The Meat Factory Cell: A new way of thinking for meat producers

Abstract

This paper presents the novel Meat Factory Cell (MFC) concept which is being developed in both semi- and fully-automated forms. The MFC provides several important opportunities for the red meat sector, including enhanced robustness, scalability and flexibility. Moreover, it is mindful of the need for small-medium meat processors requiring access to automation, which has proven uneconomical until now. The industry has renewed interest in such automation initiatives, particularly considering its need to improve resilience in the face of future global pandemics. The paper describes the progress of the MFC, as well as a rudimentary framework for realising the implementation. Finally, the paper discusses some of the major hurdles faced in the future.