Let’s Talk About LEM Products #8 Grinder Stuffing Plate
The LEM Products #8 Grinder Stuffing Plate is a seemingly simple piece of equipment that can make a huge difference in your sausage-making game. LEM Products is a trusted name in meat processing, and this stuffing plate is designed to be a robust and efficient alternative to using standard grinding plates when stuffing sausage or filling meat bags. I’ve spent years wrestling with grinders, trying to coax the perfect consistency for my sausage, so the promise of a dedicated stuffing plate piqued my interest immediately.
I was struggling to get the right texture for my venison sausage. The standard grinding plates always seemed to pulverize the meat too much, leading to a sausage with a mushy, less-than-desirable mouthfeel. I was looking for something that would gently push the meat through, preserving its texture and resulting in a more artisanal final product.
Unboxing the LEM Products #8 Grinder Stuffing Plate, my initial impression was one of solid quality. The stainless steel felt substantial and well-machined. It certainly looked like it could withstand the rigors of repeated use.
I’ve used standard grinding plates and even experimented with makeshift solutions like plastic spacers in the past. The LEM Products #8 Grinder Stuffing Plate appeared far superior. It’s a dedicated tool, engineered for a specific purpose, unlike the makeshift methods that always felt like a compromise. I chose it because LEM Products has a solid reputation, and I believed this plate would deliver a consistent and reliable result.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The build quality was reassuring, and I was excited to see if it could truly solve my sausage texture problems. The hope was that this plate would be a game-changer, finally allowing me to consistently produce sausage with the perfect bite and texture.
Real-World Testing: Putting LEM Products #8 Grinder Stuffing Plate to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the LEM Products #8 Grinder Stuffing Plate during my annual deer sausage-making marathon. The workshop was cold, the meat was colder, and the pressure was on to produce enough sausage to last through the winter. I used it with a LEM Products #8 grinder, processing a mix of venison and pork.
The plate performed admirably in the cold conditions. It didn’t seem affected by the chilled meat. The meat flowed through the kidney-shaped holes with surprising ease. I noticed an immediate difference in the texture of the meat exiting the grinder.
The LEM Products #8 Grinder Stuffing Plate was remarkably easy to use. Replacing the standard grinding plate was a simple swap, and the stuffing process began immediately. There was no need to adjust the grinder or adapt my technique in any significant way. The only slight adjustment was omitting the knife from the grinder assembly.
The biggest surprise was the reduction in “smear” or “mush” compared to using a standard grinding plate. The meat retained more of its original texture. It was a palpable improvement in the overall consistency of the sausage filling.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several batches of sausage over a couple of months, the LEM Products #8 Grinder Stuffing Plate has held up flawlessly. There are no signs of wear or tear. It still looks and performs as it did on day one.
The stainless steel construction seems to be a major factor in its durability. Even after grinding several pounds of meat, there is no sign of rust or corrosion. This is critical for something used in food processing.
Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward. A quick wash with soap and hot water, followed by thorough drying, is all it takes to keep it in top condition. The simple design eliminates hard-to-reach crevices where bacteria could accumulate.
Compared to previous experiences using standard grinding plates for stuffing, the LEM Products #8 Grinder Stuffing Plate is a significant improvement. It consistently delivers a superior texture. The difference is not subtle. My sausages now have a more appealing texture.
Breaking Down the Features of LEM Products #8 Grinder Stuffing Plate
Specifications
The LEM Products #8 Grinder Stuffing Plate is made from stainless steel for durability and hygiene. Its diameter is 2-3/8 inches. The plate features three large kidney-shaped holes. This design promotes efficient stuffing while preserving meat texture.
The diameter is important for compatibility with #8 grinders. The stainless steel ensures rust resistance and food safety. The kidney-shaped holes are the key to its stuffing efficiency, allowing large chunks of meat to pass through without being overly processed.
Performance & Functionality
The LEM Products #8 Grinder Stuffing Plate excels at its primary job: stuffing sausage. It allows meat to pass through with minimal grinding, which preserves its texture and produces a more desirable sausage. The results are noticeably better than when using standard grinding plates.
The primary strength of this plate is its ability to maintain meat texture. The weakness is that it’s a single-purpose tool, so you will need a standard grinding plate for the initial grinding. It meets and exceeds my expectations for a stuffing plate. My sausage making is now more consistent, and less frustrating.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the LEM Products #8 Grinder Stuffing Plate is excellent. The stainless steel is durable and easy to clean. Its weight is appropriate for its size and purpose.
It is a simple, user-friendly design. There is no learning curve. Just swap it in for the standard grinding plate and get to work.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting durability. It should last for years with proper care.
The plate is easy to maintain. Simply wash, rinse, and dry thoroughly after each use. No special tools or cleaners are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The LEM Products #8 Grinder Stuffing Plate doesn’t require any specific accessories. It’s a standalone tool. It works best with LEM Products grinders.
It is compatible with most standard #8 grinders. It’s designed to replace the standard grinding plate in these models.
Pros and Cons of LEM Products #8 Grinder Stuffing Plate
Pros
- Superior Sausage Texture: The kidney-shaped holes minimize meat grinding, resulting in a more desirable texture.
- Durable Stainless Steel: The stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting performance and rust resistance.
- Easy to Use and Clean: Simple design makes it easy to swap in and out and easy to clean.
- Improved Efficiency: Makes the sausage stuffing process much faster and more consistent.
- Enhanced Sausage Quality: Results in a more artisanal final product.
Cons
- Single-Purpose Tool: It can only be used for stuffing and is not a replacement for a grinding plate.
- Requires a #8 Grinder: Must be used with a compatible #8 grinder.
Who Should Buy LEM Products #8 Grinder Stuffing Plate?
The LEM Products #8 Grinder Stuffing Plate is perfect for home sausage makers. It’s ideal for hunters who process their own game, and anyone who takes pride in crafting high-quality, artisanal sausage. It is also great for foodies who value superior texture and flavor.
This product may not be necessary for individuals who only occasionally make sausage. It’s also not needed for those who are satisfied with the texture achieved using standard grinding plates. You won’t need any must-have accessories or modifications, but consider buying extra sausage casings when purchasing the LEM Products #8 Grinder Stuffing Plate.
Conclusion on LEM Products #8 Grinder Stuffing Plate
The LEM Products #8 Grinder Stuffing Plate is a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about sausage making. It addresses a common problem, offering a simple yet effective solution for achieving superior texture. Its robust construction and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any meat processing setup.
At $26.79, the price is justified by the improved results and the longevity of the stainless steel construction. I would personally recommend it to anyone who wants to take their sausage-making game to the next level. If you’re tired of mushy sausage and want to experience a better bite, grab a LEM Products #8 Grinder Stuffing Plate and get stuffing!