FrequentlyAsked Questions

How do you pronounce Kayem?

Kayem is pronounced like the letters “K” “M”. The name Kayem is derived from the initials of our founder, Kazimierz Monkiewicz.

What is the history of Kayem?

The Monkiewicz family has been perfecting Kayem’s finely crafted meats since 1909 in Chelsea, Mass. We’ve spent the last 100 years focusing on our recipes because we believe that quality meats from a family butcher, cooked to perfection, can bring us all a little closer together. Click here for a more detailed history of the company.

Where is Kayem located?

Kayem is located in Chelsea, Mass. near the Tobin Bridge.

KNOW YOUR MEAT

What is the difference between a Kayem Old Tyme Frank and a Kayem Hot Dog?

Old Tyme Franks have natural casings, which give them a “snap” when you take a bite into them. Kayem Hot Dogs do not have a casing.

What are casings?

Sausages and hot dogs are formed by filling sleeves (casings) with meat.

What does “smoked” mean?

“Smoked” is a natural process that creates flavor. We use natural hardwood chips in our smoking process.

What is bratwurst?

Bratwurst is coarsely ground fresh pork and beef or fresh pork and veal, originating in Germany.

What is kielbasa?

Kielbasa is a Polish, coarsely ground, cooked and cured pork sausage.

What is pastrami?

Pastrami is beef that has been cured, smoked and spiced.

OUR PRODUCTS

Is Kayem a nut-free facility?

Yes, our products are made in a nut-free facility. Feel free to contact Customer Service regarding other allergens.

Are Kayem franks kosher?

Kayem franks are made with only the finest cuts of meat and contain no by-products, fillers or artificial flavors; however, they are not certified Kosher. Kayem Beef & Pork Franks contain pork; however, our Lean Franks and Beef Franks do not. Our manufacturing plant has been certified for food safety by the newest global standard, BRC issue 7.

Are your products ready to eat, or do they require cooking?

Please look at the package to determine if the product is fully cooked or fresh (uncooked).

Fully cooked products can be eaten right out of the package. However, we recommend heating them to fully enjoy their texture and flavor.

Fresh products require cooking before consumption. Please see the package for cooking instructions.

Our fresh brats and Italian sausage should be cooked until they reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees to ensure that any bacteria that may be present is killed.

Do any of your products contain Finely Textured Lean Beef?

At Kayem, we stand by the quality of our great-tasting products, which consumers have been enjoying for more than 100 years. Our formulas do not contain any fillers, by-products, ammonia hydroxide processed finely textured beef or MSG. Kayem products are made in the USA by manufacturing plants that meet or exceed all USDA standards.

Do you really make the Fenway Frank?

Yes, we are the Official Frankfurter of the Boston Red Sox and make the Fenway Franks that are sold at the park. They are also available at your local market where other Kayem products are sold.

How long is the product good after the package has been opened?

Fresh (uncooked) products should be kept in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped, and should always be consumed or frozen prior to the expiration date.

Fully cooked products must be stored in the refrigerator and should be consumed prior to the expiration date or within 3 days after the product seal has been broken.

Frozen products should be stored in a freezer and consumed within 3 months after freezing to ensure the best flavor. Be sure to freeze the product prior to the expiration date.

I live in New York and I can’t find Fenway Franks at my store. Where can I buy them?

We know Red Sox Nation is everywhere, but our Fenway Franks are only available in the six New England states with the exception of Fairfield County, Connecticut. Send a friendly note to our customer service department, and they will be happy to aid you in your quest or use our Store Locator tool to locate the store nearest you.

I’m concerned about food allergies. Do you have products for people with food allergies?

Please review the product ingredients—listed with each product or on the product label—to determine if the products are suitable. Kayem Foods Inc. offers numerous items to choose from, so we are convinced you will be able to satisfy your needs!

If your product says “All Natural”, what does that mean?

“All natural” refers to products made without chemicals, food additives or refined ingredients. There are no artificial colors, fillers or by-products in these products.

What are Nitrates and Nitrites?

Nitrates and Nitrites are a widely used curing agents for meat. Curing is a process that helps preserve the meat and ensures its safety by preventing the growth of various harmful bacteria. The USDA and the FDA have both approved the use of Nitrates and Nitrites as a safe and highly effective ingredient to ensure food safety. They’re used in thousands of meat products that you likely purchase and consume every day.

Certain vegetables such as celery are also very high in Nitrites and nitrates and can be used as a source to help preserve products. But regardless of the source of the nitrates and nitrates, the end result of the curing process is the same.

Are your products gluten free?

The only Kayem branded products we produce that contain gluten are Kayem Pale Ale Brats, Kayem Polish Loaf, Kayem Meat Loaf and Kayem Macaroni and Cheese Loaf. That means, all of our Kayem Franks and Classic Hot Dogs are gluten free.

Where can I find nutritional information?

We list nutrition information for each of our products on the product’s page —franks, brats, sausages and deli meats. Otherwise please review the product package label for nutritional information.

Where can I purchase your products?

Using your zip code in the Store Locator, find our products in a store nearest you.

How can I get notified of Kayem contests and promotions?