Ground Beef Chub Films, Casings, and Beyond

Chub film is one of the most resilient packaging options for raw meat in the food-packaging industry. Offering extended shelf life and superior durability in freezer environments, our ground beef chub casings and films offer protection from the external environment and provide superior meat adhesion.

Hovus Victan® C and Victan® XSE casings are perfect for raw ground beef and sausage and can be used in both fresh and frozen applications where the casing remains on. Both ground beef chub casing options are available in a wide variety of USDA-approved colors and several forms including; shirred, reel stock, cut lengths and clipped.

Beyond that, Hovus offers a comprehensive line of durable, versatile Victan® casings designed for protecting many other food products as well, including cooked ham, cooked deli meats and sausage, cheese, fresh or frozen ground poultry, chorizo, and specialty products such as soups, sauces, cookie dough and other bakery products, butter, and even pet food!

 

FAQ's

Q: What is a chub film and how is it used in ground beef packaging?

A: A chub film is a tubular plastic barrier film used to package ground beef and other ground meat products into the cylindrical "chub" format common in retail and foodservice. The film is filled on high-speed chub packaging equipment, sealed at both ends, and provides oxygen and moisture barrier protection to extend product shelf life.

Q: What is the difference between a chub casing and a chub film?

A: The terms are often used interchangeably in the industry. Technically, 'chub film' refers to the flat or tubular film material used in the packaging process, while 'chub casing' may refer to the finished tube after forming. Both describe the same category of barrier packaging used for ground meat products.

Q: How long does ground beef last in a chub package?

A: Shelf life of ground beef in a chub package depends on storage temperature, the barrier properties of the film, and whether modified atmosphere or vacuum conditions are used. Under typical refrigerated conditions, ground beef in a high-barrier chub film can achieve shelf lives of 21 to 60+ days. Frozen chub products can extend shelf life significantly further.

Q:What sizes are available for ground beef chub films?

A: Ground beef chub films are available in a range of diameters to accommodate different product weights, typically from 1.5 inches to 4.5 inches in diameter. Common pack sizes include 1 lb, 2 lb, 5 lb, and 10 lb chubs. Custom diameters and lengths can be produced to match specific filling equipment and portion requirements.

Q: Are chub films food safe and compliant with FDA regulations?

A: Yes. Food-grade chub films are manufactured from materials compliant with FDA regulations for direct food contact under 21 CFR. Reputable manufacturers like Hovus produce chub films that meet applicable food safety standards for use in USDA-inspected meat processing facilities.