A method of preparing smoke-impregnated tubular casings is described. The
process comprises: (a) providing a tubular casing having interior and
exterior surfaces, the tubular casing being selected from cellulose fiber
tubular casings and synthetic tubular casings, and the tubular casing
being suitable for encasing food fillings having a form selected from one
of liquid and paste; (b) applying to the interior surface of the tubular
casing a mixture comprising, (i) liquid smoke, (ii) browning agents, and
(iii) optionally water; (c) allowing the mixture to remain in contact
with the interior surface of the tubular casing for at least 5 days; and
(d) optionally shirring and watering the mixture treated casing. The
smoke-impregnated tubular casings prepared in accordance with the method
of the present invention are suitable for liquid or paste-like food
fillings, such as sausage meat emulsions.