The prevention of decay or preservation is accomplished ,by sterilization - this is brought about in two ways 1 - By killing all bacteria, molds and other organisms by means of heat and enclosing in tight jars.

2 - By the use of a medium, such as a strong sugar or acid solution, in which bacteria will not live.

Utensils

The following list of utensils will be necessary for convenient and effective work. Sauce pans, bowls, spoons, colander, fruit press, dipper and funnel of porcelain, enamel or aluminum should be provided as tin or iron should never be used with fruit; jelly bags made of loosely woven flannel or double cheese cloth, glass measuring cup and a scale, jelly glasses, fruit jars with new rubbers.

Have the jelly bag sewed to a ring (a wooden embroidery ring will do) and if convenience is desired a handle could be fastened to the ring, thus making it possible for one person to easily and quickly fill a jelly bag without fear of burning. An arm from which to suspend the jelly bag for draining should be in a convenient place above the table or sink. A bird cage hook which can be laid against the wall when not in use is good for this purpose.

The best style of preserve jars have a glass cover and close with a spring, but the improved Mason jars with glass cover are satisfactory. Pints are better than quarts for a small family.

Time and Manner Of Preserving

The manner of preserving depend greatly on the condition of the fruit. Consequently the fruit should be selected according to the process one wishes to employ or the process should be decided upon according to the condition of the fruit. For instance if one wishes to make jelly select green or slightly underripe fruit, but if the fruit on hand is overripe it can be made into jam or marmalade.

Sterilizing Jars

Fruit jars and jelly glasses should be thoroughly cleansed and sterilized before using. To sterilize put into a pan of cold water and bring slowly to the boiling point and boil at least 5 minutes. Let stand in the boiling water until ready to fill. Sterilize the covers of the jars by dropping into the boiling water just before using.

"Lightning"

Improved "Mason"