A method and apparatus for treating processed food casing in preparation
for stuffing. The method includes extending the casing, applying (e.g.,
spraying) an organic acid (e.g., a citric acid solution) to the exterior
surface of the casing to produce a treated casing, and mounting the
treated casing onto a stuffer. In one embodiment, extending includes
removing the casing from a brine solution and laying the casing onto a
support surface (e.g., attaching to a movable conveyor). The casing in
the brine solution is commonly attached to a ring, and preferably
attaching includes hooking the ring onto an engagement member on the
conveyor. If desired, the method can also include rinsing the casing
(e.g., spraying a water solution onto an exterior surface of the casing)
after extending the casing and before and/or after applying the organic
acid.