Casings are an important part of the production of cured meat products, from sausages to deli meats. They help products retain their form during the production, cooking and cooling processes. If it’s a natural casing, it can help a sausage deliver a satisfying “snap.” Some casings can even impart a flavor to the meat during the cooking process. Casings could be natural, collagen or made with plastic, and they could be peeled off prior to packaging or edible. The type of casing a processor chooses will depend on the consumer’s customer base.

Ingredients play many important roles in a meat product. They can, in the case of cheese, peppers or a marinade, create a flavor combination that appeals to consumers. The types of ingredients that can be added as an inclusion to a product like a sausage or a snack stick are varied, and processors are encouraged to experiment to develop creative new flavors.

Functional ingredients like phosphates or nitrites do not contribute to the taste of a product, but they can provide important benefits such as increased product quality, enhanced food safety measures or increased shelf life. There are also natural alternatives to those established ingredients for consumers who are looking for “clean-label” solutions. Other products that fit into this category are batters and breadings, sweeteners, starches and extenders.

Packaging plays many roles. The obvious use is to protect the meat from external contamination. A good retail package provides visual appeal that catches the consumers’ eye and provides the information that they want to know. In the case of modified-atmosphere packaging, it can prevent spoilage and extend shelf life.

Packaging types and materials are constantly evolving, and processors need to keep abreast of current packaging trends. Sustainability is more important than ever before, and consumers are looking to get away from the traditional, non-recyclable packaging materials of the past. Thanks to the latest in packaging technologies, it’s possible to deliver visually attractive packages that minimize waste and maintain product integrity.

www.provisoneronline.com   |   APRIL 2022