Volkswagen Currywurst is more than just a quirky car company product. It became a legendary snack, originally produced for workers at the Wolfsburg factory, and has since reached cult status among fans in Germany and beyond. These sausages even have their own Volkswagen part number and are a highly sought-after novelty food item.
If you have a craving for Volkswagen Currywurst, finding a pack outside Germany can be tricky. Here’s a practical guide on where and how you can buy Volkswagen Currywurst, whether you’re an enthusiast, collector, or just curious about this unique automotive delicacy.
What Is Volkswagen Currywurst?
Volkswagen Currywurst is a pork sausage made by Volkswagen at their main plant in Wolfsburg, Germany. Introduced in 1973, it was meant for factory employees but quickly became a hit with the public. The sausage is mildly spiced and usually comes in a pack with VW-branded ketchup, intended to be served as 'currywurst' - a classic German fast-food dish with sliced sausage, ketchup, and curry powder.
It even has a genuine Volkswagen part number: 199 398 500 A, just like car components. Over seven million sausages are produced yearly, and they’re sold both in Volkswagen’s canteens and at certain public events. If you’re after the real thing, make sure the packaging bears the VW logo and part number.
Buying Volkswagen Currywurst at Volkswagen Dealerships
In Germany, some official Volkswagen dealerships sell currywurst to the public, especially those located near the Wolfsburg headquarters. These dealerships often stock promotional items and branded merchandise, including the famous sausage. However, availability is not guaranteed at every location, and quantities can be limited or seasonal.
If you’re visiting Germany, call ahead to local dealerships in larger cities or near VW factories. Ask specifically about 'Volkswagen Originalteil Currywurst' to avoid confusion with regular sausages. Occasionally, dealerships outside Germany run special promotions or events where currywurst is served or sold, but this is rare.
Ordering Volkswagen Currywurst Online
For those outside Germany, online retailers are usually the best bet. Several German specialty food shops and even Volkswagen’s own fan shops occasionally list currywurst for sale. Websites like myGermanCandy.com, germandelistore.com, and Originalteile.shop have offered Volkswagen Currywurst. These websites will sometimes ship internationally, though availability can fluctuate due to export restrictions on meat products.
Keep in mind that shipping chilled sausages overseas is expensive and often only available within the European Union. Before purchasing, confirm that the retailer can ship to your country and that the product is in stock. Read reviews and ensure they ship cold-packed to maintain food safety.
Finding Volkswagen Currywurst at German Supermarkets
Major supermarket chains in Germany, like Edeka and Rewe, have occasionally carried Volkswagen Currywurst, especially in locations near Wolfsburg or during special promotions. However, it is not a regular product nationwide. Your best chance is checking large stores in Lower Saxony or North Rhine-Westphalia, where Volkswagen has a strong local presence.
If you’re traveling in Germany, ask staff at supermarket meat counters about 'VW Currywurst'. Since stock is limited, visiting earlier in the day helps. Some specialty German delis and butcher shops also get small shipments if there is demand, particularly in cities with a lot of Volkswagen activity or car enthusiasts.
Special Events and Volkswagen Museums
The Autostadt in Wolfsburg and the Volkswagen Museum are two of the most reliable places to find authentic Volkswagen Currywurst. The visitor canteen and museum shop regularly serve or sell the sausage, sometimes as part of combo meals with fries and the unique VW ketchup.
During Volkswagen events, classic car shows, and factory open days, currywurst is often available. If you plan to attend a VW-related event or visit Wolfsburg, check the program or contact the organizers to ask if currywurst will be sold or served. For fans, this is the most authentic experience.
Alternatives and Import Restrictions
Because of strict regulations on importing meat, especially from the EU into the US, Canada, or Australia, getting genuine Volkswagen Currywurst shipped abroad can be a challenge. Customs may confiscate meat products or require special certification. Always check your local import rules before ordering. Many online stores will refuse international orders for perishable foods for this reason.
If getting authentic Volkswagen Currywurst proves impossible, German-style curry sausages from specialty butchers make a close substitute. Brands like Meica or Böklunder offer a similar flavor profile, and you can make your own curry ketchup at home. For the full VW experience, purchase branded ketchup separately and use it with a quality German-style sausage.
Tips for Storing and Cooking Volkswagen Currywurst
If you manage to buy Volkswagen Currywurst, store it in the refrigerator and follow any use-by dates on the package. The sausage is typically precooked and vacuum-sealed, but it should remain chilled until ready to eat. For longer storage, freezing is possible, although this may slightly alter the texture.
To prepare, simply grill or pan-fry the sausages for a few minutes until heated through and lightly browned. Slice into bite-size pieces and serve topped with VW-branded ketchup and a sprinkle of curry powder. Traditionally, currywurst is served with fries or a bread roll, making it a perfect hearty snack or casual meal.
Buying Volkswagen Currywurst Merchandise
If you can’t buy the sausage itself, Volkswagen’s online shop and major fan retailers offer currywurst-themed merchandise. This includes T-shirts, aprons, mugs, and even ketchup bottles branded with the famous part number. These items make great gifts for car enthusiasts and are widely available for international shipping.
Some retailers sell gift sets with the ketchup and a voucher for currywurst redeemable in Germany. While not quite the same as tasting the sausage, these products keep the spirit of Volkswagen Currywurst alive for fans everywhere.
Frequently asked questions
Can I buy Volkswagen Currywurst outside Germany?
It is very difficult. Some online retailers ship within the EU, but strict import laws mean delivery overseas is rarely possible.
What makes Volkswagen Currywurst different from regular currywurst?
VW’s version is made to a specific recipe and is branded as an 'original part' with a genuine VW part number. The included ketchup is also unique.
How much does Volkswagen Currywurst cost?
In Germany, a pack of five sausages with ketchup usually costs between 7 and 10 euros. Prices are higher online due to shipping and rarity.
Is Volkswagen Currywurst suitable for vegetarians?
No. It is a pork sausage. However, Volkswagen started producing a vegetarian version for their canteens in recent years, but it is not widely sold yet.