pretty sure the sure gel is fresh but I'll certainly check before the next batch. I think you may be on to something with the processing. my instructions are very vague and it was just dump it all together and boil for 1min. later instructions said bring it back to a boil which made no sense. part of the troubleshooting said be careful of under or over cooking the pectin. thanks for the pointer and info now its off to the berry patch
Mike B.