What is the term for the wrapping around a sausage that can be natural or artificial?

The correct term for the wrapping around a sausage that can be either natural, derived from the intestines of animals, or artificial, made from various synthetic materials, is "casing." Casings serve as a vital component in sausage making, as they hold the sausage mixture together during processing and cooking. The use of casings is essential for both preserving the shape of the sausage and influencing its texture and flavor.

Natural casings have been traditionally used for centuries and often enhance the taste of the sausage, while artificial casings can provide uniformity and ease of use in industrial production. Other terms like "wrapping," "shell," and "covering" do not specifically refer to this phenomenon in the context of sausage making, making "casing" the most appropriate and widely recognized terminology used in the industry.