Whether you like ‘em baked, broiled, roasted, mild or spicy, sausages have been a dietary staple in some form and seemingly in every part of the world for generations. Though far from served on a regular basis, we occasionally enjoy the decadence of German wurst or campfire style wieners.
In a recent newspaper article and national news item, the topic of sausages came up, an unusual subject considering the time and space usually dedicated to far weightier matters. I quote: “A federally funded study has found that 20 per cent of sausages sampled from grocery stores across Canada contained meats that weren't on the label.” (CBC report, August 3, 2017).
Upon further research, undisclosed ingredients include, among those other things, horse meat. Not sure whether we’ll indulge anytime soon.
The practice of including undisclosed ingredients isn’t restricted to Canadian suppliers; some international fast food outlets have stopped ordering processed meats from suppliers of these products.
In another interesting note re the lowly sausage, a book I’m reading sheds light on the reason they are called “bangers” in England. In Young Elizabeth: the making of the Queen by Kate Williams, the author explains some restrictions during World War 11 rationing: “Sausages were bulked out with bread and so much water that they often exploded under high temperatures – hence the name ‘bangers’.” Interesting to say the least!
So what does this topic have to do with the way I live my life? While some folks have no problem with horse meat or the addition of other legitimate food products, what people object to most is the undisclosed inclusion. As followers of Jesus Christ, we’re not above making mistakes but honesty, authenticity and integrity are key to being a true witness.
“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.” (3rd John 4)
