Conti Horse Bone Charcuterie Tester with Leather Case

Interesting Conversational Piece! Authentic from Italy, Salumificio Conti Horse Bone Charcuterie Tester with Leather Case . A horse bone charcuterie tester (or osso ago di cavallo) is a specialized tool used to assess the aging and quality of high-end, whole-muscle cured meats, particularly prosciutto. Function: The tool is inserted into the thickest part of the prosciutto (usually near the femur or tibia) to absorb its aroma, which can then be smelled to determine if the aging process is correct or if there is spoilage. Why Horse Bone? Horse bone is prized for this purpose because it is highly porous, absorbing and releasing scents very quickly. It allows the taster to evaluate the aroma without leaving a permanent hole. The Process (Puntatura): The bone is used to test the meat at multiple key points, often in a ritual called the Aqua Dearma or Puntatura. Kit Details: These testers are often sold individually or in professional sets, commonly featuring a leather pouch or case for protection and hygienic storage. Horse bone testers are considered essential accessories for artisanal prosciutto production