Casing
Casings are regulated by USDA FSIS. Natural casings (animal intestines) are food-grade, traditional; collagen casings are derived from animal hide.
What it is
Tubular material used to encase sausages and processed meats; can be natural (animal intestine), collagen, cellulose, or plastic.
Encases sausage filling, shapes the product, allows smoking and drying.
Why it's flagged
- umbrella term covering multiple materials
- collagen casings are animal-derived (relevant for some diets)
- plastic casings should not be eaten
What regulators actually say
"Sausage casings can be natural (made from intestines of animals) or manufactured from collagen, cellulose, or plastic."
"Indirect food additives: adhesives and components of coatings - Part 175 includes cellulose casing materials."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Generally regulated under USDA FSIS for meat products; cellulose casings under 21 CFR 175.105 (food contact)
European Union — EFSA
Various materials regulated under food contact and additives rules
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