Abstract text

Pigskin is processed to provide a bleached, expanded skin used in dog treat or chew products. The raw pigskin is dehaired and then daubed with an alkali mixture of an alkali liquid, alkali enzymes and lime, the mixture having a pH of greater than or equal to 12. The alkali mixture dissolves the colloidal protein. The alkali is removed by alternately rinsing the skin in water and agitating the skin with first ammonium chloride or ammonium sulfate, and then second with ammonium chloride or ammonium sulfate, and pancreatic enzymes. The skin is agitated with sodium carbonate and a degreaser to remove the fat. The skin is then washed with hydrogen peroxide, which bleaches and expands the skin. The skin is then formed into a dog product and dried.