Ohio State - Lawrence County Extension

08/26/2026

Ohio State University Extension Family and Consumer Sciences offer a variety of housing education programs. From first-time renters to experienced homebuyers we assist Ohioans throughout the housing process. Option 1: HUD-Approved Online Group Homebuyer Education Workshops Monthly homebuyer educatio...

08/26/2026

We have been receiving calls and emails regarding cottage food, so here is some quick information!

▫️ Cottage Food Operations are EXEMPT from licensing and inspection for producing cottage foods in Ohio.

▫️ Cottage Foods are specific types of items that are not potentially hazardous, made in your home, and follow the proper labelling requirements.

▫️ Cottage food products can be sold to consumers from the home where they were produced, grocery stores, registered farm markets, farmers markets, restaurants, and at some fairs and festivals.

🍪 Some common examples of cottage foods include: breads, cookies, cake, candy, jams / jellies, fruit butters, and kettle corn. A full list of foods allowed through the Cottage Food Exemption can be found below or at https://agri.ohio.gov/divisions/food-safety/resources/cottage-food

⚠️ Avoid foods like cream cheese frosting, candy covered fresh fruit, cheesecakes, salsa, and other foods that require refrigeration to keep from spoiling – these are not classified as cottage foods.

For more information about Cottage Food Operations and the regulation around them can be found on the Ohio Department of Agriculture’s website here: https://agri.ohio.gov/divisions/food-safety/resources/cottage-food. You can also reach out to our Environmental team at 740-532-3962 or [email protected].

08/25/2026

🥬🫙 Did You Know? Sauerkraut Is More Than Just Cabbage!
Making homemade sauerkraut is simple, but there's a little science behind that delicious tangy flavor. Sauerkraut is made by mixing shredded cabbage with salt and allowing it to ferment naturally for 3 to 6 weeks. The amount of salt is critical for both food safety and successful fermentation, so it should never be adjusted.
✅ Just cabbage + salt + time
✅ Fermentation can take several weeks
✅ The correct salt-to-cabbage ratio is essential
✅ Once fermented, sauerkraut should be canned or frozen for long-term storage

Want to learn more about making safe, delicious sauerkraut at home? Check out these great resources:
🔗 go.osu.edu/hgy5364
🎥 go.osu.edu/sauerkrautwebinar
🥬 Have you ever made your own sauerkraut? Tell us your favorite way to enjoy it in the comments, and share this post with a fellow fermentation fan!
🥬🫙

08/19/2026

08/14/2026

08/14/2026

🍇 Ohio grape season is almost here! Did you know grapes don't get any sweeter after they're picked? The best grapes are firm, plump, colorful, and still attached to fresh green stems.
✅ Storage Tip: Keep grapes unwashed in the refrigerator in a perforated plastic bag. They'll store for up to two weeks, but taste best when enjoyed within 2 to 3 days. Wash them just before eating for the freshest flavor.
❄️ Bonus idea: Freeze grapes for a refreshing, naturally sweet summer snack!
💜 What's your favorite way to enjoy grapes? 🍇 Fresh off the stem ❄️ Frozen 🥗 In a salad 🍇 As jelly or juice
Comment below and share this post with a fellow grape lover! 🍇❤️
Get more tips on selecting, storing, and serving Ohio grapes:
🔗 go.osu.edu/ohiograpes

08/14/2026

Two weeks away from Beef and Forage Field Night! Do not miss out on getting registered! A lot of new and exciting research here in Jackson!

08/14/2026

As summer fades into fall, herb gardens often provide one last generous harvest. Drying is a simple, inexpensive way to preserve herbs for use throughout the winter. If you have never tried it, I e…

08/12/2026

Have home food preservation questions? All past food preservation webinars are available online for free! Also make sure to check out ohioline.osu.edu for an abundance of resources. And as always, call our office or email [email protected] for any questions you may have!

Backyard gardens are usually overflowing with produce this time of year — lots of cucumbers, green beans, zucchini, tomatoes and more.

If you're looking for resources and information related to preserving summer's harvest, be sure to check out the recorded webinars that are shared here: https://fcs.osu.edu/programs/healthy-people/food-preservation/food-preservation-webinar-series?utm_campaign=faes_marketing-activity_fy27&utm_content=1786380000&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook