General Tips for Sausage Making

Additives Often Used in Sausage Making:

Ascorbates - Sodium erythorbate (Sodium Iso-ascorbate) & Citric Acid: These chemicals reduce oxidation and subsequent off flavor and off-color that would result from oxidation . They speed the curing reaction by the rapid reduction of nitrates and nitrites to nitrous acid and ultimately nitric oxide that combines with myoglobin in the muscle tissues to fix the cured color. Generally, I try for about 0.01% for citric acid and 0.05% for erythorbate.

Cereal & Bread: These are principally starch and their purpose varies. Generally they added to lower quality products for economical reasons, although they often improve binding quality, cooking yield and slicing characteristics. English sausage makers are fond of adding rusk, breadcrumbs or wheat gluten to their sausages; French and Cajun sausage makers often add rice.

Corn Syrup Solids: The general use for corn syrup solids in sausage recipes is to enhance binding qualities of the meat, provide sweetening and assists in holding the color of the cured meat. In dry-cured product, it aids the fermentation process by providing a carbohydrate source for lactic bacteria. Generally use 2% or less of the weight of the meat block.

Milk Powder, Dry: Non fat dried skim milk powder is used in a number of sausages. It used generally as a binder and helps cooked sausage retain moisture. It assists in forming irreversible gels (upon heating) that hold water and fat and helps to enhance the flavor of the product. When making cooked sausages, I generally hold it to less that 4%. Commercially the calcium reduced form of skim milk powder is used as calcium is said to interfere with protein solubility and emulsion formation.

MSG -Monosodium Glutamate: Monosodium Glutamate is a salt of glutamic acid. In Sausage making it is used as a flavor enhancer. It is one of twenty two amino acids which create protein molecules in all plants and animal bodies. Therefore glutamate is naturally contained in almost all food products such as meat, fish, vegetables, milk, etc. Food products which naturally contain lots of free glutamate (e.g. tomatoes, cheese, mushrooms, etc.) are used in many food recipes because of their flavor enhancing properties. In sausage making, I try to keep MSG at approximately 1¼ grams to 454 grams (1 pound) of meat. Scientific examinations have proven that the application of MSG in food products does not have a negative effect on the human body. Although many people claim to be allergic to MSG, a board of scientists and medical doctors appointed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has examined all existing reports on supposedly allergic reactions caused by glutamate. They have declared that there is no connection between glutamate content in food products and the appearance of symptoms such as numbness of neck and back (Chinese restaurant syndrome).

Phosphates: The phosphates are a combination of: Sodium Tri-polyphosphate, Sodium Pyro-phosphate and Sodium Hexa-metaphosphate, generally at the rate of 1/3 to 1/2 of one percent (0.3 to 0.5%) of the finished product weight. If you want to learn more please see this page. Phosphates

Soy protein: Soy protein isolate is used as binder as well as an emulsifier. The levels of soy products that you use in sausage should be controlled so or they will impart a “beany” flavor to the meat products. I like to use about 1.5-2% in my formulations; however, some sausage makers use up to 3.5%. Textured soy protein used in sausages, meat patties and meat loaves. Soy protein concentrate available as coarse granules or grits is used in emulsion type sausages.

Sugars: A number of different sugars can added to meat products like sucrose, dextrose, lactose, corn syrup solids, maple syrup, honey etc. Often they are added for flavoring and also has some preservative action. Sugars, called reducing sugars, improve the shelf life of the product. Dextrose (glucose) is and essential in fermented sausages as a substrate for growth of fermenting bacteria.

Whey-Protein Isolate: Provides a smooth texture to the product by binds and entrapping water thus providing body, texture and improves "sliceability", especially in loaves like mortadella. Whey forms stable, fat/oil emulsions that provide structure to the sausage. It also enhances non-enzymatic browning (Maillard Reaction).

Casings Natural: Natural casings are made from the intestines or "innards" of a variety of animals. In the U.S. they are generally made from the internal organs of hogs, beef, or sheep. In other countries casings from other animals like horses, donkeys, goats, geese and ducks are available. Depending upon the casing and how it is used it may often be considered edible; others are not. Casings generally come from the supplier packed in salt or a a preserving brine. The can be kept under refrigeration almost indefinitely. Any odor that they have will be gone once they are properly prepared. All natural casings must be rinsed and soaked in several changes of fresh water before they can be used. Some require additional preparation. The casings are generally measure by their diameter in millimeters--an inch equals 25.4 millimeters (mm). Below I've listed some of the more commonly used casings.Sometimes the casing type is suggested in my formulation; other times, you'll have to experiment with what you prefer. (For an enlarged view, click on the photo.)

Sheep Casings: Sheep casings are generally used for making hot dogs, and breakfast links. Most commonly breakfast links and pork sausages are stuffed into 22-24 mm casings while hot dogs, garlic franks, cheese franks, etc are generally stuffed in 24-26 mm casings.

Hog Casings: Hog casings are the most commonly used casings by home sausage makers. The three most commonly used are 32-35 mm casings which are used for making Italian sausage, bratwurst, chorizo, etc. Next more commonly used are the 35-38 mm casings which are used for linquica, Polish Sausage, Smoked sausages, hot links, etc. Finally, for some of the larger smoked sausage or ring sausages like Russian, Ukranian and Serbian sausage often use casings that are 38-42 mm in diameter. Some Italian and other European sausages may be stuffed in bladders or hog middles. Hog middles do take some special preparation due to their very strong, objectionable odor. It may take anywhere from 3 to 6 weeks in advance to prepare them, depending upon the technique used. Generally they are softened in a salted brine for about a week. Next they are rinsed and soaked in a mixture of water and strong vinegar (often citrus juices) for an additional week, then rinsed. After this they are inverted and as much of the fat that adheres to the intestinal wall is carefully removed so as to not tear the casing wall and soaked in a salt brine for an additional week. Finely they are re-inverted to their original form and store in a salt brine until ready for use; then they are freshened in fresh, pure water before stuffing. Care must be taken when stuffing casing thus prepared because they are very fragile and must be carefully tied along their circumference after stuffing. Below are some photos of the preparation steps for hog middles

Salted hog middle casings as they arrive from the supply house.

Inverted casings after being stripped of internal fat (not necessary for all casings.).

Re-inverted hog middles rinsed and returned to their original state.

Stuffed hog middle; note the string tied around the circumference.

Beef Casings: The three most commonly used beef casings in the US are: (1) Beef Rounds, about 40-42 mm in diameter, which are used to make ring sausages and ring bologna; blood sausages like morcella and biroldo, Knockwurst, mettwursts, potato sausage, etc. (2) Beef Middles, 58-64 mm, which are used summer sausage, cotechino, and various types of Italian salami, venison salami, German salami, etc. and (3) Beef Bungs, that generally range from 90 to 140 mm, are used for cooked salami, Toscano salami, Lebanon bologna, coppa or any other sausage where a large 3-1/2 to 5-1/2 inch diameter casing is desired

Casings, Artificial: There are a wide variety of artificial casings available on the web for the adventurous to seek out. I have listed below several types that I use most frequently. In selecting a casing you have to consider if you want it to be edible (yes, some artificial casings are edible). The edible casings are very thin and will not support the weight of the sausage in the smoker.

Collagen casings are made from collagen extracted from animal skins and hides. There are special collagen casings for use in the smoker, some are even dyed! Some of the large collagen casings, however, due to their thickness and production technique are not edible. Remember not to use collagen casings if you are processing your sausage by poaching in water or steaming. Collagen casings can also be used to cure salami.

Fibrous or Cellulose casings can come protein-lined for salami drying or "regular". They need to be soaked in warm water for about 30 minutes before use. They are permeable to smoke and water, and for that reason, should not be used for poaching sausages in water. They are made from cotton or wood fiber.

Plastic casings are water-proof and are mainly used for boiling or poaching sausage loafs and rolls in water.

Fabric casings are made out of textile fibers and are coated with a plastic and a very popular with some European sausage makers. If you look at my recipe for Thuringer Summer Sausage, you can see an example of this kind of casing.

Humidity Control: If you are not lucky enough to live in an area where the humidity is easily controlled, then you might want to consider a humidifier and humidistat. A humidifier is a device that can add moisture to the air and for sausage making purposes a baby nursery "cool-air" humidifier will work fine. A humidistat is a device that senses the humidity in the environment. The device should have a control to set humidity in a range between at least 40% to 80%. These devices available in a number of price ranges from several vendors.

Incubator for Fermenting Dry Cure Sausages:

You can make an inexpensive incubator for dry curing salami by modifying an inoperative freezer. I purchased an old Sears Coldspot from the dumps for $20 and removed the freezing unit, thermostat, interior racks and baskets.

On the interior I installed a porcelain light socket. The dimmer switch on the control panel regulates a 100W light bulb which can be adjusted to produce temperatures from 53^oF to 110^oF. I'm worried that some moisture dripping from the incubating meats might break the light bulb, so I plan on either shielding the bulb with a coffee can open on both ends or replacing the light bulb with a ceramic reptile terrarium heater that screws into the light socket.

Controlling the Temperature of Incubation

Temperature can be controlled by a simple dimmer switch. I had an old electrical box [Square D] and I wired it with a couple of dimmer switches, mounted to the exterior of the unit with an outlet to provide power in and power out. On the power out outlet I plugged in a Vicks, 18 hour nursery humidifier. This provides about 95% humidity. One of the dimmer switches controls the heat lamp; the other is an extra--in the event I want to mount a fan. All that is needed is an accurate thermometer. I suggest a mercury-filled thermometer rather than an alcohol-filled one for better accuracy.

A sausage making buddy has a great solution to both humidity and temperature control by modifying a home-refrigerator by altering the temperature and humidity controls. You can read and see his elegant solution by clicking here: Creating An Ideal Environment For Dry Curing Sausage.

Controlling the Temperature in a Salami Incubator - A More Elegant Approach

Constructing a P.I.D. Intelligent Temperature Controller

P.I.D. controller - Non-technical operational definition:

A PID controller is an electronic device that can be used to regulate the temperature of an incubator. The device senses temperature input from a thermocouple and regulates temperature output (heater in this case) to maintain the user's pre-set temperature. The PID controller uses a built-in automatic logic algorithm to learn the parameters set up by you to regulate the system. For example, if you desire the temperature inside your incubator to be maintained at 88^oF, set up the controller to recognize when that temperature is reached, press a single button and the built-in artificial intelligence circuit is activated to automatically calculate and set all parameters for the temperature set by you. It will maintain that temperature within 0.2% accuracy.

P = Proportional Band. The constantly calculated "P" value controls the output of the temperature device (heater). When the "P" value increases, the temperature device will off; when the "P" value decreases, the temperature device is turned on. This will occur automatically to maintain the internal temperature you set in the incubator.

I = Integration Time. This constantly calculated value reduces error. When the "I" value decreases, response speed is faster but less stable; when the "I" value increases the response speed is slower but more stable. This is done automatically.

D = Differentiation Time. This value constantly controls the advance and compensates for the delay in order to maintain system stability.

With a little knowledge of electronics, you can construct such a control unit for your incubator. Many of the materials are available at any well stocked computer-supply store or eBay. You can build the controller for about $70.00 USD or less.

Materials Needed:

Universal digital PID Temperature Controller or search eBay for PID Controller)

Solid State Relay (25Amp, 24-280 VAC; 3-32VDC) - Search eBay for "Solid State Relay"

Thermocouple – Type K [Search eBay]

Grounded wire, 3-prong plug, and 3-prong receptacle [Hardware or big-box store]

Project Box – aluminum or plastic

Supply of #8 or #10 white, green and black wire

Solder and/or wire connectors

Wiring diagram (see below)

Setting the PID Controller

1 -- AL, Relay J1 Indicator light.
2 -- Select next parameter / value increment.
3 -- Selection previous parameter / value decrement.
4 -- Digit select / Auto tuning.
5 -- Setting / Confirm.
6 -- Output, controlled output indicator light. (AT) Output blinks during the auto-tuning process.
7 -- Display screen

Interior wiring - see diagram below PID Controller - Relay - Thermocouple

Temperature and Alarm Parameter Setting:

A) To enter temperature and alarm parameter setting mode press (SET), then enter code "0001", press (SET) again.

Table 1 Temperature Setting and Alarm Related Parameters:

Symbol	Description	Range	Default
SV	Target Temperature	With testing range	80.0
AH1	Relay Closed	With testing range	80.0
AL1	Relay Opened	With testing range	90.0
End		Exit

B) During Normal Operation mode, pressing (^) or (v), the display would show SV. Press (^) or (v) again increase or decrease SV by 1 degree.

a) Set AH1=AL1, relay is disabled.
b) Set AH1>AL1: Normally used for upper limit alarm trigger.
c) Set AH1<AL1: Normally used for lower limit alarm trigger. .

P, I and D Parameter Setting:

P, I and D parameters control the accuracy and respond time of the temperature controller.

1. Press (SET) to enter setting mode.
2. Press (>), (v) and/or (^) to enter and select parameters.
3. Press (SET) to confirm entry or selection.

a) To enter initialization parameter setting mode press (SET), then enter code "0089", press (SET) again.

b) To enter PID parameter setting mode press (SET), and then enter code "0036", press (SET) again.

Table 2 PID and Relevant Parameters: Auto-tuning is recommended for users who are not familiar PID control theory. P, I and d values should only be adjusted by professionals.

Symbol	Description	Range	Default
P	Proportional Band	0.1 ~ 99.9 (%)	5
I	Integration Time	2 ~ 1999 (Sec)	100
D	Differentiation Time	0 ~ 399 (Sec)	20
SF	Integration Range	1 ~ 999 (Deg)	40
Bb	On/Off Control Range	1 ~ 999 (Deg)	40
Ot	Control Period	2 ~ 199 (Sec)	2
Filt	Digital Filtering Strength	0 ~ 3	0
End		Exit

BACTERIAL AND MOLD STARTER CULTURES

NOTE A MORE EXTENSIVE DISCUSSION OF THIS TOPIC CAN BE FOUND ON THE INTRODUCTION PAGE.

One can not always depend on indigenous bacterial contaminants to produce a desireable result. Specialized meat cultures can be added to impart added safety, color and taste to dry-cured or fermented sausages. Fermentation is best controlled by the addition of selected strains of Lactic Acid bacteria (a large family of bacteria), whereas members of the Staphylococci contribute to the color, aroma, flavor and stability of the sausage. Also available are cultures that produce bacteriocins that provide anti-lysterial effects and bioprotection from pathogens.

Lactic Acid Starter:

Starter cultures accelerate the formation of lactic acid and drop the pH (to about pH5.3) of salami, which can inhibit the growth of spoilage bacteria and pathogens. The rapid decline of pH not only gives the salami a unique lactic acid flavor, but also increases the firmness of texture and mouth feeling due to the acidic denaturation of meat proteins. The lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in starter cultures have been shown to inhibit Staphylococcus, gram-negative bacteria, and E. coli, by 97.8% after 48 hours of fermentation. Further studies of LAB starters (which often contain one or more species) of Pediococcus cerevisiae, Lactobacillus platarum and Staphylococcus carnosus, have shown a very wide spectrum of inhibition activity on Staphylococcus epidermidis, Lysteria monocytogenes Klebsiella oxytoca, Shigella dysenteriae and germination of the spores of Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus cereus, and Pseudomonas fluorescens. I've added extensive coverage to the starter cultures produced by Chr. Hansen, Inc., producers of freeze dried starter cultures on my main web pages [Introduction section - Starter Cultures]

BIOPROTECTIVE CULTURES:

Listeria is a constant concern in the meat industry. The US-FDA reports (June /29/2009) Listeria monocytogenes (Lm) has been responsible for several outbreaks of food borne illness domestically. Each year approximately 2500 people become seriously ill due to Lm infections. Nearly 500 of these die from their infection. Listeriosis only accounts for about 0.02% of illnesses due to food borne disease, but it causes 27.6% of all deaths due to foodborne infection.

Cultures containg Staphlococcus xylosis, Lactobacillus curvatus, and Pediococcus acidilactici provide protection against a population explosion of Lm in fermented sausages. Chr. Hansen North America produces several bioprotective meat cultures; Bactoferm F-LC and the newer Bacterferm BL-C-48. A source for these is listed below

EXTERIOR MOLD CULTURES:

Many fermented sausages, especially Northern Italian and American-Italian dry salami are generally covered in a pure white mold; much like a good French brie cheese. This is desirable and contributes to the overall taste of the final product. The mold (fungus) is a variety of Penicillium (Penicilium nalgiovense) and is applied to the surface casing after stuffing and tying the salami, prior to fermentation. The easily available product is Bactoferm M-EK-4.

CHOOSING A STARTER CULTURE

Consider the qualities you want in your final product. Are you trying to mimic a particular geographic style; German Polish, Italian, etc.? Would you like it to be having a tang [a sharp or acidic] tang or a mild one? What about sweetness? What about salt—with its concentration kill or inhibit the starter culture? And then there is the flavor component—how do you define that quality? Do you consider it divorced from the added spices or in addition to their characteristics? Often it’s a matter of a somewhat educated choice based on experimentation.

American style [whatever that means] is generally recognized by a short fermentation that produces a very low pH [high acid content]. These products are mostly produced commercially where a high acid content complies with USDA guidelines and super-fast fermentation gets the product “out the door” and to the consumer quickly.

Dry cured sausages from Southern Europe and the Balkans tend to be on the “sweet” side—lower acid [higher pH] and often allowed to dry several months. Rarely will you find Italian, French, Spanish, Serbian salami or Bulgarian Loukaniko to have a tart, acidic tang.

On the other hand, fermented sausages from Northern and Eastern Europe generally have a sharp tang [lower pH] whether they are dry-cured or semi-dry-cured [“summer-type” sausage]; Think German Thüringen, Swedish medvurst,

Cultures distributed by Internet online companies are of the freeze dried type. In order to choose the correct culture the following advise may be used as general guidelines. Paragraph numbers refer to the discussion of starter cultures on the INTRODUCTION page.

·        Traditional South and North European, choose cultures in paragraph 5.1.1.

·        North European fast fermented, choose cultures in paragraph 5.1.2.

·        US style, choose the extra fast and very fast cultures in paragraph 5.1.2

·        To enhance nitrate reductase activity choose from paragraph 5.1.3

·        To produce a consistent surface molds, choose from paragraph 5.1.4

·        To provide Lysteria protection, choose from paragraph 5.1.5

Technical information sheets provide the recommended temperatures for fermentation, however, bacteria will also ferment at lower temperatures, just more slowly. For example, the technical information sheet for T-SPX lists temperatures as 26-38º C, optimum being 32º C. T-SPX will ferment as well at 20-24º C which is not uncommon for "European" style sausages, and 48 hours or more is not atypical.

When freeze-dried cultures are used it is recommended to disperse them in distilled or purified water. Adding 25 grams of powdered culture to 200 kg (440 lbs) of meat makes uniform distribution quite challenging. That comes to about 1/2 teaspoon to 4.5 kg (10 lbs) of meat and the culture must be very uniformly dispersed otherwise defects will occur later on. For those reasons it is advisable, especially at home conditions, to mix 1/2 tsp of culture in 1/2 cup (150 ml) of distilled water and then pour it down all over the meat. Any tap water which is chlorine free will do, the problem is that different cities, or countries, sanitize water in different ways. Chlorine will kill bacteria and the process will suffer. For this reason it is recommended to use distilled water.

Mixing freeze-dried cultures with cold water for 15-30 minutes before use allows them to "wake up" and to react with meat and sugar faster when introduced during the mixing process.

Once fast-fermented starter culture or GDL has been added to the sausage mix, the mix should be filled into casings.

I suggest that don't put your trust in indigenous bacteria that contaminate ground meats instead purchase a culture from a supplier, such as Butcher and Packer Company. Use those suggestions in lieu of those given with any formulation or recipe. When you choose a starter, check with the vendor or the manufacture's guidelines as to the required time and temperature for optimum fermentation. Dissolve freeze-dried culture in a couple of tablespoons of de-chlorinated water; add a small pinch of glucose (dextrose) and set aside for 2 or 3 minutes before use.

THE MEANING OF pH

Acids in water separate into ions (Atoms with electron imbalances are called ions), and the positive ion is hydrogen (H+). When hydrochloric acid (HCl) mixes with water, it separates into positive hydrogen (H+) and negative chlorine (Cl-). Hydrogen (H+) combines with water (H₂O) to make hydronium (H₃O+). Bases in water also separate into ions, and the negative ion is hydroxide (OH-). When the base sodium hydroxide (NaOH) mixes with water, it separates into positive sodium (Na+) and negative hydroxide (OH-).

The pH-value indicates the degree of acidity in the meat. Acids all produce Hydrogen ions (H+). Acids like Hydrochloric acid (HCl) produce lots of Hydrogen ions. Chemists write "hydrogen ion concentration" as [H+]. The pH of a solution is expressed mathematically as the negative logarithm of the hydrogen ion [H+] concentration.

When producing meat products, the pH-value should lie between 4 to 7; pH- values from 0 to 7 denotes an acidic nature (the smaller the number the more acidic the solution). The neutral point is 7; pH values from 7 to 14 signify alkalinity (the larger the number the more alkaline the solution).

When Hydrogen Chloride gas dissolves in water it form Hydrochloric acid and the molecules of Hydrogen Chloride dissociate into Hydrogen ions and Chloride ions.

HCl(aq)

H⁺

Cl^-

Water also dissociates to produce ions, this time it is Hydrogen ions and Hydroxyl ions.

H₂O(l)

H⁺

OH^-

Sodium Hydroxide also dissociates to produce ions when it is dissolved in water, this time it is Sodium ions and Hydroxyl ions.

NaOH(aq)

Na⁺

OH^-

In each case we can measure or calculate the concentration of Hydrogen ions present.

In HCl(aq) Hydrochloric acid [H⁺] = 0.01

In H₂O(l) water [H⁺] = 0.0000001

In NaOH(aq) Sodium Hydroxide solution [H⁺] = 0.00000000000001

As you can see, these numbers are small and difficult to read and write. By counting the decimal places each of the above can be written as:

HCl (aq) pH 2

H₂O (l) pH 7

NaOH (aq) pH 14

Though a pH value has no unit, it is not an arbitrary scale; the number arises from a definition based on the activity of hydrogen ions in the solution. The formula for calculating pH is:

pH = -log₁₀ [H⁺]

Log₁₀ denotes the base-10 logarithm, and pH therefore defines a logarithmic scale of acidity. A lower pH value (for example pH 3) indicates increasing strength of acidity, and a higher pH value (for example pH 11) indicates increasing strength of alkalinity.

For a more scholarly discussion of pH see: How to Determine pH or The Wikipedia Definition

Meat with a low pH-value (pH-value below 5.8) has a poor water binding capacity. This means high cooking losses, inconsistent weight and a dry, straw-like consistency. For this reason water-bonding chemicals, like sodium polyphosphates, are generally added to the formulation. It's use is optional, however. Other additives contribute to good curing features, such as accelerators like ascorbate or erythorbate, that are used for good color development and color stability. These accelerators act as reducing agents and/or lower the pH to provide the environment required to enhance the rate of conversion of nitrite to nitric oxide, which reacts with myoglobin plus heat to yield nitrosylhemochrome (pink). The reduction of microorganism growth by the addition of nitrite results in a longer shelf-life and a longer storability of the meat and meat products.

he most accurate way to test pH in dryed sausage or salami is to use a pH meter with a specially designed probe for "jabbing" into the meat product. They are prohibitively expensive for the average hobbist, but essential in commercial plants. Cole Palmer sells an expensive but a good one-

Some common pH values founding sausage making and meat production are:

6.4 Injection brines

5.8 to 6.2 Pork muscle

5.5 to 5.8 Beef muscle

4.8 to 5.5 Dry-cure sausage

SPICES:

Spices come from the bark, root, flower buds, seeds, berry, or the fruit of tropical plants and trees. Herbs are leaves of shrubs and can be used fresh or dried. Seasonings are generally dehydrated vegetables include onion powder or flakes, garlic powder or granules, sweet peppers, chili peppers, mints, and freeze-dried chives, onions and shallots whereas seasoning blends are mixtures of spices and herbs.

When formulating your own sausage recipes use the strong, pungent spices, herbs and seasonings such as chili peppers or rosemary in small amounts. Aim for more delicate seasoning which can be used in greater amounts without ruining the final product. Remember that the herbs or spices should enhance and not overpower the flavor of the meat.

The art of using herbs and spices in sausage making is learning how much to add and how to combine flavors. More than one herb or spice can be used in a formulation. Start with a tested recipe then decide if more or less seasoning is needed to suit your taste. It is generally recommended to begin with about 1½% total weight of spice per weight of meat used (about 1/4 teaspoon of spice per pound of meat) when developing recipes. Stronger seasoning like chili should begin with ½ that amount; is easier to add more than to try to compensate for too much. As you gain experience in combining herbs and spices, taste will tell if others might be added to your formulation.

It is absolutely essential that you use fresh spices for consistent results. If your ground spices are more than 6 months old, through them out and purchase new ones. It is always better to purchase whole, un-ground spices and grind them yourself as needed...you'll be surprised by the difference! The most consistent results are obtained by accurate weighing of both the meats and the spices. Keep your whole spices covered in air-tight tins to prevent the loss of volatile oils. Place the date of purchase on the tin! Whole spice should be renewed after two years.

For those of you that are considering making this a hobby, I recommend that you purchase a good coffee mill to dedicate as a spice grinder. The quality your are looking for is a removable, stainless steel grinding cup. Plastic and other material retain the spice oils and are difficult to clean. Also purchase TWO good electronic scales: One dedicated to measuring spices, that will measure in 1/10 of a gram with a load limit of 454 gram (1 lb.); The other dedicated to meats should measure in grams up to 5 or 10 Kilograms (11 to 22 lbs).

Dry Spices - Weights are in grams

Amt	Ingredient	Grams	Notes
1 tsp.	Allspice berry	1.9
1 tsp.	Alpine herbs	2.0
1 tsp.	Ancho Chili	2.5
1 tsp.	Anise seed, whole	2.1
1 Tbs.	Anise, star	2.0
1 cup	Apples, dried	85.0
1 cup	Apricot, dried	180.0
1 tsp.	Baking soda	4.5
1 tsp.	Basil	1.0
1 tsp.	Bay leaf, dried	0.6
1 Tbs.	Binder, rice-gel	10.0
1 tsp.	Black beans, ferm.	3.6
1 tsp.	Bonne herbes	0.5
½ cup	Bread crumbs	35.0
1 tsp.	Caraway seed	2.1
1 tsp.	Cardamom seed	2.0
1 tsp.	Celery seed	2.5
½ cup	Cheese, Cheddar	75.0	High melt/BP
1 tsp.	Chipotle Chili Powder	2.5	Penzeys
1 Tbs.	Chives, dry	1.0
1 tsp.	Chives, dry	0.3
1 Tbs.	Cilantro, dry	1.3
1 tsp.	Cinnamon, ground	2.3	0.5%kg /meat
1 tsp.	Citric acid	4.5	2g/5#
1 tsp.	Clove, ground	2.1	10/1 g
1 tsp.	Coriander, ground	1.8
1 Tbs.	Corn Syrup Liquid	27.0
1 Tbs.	Corn Syrup Solids	25.0	2% max
1 Tbs.	Cranberries, dried	9.0
1 tsp.	Cumin seed, ground	2.1
1 tsp.	Cure #1	6.0
1 tsp.	Cure #2	6.0
1 cup	Cure, Tender Quick	201.6
1 Tbs.	Cure, Tender Quick	12.6
1 tsp.	Cure, Tender Quick	4.2
1 tsp.	Curry powder	2.5
1 tsp.	Egg White Solids	2.25	= ½ egg
½ 1 tsp.	Erythorbate	2.0	.25g/lb
1 tsp.	Fennel seed, whole	2.0
1 tsp.	Fenugreek, ground	3.7
1 tsp.	File Powder	2.0
1 tsp.	Five-spice	1.6
1 clove	Garlic	5.0
¼ cup	Garlic cloves	35.0
1 tsp.	Garlic Granules	4.3
1 tsp.	Garlic Powder	2.8
1 Tbs.	Gelatin	8.5
1 tsp.	Ginger, Powder	1.8
1 Tbs.	Guar Gum	4.0
1 pod	Habanera, fresh	30.0
1 tsp.	Juniper berries	1.5
1 tsp.	Juniper berries (10)	1.5
1 tsp.	Mace, ground	1.7
1 tsp.	Marjoram, ground	1.5
1 tsp.	Milano herbs	2.0
1 tsp.	Milano spice	2.0
1 Tbs.	Mole, Sauce	18.0	Faraone
1 tsp.	MSG-monosodium glutamate	4.5	0.25%/g
1 tsp.	Mustard, powdered	2.3
1 tsp.	Mustard, seed	3.3
1 tsp.	Nutmeg, ground	2.2	0.5 g/kg
½ cup	Nuts, Hazelnuts	75.0
¼ cup	Nuts, Pine	30.0
½ cup	Nuts, Pistachio	60.0
½ cup	Nuts. Walnuts half	120.0
1 tsp.	Old Bay Seasoning	3.0
1 Tbs.	Onion Flakes	5.0
1 Tbs.	Onion Powder	8.0
1 Tbs.	Onion, Raw	14.0
½ Cup	Onion, Raw	75.0
1 tsp.	Oregano, leaf	1.5
1 tsp.	Paprika, ground	2.1
1 tsp.	Parmagiano	2.0
1 Tbs.	Parsley dry	1.5
1 tsp.	Paste, garlic-chili	6.4
1 tsp.	Paste, grachai	2.0
1 tsp.	Paste, green-chili	5.2
1 tsp.	Paste, Tandori	2.2
1 tsp.	Paste. Green-curry	2.2
1 tsp.	Pepper flakes red	2.3
1 tsp.	Pepper, black	2.1
1 tsp.	Pepper, cayenne	1.8
1 each	Pepper, dandicut-dried	0.8
1 each	Pepper, jalapeńo	25.0
1 tsp.	Pepper, pequin	1.6	app. 24 pods
1 tsp.	Pepper, Szechwan	1.5
1 tsp.	Pepper, white	2.4
1 tsp.	Phosphates, sausage	3.8	0.4% or 2g/lb.
1 tsp.	Quatre Espices	3.0
1 Tbs.	Raisins, whole	11.5
1 cup	Rice, cooked	160.0
1 tsp.	Rosemary leaf	1.2
1 tsp.	Sage, ground	0.7
1 Tbs.	Salt, Kosher	12.0
1 Tbs.	Salt, table	22.0
1 tsp.	Savory, summer	1.5
1 tsp.	Savory, winter	1.5
1/3 Cup	Skim Milk Powder	23.0	< 4% salami
1 tsp.	Soy powder	3.0	3% max
1 Tbs.	Sugar, brown	11.0
1 Tbs.	Sugar, dextrose	9.0
1 Tbs.	Sugar, granulated	13.0
1 tsp.	Tarragon, dry	3.0
1 tsp.	Thyme, leaf	1.4
1 tsp.	Turmeric, ground	3.0
1 tsp.	Venetian spice	3.0
1 Tbs.	Whey Isolate	4.5

TRANSGULATAMINASE - PROTEIN CROSS LINKING ENZYME

Introduction:

This is an enzyme needed and used in living animals to repair lesions of body tissues and create stable structures by extensively cross-linking protein molecules. It has the capacity to form bonds between surface protein structures of individual small or large muscle masses. This effect can be used to create protein network structures in raw and cooked meat products. The enzyme could be used to reduce or completely substitute for the use of phosphates and other binding substances in raw-cooked or cured-cooked products. When used in raw-fermented sausages, which are a mix of chopped meat and fat particles, transglutaminase causes a firm cohesion of these particles during aging process.

Ever eat chicken nuggets or commercial hot dogs? Have you heard of "meat glue"? Commercial deli meat producers have been using it for years. Ever notice the deli hams that are evenly textured, or the large sliced turkey breasts with no sinew, or those "canned hams" that don't look like any ham muscle you've seen before? Well it's because they used a naturally produced enzyme called transglutaminase to "glue" meat trim or emulsion together. This enzymes causes the proteins (well, certain protein amino acids) in muscles to cross-link---in layman's terms, stick together by a chemical reaction. Basically it restructures the meat muscle into a single unit! For example, you can get two pork tenderloins (that taper) , sprinkle some enzyme, and line them up to form an uniform roll! It's not a quick reaction, but takes at least 6 hours (or better up to 24 hours) to completely bond and it should be done under refrigeration. The enzyme is either sprinkled over the chunks of meat or dissolved in water and painted on; then the meats are formed as desired in the final product and placed under a vacuum ( a "Food -Saver" bag will work). After bonding the meat (sausage or whatever) can be cooked or smoked as per the recipe you are using. It is produced by Ajinomoto (the people that make "Accent" and is sold under the trade name "ACTIVA-RM".

Some Chemistry:

Cross-links are small chemical bridges that interact with specific regions of a protein and as a result are able to form a strong chemical bond between proteins in close proximity to each other. In ACTIVA, the enzyme is a relative small enzyme with 331 amino acids that are twisted and folded around the amino acid cysteine into an active bio-molecule. The enzyme targets the glutamine and lysine amino acid in protein muscles. There are huge amounts of these amino acids and the enzyme will stitch tem together form a very strong chemical bond. (a covalent bond-if you remember your high-school chemistry)

Cross-linking reaction of transglutaminase. The enzyme facilitates the formation of a covalent bond between the carboxyl group (COOH) of a glutamine residue in one protein and a amino group (NH₂) in a second protein, joining the two proteins and releasing ammonia (NH₃).

The enzyme works best in the pH5 to pH7 range, but remains functional throughout the pH4 through pH9 range. It is inactivated by temperature over 149^oF. Transglutaminase is reactive with several proteins found in muscle.*

Application*:

The major application for sausage makers is the restructuring of muscle meat and the economical use of trim. Whole muscles can be joined, as in the case of forming tapering tenderloins into rolls; layering thinner cuts of meat joining flaked products, improve the slice-ability in muscles with weak seams; wrapping dissimilar cuts, such as bacon around solid muscle; etc. Muscle protein with large amounts of myosin (dark red color) work best.

Generally the application of enzyme should be between 0.75% - 1.0% of the formula weight. It may be applied as follows:

· Sprinkle Method: The enzyme can be sprinkled directly on the meat surface. The pieces are then joined and placed in vacuum or pressure mold.

· Dry addition to previously marinated meats: After coating marinated muscle, muscles are joined molder or formed and refrigerated until sufficiently bonded. Working time is 20-30 minutes after adding ACTIVA.

· Slurry Method: ACTIVA is hydrated at 4 -4.5 times its weight in pure water and painted or added to meat chunks, blended well and product formed within 20-30 minutes, then refrigerated. Generally use 1.0% of the formula weight.

* source ACTIVA General Information. Ajinomoto Food Ingredients, LLC

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE FOR FERMENTED MEATS

Slow acidification---Frozen culture allowed to thaw and subsequently held to long before dispensing into meat. Microorganisms exhaust nutrients in packet/can, reducing the pH resulting in a lower culture activity. Environmental temperatures/humidities during fermentation inconsistent with recommended culture optimums. Secondary growth in meat of contaminant microorganisms producing components that buffer pH drop. Prolonged storage of the meat mixture at cold temperatures resulting in extended lag phase at the beginning of the fermentation cycle. If cheese is used in product may contain phosphate that buffers pH drop; it also has a tendency to absorb moisture from surrounding meat. Sausage entering the smokehouse/climate chamber colder than normal, for example by using very cold meat, which may prolong the lag phase of the starter culture. Spice formulation adjustment that either decreases acid stimulation or inhibits the culture. Excessive salt or cure addition that inhibit starter culture. Culture contact directly with curing components may inactivate the starter culture. High fat formulation that reduces the moisture content.Large diameter product giving slower heat transfer. Rapid moisture loss in product. Insufficient carbohydrate source added to sausage mixture.

Fast acidification---Temperature/humidity is higher than normal. Spice formulation adjustment that favors rapid growth of the culture. Excessive water addition. Product delayed prior to entering the chamber resulting in higher initial temperature. Leaner product giving more moisture and lower salt-in-water. Change of meat (from beef to pork) in recipe. Smaller diameter product processed at high humidity. Initial meat pH lower than normal. Wrong combination of carbohydrate. Too slow drying that allows longer fermentation.

Inconsistent acidification---Inadequate distribution, resulting in hot and cold spots in meat mixture. Inadequate distribution of culture, salt, cure, spices, dextrose. Diverse initial product temperature. Stored product and directly processed product in same climate chamber; culture activated in stored product resulting in a faster fermentation. Products with different spice formulations, meat components, casing diameters, pH or water/fat content. Uneven temperature/humidity in the climate or fermentation chamber. Uneven humidity in dry room causing different drying rates. Too low acidification temperature.

No acidification---Culture not added. Culture inactivated by direct contact with salt, cure components, or heavily chlorinated dilution water. Non-compliance with recommended handling temperatures after thawing of frozen culture. Insufficient carbohydrate added to sausage mixture. Excessive salt content. Antibacterial agents added to meat mixture (preservatives, chemical boiler treatments via steam, antibiotics in meat). Culture exposed to high temperature during transportation or storage.

Too low final pH---High acid content; Excessive carbohydrate source. See also Fast fermentation.

Insufficient moisture loss---Excessive humidity. Excessive air speed and/or too low humidity sealing surface pores giving case hardening/dry rim. No moisture migration from product. Excessive smoke initially that coagulates surface proteins retarding moisture migration. Smearing (during grinding) preventing water loss. Casing greasy due to fat melting commenced. Water outlet potential through casing greatly reduced.

Too much moisture loss---Excessive drying, too fast air velocity, too low humidity. Too fast acidification. Applying a too fast acidifier (wrong culture).

Souring of product, post-processing---Insufficient treatment to destroy spoilage microorganisms. Residual carbohydrates in excess that permits secondary fermentation. Excessive moisture and residual carbohydrates in non-cooked product. Insufficient drying.

Off-flavor---Microbial contaminants either growing during fermentation or production. Use of spoiled raw materials (meat). Poor sanitation post-processing. Chemical contaminant.

Discoloration/green or gray coloration---No addition of staphylococci. Oxidation of meat pigments via microbial contaminants, metal contaminants. Exposure to sunlight. High pH (low acid level). Excessive peroxide-forming bacteria. Too low amounts of nitrate/nitrite added. Too fast acidification. Spoiled raw materials.. Too low fermentation temperature. Too much sorbate on the casing. Growth of yeast on the surface. Trace metals (unclean salts). Grey/brown rim due to high smoking temperature. Smearing preventing water loss giving spoiled (grey) center. Excessive air speed and/or too low humidity, sealing surface pores giving case hardening/dry rim. No moisture migration from product giving grey center in sausage.

Mushy product---Over-working at mixer, chopper or grinder. Excessive fat extension. Insufficient salt level or no salt added. Spoiled raw materials. Proteolytic microbial contaminant.

Slimy, gassy-product---Yeast or heterofermentative lactic acid bacteria contamination producing CO₂. Excessive moisture content. Inadequate smoke concentration at product.

Greasing (fat melting)---Overworking raw meat mixture.

This information is based on experiments made by Chr. Hansen GmbH using the Bactoferm™ starter culture.

MONOSODIUM GLUTAMATE (MSG) -- Questions and Answers --

WHAT IS MSG?--Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is the sodium salt of the common amino acid glutamic acid. Glutamic acid is naturally present in our bodies, and in many foods and food additives.

HOW IS IT MADE?--MSG occurs naturally in many foods, such as tomatoes and cheeses. People around the world have eaten glutamate-rich foods throughout history. For example, a historical dish in the Asian community is a glutamate-rich seaweed broth. In 1908, a Japanese professor named Kikunae Ikeda was able to extract glutamate from this broth and determined that glutamate provided the savory taste to the soup. Professor Ikeda then filed a patent to produce MSG and commercial production started the following year.

Today, instead of extracting and crystallizing MSG from seaweed broth, MSG is produced by the fermentation of starch, sugar beets, sugar cane or molasses. This fermentation process is similar to that used to make yogurt, vinegar and wine.

IS MSG SAFE TO EAT?--FDA considers the addition of MSG to foods to be “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS). Although many people identify themselves as sensitive to MSG, in studies with such individuals given MSG or a placebo, scientists have not been able to consistently trigger reactions.

DOES “GLUTAMATE” IN A PRODUCT MEAN IT CONTAINS GLUTEN?--No—glutamate or glutamic acid have nothing to do with gluten. A person with Celiac disease may react to the wheat that may be present in soy sauce, but not to the MSG in the product.

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MSG AND GLUTAMATE IN FOOD?--The glutamate in MSG is chemically indistinguishable from glutamate present in food proteins. Our bodies ultimately metabolize both sources of glutamate in the same way. An average adult consumes approximately 13 grams of glutamate each day from the protein in food, while intake of added MSG is estimates at around 0.55 grams per day.

HOW CAN I KNOW IF THERE IS MSG IN MY FOOD?--FDA requires that foods containing added MSG list it in the ingredient panel on the packaging as monosodium glutamate. However, MSG occurs naturally in ingredients such as hydrolyzed vegetable protein, autolyzed yeast, hydrolyzed yeast, yeast extract, soy extracts, and protein isolate, as well as in tomatoes and cheeses. While FDA requires that these products be listed on the ingredient panel, the agency does not require the label to also specify that they naturally contain MSG. However, foods with any ingredient that naturally contains MSG cannot claim “No MSG” or “No added MSG” on their packaging. MSG also cannot be listed as “spices and flavoring.”

HAS FDA RECEIVED ANY ADVERSE EVENT REPORTS ASSOCIATED WITH MSG?--Over the years, FDA has received reports of symptoms such as headache and nausea after eating foods containing MSG. However, we were never able to confirm that the MSG caused the reported effects.

These adverse event reports helped trigger FDA to ask the independent scientific group Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology (FASEB) to examine the safety of MSG in the 1990s. FASEB’s report concluded that MSG is safe. The FASEB report identified some short-term, transient, and generally mild symptoms, such as headache, numbness, flushing, tingling, palpitations, and drowsiness that may occur in some sensitive individuals who consume 3 grams or more of MSG without food. However, a typical serving of a food with added MSG contains less than 0.5 grams of MSG. Consuming more than 3 grams of MSG without food at one time is unlikely.

Are MSG and hydrolyzed protein related?--Yes. MSG is the sodium salt of glutamic acid. Glutamic acid is an amino acid, one of the building blocks of protein. It is found in virtually all food and, in abundance, in food that is high in protein, including meat, poultry, cheeses, and fish.
Hydrolyzed proteins, used by the food industry to enhance flavor, are simply proteins that have been chemically broken apart into amino acids. The chemical breakdown of proteins may result in the formation of free glutamate that joins with free sodium to form MSG. In this case, the presence of MSG does not need to be disclosed on labeling. Labeling is required when MSG is added as a direct ingredient.

Source:

U.S. Food and Drug Administration
10903 New Hampshire Avenue
Silver Spring, MD 20993
1-888-INFO-FDA (1-888-463-6332)

November 19, 2012

SAUSAGE LINKING TECHNIQUES Linking Breakfast Sausage: A number of people emailed me to ask how to link breakfast sausages as shown in the recipes' photos. In stuffing the casing, don't overfill or the casing will burst when you try to pinch and form the links. Don't thread the link like sewing, instead push a portion of the link through the previous loop to form a new loop. Words are difficult to follow in this case so I'll try with pictures.
Step 1. Start to form a loop.	Step 2. Secure the loop	Step 3. Drape tube over loop
Step 4. Secure tube and "sew" through 1^st loop	Step 4. Repeat Step 3 & 4.	Step 6+> Continue untill the whole tube is linked.