Synthetic casings come in three sizes. #! Fibrous: smallest synthetic size, comes in a package of 15 feet, holds about 15 pounds of sausage meat. Filled diameter should be approximately 41 mm (1.73 inches). #2 Fibrous: Better suited for larger sausages like salami, also comes in a package with 15 feet, holds about 22 pounds of sausage meat. Filled diameter should be approximately 60 mm (2.35 inches). Sells for $12.00/pkg Red Fibrous casings are suitable for bologna and larger salami, comes as a single 24" casing, holds approximately 6 pounds of sausage meat when filled to 4 1/4" diameter (108mm). Sells for $3.00/each.
All synthetic casings must be pre-conditioned in hot water prior to using. Soak in hot tap water for at least 1 hour. Synthetics must be filled with the recommended poundage of meat and diameter listed in order to process satisfactorily. In order to get the needed diameter, you may need to use a length of soft, cotton string and gently cinchy down the middle of the casing kind of like a belt. Be very gentle or the casing may break.
