As a by the books canner, everything about my latest project feels wrong. NON FOOD PROJECT

I am dipping my toes into home mycology, growing point oyster mushrooms. Since I already own most of the equipment I am starting from scratch with liquid culture strings instead of buying a prepared kit. Some of the DIY methods involve canning supplies and a pressure canner, so that’s what I am using. But every step of the way my brain goes WRONG!!! UNSAFE!!!

Let’s count my offenses – I am reusing lids – with TWO holes punched in them. There is silicone and polyester batting stuffed in the holes. I am dry canning grains (wheat berries and sorghum) that soaked for 24 hours. I am using the Nesco electric pressure canner (I don’t use it for pressure canning food, only water bath) And worst of all, once I am done pressure canning the grains for 90 minutesto sterilize them, I will intentionally inject them with spores and that cause the contents to go white and fuzzy over the next few weeks. (See last pic, borrowed from the internets)

I know I am following all the right steps. But the canner in me who is so careful about doing things just right is having an internal meltdown over it all.

Just thought I’d share with people who would understand. 😂

by PasgettiMonster