Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County is hosting a three-day Master Food Preserver Certification Training on July 8 to July 10 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Lotuswood Organic Wellness Farm in Middletown, NY. Participants need no prior knowledge of food preservation to attend, but must be available to attend the entire training, be willing to share knowledge with others, and be comfortable participating in a variety of hands-on activities.
During this intensive training, participants will learn about safe and efficient methods for all aspects of food preservation in the home including economic and nutritional considerations, food safety, canning, freezing, drying, pickling, fermentation, and preparing jams and jellies.
This is a valuable asset to owners and employees of farm stands and Community Supported Agriculture as well as members of civic organizations, as you can pass your knowledge along with confidence. Participants need no prior knowledge of food preservation to attend but must be available to participate in the entire 3-day, hands-on training. Upon completion of the training, attendees will be certified as "Master Food Preservers" through Cornell Cooperative Extension. This title, "Master Food Preservers", deems participants as trainers, with the expectation that they are actively involved in the program.
The Master Food Preservers Program is a Cornell Cooperative Extension cohort made up of Extension professionals and Orange County volunteers dedicated to sharing the knowledge and skills of general food preservation with the local community. This program is led by a cohort of volunteers who have initially undergone the Master Food Preservers "Train the Trainer" training to be properly informed on safe and efficient methods of food preservation. Trained community members, or "Master Food Preservers" are responsible for leading and supporting programmatic workshops, facilitation and education, attending community events, providing general education on all/any aspects of preservation, etc.
The Master Food Preserver Training is limited to 15 participants and includes lunch each day. The cost ranges between $365- $400 and will be specified below depending on individual credentials. Because space for the training is limited, applicants will undergo a selection process to best ensure their potential participation is suitable for the program. Upon acceptance, further details regarding payment will be available.
$365-$400
Olivia O'Connor
Nutrition Educator
oco8@cornell.edu
(845) 344-1234, ext.246
Lotuswood Organic Wellness Farm
21 Finchville Tpke
Middletown, New York 10940
Last updated June 2, 2025