Sausage has been around for a long time. People originally made it to stop meat from spoiling. Sausage-making started around 1500 BC, with the Babylonians and ancient Chinese leading the way. Back then, people used animal intestines as casings for the meat. Today, we have synthetic options. These days most commercial sausages are made from synthetic casings. Before you make your own sausage, or just want to know what you’re eating, it’s helpful to learn about the differences between natural sausage casings vs. artificial sausage casings.

For South Africans, Boerewors is the sausage of choice. Natural casings made from sheep intestines are the gold standard. These casings give Boerewors its authentic taste and texture. The natural collagen in these casings helps hold the sausage’s shape, making it perfect for grilling over a braai. While there are artificial casings, natural ones remain the top choice for those who love that traditional, rich flavour. Ultimately, choosing between natural and artificial casings depends on what you value in terms of taste, appearance, and the sausage-making process. For many Boerewors fans, it’s hard to beat the real thing.

Natural Casings vs. Artificial Casings: Key Differences

Butchers and local stores often base their decision on two choices: natural or artificial casings on the specific type of sausage being made. Natural casings are highly prized for their ability to improve taste and give a classic, country-style appearance. The sausage's porous structure permits smoke and seasoning to permeate, leading to a more intense and flavourful taste. Even though natural casings may need to be handled with more care, they are the top choice for artisanal sausages that prioritise quality and authenticity.

Synthetic casings, created from substances such as collagen, cellulose, or plastic, are convenient for butchers prioritising efficiency and uniformity. Collagen casings offer improved size and weight control, making them perfect for high-volume production while maintaining consistency. Cellulose and plastic are well-suited for products with no smoking or high production rates, providing durability and strength during the entire process. Even though certain artificial casings must be taken off before eating, their reliability is what makes them a go-to for butchers who need to get things right.

Advantages of Natural Sausage Casing

• Natural look and texture
• Excellent for holding shape during cooking
• Permeable to smoke, enhancing flavour

Drawbacks of Natural Sausage Casing

• Prone to breakage if not handled properly
• Requires refrigeration and careful storage
• Limited to certain lengths and sizes

Artificial Sausage Casing

Artificial sausage casings came about in the early 1900s. They were created because there was a need for more durable and consistent casings. These are made from materials like collagen, cellulose, and plastic. Some artificial casings are edible, but others need to be removed before eating. Learn more about our fibrous sausage casings here.

Collagen casings are the oldest type of artificial casing. They are made from the hides, bones, and tendons of cows and pigs. Collagen casings are often used because they’re cheaper and easier to work with. They provide consistency in size and are a great option for large-scale sausage production. 

Benefits of Artificial Sausage Casing

• Durable and less prone to breaking
• Consistent in size and length
• Easier to store, no refrigeration needed for most types

Cons of Artificial Sausage Casing

• Not as permeable as natural casings
• May lack the same traditional flavour and texture
• Some types are not edible

Conclusion

At Freddy Hirsch, we’ve been providing sausage casings to South African butchers and local stores for years. Whether you need natural casings for traditional flavours or artificial ones, we have you covered. Our casings are designed to meet your specific needs and ensure top quality. When you choose us, you get premium products from a supplier who understands your business challenges. Let us help you create sausages your customers will love!