How to Import Natural Sheep Casings to USA (Step-by-Step Guide)

Importing natural sheep casings into the United States can be highly profitable—but it requires compliance with strict food safety and import regulations. This guide explains everything U.S. buyers, distributors, and meat processors need to know before importing.

1️⃣ Understand U.S. Regulatory Requirements

Natural sheep casings are considered animal-derived food products, so they fall under federal oversight.

Key authorities include:

• United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)

• Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

What You’ll Need:

• Approved exporting country status

• Veterinary health certificate

• Proper cleaning and salting process documentation

• FDA facility registration (if applicable)

Always confirm that your supplier’s country is eligible to export natural casings to the USA.

2️⃣ Choose a Compliant Supplier

Your supplier must provide:

• Fully cleaned & salted sheep casings

• Caliber grading (18/20, 20/22, etc.)

• Hygienic processing documentation

• Halal certificate (if required by your market)

• Export health certificate

Ask for:

• Product specifications

• Salt percentage

• Bundle length per hank

• AB mix or selected quality

Consistency is critical for U.S. sausage manufacturers.

3️⃣ Product Preparation & Packing Standards

Natural sheep casings are typically:

• Salt-packed in hanks

• Vacuum sealed (optional)

• Packed in food-grade plastic barrels or boxes

Labeling must include:

• Product description

• Net weight

• Country of origin

• Production date

• Exporter details

Improper labeling may cause delays at U.S. ports.

4️⃣ Import Documentation Checklist

To clear U.S. customs, importers usually need:

• Commercial invoice

• Packing list

• Bill of lading

• Veterinary health certificate

• Import permit (if required)

• Prior notice filing

Your customs broker will handle most documentation submission to CBP.

5️⃣ Work With a U.S. Customs Broker

A licensed customs broker helps with:

• Filing entry documents

• Duty classification

• USDA inspection coordination

• Avoiding port delays

This is strongly recommended for first-time importers.

6️⃣ USDA Inspection at Port of Entry

Upon arrival, shipments may be inspected by FSIS.

They may check:

• Cleanliness

• Odor

• Salt condition

• Proper documentation

• Disease compliance

If approved → Shipment released
If not compliant → Possible rejection or destruction

Quality control before shipping is essential.

7️⃣ Import Duties & Costs

Costs include:

• Product cost

• Freight (air or sea)

• Insurance

• Customs broker fees

• Import duties (if applicable)

• USDA inspection fees

Sea freight is more economical for bulk shipments.

8️⃣ Storage After Import

Once cleared:

• Store at 2–8°C

• Keep fully salted

• Avoid moisture contamination

• Maintain inventory rotation (FIFO)

Proper storage ensures long shelf life and preserves casing strength.

Common Challenges & How to Avoid Them

❌ Incomplete documentation

✔ Work with experienced exporter

❌ Inconsistent caliber

✔ Request pre-shipment inspection

❌ Odor issues

✔ Ensure proper cleaning and salting

❌ Port delays

✔ Use professional customs broker

Why the USA Market Is Attractive

The U.S. sausage industry is large and continuously growing. Companies such as:

• Johnsonville

• Tyson Foods

use natural casings for premium product lines.

Demand is strong for:

• 18/20 sheep casings

• 20/22 sheep casings

• AB mix quality

• Halal-compliant supply

Final Thoughts

Importing natural sheep casings into the USA requires:

• Regulatory compliance

• High product quality

• Proper documentation

• Reliable logistics

When done correctly, it creates long-term supply opportunities with U.S. meat processors, wholesalers, and private label brands.