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When it comes to manufacturing sausages, casing selection is an essential factor to take into consideration. Casings are basically the outer layer of the sausage that holds the meat together, and as such, they serve a crucial role in creating the texture and flavor of the final product. Sheep casings are one of the most popular casings used in the sausage industry due to their unique characteristics. Here is why sheep casings are so popular:
Sheep Casings are Versatile
Sheep casings are known for their versatility, making them one of the most preferred options for producers of different types of sausages. They can be used in a wide range of sausage varieties, including breakfast sausages, cooked sausages, and smoked sausages. Their compatibility with different types of meat and flavorings give manufacturers greater flexibility in producing sausages that are tailored to different customer preferences.
Sheep Casings are Small and Easy to Handle
Sheep casings are thin and small, usually measuring around 22-26mm in diameter. This makes them an ideal choice for producers who want to create small sausages such as breakfast links. Additionally, they are much easier to handle than some of the larger casings, which can be challenging to work with during the stuffing process. Their small size also makes them ideal for creating natural casings for sausages that require a casing small enough to be tied on one end.
Sheep Casings are Edible and Add Flavor to the Sausage
Sheep casings are one of the few types of casings that can be eaten along with the sausage. They are made from natural collagen fibers and are usually cooked along with the sausage, creating a casing that is chewy and adds a unique flavor to the sausage. The natural flavors of the casing blend with those of the meat, creating a final product that is rich in flavor and often preferred by customers who prefer a natural taste. Compared to synthetic casings, sheep casings have a less pronounced taste and are less likely to overpower the flavors of the meat and spices used in the sausage.
Sheep Casings Are Available in Different Grades
Sheep casings come in different grades, ranging from A to D, which are used to classify the overall quality of the casings. The grading system is based on various factors, including the size, color, and thickness of the casings. Typically, the highest quality sheep casings are used for premium sausages while the lower grades are used in sausages that are sold at lower prices. The grading system helps ensure that the quality of the sausage casing is consistent, which is important in maintaining the quality of the final product.
Sheep Casings are Environmentally Friendly
Sheep casings are made from natural collagen fibers, making them an environment-friendly option in comparison to other types of casings, which are made from synthetic materials. The production of synthetic casings is known for its environmental pollution, and the disposal of synthetic casings often results in environmental contamination. On the other hand, sheep casings are biodegradable and do not pose any environmental risks. Using sheep casings in sausage production also reflects the growing trend of environmentally sustainable practices in the food industry.
Conclusion
Sheep casings are a popular choice in the sausage industry due to their unique characteristics. They are versatile, small and easy to handle, edible, available in different grades, and environmentally friendly. Choosing the right sausage casing is an important step that can affect the texture, flavor, and overall quality of the final product. Manufacturers who opt to use sheep casings in their sausage production enjoy greater flexibility and can cater to a wider range of customer preferences.