Casing Faults

Natural, collagen, cellulose, fibrous and plastic casings respond differently to soaking, stuffing, heat, smoke and drying. The product and casing must be treated as one system.

Incorrect soaking, temperature, orientation, storage or handling can weaken, stiffen or contaminate casings before filling.

Excess pressure, wrong horn, air, sharp edges and poor linking or clipping can split or damage the casing. Underfilling can promote wrinkles and weak contact.

Heat, rapid drying, smokehouse contact and moisture gradients can harden, peel or separate the casing from the filling.

Record casing type and lot, preparation, calibre, pressure, break position and time of onset. Distinguish manufacturing damage from later drying or storage effects.

Specify preparation and fill range, maintain equipment, inspect closures and manage heat and drying. Exposed or contaminated product requires separate disposition, not cosmetic patching.