The Future of Automation in Meat Processing: What to Expect

This era in automation of meat processing holds great promise for the industry at large. Let’s examine a few points and then dig a little deeper into the buzzword of the moment, artificial intelligence, or what we know as AI, and how it is effectively being implemented in our industry. 

Automated tasks in meat factories have been around for years, but robotics – first developed in the pork and poultry sectors – will become the norm as the technology gains sophistication to deal with more variable meat and cuts.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning

Perhaps the next great efficiencies in animal-based food production will come from ‘deep learning’ and other artificial intelligence applied to protein production.

Artificial intelligence and machine learning will likely be what drives the next wave of automation in meat processing.

These technologies will enable processors to overcome the variability of meat products more effectively than traditional mechanical engineering. AI-driven automation will be assessed from the perspective of costs to help optimise operations, improve carcass value assignment, and enhance inventory management systems.

Labour Shortages and Pandemic Response

While the pandemic obviously made it harder to have people working together – COVID-19 outbreaks were common at meatpacking plants – and certain labour shortages persist as policies like work visas remain unresolved, but the overall shift towards automation has been in the making long before the pandemic. 

The pandemic and related labour shortages have likely sped up the timeline, and automation will likely get even more attention than it already had. As the demand for meat remains high and consumers want speedy and convenient access to their ‘meat of choice’, the meat industry feels compelled to maintain operational efficiencies.

Sustainability and Food Safety

Sustainability Focus: Significant shifts in food safety and sustainability are likely to mark the direction of meat processing and packaging in the future. 

Consumer appetites for nutrition-packed foods have been increasing – this trend has been driving innovation and change within the industry.

Affordability and Adaptability

The technology behind automation in meat processing is becoming more affordable and is evolving to address the inherent variability issues. This makes it a more accessible option for meat processors looking to improve efficiency and adapt to market changes.

AI’s Role in the Meat Industry

• Optimisation of Meat Processing – AI is being used to optimise cutting in meat processing facilities, improving efficiency and precision.
• Flavour and Product Development – AI can determine optimal flavour combinations in value-added meat products, enhancing consumer satisfaction.
• Demand Prediction – Retailers are utilising AI to better predict demand, ensuring right-size assortments and pricing.
• Livestock Management – AI technology helps farmers proactively address health concerns, minimise losses, and uphold animal welfare standards.
• Streamlining Supply Chain – AI streamlines the processing and distribution aspects of the meat supply chain, leading to more efficient operations.
• Reducing Waste – Implementing AI-driven solutions could potentially minimise defects, lower waste, and streamline production processes.

SUMMARY

When we do see automation in meat-processing businesses, we’ll reap the rewards of increased efficiency, improved safety, and greater sustainability. Robots, artificial intelligence and machine learning will be onboard, bringing big changes to meat production; this is good news for everyone involved in the chain, as well as the consumer.