Abstract

This study aims to explore safe food preservation methods for rural Appalachian households in Kentucky, where residents may face challenges related to food insecurity and living in food deserts. Four interviews were conducted with food preservation professionals from Extension Offices (n=2) or community kitchens (n=2) in Kentucky. The researchers transcribed the interviews, and the qualitative data were analyzed using MAXQDA version 24. Through this qualitative analysis, coding and themes related to food preservation methods were identified. The results indicated that water bath canning and freezing were identified as the most recommended methods for home preservation due to their convenience and cost-effectiveness. While pressure canning and dehydrating could be viable options, they were less familiar to users due to a lack of knowledge. Additionally, all interviewees noted that food preservation is becoming less common among younger generations, who often do not maintain gardens and prefer purchasing processed foods such as canned and frozen items from the market. The surplus of preserved foods can be bartered with others in the community who may have other needed items. For future sustainability practices, it is recommended that local Extension Offices or food banks host open barter markets.

Semester/Year of Award

Fall 12-2-2024

Mentor

Sangwook, Kang

Mentor Department Affiliation

Applied Human Sciences

Mentor Professional Affiliation

EKU Associate Professor

Access Options

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

Honors Scholars

Degree Level

Bachelors

Department

Agriculture

IRB Approval Number (if applicable)

5835

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