Four Master Food Preservers from Washington shared their experiences with us. The information below is a composite of their answers to the interview questions.
What exactly is a Master Food Preserver?
In Washington State, Master Food Preservers are trained volunteers who conduct outreach education through Washington State University (WSU). In order to be a trained volunteer, a person must complete the training program (over 30 hours of classroom instruction plus laboratory), and complete oral and written exams. Once certified as a volunteer, an MFP is considered an unpaid employee of WSU, and so is covered by liability insurance while conducting business.
MFPs commit to 50 hours of volunteer time as part of the program, providing assistance to County and State Extension faculty in educating the public on up-to-date, research-based food safety/preservation techniques, with an emphasis on handling and preserving food safely for optimum quality. No specific education is necessary, but you must be 18 years old.
Volunteers must be re-certified every year. The MFP program was started in Washington State, being modeled after the Master Gardener program. The first year of the program was 1976.
What specifically do MFPs do?
We staff information booths at farmers' markets, county fairs, and festivals; teach classes; give demonstrations; mentor new canners; write blogs; do Facebook and Pinterest pages. We answer questions from phone calls, test pressure gauges, distribute print materials, do television and radio shows. We may do presentations to church groups or other volunteer organizations
Who do you recommend to become an MFP?
Anyone who has a passion for food preservation, people, and fun! Someone who can deliberate and is curious, analytical, and personable. Our job is serious business, but we can have fun while doing it!
What do you love about being a Master Food Preserver?
Talking to the public about their experiences and how they might improve their food preservation practices. The sense of community and the willingness of MFPs to help others. Being a "citizen scientist" with expertise in food preservation.
Where can someone get more information about the Washington State Master Food Preserver program?
Contact your county Cooperative Extension office. Twenty-five years ago there were MFP programs all across the state. Today there are only two active offices – Benton County and Clark County – call one of those.
This link will take you to the Clark County Master Food Preserver webpage. This link will take you to the Benton County Master Food Preserver webpage.
