Natural casings are the skin of high quality sausages and are the only 100% natural covering for sausages. Natural Casings are made from the 'submucosa' -- a largely collagen (the fibrous albuminoid constituent of bone, cartilage, and connective tissue) layer of the small intestine. During cleaning the fat and the inner mucosa lining are removed. Because small intestines are collagen in nature, they have many of the same characteristics common to all types of collagen, particularly the unique characteristic of variable permeability.

The most significant advantages of Natural Casings are:

• Variable permeability -- permits uniform deep smoke penetration throughout the entire sausage to create rich, balanced flavour from start to finish. Variable permeability also allows product to 'breathe', which enhances the sweet aroma of fresh sausage, whether on display in a meat or deli case, or sizzling on a stove or grill.
• Protect Flavour - Natural Casings help to protect the fine flavour of sausage and seasonings; the casings themselves are virtually neutral in and of themselves. Thanks to its endothermic quality, sausage in Natural Casings stays tender and juicy, maintains a fresher appearance, and helps provide extended shelf life. The osmotic quality of Natural Casings means an intermingling of flavours inside and outside the sausage while sizzling in the skillet, on the grill, or under the broiler; it also contributes to enhanced eye appeal during cooking.
• Strength - Superior tensile strength enables maximum yields for sausage manufacturers.
• Appealing Appearance - Sausage in Natural Casings has a well-filled, substantial and appealing appearance, connoting good value for a consumer's food purchasing dollar. Variety of shapes and diameters, coupled with inviting appearance, give sausage in Natural Casings strong display appeal.
• 100% Natural The very word "Natural" continues to powerfully and positively influence consumers' buying decisions today.

Van Hessen bv is one of the largest and most respected processor/suppliers of natural sausage casings in the entire world. We have sources of supply in virtually every significant market where casings are an important commodity.
We offer the finest and highest volume processing capacity for all types of natural casing product through our 'state-of-the-art' facilities.
We are among the most meticulous processors you will find anywhere in the industry. Our reputation for uncompromising quality and product consistency is unparalleled. We also have among the broadest world-wide distribution - literally in every major market where demand for high quality sausage making materials exists.