ANTIFUGAL FOR CASING BATH FOR CURED SAUSAGES
The production of sausages requires specific processes to ensure the safety and quality of the final product. One of the most important stages is the treatment of the casings used for stuffing.
Traditionally, chemical additives such as sorbate have been used to protect these casings from microbiological issues, especially fungal growth. However, the food industry is increasingly seeking natural solutions.
At Amerex Ingredients, we offer Biamex YM, a natural alternative to sorbate for antifungal treatment in sausage casings. Below, we answer some of the most common questions about the use of casings and additives in this process.
What types of casings are used in sausage production?
In the sausage industry, two main types of casings are used:
- Natural casings: These are obtained from the intestines of animals like pigs, sheep, or cattle. Natural casings have the advantage of allowing the sausage to breathe, which contributes to the development of traditional flavors and textures. Additionally, they are typically more elastic, making the stuffing process easier.
- Artificial casings: These are made from materials such as collagen, cellulose, or plastics. They are mainly used in industrial sausage production due to their uniformity and ease of handling. They are a more economical option and are available in different thicknesses and lengths, adapting to various types of meat products.
What chemical additives are used for antifugal bath?
Casings, whether natural or artificial, require specific treatment (an antifugal bath) to prevent the proliferation of microorganisms that could affect the quality and safety of the sausage.
Traditionally the additives used for this purpose are:
- Potassium sorbate (E-202): A preservative widely used in the food industry for its effectiveness in inhibiting the growth of mold and yeast. It is used in casing baths to prevent microbiological deterioration during storage and handling.
- Sodium benzoate (E-211): Another preservative used to control the growth of bacteria and mold in food products. Its use in casings is common due to its antibacterial effect.
However, both sorbate and benzoate, are chemical additives with associated “E-numbers,” which may raise concerns among consumers seeking more natural and healthier products, as well as manufacturers striving for clean label production with minimal chemical additives.
Natural alternative to sorbate for antifungal baths of sausage casings
At Amerex Ingredients, we offer a natural alternative to sorbate specifically designed for the antifungal bath of sausage casings. Biamex YM is a natural preservative that offers the following benefits:
- Antifungal efficacy: Biamex YM acts effectively against molds and yeasts that can affect the quality of both natural and artificial casings.
- Food safety: Being a natural product, Biamex YM is safe for human consumption and complies with food safety regulations, making it an excellent choice for manufacturers looking to reduce the use of synthetic additives in their products.
- Complete sorbate replacement: Biamex YM can effectively replace sorbate, eliminating the need to use this chemical preservative without compromising the quality or safety of the final product.
The use of natural alternatives to sorbate is increasingly sought after by manufacturers in the meat industry.
What are the advantages of using a natural antifugal like Biamex YM in sausage casings?
More and more consumers prefer natural, additive-free food products. Therefore, using Biamex YM in the treatment of sausage casings offers several advantages, as it meets the trend for “clean label” products. This trend is something today’s consumers are looking for, as they value products with cleaner labels and fewer artificial additives. Biamex YM allows sausage manufacturers to offer more natural products, which can be a key differentiator in a competitive market.
Furthermore, it reduces the risk of allergic reactions, as some consumers are sensitive to chemical preservatives like sorbate. By using a natural preservative, the risk of causing adverse reactions in susceptible individuals is reduced.
Finally, sustainability and environmental respect. As a natural product, Biamex YM is a more environmentally friendly option, helping manufacturers reduce their ecological footprint.
How is Biamex YM applied in sausage casing treatment?
Biamex YM is applied similarly to other preservatives used in casing treatment. It can be dissolved in the casing bath to ensure uniform distribution of the product and provide effective protection against fungal growth. This natural preservative is compatible with the treatment of both natural and artificial casings, ensuring the protection of the sausage from the initial production stage.
The sausage industry is evolving to meet the demands of consumers seeking healthier and more natural products. In this context, the sorbate alternative offered by Amerex Ingredients, Biamex YM, presents itself as an effective and safe solution for protecting sausage casings from fungi, without resorting to traditional chemical preservatives. This way, it is possible to guarantee the quality and safety of the final product while aligning with trends toward more natural and sustainable products.
If you would like to know more, do not hesitate to contact us!
- Email us at: imasd@amerexingredientes.com
- Call us: 91 845 42 14
- Fill in the form below
Patricia Rodrigo is Head of Marketing & Product at Amerex. With a background in Biotechnology and a Master’s in Biotechnology Business Management, her work focuses on research and communication of natural alternatives to additives, conservation strategies, and pathogen control in various food groups for the industry.
