Bratwurst dispute: Is the original Thuringian really real?

Diskussion um die Thüringer Rostbratwurst: Kontroversen auf Facebook zu Qualität und Tradition, EU-Siegel und regionale Produktion.
Discussion about the Thuringian Rostbratwurst: Controversy on Facebook on quality and tradition, EU seals and regional production. (Symbolbild/NAG)

Bratwurst dispute: Is the original Thuringian really real?

The social media is currently sizzling properly, because a Facebook post about the "Original Thuringian Rostbratwurst" of the Wolf butcher has caused waves. Over 1,200 comments and more than 2,000 reactions are truly impressive. The trigger of the discussion was a comment that announced quite clearly: "Ashamed to call something like that as original Thuringian." This announced a heated debate about the quality and origin of the offered product.

The Wolf butchery has a long tradition and is based in Schmölln and Jena, whereby the company headquarters in Schwandorf, Bavaria, is. Even if the company is deeply rooted in history, there are apparently misunderstandings about the product it offers. One reason for this could be the fact that the bratwurst is brewed in production. Many consumers see this and lose confidence in the “originality” of the product.

What makes the Thuringian rust bratwurst so special?

The "Original Thuringian Rostbratwurst" has an EU seal that stands for protected geographical information (G.G.A.). This means that this sausage is produced exclusively in Thuringia and must adhere to certain quality standards. In order to carry the G.G.A. seal, the raw materials and spices must be of high quality. There are also clear requirements for length of 15 to 20 cm and a piece weight between 100 and 150 g. The fat content and the use of natural intestine are also regulations that must be strictly followed. [Food Forum] (https://www.zeensmittel-forum.de/faq/feensmittel/thueringer-bratwurst-was-meanwhile explains that at least one production level in the area of ​​origin must be carried out in order to obtain the prestigious seal.

The association "Friends of the Thuringian Bratwurst" is of the opinion that the ingredients are determined, while the preparation is free to provide every company and consumer. Uwe Keith, the chairman of the association, emphasizes that the taste of the sausage is subjective and the decision as to whether you prefer brewed sausage or not. As a result, opinions about the bratwurst are very mixed on social media. So a user speaks up: "Nobody would buy something like that in Thuringia." In contrast, other users defend the bratwurst and emphasize the quality and the need for brewing to ensure durability and international delivery.

A look at Thuringia's culinary diversity

The "Original Thuringian Rostbratwurst" is not the only product that is caught in Thuringia under the G.G.A. seal. Other treats such as the Thuringian liver sausage and the Thuringian Redwurst are also included. These protected products contribute to the culinary identity of the region and offer consumers a taste experience that is characterized by tradition and quality. According to Agrar Marketing Thuringia, around 1,000 products are protected across Europe, with Germany has 91 registered products.

In conclusion, it should be noted that the Thuringian rust bratwurst is much more than just a piece of sausage. It stands for tradition and regional craft, even if this is often questioned on social media. Ultimately, it is up to consumers what is considered to be the “original” and which products find their preference.

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OrtAltenburger Land, Deutschland
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