Preserving food is preserving culture—every jar we fill carries forward the flavors, stories, and resilience of generations before us.

What an incredible Bantaba we had today at Onyeka Tefari Wellness and Spa! The energy in the room was as vibrant as a freshly stocked pantry, as we dove deep into the world of food preservation.

For those who missed it—or for anyone ready to keep the conversation going—let’s revisit some of the golden nuggets we uncovered. Because here’s the truth: Preserving food isn’t just a practical skill—it’s a way to honor traditions, build resilience, and connect across cultures.

Why Preserve? Because Freshness Shouldn’t Be Fleeting

Let's start with a fun fact: Food preservation does all of the following except... make your food less nutritious! (Surprise! When done properly, preserved foods retain most of their nutrients.)

What it DOES do:
✔ Save money (goodbye, $8 off-season blueberries!)
✔ Reduce waste (no more guilt over forgotten spinach)
✔ Build food security (hello, pantry full of home-canned goodness)
✔ Keep flavors alive (summer peaches in December? Yes please!)
✔ Strengthen community (more on this soon!)

The only thing it doesn't do? Require fancy equipment or expertise. Anyone can learn—yes, even you!

Canning Without Fear: Your Starter Kit

If the idea of canning conjures images of exploding jars, take a deep breath. With the right tools and techniques, it's as safe as it is satisfying. Here's what you need to begin:

Gather Your Food Canning Supplies:
✔ Jars with lids (Mason jars are the gold standard)
✔ A large pot or pressure canner (for low-acid foods like beans and meats)
✔ Basic tools (jar lifter, funnel, and bubble remover)
✔ Fresh, peak-season produce (flavor is everything)

Pro Tips for First-Timers:
Start simple with high-acid foods (tomatoes, fruits, pickles)
Follow trusted recipes (safety first!)
Label clearly ("Spicy Mango Chutney, August 2024" beats "Mystery Orange Stuff")
Store properly in a cool, dark place