If you own a prepared meal manufacturing company, you are most likely using a prepared meal slicer in your food production line. A commercial meat slicer machine helps create consistency while speeding up production and reducing human error. It can also be a good addition to your food production line if you want to switch between different types of proteins.
However, there are some best practices that manufacturers should follow when switching between different ingredients with the same prepared meal slicer. In this article, we will discuss the role of a prepared meal slicer and tips for using it for different ingredients.
When to Invest in a Commercial Meat Slicer Machine
Before we dive into how to use a prepared meal slicer for different ingredients, let’s first consider: When do you need a prepared meal slicer? If you own a prepared meal manufacturing company, you would most likely benefit from this food production line equipment.
Automated ingredient slicers automate the process of slicing things like deli-style meats, sticks of pepperoni, sausage, Canadian bacon, and cheese. Not only does this help to create consistent results throughout production, but it also speeds up production by using automation rather than manual labor.
Upgrading to an industrial meat slicer is a smart investment to make as soon as possible. Even smaller manufacturing companies can benefit, as it will help you to take production to the next level, establish consistent quality standards that your customers can trust, and save you money in the long run by reducing the number of employees you need.
At Quantum, we provide six different models of meat and pepperoni slicers that are suitable for a variety of meats and cheeses. They utilize state-of-the-art servo motor drive technology and use automation for precision application and consistent slicing capabilities. Many of these models also offer multi-lane configurations, which are perfect for prepared meal manufacturing.
Here are some examples of the different slicer models we provide:
- QTSS Series
- TP-2 Single Lane
- P200 Series Single Head
- P200 Series dual Head
- P400 Cantilevered Series
- Dual Alignment System
Benefits of a Versatile Industrial Meat Slicer
Investing in commercial prepared meal equipment is a big step, so you need to make sure you are choosing the right equipment. For most manufacturing companies, investing in versatile equipment is the best option, as it can serve multiple purposes and adapt to your company’s growing manufacturing needs.
When it comes to industrial meal slicers, choosing a versatile machine opens up the door to more products. You will be able to add more products to your manufacturing line without needing to invest in additional machinery. By being able to use the same machine for different types of protein, you won’t have to integrate new machinery or make a major commitment to new products.
At Quantum, we offer many different slicer models that can accommodate a variety of protein ingredients. They all use automated technology and come with additional features, such as multi-lane configurations, touchscreen controls, motor drive technology, and easy integration.
Food Slicers: Tips When Switching Between Ingredients in Manufacturing
When you invest in a commercial meat slicer machine, you most likely want to get your money’s worth. Because of this, you want to be able to use this machine for a variety of ingredients, especially as you grow your manufacturing company.
Here are some tips for switching between different ingredients when using an industrial meat slicer.
Use the Right Machinery
When you are using food slicers in manufacturing, it is important to do your research and invest in machines that align with your production goals. For example, some food slicers can only handle certain ingredients and cannot be used interchangeably.
You may also have certain needs for your machinery, such as manufacturing volume, accurate ingredient placement, intuitive touchscreen controls, or multi-lane configuration. You also need to make sure the machine you invest in can handle the specific ingredients your prepared meals use. These are all factors that can ultimately impact your final decision, enabling you to make the best possible investment.
Train Your Operators
If you are switching between different ingredients when using meal slicers, you need to provide adequate training for your machine operators. They need to be able to effectively operate the machinery to avoid running into things like downtime or quality issues. They also need to know what to do if something goes wrong.
At Quantum, one of the many services we provide for our customers is training for machine operators, enabling them to perform their jobs with confidence. This will also help improve workplace safety by ensuring that only the most qualified employees operate the machines.
Maintain Hygienic Standards
The most important thing to keep in mind when switching between different types of protein in your meal slicers is hygiene. Whenever you use a machine for multiple purposes, it can raise some hygienic concerns.
Setting hygienic standards requires additional steps, including ensuring that all of your employees adhere to them. This often includes sanitizing machinery on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis. Also, meal slicers may need to be cleaned and sanitized whenever a new type of protein is used.
Be Watchful of Cross-Contamination
Along with maintaining hygienic standards, you also need to be aware of the risk of cross-contamination. This is the number one risk when you are switching between different types of protein with your machinery.
Generally speaking, it is best to avoid switching between ingredients that could cause dangerous cross-contamination risks. For example, avoid switching between ingredients that are common allergens or go against dietary preferences.
Invest in the Best Food Production Line Equipment at Quantum
Do you want to use your industrial meat slicer for different types of proteins? At Quantum, we offer a variety of food production line equipment to help you speed up production as well as create more versatile food products. This can help you branch out into different types of prepared meals without having to upgrade your entire line. Contact our team today to learn more.