Energy
Method Time Fuel Human Dollar Quality
effort cost from satisfaction
kitchen to
table
Freezing Minimal High Low Very high Very high
low
Canning Moderate Moderate High Moderate Moderate to
high
Drying High Moderate Moderate Moderate High
to high to high (specialty
items)
Low, if
only method
available
Pickling High Low Moderate []Depends High
upon type
chosen
Storage Low to Low Moderate Low Moderate to
(Unprocessed) moderate (Checking/ high
culling)
[A]Some (such as quick dill pickles) are quick to make, take little
effort, and use inexpensive ingredients. Others require prolonged
brining over several days' time plus expensive sugar and other
ingredients.
There is no one right answer to the question, "Does it pay to raise and
preserve my own food?" It depends upon your personal goals. You may not
save a significant number of dollars. You will work hard. And you
probably will experience one of the most exciting activities
possible--raising at least some of the food your family uses.
"We grew it" are heady words which bring people back to home food
production and preservation year after year.