Breaking News! More dramatic changes for LDS Canneries nationwide!
As you may recall, earlier this year I broke the news initially about the big changes that were made by the LDS Church amongst their Canneries (aka Home Storage Centers). If you aren’t aware, these facilities have been an excellent way for members of the LDS Church, as well as non-members, to obtain premiumn quality food at rock bottom prices. Well, unfortunately, I’ve got even more breaking news to share with you today in this regard and it’s definitely going to be unpleasant news for a whole lot of people who have discovered the merits of these facilities in their communities.
Effective Nov. 1st, 2013, EIGHTY-NINE (89) of the remaining 101 LDS Canneries (aka Home Storage Centers) will NO LONGER function as anything other than a very limited retail store. In fact, there will no longer be canning supplies made available at these facilities, no more than FIVE bulk food items to purchase, and there will no longer be any canning equipment to loan so that families can preserve their own items in the #10 cans. In fact, there will be NO canning equipment on site at these 89 facilities. (see official LDS Church Memo regarding the LDS Canneries inserted >)
There are only 12 facilities that will be immune to these sweeping changes. These 12 facilities will still provide access to canning supplies, numerous bulk foods, and canning equipment to borrow, such as #10 can sealers. These 12 facilities are as follows:
Lethbridge, AB
Mesa, AZ
Boise, ID
Idaho Falls, ID
Lindon, UT
Logan, UT
Ogden, UT
Sandy, UT
Springville, UT
St George, UT
Welfare Square (Salt Lake City), UT
Dallas, TX
Wow! Just Wow! *taking a breath* I don’t know about you, but it seems to me like there’s no longer a reason to call these other 89 facilities “Home Storage Centers”. They will now be operating as nothing more than a retail store and a very limited one at that as far as choices are concerned.
The facilities that are undergoing these changes are eliminating all but 5 of their bulk items! These remaining five bulk items are as follows: White Beans, Black Beans, Refried Beans, Carrots, and Onions. Unfortunately though, the bulk carrots and onions will NOT be kept in inventory. Bulk purchases of onions and carrots will need to be paid for in advance and will be sent in on the next truck coming to deliver at that facility.
Plastic lids that fit the #10 cans will still be offered but NO OTHER CANNING supplies will be available. The equipment, such as the portable can seamers, portable canners and pouch sealers are expected to be removed from these 89 facilities by the 15th of November.
ALL 101 of the Home Storage Centers will be offering other retail items in sizes that are larger than what you would normally see in the grocery stores, such as #10 cans or large mylar-type bag packages, however, the scope of such items will be limited to the following:
Fruit Drink Mix, Regular Oats, Quick Oats, Powdered Milk, Hot Cocoa Mix, Sugar, Macaroni, Spaghetti Bites, Apple Slices, White Rice, White Wheat, Hard Red Wheat, White Flour, Pancake Mix, Pinto Beans, Potato Pearls and Potato Flakes. (Thank goodness though that they have brought back their potato pearls. I can eat those directly out of the can—they are that good!)
You can get an idea of the packaging by looking at the attached flyer.
This information was originally sent out to all of the canneries in the first week of October. However, for some reason this information has not been spread properly as most of those persons that I’ve talked to in creating this story, were shocked by the news. In fact, two facility managers had to confirm this with their LDS Church contacts. (Which they did, of course).
One of the documents that I was able to see gives an odd explanation for these changes.
“In an effort to continue our program of providing high-quality basic home storage products to our members at a low cost and to improve self-reliance in their homes…”
I can’t help but look at these changes and wonder how in the world does offering LESS bulk, only a smattering of other retail products, with no further access to canning equipment makes ANY home more self-reliant, unless, of course the goal is to make them wholly self-reliant without any influence, guidance, or tangible resources provided by the LDS church. To me, this major change has a whole set of clues that gives me the impression that the LDS Church sees fit to mitigate any further exposure they might have to the relentless bullies employed at the FDA, USDA, EPA, and any other government entities. “Refusing to play ball” is sometimes the only answer when reason and congruency fails to exist in a business relationship.
Do you remember the “official” statement offered by the LDS Church when I posted the breaking news article about dozens of LDS Canneries that would no longer be offering on site canning? In May, of this year, Ruth Todd, LDS spokeswoman said “Over time, we will be reducing the number of facilities where the packaging of dry goods occurs. “(the church’s) home storage centers will offer the same or additional commodities in pre-packaged form, at no additional cost.” (emphasis added) And yet here we are, only 7 months later, and the changes are even more significant than what they were presented in May. Clearly there will be NO packaging of even dry goods at 89 of their 101 facilities, and they’re clearly not keeping the “same” commodities, let alone “additional commodities” at these locations.
Are we really to believe that none of this has to do with the interference of government entities? The LDS Church is VERY frugal in their use of tithes and fast offerings, thus I’m not convinced that they suddenly have been confronted with escalating wholesale costs that they didn’t already anticipate. The 4 interviews that I’ve conducted today with LDS Church cannery insiders has led me to believe that once again, Big Brother has been a Big Bully—to the point that the LDS Church has decided that they no longer want to play ball with them at these 89 facilities. Furthermore, a recent e-mail was shared with me that originated from one of the managers of one of the canneries that would be affected by these new changes. This message comes from a LDS field office manager in Utah and specifically states that these changes were “part of the final transition of the Home Canning Centers.” (emphasis added). No such transitions were mentioned in May when my original article made its rounds through the media and garnered official statements from the LDS Church. That’s just one more reason why I’m having a hard time believing that this recent bit of news was actually planned back then as opposed to being a response to present pressures that have persisted from U.S. government inspectors.
One inside source I spoke to on the phone today had this opinion to share, “they (the U.S. Government representatives) keep changing the game. In the Spring we thought that we made enough changes to appease even the most vicious of beasts, but apparently we did not, because they still kept coming to the point that it’s no longer viable for us to operate these other locations as we have done in the past.” (To be clear, this is MERELY an opinion, and not an official statement on behalf of the LDS Church.)
I was unable to get a direct quote from anyone in the welfare department of the LDS Church, nor did I bother trying to get a straight answer from any Utah politicians. (Like they’d really tell this nobody in Orem what’s really going on?)
In my opinion, this is really a shame as these facilities have long helped the communities in which they operate for decades—both LDS and non-LDS—and have provided affordable resources to help families be more self-reliant. I’m saddened by the thought that these structures will not even begin to be utilized to their full potential now, though there’s a part of me that trusts that the Lord will turn this snag into something more wonderful just as He’s done with other seemingly disastrous events.
All this being said, there IS an opportunity here. If you live near an LDS Cannery/Home Storage Center that is transforming into one of these limited retail stores, I STRONGLY encourage you to get over there NOW so that you can take advantage of getting what bulk items and canning supplies they have left for sale and get them while you still can. My sources tell me that SOME of these items will be REMOVED instead of sold and some removed if they do not sell. So get on the stick, if you’re so inclined to “get while the gettin’s good.”
Another benefit may be exactly what was alluded to by another source I spoke with today when he said, “It’s clear to me that (these changes) are sending the message that people are going to have to stop looking at the LDS Church to take care of them and start taking responsibility for themselves.” Clearly he’s at least one person who’s looking at the good that these events may bring. I hope that others will learn from this as well, because the previous changes that took place in May have had an undeniable impact at the Home Storage Centers all over the U.S. Three sources at three different canneries in the Southeast, Midwest, and Northwest all shared the same tale of drastically reduced number of patrons at their facility. With such a small selection of goods and so few bulk items, I can’t imagine that those numbers would improve.
My sources tell me that much of the equipment that’s being removed is being sent to their regional distribution points, but I will tell you that I’ll be keeping a sharp lookout for any of the #10 canners that may make their way onto a classified ad to be sold. I’d LOVE to have one of those in my home permanently. I can dream, can’t I? Unfortunately though, I’ve just been informed that none of these items will be for sale except directly through http://store.LDS.org. But it’s at least got me wondering if there are some of these pieces of equipment that others are selling in gently used condition, so now, I’m on a mission to find one. *grin* Can’t you just imagine how much fun I would have to bring home my dry goods and put them immediately into a #10 can and seal them? Not only that, but I could consolidate all of these #10 cans of freeze-dried goods (that never take up all the space in the cans) and thus save storage space!
Lemons out of lemonade, friends.
90 Comments
Shawna · October 28, 2013 at 11:19 pm
Very telling article Kellene.
Very telling article Kellene. I am glad that I am in an area where a cannery will still be open; however, in light of information above I realize that that could change at any time. I have been wanting to visit the cannery for some time now and realize that the time of procrastination must come to an end. With that said, I will be making a trip(s) to the cannery my November goal! Thank you for the information and inspiration! You’re the best!
Denise · October 28, 2013 at 11:58 pm
OMgoodness!
OMgoodness!
Thank you for this information !
Do you know if we will still be able to purchase food from the church website?
Such as hot chocolate, ect….
Preparedness Pro · October 29, 2013 at 8:07 pm
Absolutely, Denise. That hasn
Absolutely, Denise. That hasn’t changed, as as you can see on the picture of the flyer that was inserted in this article, Hot Chocolate was included in one of the items that they are still offering.
Preparedness Pro · October 29, 2013 at 12:37 am
Denise the Home Storage
Denise,
The Home Storage Centers will still sell pre-packaged #10 cans of the reglar items listed in the article. Nothing has changed in regards to online purchases except there will be additional items available.
Lana · October 29, 2013 at 1:06 am
This is just one more way for
This is just one more way for the government to own us, not allowing us to go to the LDS stores and can for ourselves,if the government can control the food, they can pretty much control people.
Brad Graves · October 29, 2013 at 1:50 am
I’d love to visit my local
I’d love to visit my local LDS cannery, but they don’t want my volunteer time to can goods in exchange for me purchasing goods (I used to bring my son in to work for free in CO). Colorado Springs was the last place we felt welcome. Sorry Orlando, FL. It was clear they couldn’t support my family and I have taken matters into my own hands. I understand this is policy in many areas of the US. Having said that – I am aghast at the unnecessary government involvement that is forcing this VERY UPSTANDING organization to change their business practice. When does “Whole Foods” have to scale back their bulk business?
Preparedness Pro · October 29, 2013 at 4:32 am
If you’re trying to volunteer
If you’re trying to volunteer time in exchange for goods, then it’s not really volunteering, is it? It sounds more like a “job.” It’s kind of like if I pay my tithing and then tell the Lord what I expect to get in return for it.
Perky Prepping Gramma · October 29, 2013 at 5:25 am
Thank you again for being on
Thank you again for being on top of things. Since I have only ordered online so far, I will look forward to more items being available.
Alice McNiel · October 29, 2013 at 7:44 am
I think this has more to do
I think this has more to do with the state of our country at this time. Things are happening with increasing speed, and we are now only living off of borrowed time. The church has told us for years and years to get our food storage and our houses in order. I think what they are doing is more to protect those 89 stores from violent looters, and thus protecting the volunteers at those locations. They see the signs of the times, even if many of their members prefer to close their eyes to it and stay in the dark. Did anyone notice that they did not announce the building of any new temples during the last Gen. Conference? I’m sure we have a little time left, because they will finish the ones announced during previous conferences, but really that isn’t much time. I am listening and seeing what is going on in this world and seeing how it correlates to teachings from the church from decades ago, back when Ezra Taft Benson was just a new apostle. He warned quite explicitly of our day, and it is all coming true now! I highly recommend to everyone who reads this to get your affairs in order. We don’t know for sure exactly when it will all fall apart, but I guarantee you it wont be very long!
Preparedness Pro · October 29, 2013 at 8:08 pm
Hmm…I actually hadn’t
Hmm…I actually hadn’t noticed that until just now when I read your comment, Alice. Interesting.
Nancy · October 29, 2013 at 11:24 am
Thanks for the information.
Thanks for the information. Do you know if they will now add to the products you can purchase from their site, right now it is only flour, oats, pinto beans and rice. It would be great if we could get any of the new packed food from their site, it is just to hard to take off work to go to the cannery, I’m in Oklahoma and our cannery is only open on Thursday for a few hours.
Preparedness Pro · October 29, 2013 at 8:09 pm
It’s my understanding that
It’s my understanding that you will be able to purchase all of the regular retail items listed in the article (and in the photo of the formal letter that’s posted in this article as well) via the LDS website. What you might be seeing right now is simply some changes in process.
Cresley Walker · October 29, 2013 at 3:01 pm
After Hurricane Katrina food
After Hurricane Katrina food storage became part of the losses, the same food storage loss occurs in tornadoes,floods and fires. Pondering these events makes me think that the food storage system that Joseph in Egypt used with regional storage centers with foods with years of shelf-life is something to consider. We live in a very mobile society and moving your food storage would not be necessary. On a side note I own 1 square mile near Garland, Utah where I am thinking about raising buffaloes and bees and generating electricity from wind power.
Bob · October 29, 2013 at 6:47 pm
In the words of a beloved
In the words of a beloved President, “There you go again.” Get off your “look at me, I’m giving breaking news” horse and put articles in your blog that are uplifting and worthy of the influence of the Spirit. You don’t hear ANY General Authorities preaching Government interfering theories. When it is time for Church announcements, you do not have the “Calling” to make them for the Church. People can watch the news and get sensationalized reporting, use your blog for uplifting items.
Preparedness Pro · October 29, 2013 at 9:38 pm
Bob,I find it ironic that you
Bob,I find it ironic that you have the audacity to tell me what to do with my blog and more so, to tell me to use it for “uplifting items” all the while having your demands of doing so conveyed amidst your own rude and chauvinistic jabs. I believe that’s also known as “hypocritical.”
I’m sure your comments towards me have represented the LDS church well to the hundreds of thousands of non-LDS persons we have who read this blog.
I wholeheartedly encourage you to find someone else who’s willing to acknowledge you as the Great Maharajah of Blog Writing.
Perhaps it’s lost on you that the LDS Church teaches for us to judge for ourselves “between good and evil” and to “not be commanded (instructed) in all things.” You clearly have a problem with me judging the government entities as being evil and not waiting for someone else to tell me that it’s evil. I don’t wait for others to tell me how to think and fortunately, I don’t write what I do in order to please people like you.
Kert · October 31, 2013 at 12:09 am
Bob, go stick your holier
Bob, go stick your holier than thou empty head back in sand. You have that typical Mormon attitude of “If it’s evil, or unpleasant, I don’t want to hear about it or talk about it.” Grow up! If you think that the church leadership is going to direct you what to do about what is going on with all of the turmoil and corruption that is going on in the halls of government around the world your wait will be in vain. Go back to sleep you Mormon sheep. This author of this blog is imparting information that I, and I’m sure others find very useful. Stop your bleating already.
countrygirl · November 1, 2013 at 3:10 pm
I’ve been reading Kellen’s
I’ve been reading Kellen’s blog for years And sometimes I read it because she does posts on current and up to date issues. Other times I read it because she spends time researching articles to an extent, I don’t always have time to. I’m not Mormon, but I have ordered storage from the LDS website and I find this infomation relavent and important. Thanks for the post Kellen.
naty · October 29, 2013 at 6:50 pm
Hey kellene, I just called
Hey kellene, I just called our cannery to ask if this was taking affect and they said ” no” Im a little confused abt that. He was kind of p-ode at me and said it was a lie. Well I have followed you for quite a while and know that you wouldn’t lie, thus my confusion. What do you make of it? Have all the canneries been informed about this change?
Preparedness Pro · October 29, 2013 at 10:40 pm
It’s unfortunate that your
It’s unfortunate that your cannery seems to be missing out on some information. Likewise it’s unfortunate that you chose to pass along to me this person’s insulting sentiments–asserting that my information “is a lie.” I know that my day would have been just fine without being accused of such.
How am I to know if all of the canneries have been informed of this change? What I DO know is what I stated in the article in which a couple of the cannery managers I spoke to were NOT aware of these changes and had to confirm it.
I’m not confused in the least. Even without the personal interviews I was able to conduct and the in-house e-mail I was able to read, the insert of the article that was disbursed to all of the plants is very clear and it even encourages that this message be shared with all of the local Priesthood authorities. So it seems to me that there’s quite a few persons who have dropped the ball communicating clearly and timely about this matter.
I don’t know what more anyone could possible want on this. It’s pretty straightforward as it’s presented in an official LDS Church document with specific and clear language. Perhaps you should forward this to the uninformed person you spoke with who felt that this change of events somehow threatened his ego and was more important than performing his job.
Grannytraveller1 · October 30, 2013 at 4:09 am
We were informed last week at
We were informed last week at the stake center that our Bishop’s Storehouse in Colton, CA would no longer have bulk goods or canning supplies starting in November just as Kellene has stated.
naty · October 31, 2013 at 3:44 pm
My goodness Kellene! You
My goodness Kellene! You need to take a deep breath and re read my last post. I was not calling you a liar, I was actually saying that I believe you and know you would not lie to us. I have been following you for quite a while now. I was a bit confused at the canneries reaction to my call. And was wondering why they had such strong feelings against the info. I was giving them.
Preparedness Pro · November 1, 2013 at 7:21 am
Naty, I didn’t take it that
Naty, I didn’t take it that you were. I was merely attempting to point out that I would have had a better day if I hadn’t had to be the “fly on the wall”. so to speak, in hearing of the man telling you that the info you presented to him (mine) was “a lie.” I’m still human and not yet managed to find the homeopathic remedy which protects me from verbal or physical jabs.
Sorry for the miscommunication. I was simply attempting to be very open.
Lucy · October 30, 2013 at 8:06 am
Naty, it is true… I live in
Naty, it is true… I live in Houston and last Saturday was the last day for any dry packing at the Houston cannery… They will now close down for two weeks and when they reopen they will sell only the prepackaged items (and some small amount of bulk items for a short period of time.) One good thing is that, down here, they will continue to stock the mylar pouches and the oxygen absorbers so that those with impulse sealers can still get what is needed to use home pouch sealers.. From what I understand, the church will open with the limited items Kellene mentioned and then add back as many as they can for the pre packaged sales… As far as why the church hasn’t “announced” anything openly, they don’t want to make waves…. They will do things quietly and by the spirit..
Rebecca Bradbury · September 23, 2016 at 3:56 pm
A couple went to our cannery
A couple went to our cannery here. No one can can their own food or the canneries anymore. Our cannery will no longer function as a canning building. Number ten cans will not be sold there anymore. All foods will be processed in SLC in Mylar bags and shipped up here to our cannery for purchase. It’s the number 10 cans they are doing away with but will still sell the plastic lids. All this to be In place by the new year. So I can still purchase their products only now in Mylar bags. Our stake canner is still available only until Dec. sometime. My understanding is we can still purchase Mylar bags and oxygen packets for our own home use. The church needs us to be ever more independent and resourceful, and always thinking of new and different ways to accomplish our needs at little or no more increase in cost. To being innovative in ways the world is not trending. Finding ways to build our own skill set and fill our toolbox better to help each other in time of need. The last time I walked through the cannery assessing prices and comparing. I found I can get the same prices or better out in the market place. With one exception of regular rolled oats. So the canneries have been being used less and less.
Cindy Koestler · October 29, 2013 at 7:52 pm
I would like to know where
I would like to know where you are getting your information from. I am LDS and have not heard of this and actually the paper you posted that says it is from the Church offices, talks about things they are cutting in the program not the building and services themselves. Please don’t make announcements for the church and if that notice is real, not just anybody has access to it. the notice is to area plant bishops
Preparedness Pro · October 29, 2013 at 8:53 pm
Cindy, your message reminds
Cindy, your message reminds me of a Biblical story in which a person asks for a sign but then denies still when they see it.
I wasn’t aware that being LDS qualifies one as being omniscient. If it did, then perhaps this bit of news wouldn’t be as much of a surprise as it is.
In the article I’ve provided everyone with a copy of the memo in the article that was sent out and in the VERY first sentence it reads “Please share the following with leaders in your stake, wards, and branches you serve:” So no, you’re incorrect in stating “not just anybody has access to it. the (sic) notice is to area plant bishops” (sic)
Perhaps you also missed the part in the article in which I specifically stated that I spoke directly with cannery managers who had also not heard this information. Fortunately, instead of sniping at me, they simply confirmed the information.
The specifics in this article merely REPORT what the LDS Church has already stated–it has not made an announcement for them.
As for the rest of you message, I don’t believe I can respond as I’m having trouble translating what you’re saying. But what I can determine is that it isn’t kind and in response to that I invite you to refrain from joining us. I know I don’t appreciate it and I’m sure that our hundreds of thousands of readers could do without it as well.
Daniel Boone 52 · October 29, 2013 at 11:49 pm
You can revert back to Noah
You can revert back to Noah and the Ark. The wicked people did not listen to God and the floods came and wiped them out. Look at what is happening since, January of 2012. Every day, we read about hurricanes, earthquakes, the Boston Bombing, tornado’s all over the world. Yet, they do not connect that God is warning us to be prepared. People go on vacations, buy new cars, and fancy toys and yet they don’t buy any food to prepare for any type of future emergencies and water that you need to wash your body, cook with, and to drink with. Why waste Gods time and resources, if there are very few patrons that go the cannery anymore. So let the cannery be closed. As I further recall, there are only 3% Mormons that have food. There are 99% of Bishops and Stake Presidents that do not have their’ food.
Preparedness Pro · October 30, 2013 at 12:32 am
Good point!
Good point, Daniel!
Brittany · October 30, 2013 at 12:12 am
Thanks for the information.
Thanks for the information. I think both sides of the fence can agree that the hardest of times are coming our way. All of us have been warned by the Prophets, Apostles, family members and HISTORY that all good things come to an end. I have a big family and am concerned about our well being when the “you know what hits the fan” so we bought a large piece of property, have bought animals, I am in the process of collecting my seed stash and we are still working on our food storage, etc…….so everyone needs to get over your hurt feelings and get prepared. Being over prepared is always better then being under prepared.
RED · November 15, 2013 at 3:11 am
Well stated! Those of us that
Well stated! Those of us that are awake or attuned to the happenings of the world around us simply need to be encouraging the like minded to continue to prepare.
I, like you, am not Mormon. Nor do i have any religious affiliation to any dogmatic belief system, but i have never come across any LDS member who was not helpful, supportive and even keeled. I have great respect for their members!
Unfortunately these services will be greatly missed. It afforded many inside and outside the LDS an opportunity to provide for ourselves in times of uncertainty.
Pricing tin can sealers is a bit disheartening. Expensive to say the least.
L. roberge · October 30, 2013 at 12:16 am
I am very sad and angry over
I am very sad and angry over this government harassment.
I live in western Massachusetts and the Worcester, MA site was wonderful. I used to be able to the get a lot of stuff there.
Do you know if they will sell off their equipment? Any place that would sell it off-will it be listed?
I am so sorry for this.
I hope God turns things around soon.
God bless.
Lawrence
Preparedness Pro · October 30, 2013 at 12:34 am
As I sadly discovered, they
As I sadly discovered, they made it clear to me that it would not be for sale. I suspect they have plans for other uses for it in the future. Perhaps make it available to borrow from the local churches? That would be nice. 🙂
Lucy · October 30, 2013 at 8:16 am
Kellene, from what I have
Kellene, from what I have heard, they will be using the dry pack sealers to do the pre packaged items up in Utah.. I might be wrong, but this is what I have heard…
E · October 30, 2013 at 9:16 pm
Lawrence, our last trip
Lawrence, our last trip (after the first round of changes had been announced) they confirmed the changes and said they would only be offering a small selection of bulk foods and the #10 cans of food. They were trying to make a positive about it and for the public, it will mean quicker service, more room for product and the convenience of #10 cans in quantities they didn’t have room for. Also instead of scheduling a vist for bulk items or canning, you just go in an pick up cans. I feel for the Mormons who labored and gave service helping to stock the Bisho’s Pantry for those who needed it. We can live with this, they still have some of the best prices around!
Preparedness Pro · October 30, 2013 at 10:11 pm
Just to be clear, E, these
Just to be clear, E, these changes are not attached to The Bishop’s Storehouse. That is a welfare program for members in the LDS church who can receive food and some other essentials in times of great need.
Nick · October 30, 2013 at 1:29 am
Kellene, can you recommend
Kellene, can you recommend canning equipment similar to that used in the LDS canneries? I’d like to can my dry goods so I can have smaller-volume containers than 5-gallon mylar bags of rice, beans, etc. Got any links for canning equipment?
Preparedness Pro · October 30, 2013 at 3:15 am
We put a hyperlink in the
We put a hyperlink in the article for where folks can purchase that kind of equipment, however, in the meantime, I’m going to be scouring the classifieds, Craig’s list, and E-bay. I think that’s what I’m going to ask Santa for this year. 🙂
Shelby · November 3, 2013 at 2:55 pm
Kellene I purchased a dry
Kellene I purchased a dry pack canner from Gerring and Sons a few years ago, it is the same as the take home canner from the Home Centers. I know someone will ask, it was about a thousand dollars.
Sarah · October 30, 2013 at 4:46 am
So, if I bought onions or
So, if I bought onions or carrots in bulk, could I store them in a food grade bucket with an oxygen absorber and would they still last the 25 years or so? Luckily, IF will still be open. Also, what are spaghetti bites? Would bulk milk store well in a bucket if I can contact my cannery before Nov 1st?
Preparedness Pro · October 30, 2013 at 4:57 am
Nope, you’ll want to vacuum
Nope, you’ll want to vacuum seal them with a FoodSaver or store then in a mylar bag. Oxygen still leaches in plastic, so plastic is NOT ideal for storing foods long-term unless you want them to get a bit of oxygen (such as with whole grains and seeds.)
I have no idea what spaghetti bites are.
And the bulk milk will need to be stored in glass, metal, or mylar as well in order to get any shelf-life that’s worth while.
Mitch · October 30, 2013 at 5:01 am
I go around and around
I go around and around thinking about the “why” of closing the canneries. Finally I have come to the realization that the reason is not for us to fully understand. We have been counseled for over a half a century to get our food supplies. And as Daniel mentioned above, most church members – even bishops and stake authorities do not have theirs. The parable of the virgins and their oil lamps comes to mind. They knew better, they were warned and aware, but they didn’t do what was required of them to be truly prepared and so they had the door closed on them when the time came. Maybe this is our trial at the last minute to see if we can continue on – working at it the best that we can. And those who are truly sincere and refuse to give in or give up, continuing on in even the little ways they can, will be rewarded and blessed when that time comes?
Cheryl · October 30, 2013 at 11:31 am
Your Home Storage Center must
Your Home Storage Center must offer more than the price list posted on providentliving.org because the list of foods in the letter is identical to the foods listed on the order form which is identical to what has always been offered in the Houston HSC. We will still have the same foods (nothing less) but now they will be mostly in #10 cans instead of bulk.
Randy · October 30, 2013 at 1:24 pm
Thank you for this
Thank you for this information. I must admit, though, I’m confused by the copyright notice you placed on an image that already bears a copyright notice.
Preparedness Pro · October 30, 2013 at 8:38 pm
Yep, Randy. That’s a snafu.
Yep, Randy. That’s a snafu. We have it set to automatically populate when pictures are posted, but now that we know that’s an issue we can fix it. 🙂
Lynn · October 30, 2013 at 1:54 pm
I want to you thank you
I want to you thank you Kellene because of discovering you last year I was able to accumulate several boxes of rice, sugar, wheat, all 3 beans, milk, carrots, onions, oats & potatoes. 2 weeks ago on you notice from you I went to the cannery to can more items and I was still able to can potatoes. They didn’t say anything about them changing but am sending my daughter there today to get oxygen absorbers, bags, & lids. I must say they also didn’t have most items avalilable to can and he said just as you said they wouldn’t have them in. so here’s hoping we can still order the full gammet as I do need to add more to my storage. Have a years worth but you never know. Plus prices like these is money in the bank come later. Thank again for the heads up!
Danelle · October 30, 2013 at 2:38 pm
Hi Kellene,
Hi Kellene,
Thank you for the information. It’s truly a “sign of the times” and a sign of things to come. It’s all coming faster than I imagined, and the powers that be are not truly in our corner. I believe that many in office began their career with the best of intentions but something happened along the way to corrupt them or to make them complacent (another form of corruption), but that’s beside the point. I believe what you say.
When I first started reading your blogs (a couple years ago when I got serious about becoming self sufficient) I researched everything you wrote to make sure you were on the up-and-up and learned you were a reliable source for information. Many of your topics, as you state often, are your ways to do things and there are other ways, but I have noticed that your ways are usually easier for me as well. This made you even more important to me as an online resource. For this I truly thank you. You have taught me a great deal, and I trust you.
I am so sorry that people feel the need to attack that which they don’t understand, or the bearer of that which they don’t understand. Fear and desperation make people say and do things they wouldn’t normally do. This doesn’t excuse the attacks on you, but it does help me to remember this about people, so I will be able to reply to them better. I want to thank you also for the way you have handled things in the comments. I know it cannot be easy.
You’re a truly classy lady that anyone would be proud to call friend. You’ve been blessed with a teacher’s heart, and I wonder if this makes others intimidated by you, those who have a calling but are too timid to step-out into it. I am one of the people who understands how brave you truly are to say the things others can’t or choose not to say. An ex-president (I think it was Kennedy) said something along the lines of A man of integrity has nothing to prove. Time will do so for him. I keep thinking this every time I see someone attacked for telling their beliefs or even just saying the truth of what’s going on around them.
Keep up the good work please. You do make a difference to a lot of people, whether anyone ever gets a chance to really tell you how much change you have caused or not.
Make it a great day!
Preparedness Pro · October 30, 2013 at 8:28 pm
Thank you SO much for you
Thank you SO much for you very kind words and for taking the time to share the with me (us).
Preparedness Pro · October 30, 2013 at 3:02 pm
Thank you for your kind and
Thank you for your kind and thoughtful words. They are much appreciated. You are the reason we do this.
HP · October 30, 2013 at 9:20 pm
Kellene- I’m so sorry you
Kellene- I’m so sorry you have to deal with the “mean kids” on this! I research what you post and you work very hard not to give questionable info! I appreciate what you do!
Preparedness Pro · October 30, 2013 at 10:44 pm
Thanks, HP!
Thanks, HP!
tess · October 31, 2013 at 11:54 am
I agree, non Morman, but on
I agree, non Morman, but on all the blogs I go to, even Christian. backbiting. I think they all need to read the KJV Book of James among others. Thank you for Prep Pro for your
info Blessings to you
Kolleen DeGraff · October 30, 2013 at 9:48 pm
This just makes me sad on so
This just makes me sad on so many levels! Personally because this wonderful resource will be limited and because of what it says about the times we live in.
For those who are doubting you, let me just say to them that time and time again, when Kellene has broken stories such as this, they have turned out to be true. There have been times, when I too, thought – WHAT?! But she does her research and she doesn’t go for shock value. And it ends up being true.
I know it is uncomfortable to be faced with signs of the times but we are living in those times and it’s better to be forewarned and be proactive than to be caught unawares and empty-handed. So thank you, Kellene, for being brave and willing to sound a “warning voice”. For this reader and so many others, it is very appreciated!
Preparedness Pro · October 30, 2013 at 10:45 pm
Thanks, K.!!!
Thanks, K.!!!
Cathe · October 30, 2013 at 10:03 pm
Please continue with your
Please continue with your awesome work. Don’t let a few people with ugly words stop you. I agree with Danielle and I do appreciate all your hard work. Thank you.
Preparedness Pro · October 30, 2013 at 10:45 pm
Thank you very much, Cathe. :
Thank you very much, Cathe. 🙂
Glenda · October 30, 2013 at 11:04 pm
I appreciate the update on
I appreciate the update on this Kellene. May I quote you re: products still available, bulk or otherwise in my “Bargain Blast” to folks?
Kathy Fitzgarrald · October 30, 2013 at 11:51 pm
While it is certainly
While it is certainly possible to believe that our Government has something to do with this, I wonder if there may be another reason: About one month ago I took a friend up to the Heber City Girls’ Camp. I asked one of the Missionaries at the Camp whether additional cabins had been built during the summer. She said, “No, our funds are currently on hold because of the influx of missionaries into the field.”
For the past 2-3 years, the Lindon Cannery has cut back hours and personnel at Dry Pack, because the purchases of product, and requests to “can” have declined considerably. If the Church is reserving funds for the Missionary Program, is it possible the same action may apply to the canneries?
Stealth Spaniel · October 31, 2013 at 12:18 am
Wow! I am shocked (!!) at
Wow! I am shocked (!!) at this news. This just proves what I have suspected; the government is working to make us indentured slaves. This is just one more way for people to not be able to prepare for hard times. It is shameful indeed.
I hope everyone keeps preparing-if it is only $5 at a time. It is important to follow God’s directive.
Thank you for doing the hard work Kellene. You have had the nerve to speak the truth, and that is more important than ever!
Mary · October 31, 2013 at 2:52 am
Food Preservation is a
Food Preservation is a process that can really endanger people if not done properly. I can’t help but wonder if this whole thing is to reduce the risk for food poisoning? Perhaps that was the rub in the whole thing?. I always worried that someone would turn around and sue them for their generosity. It sounds like you really tried to verify everything, but I do understand why people would be concerned that you were making an announcement about a Church that you don’t belong too. People are sensitive about these things, as I’m sure you noticed. (I am not LDL by the way). That’s no excuse for rudeness though.
Kitty · October 31, 2013 at 4:47 am
My husband and I are serving
My husband and I are serving a church service mission at the bishop’s storehouse in Stockton CA. I can tell you from personal experience that the government regulations are insane. Missionaries and volunteers are no longer allowed to cook lunch in the kitchen, we can’t trim the ends off broccoli stalks because that would be “food processing”, and so many more stupid things. It’s my belief that this is why things are being shut down. Thank you, Kellene, for your INCREDIBLY valuable information. I greatly appreciate all you do.
Preparedness Pro · November 1, 2013 at 7:34 am
Thanks for sharing your view,
Thanks for sharing your view, K.H.
Brad · October 31, 2013 at 5:42 am
This turn of events may be a
This turn of events may be a set back for some but in my opinion, the #10 cans are not my first choice in bulk storage. I buy six gallon mylar bags that will store 50 lbs of grain. A good source for these bags is: sorbentsystems.com. I exclude the oxygen with CO2 from a tank I use for welding. Seven of the 1500cc oxygen absorbers will also do the trick. The storehouse has super cheap prices on these oxy packets. It also kills insects and eggs in short order. I have an impulse sealer but the bags are easily sealed up with an ordinary clothes iron. The bags are then packed into 55 gallon open top barrels, the lid placed on with gasket and clamp. Silicone is used to thoroughly seal the bottom rim of the rolled steel barrels. There is much less labor and money needed to store food this way. This method uses less space in your storage room than cans. I can get 40% more food for the same money as compared to the Bishop’s Storehouse can sealing strategy. Some items are cheaper at Bp’s Storehouse but others are much more expensive than local warehouse stores. The storehouse is non-profit but also rather inefficient. Rice is shipped from Arkansas, to SLC, then a truck is hired to ship it to California. It is packed in little boxes all adding unnecessary costs. We live right here in rice country where it can be purchased in bulk from local growers and elevators. Beans are a screaming bargain here in the “bean belt” also. Almonds, wheat, dried prunes, all are grown here and if some ingenuity is put to the task there is no need to go to the storehouse.
I have put together about 150 barrels of food this way for others and our members and others have socked away some real tonnage at bargain prices.
Please do not take my next comment to be a criticism but only as a warning. The potato pearls are unfit for human consumption. The fats, at least in the past, have been partially hydrogenated oils–trans fats. They are destructive to your good health. They do damage to veins and arteries. Bad stuff. I know they are tasty but so is lard. They are much worse than coffee, tea, wine with dinner, and a good cigar afterward. I am surprised that the church offers them. Someone back there is not doing his homework. Being in the food business, they should inform themselves as to how damaging they are.
I thank you for your good work. –brad
I
Preparedness Pro · November 1, 2013 at 7:34 am
I agree that hydrogenated
I agree that hydrogenated oils are bad for you and I haven’t purchased any foods containing this in some time, but I’m still making my way through what I have. (My policy is that I can eat what I want each day, in moderation, until that time, so long as I eat what I MUST each day for ideal nutrition.)
However, you should know that lard is not the evil nemesis that the medical community has attempted to make it out to be. 🙂 I do render and store it and use it regularly for that reason.
I do wish that more people who were in the food business were in the business of nutrition, but I suppose that that would infringe on people’s freedoms to choose and I uphold those freedoms most of all.
Packaged Chaos · October 31, 2013 at 8:07 am
The website for the store is
The website for the store is down for maintenance as of 0306 CST on 10/31/13. Looks like the information here is good. Keep up the good work on the blog.
Christian · October 31, 2013 at 8:10 am
“It’s clear to me that (these
“It’s clear to me that (these changes) are sending the message that people are going to have to stop looking at the LDS Church to take care of them and start taking responsibility for themselves.”
Not the right way of looking at it. AT ALL. The Church has, since 1830, wanted people to take responsibility for themselves. The bishop’s storehouse stuff is only meant to be for brief periods of time when the vicissitudes of life genuinely overwhelm a person’s ability to do so.
Preparedness Pro · November 1, 2013 at 6:17 am
Um, why is it that you feel
Um, why is it that you feel that we’re saying completely different things?? I say that the message is that we need to be more self-reliant and you say that we need to be more self-reliant. *smh*
Also, you are confusing the Bishop’s Storehouse with the Canneries/Home Storage Centers. They are indeed very different. While the Bishop’s Storehouses do stock many of the cannery items, they will not be impacted otherwise by this change. People have been able to PURCHASE from the cannery at great prices for a long time, whereas the Bishop’s Storehouses are used to provide goods FREE of charge to LDS families who have a temporary need.
Christian · November 1, 2013 at 7:19 am
You probably mean right, but
You probably mean right, but when you say, “It’s clear to me that (these changes) are sending the message that people are going to have to stop looking at the LDS Church to take care of them and start taking responsibility for themselves,” it implies that the Church didn’t teach responsibility before.
And I might’ve been using “bishop’s storehouse” as a loose catchall for all the welfare services.
Preparedness Pro · November 1, 2013 at 7:24 am
Do you have any idea how many
Do you have any idea how many LDS people actually think that when things go south that they will have the right to expect the Church to take care of them? The numbers of people who just don’t grasp the meaning of self-reliance is staggering–especially for a faith that should know better given how long self-reliance has been preached.
Christian · November 1, 2013 at 11:08 pm
I agree. On this and on other
I agree. On this and on other points there can sometimes be a discrepancy between what the Church teaches and what the members believe.
Lux · October 31, 2013 at 8:13 am
For what it’s worth….
For what it’s worth….
Here is what you can get (non perishable food) for about $80.00 at my local wal-Mart:
40 cans of Vienna sausage
7 big boxes of oat meal (Big, 2 pounds 12 oz.)
27 cans of spaghetti and meat balls.
74 Noodles and vegetables (like Cup O Noodles)
25 cans of tuna
80 Ramen Noodle Soup (no cup and no vegetables)
60 bags of macaroni, 7 oz.
13 cans of Progresso Soup
Here is the story:
http://beforeitsnews.com/survival/2013/10/wal-mart-prepper-food-run-2496058.html
Preparedness Pro · November 1, 2013 at 7:22 am
Yeah, BIN clearly missed the
Yeah, BIN clearly missed the whole point on “being prepared” to thrive instead of dying a painful death via a lack of nutrition and clogged arteries. 🙁
Bruce · October 31, 2013 at 2:44 pm
Kellene thank you for being
Kellene thank you for being truthful and not being able to be bullied to hide the truth. Nov 4 will mark the 6th anniversary of me being dead for 9 minutes and being revived. Since that event I have seen and been “prompted” of things that scare the living daylights out of me. I have been begging and imploring people for 3 years to start or add to their food storage as much as possible. Prior to that it was other things. Every time I have been prompted to implore my friends and family to add to something invariably within a year or two the costs of those items and availability has been hard. I believe that we aren’t even seeing the tip of the iceberg yet. I cannot impress upon my friends and family enough how vital it is to have their families and friends both spiritually and temporally prepared for the tribulations that are coming to our nation. Sometimes I can’t even sleep at night knowing what I have seen and been told by the spirit. Thank you for helping us all to have the information of what is going on, TRUTHFUL information. The signs are there for anyone who prays to the spirit for guidance.
Preparedness Pro · November 1, 2013 at 7:25 am
Sounds like that might have
Sounds like that might have been the most important 9 minutes of your life, Bruce. Thanks for sharing!
Daniel Freeman · October 31, 2013 at 5:00 pm
Kellene, I always appreciate
Kellene, I always appreciate the timely information you provide and your insightful words, very refreshing.
The local Home Storage Center here in Concord, CA still has the Loaner Canner at their facility until April 1, 2014. I have never used that before, but maybe I should try, now that they are going away.
My location is only open 2 days of the week and every 3rd Saturday. Better get my list ready for Saturday!
Thank you again for everything you do!
Mark Kemp · October 31, 2013 at 5:22 pm
Kellene, Thanks so much for
Kellene, Thanks so much for this article. It is so sad, as the church has provided such a need for many families. The only good news of the story is 7 of the remaining offices that remain open will be in Utah, and all the closest ones to us are still going to stay open, at least for a few months more. Thanks for sharing Kellene, you are always the best.
Mark
Preparedness Pro · November 1, 2013 at 6:13 am
Mark, keep in mind the Bishop
Mark, keep in mind the Bishop Storehouses are not impacted by this and they will serve their purposes.
sherry · October 31, 2013 at 7:44 pm
Very sad when we are
Very sad when we are guaranteed under the US Constitution our freedom to practice what we believe in being prepared. Ours is closing Nov 1st 2013 tomorrow. Everyday our freedom is being taken away from us.
Preparedness Pro · November 1, 2013 at 5:58 am
Sherry, is yours closing
Sherry, is yours closing completely??
lillymerx · October 31, 2013 at 8:20 pm
Kallene, Thanks for the info.
Kallene, Thanks for the info. Scary thoughts, but helpful for all of us to get busy.
Stevie C · October 31, 2013 at 8:21 pm
I wrote a comment on the site
I wrote a comment on the site earlier and I’m not sure if it didn’t show up because it needs approval or if I didn’t publish it correctly. Apologies if this is a duplicate!
This change was discussed in ward council a little over a month ago. The reason for the changes are simple- our facilities no longer meet FDA requirements to prevent cross contamination and possible food allergen problems. To re-outfit ALL of the canneries would run to the tune of multi-millions of dollars in ventilation and filtering equipment. As we all know, the church runs itself as a business as well, and basic cost accounting show that it would be safer and infinitely more cost effective to choose a few of the busier and larger facilities, and update them to better provide mass quantities to be distributed to outlying retail centers and through online ordering. * Plus if there were a serious allergic reaction due to cross contamination, not only would the church be legally liable, it could affect its future ability to process foods, PERIOD. By centralizing operations, problems can more easily be caught and contained than they are in the current model (this part right here is all just my assumption, not part of what was read)* As far as the carrots and onions, the church has found those have to be specifically canned on one day while NOTHING else is canned as many of the other food items take on their stronger flavors when multiple things were canned at the same time. So by having people order those in advance, the centers can schedule how many days it will need to process just those quantities. While everything else is put on pause.
Just FOOD for thought (ha, ha!) This is just what I remember from the letter, so there may be more to it than that, but the idea that the government is purposefully shutting down our canneries in some act of control or spite strikes me as a little conspiracy theorist as opposed to the official (and more understandable) reasons given to the wards.
Also, this may not be the official stance of the church, I am not a church spokesman, and I may have remembered something incorrectly, and blah blah blah. Oh, and yes, I probably spelled something wrong 😉
Preparedness Pro · October 31, 2013 at 9:03 pm
Glenda we love when people
Glenda we love when people quote us as long as they are giving due credit to where it belongs. The products that are available are in the article. Thank you for asking. (by C for Prep Pro)
Chris Burns · October 31, 2013 at 9:09 pm
Mary people do write about
Mary people do write about things they are not affiliated with all the time, but that being said I know first hand that Kellene is indeed LDS and very thorough in her research. I work at one of the Home Storage Centers and I know that what she has stated is truth.
Rodney Hendricks II · October 31, 2013 at 10:14 pm
I appreciate the information
I appreciate the information that has been presented here and I’m glad we have sources to remind us of this information or let us know when we miss something. I’ve never been to this site before but I have to say after reading the article I was disappointed with the attitudes that people took towards each other. We can all have differing opinions but insults are not needed. I know this is not my blog and I don’t wish to act as it is. All I’m saying is remember everyone is entitled to their own opinion, we are all brothers and sisters and should always, always treat each other as our Heavenly Father’s children as Christ did. Again thank you for the information.
Jan · November 3, 2013 at 11:42 pm
I appreciate all the hard
I appreciate all the hard work you put in to your articles and the information is always helpful. For whatever reason the church is curtailing its cannery work it will impact many and not for the good. It was a way to get a variety of good food at reasonable prices, and not have to pay extras like shipping charges that other companies charge. Also for many in the church it was a way to provide service for our fellowman. Keep up the good work.
April · November 4, 2013 at 8:59 pm
Hi,
Hi,
I shared this info. with my son in-law, who is a counselor in his stake presidency. He is quite “in the box” so to speak, and if it doesn’t come from the “brethren”, then it is not true. I have friends and relatives who have said the canneries in their areas are downsizing big time. He still said, until the brethren announce it publicly not the case. I was told not to believe everything I read on the internet. btw… just to clarify.. I don;t believe everything I read on the internet! 🙂
Can you give me any real source to your information, that would have credibility with someone like my son in-law?
Thank you for your time.
Preparedness Pro · November 5, 2013 at 2:54 am
April, it sounds like your
April, it sounds like your son-in-law is one of many who have failed to get the notification (which is a problem that I brought up in this article specificallywith regards to this bit of news)
Perhaps you missed the insert photo (see right, near the first paragraph) that is a copy of the letter with the LDS Church letterhead which CLEARLY states that this information is to be shared with local authorities. This matter is a bit micro for “the brethren” to address when it’s already being addressed by those that they’ve put in the positions to handle this. What more “real source” of information do you want besides a letter directly FROM the LDS church??
For information that specifically reinforces the photo letter you can go to providentliving.org and look under “Home storage centers” as “the brethren” have seen fit to announce the information there ALSO. I’ve provided the link here so you are sure not to miss it. http://providentliving.org/self-reliance/food-storage/home-storage-center-order-form?lang=eng
I don’t believe everything I read on the internet either, but I’m also not fool enough to overstep that caution to the point where I dismiss truth simply because it’s ON the internet–especially when it comes from a valid and proven to be reliable source such as Preparedness Pro., and especially considering how much “the brethren” are in favor of using the internet for all kinds of good works. Unlike many of my articles, I left no room for doubt on the veracity of the information as it relates directly to the changes in the canneries by providing the copy of the letter/email from the LDS Church dated Oct. 23rd and the only portion of the article which offers a mere opinion is “WHY” these changes are taking place.
Kimberly · November 6, 2013 at 9:16 pm
As usual, I am late to the
As usual, I am late to the game!
Thankfully, I am not late to storing and preparing for the future.
While I personally enjoyed the bulk purchasing and the canning facility tools, I know I’m in the minority. When you look at how many members (not even talking about non-members at this point) would actually utilize the resources I’m sure it’s a very small percentage (guess, no facts here).
I think the #10 cans are more convenient for many who were overwhelmed by the whole idea of bulk. Also, I know of MANY people who would tell me that they wanted to store items, but just didn’t have the time to can it. Personally I found that sad because it never took us that long since we went at least once a month to pick up something, but that’s just me.
I hope that those who haven’t been storing will change their ways. I hope they will find comfort in what is being offered and actually use it. For me, I will find other sources for some items I use heavily and prefer to store in pails, but I will still keep getting some items like milk that I prefer in #10 cans.
Your message isn’t lost on those of us who have been preparing. I hope that those who haven’t will look on the sunny side and start preparing.
Mark · March 10, 2015 at 8:56 pm
Msg to Kellene Bishop — I
Msg to Kellene Bishop — I read your comment …
“(Thank goodness though that they have brought back their potato pearls. I can eat those directly out of the can—they are that good!)
QUESTION: “… out of the can…” ??? I thought Potato Pearls only comes in a paper package? And… as a result, the shelf life is a rather short 12-18 months … must be rotated! ( eaten, replaced ).
Preparedness Pro · March 12, 2015 at 7:26 am
All of my potato pearls are
All of my potato pearls are in the #10 can.
Dawn · June 7, 2015 at 2:58 pm
Thank you – I live in England
Thank you – I live in England and accident or not was scrolling and got this page. I have store cupboard and last week spoke to both my daughters re storing, not just food. Clothing, shoes, medical all sorts. I really believe a big monetary crash is coming. I do have storage space if not canning equipment.
Comments are closed.