More than 70 students in Anna Mastrantoni’s Food Prep classes at Oak Glen High School rolled up their sleeves last week for a hands-on lesson in safe at-home food preservation. Mastrantoni invited Zach White from the Hancock County Extension Office to lead a canning workshop focused on the importance of proper techniques and food safety.

During the class, students learned the fundamentals of the water bath canning method, a technique used to safely preserve high-acid foods. Working in small groups, they prepared and canned jars of blueberry spice jam, gaining firsthand experience with sterilization, headspace, processing times and the science behind preventing foodborne illness. This workshop marks the eighth free canning class offered by the Hancock County Extension Office in 2025, part of its ongoing effort to equip the community with practical skills in food preservation. White and Mastrantoni plan to continue their partnership, with a pickling workshop anticipated for late March. Individuals interested in learning more about programs and services offered by the Hancock County Extension Office can call the office at 304-564-3805, email White at zlwhite@mail.wvu.edu or visit the WVU Hancock County Extension’s Facebook page.