Our store bought foods have chemicals to increase their shelf life, chemicals to help the food retain its color and flavor (to keep it looking pretty), and more chemicals for firmness and shape retention. Yet, we as consumers continue to buy convenience foods off the supermarket shelves, like lambs to slaughter.

     So what can we do? 

     If you’d like to eat healthier, or need a special diet (diabetic, low-sodium, etc) and have finally realized what you are really eating, preserving your own organically grown food is the answer.  So, grow your own fruits and vegetables, practice organic gardening, have your garden soil tested (make sure your garden site isn’t sitting on a former toxic waste dump, that’s defeating the purpose), learn companion planting for pest and disease control, and reap the rewards of chemical-free food.

     Food preserving cookbooks have come along way over the years, and in most preserving cookbooks, you’ll find sections for convenience foods, special needs diets, small batch canning and even a food gift giving section.  Preserve your own organically grown food and eat healthier until next years garden is ready for harvest.  Start preserving today for a healthier you!