Family and Consumer Sciences
The goal of family and consumer sciences (FCS) programs is to improve the quality of life for adults, children and families by utilizing research-based data to educate in the areas of food safety (which encompasses food preservation), healthy lifestyles and financial management.
University of Idaho Extension is a reliable resource of information, which uses research-based information to educate clientele. Classes are offered on a variety of topics and additional ones can be provided upon request.
Food Safety
Whether meals are prepared fully in the home, or purchased partially or fully prepared, Idaho consumers need reliable, up-to-date information on how to keep their food safe during selection, preparation and storage. Safe resources for food preservation are also heavily needed, especially with a large agricultural base of options available in the county.
UI Extension educators provide food safety training and information to consumers through classes, face-to-face and telephone consultations. The goal of food safety and food preservation education is to maintain the health of Idaho residents by preventing outbreaks of food borne illness.
Current virtual class offerings can be found at uidaho.edu/food-safety.
Hands-On and Virtual Class topics include:
- Food Preservation — Pressure Canning, Boiling Water Canning, Dehydration, Freezing, Freeze Drying, Fermentation, & Pickling.
- Food Preparation — Smoking & Grilling, Jerky Making, Using Herb in Fresh & Preserved Foods, and Air Frying.
- Holiday Food Hacks
- Safe Gifts from the Kitchen
- Germ City — A hand washing unit for youth
Master Food Safety Advisor Program
This is a hands-on food safety program that teaches participants how to safely preserve food products. Participants who successfully complete the program are certified as University of Idaho Extension Master Food Safety Advisors. Successful participants are also eligible to certify as Advanced Master Food Safety Advisors the following year.
Health & Nutrition
There is a growing concern about the number of people facing high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, cancer and obesity nationwide. With the increasing demand for ways to live healthier lives, multiple classes are offered, including:
- Healthy Diabetes Plate
- Cook Once: Eat for a Week
- Healthy Living — Straight from the Garden
Financial Resource Management
To improve the financial literacy and money management practices of Idahoans, UI Extension provides an assortment of classes and workshops.
In response to the devastating fire in Owyhee County in August 2015 that ravaged over 280,000 acres of land, UI Extension now offers a class titled Financial Records Organization: Preparing for Emergencies and Disasters. This workshop is available to groups or information can be made available to individuals.
Treasure Valley FCS Newsletter
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