boiling and ever so slowly adding the beaten egg yolks (or sometimes the whole egg) and sugar (or any sugar substitute). Continue to cook and stir the mixture gently until an internal temperature of 160 °F is reached. At this temperature, the mixture will firmly coat a metal spoon and remain separated when a finger is drawn through it. Do not let the mixture go beyond 160 °F as above that temperature, the eggs are likely to curdle. (If curdling occurs, put the mixture in a blend and blend until smooth.) Place the mixture in a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking action and prevent curdling or further curdling and then refrigerate.
Use pasteurized eggs yolks.Eggnog may be safely by using whole, liquid or pasteurized eggs or egg substitutes in place of raw eggs. Pasteurized eggs are found next to regular eggs at the store. Commercial pasteurization of eggs is a heat process at low temperatures that destroys any Salmonella that might be present without having a noticeable effect on flavor or nutritional content. Even if you are using pasteurized eggs for your eggnog, both the FDA and the USDA recommend starting with a cooked egg base for optimal safety. When egg substitute products are used, some experimentation might be needed to figure out the right amount to add for the best flavor.
Use alcohol to inhibit bacterial growth.While alcohol will inhibit bacterial growth, adding alcohol (in amounts recommended by most recipes) will not be sufficient to kill bacteria. However, if one wants to use alcohol, Cooks Illustrated suggests that 1 1/2 ounces of 80 proof liquor per egg and three weeks of aging in the refrigerator is sufficient to kill bacteria when dairy is omitted until ready to serve. Such was conclusively proven by microbiologists at Rockefeller University where salmonella bacteria was purposely added to eggnog and analyzed over a three-week period. By the three-week mark, the alcohol had rendered the eggnog completely sterile.
Substitute egg whites. If a recipe calls for adding beaten egg whites to the hot egg/milk custard, use pasteurized egg whites. While pasteurized egg whites do not whip to the same volume as raw egg, they are safe. It has not been proven that raw egg whites are free of Salmonella bacteria; NOR has it been shown that when adding them to the hot milk/egg custard, the custard remains hot enough to kill any bacteria. Another good substitute is whipping cream whipped to soft peaks added at the time of serving.
Here’s to a safe and worry-free holiday! Follow these suggestions for your favorite eggnog recipe to ensure everyone can enjoy delicious, creamy homemade eggnog without worry of a foodborne illness.
I am a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a BS in Home Economics Education and Extension and from Colorado State University with a MS in Textiles and Clothing. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, gardening, quilting, cooking, sewing, and sharing knowledge and experience with others.
The USDA advises that all “egg rich pies” be refrigerated after baking and cooling unless it will be served within two hours of baking.* Pumpkin and pecan pies fall in this category along with custard and meringue pies. So the short answer is YES—with one exception.
Pecan and pumpkin pie slices. Photo: Canva.com
ALL homemade and bakery pumpkin and pecan pies made with fresh ingredients should be refrigerated. The reason is that bacteria will grow rapidly when the homemade pie is kept at temperatures between 40° F and 140° F. To prevent foodborne illness, these pies should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours.
The one exception is store-bought pies displayed and sold unrefrigerated; these commercially produced pies have shelf-stable ingredients and anti-microbial preservatives added to make them shelf-stable and typically do not need to be refrigerated until cut. Pies of this type have a sell-by date which indicates how long the pie will remain safe to eat stored at room temperature. In general, store-bought pies are safe 2-4 days after the sell-by date if they are refrigerated; it is never wrong to store these pies in the refrigerator once they are brought home. Leftover pieces of these pies should be stored in the refrigerator and used within 2-4 days of the sell-by date.
If you are unsure of proper storage for a purchased pie, be sure to ask or check the label for storage instructions to make sure it is safe.
Storing Egg-Rich Pies – Cool, Chill, Wrap
Homemade egg-rich pies should be completely cooled after baking before covering and refrigerating to prevent condensation occurring under the wrapping. Condensation will lead to a soggy crust and perfect conditions for bacteria to breed. A good way to prevent either is to cool the pie completely, place in the refrigerator uncovered until chilled, and then loosely wrap in plastic or place in a pie cover. (Pies that are not completely cooled in two hours may be placed unwrapped in the refrigerator to continue cooling before wrapping.) The same procedure is true for bakery pies made with fresh ingredients; they may be stored in the box or container used by the bakery.
An unrefrigerated store-bought pie, can be stored on the counter per the sell-by date or placed in the refrigerator as soon as you bring it home. You can keep it in the box or container that it was purchased in.
If the pie won’t be served within the safe period (2-4 days), you can easily freeze pumpkin and pecan pie so that it lasts longer. Pie can be frozen whole, half, or in slices. Properly stored, the pie will maintain at best quality for about 1 to 2 months, but will remain safe beyond that time if kept constantly frozen at 0°F.
The best way to tell if a pie is bad or spoiled is to inspect it visually and by smell. Discard if there is an off smell or appearance such as mold.
Serving Egg-Rich Pies
According to the FDA, homemade or bakery pumpkin and pecan pie can be left at room temperature for two hours, after which it is in danger of growing harmful bacteria. This is plenty of time for serving either plated on from a buffet. If the pie needs to be held longer than two hours, place it on ice to keep it chilled.
While refrigerating pecan and pumpkin pie is important for food safety, it has an added benefit of getting a perfect slice. Remove the pie from the refrigerator a few minutes before serving to let the filling soften a bit; then slice with a sharp serrated knife (drawing for pumpkin, sawing for pecan) for that perfect slice.
Plan your holiday baking or shoping carefully. Keeping egg-rich pies at room temperature could leave it at risk for foodborne illness or spoiling too soon.
I am a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a BS in Home Economics Education and Extension and from Colorado State University with a MS in Textiles and Clothing. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, gardening, quilting, cooking, sewing, and sharing knowledge and experience with others.
