I have been trying to use collagen casings for my Brats in our meat department. I can’t get them tender enough and it may be that I am not smoking them correctly. I have been using the same process that I did when I used Natural Casings. Stage 1 : low heat with fan for 30 min damper open. Stage 2 : Smoke at Medium heat for a hour and a half, RH 50%. Stage 3 : Steam to core temp of 160 degrees damper closed. RH at 85 %. Stage 4: Shower to temp of 70.
Any changes I can make to get a more tender casing?

I have tried a TF 34MM processed casing I got from Quality Casings. A 32MM HF and a 30MM TF, both clear processed, I got from Mar-Co Sales. Devro Is the brand I have now. I have been hanging them. the 30MM has been the best but still tougher than I want. Ideally I want a 32MM processed casing for my brats. Does Walton’s send out samples? I do have to order some other items.

I have some vacuum pouches that say they are a 3 mil AP 300 Gauge. What does the AP mean? are they Poly or another material?

Jonathon it is printed on the Box. I’m looking for a bag that has a evoh barrier. Does Waltons carry a four or five mm evoh High barrier bag?