Have you ever thought about entering a canning competition… but talked yourself out of it? In this episode, Wendi pulls back the curtain from her role as Chairperson of the Food Preservation Division at the Florida Strawberry Festival. After receiving 41 jars from first-time canners, seasoned homesteaders, teens, and small business owners, she shares what she learned from behind the judging table. From common safety mistakes to the surprising trend of what actually wins, this episode is equal parts encouragement and education. You’ll learn: Why modern tomatoes aren’t the same as Grandma’s A simple explanation of pH and why it matters The real reason some jars are disqualified Why removing your rings after processing is essential What judges actually gravitate toward How to enter with confidence, even if you’re new If you’ve ever wanted to grow your skills, build confidence, and participate more deeply in your community, this episode will inspire you to bring your best jar this year. Do it well. Do it safely. Do it joyfully.
Canning competitions aren’t just about ribbons. They’re about courage, skill stacking, community, and stewardship.
As Chairperson of the Food Preservation Division at the Florida Strawberry Festival, Wendi shares what really happens behind the scenes — from checking processing times to guiding judges through taste evaluations.
What Wendi Learned This Year
Many new canners don’t realize food has changed over time
Modern tomatoes are often lower in acid than older varieties
USDA guidelines evolve because food and agriculture evolve
pH matters because botulism cannot grow in high acid foods
Water bath vs pressure canning isn’t optional — it’s science
Modified recipes require modified processing methods
Jars must be washed after processing and rings removed before storage
Clean, classic flavors often win over complex combinations
Common Mistakes That Lead to Disqualification
Incorrect processing times
Using water bath when pressure canning is required
Adding low-acid ingredients like corn or extra onions without adjusting processing
Not following jar size guidelines
Leaving rings on and failing to wash jars after sealing
Behind the Judging Table
Judging is social and collaborative. Judges talk, compare notes, and influence each other. Over three years, a pattern has emerged:
Simple, balanced, classic flavors tend to win.
Strawberry jam.
Apple jelly.
Clean Christmas jam.
That doesn’t mean creative flavors are wrong. It simply means familiar flavors are easier for a group to agree on.
Wendi’s Encouragement
Entering a competition is skill stacking in action:
Learning to can
Following a tested recipe
Filling out paperwork
Showing up prepared
Receiving feedback
Even if you don’t win, you gain:
Confidence
Experience
Community connection
Improved technique
And that matters more than the ribbon.
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