@processhead I went to a local meat market the other day for some country style ribs. The butchers gloves had meat on the cuffs that was so dry it was dark brown. I also wear gloves and wash frequently. I just thought maybe this butcher might wash more often if he was bare handed. but then again maybe not

@karlheidolph I make a chicken and wild rice brat for the shop that is popular. I’ll add the same ingredients you find in the soup including chicken stock, celery, carrots, onions and flat leaf parsley. You’ll want to use some of the fattier cuts and a bit of skin to make up for the lack of fat.

@Randyman Cold Phosphate is going to increase the pH of your meat, making it easier for the water to bond with the meat. Increasing pH also lowers the shelf-life of the meat so use it accordingly.

@KARLHEIDOLPH How long are you letting the stuffed cases set before you smoke? Try about 30 hours in the refrigerator. What temp is your sausage when you start smoking them ? Try to get to 34 or 36 degrees. Lower and raising your smoke amount and duration during the smoking process. This is also a factor. Fat Content is way important to smoke penetration. Some thing to also think about is if the meat gets dehydrated it will turn the a reddish color causing a rind to form. It might look like a smoke ring this is caused by constant high heat drying the product out. If this happens add a steam pot and adjust your temps. hope this helps.