5 Tech innovations reshaping salmon processing in 2025

1. The precision in filleting and portioning just keeps getting better

Advanced portioning machines with precision cutting revolutionized fish processing a few years ago now. The first machines impressed processors with the increased yields and reduced waste, helping them build a more sustainable industry. In 2024, the precision has only become more exact.

Scanners and sensors detect the size and shape of individual fish, using this information to direct cutters – waterjet and blades, to make cuts that maximize fillet value, quality and match order specifications. Because each fish or fillet is seen through its individual parameters, cuts are made closer to the bone and portions sliced to precisely meet weight and shape requirements, leading to even higher yields and less waste than earlier models.

The next step in innovation is to utilize inputs and weights to channel raw material to the process that ensures the best product fit for all fillets. Thus, meeting quality demands, yield requirements and order deadlines with ever more accuracy and even less waste.

2. AI-powered Quality Control Systems (QCS)

AI-powered cameras and sensors detect defects in whole fish and fillets, including color, texture and other imperfections. As a traditionally manual task, quality inspections slowed processing lines and were prone to human error. By using the available AI technology end-product quality is more consistent, boosting brand reputation.

The combination of speed and accuracy provided by an AI-powered QCS results in minimal need for human contact, improving hygiene and addressing any labor shortages. Connected to data collection software systems, an AI-powered QCS helps processors meet strict quality standards while gathering and storing key data for regulatory requirements.

3. IoT and real-time data analytics for supply chain transparency 

What is the Internet of Things (IoT) and why does it keep coming up in fish processing? IoT connects physical devices such as scanners and sensors to cloud-platforms, enabling collection and exchange of detailed data. IoT technology offers a wide variety of benefits for salmon processors.

In supply chain transparency it collects and makes accessible detailed information in real-time. This enables greater:

4. Automation for labor efficiency and safety

The ongoing labor shortage in the seafood industry shows no sign of letting up. Automation is helping to fill the gaps by taking over repetitive and hazardous tasks, allowing businesses to reallocate their people to more complex tasks.

Utilizing automated equipment such as robotics for heavy handling dramatically reduces the risk of injury. You can take the benefits beyond employee health and safety by integrating automation in production lines with IoT. Combining robotics and smart systems for operations such as sorting and packaging not only reduces manual labor needs but enhances efficiency.

While increasing automation is proven to improve productivity, processors have also seen reduced turnover rates for their workers thanks to better workplace safety.

5. Sustainable waste management and energy-efficient technologies

In an industry seeing the very real effects of environmental pressures, using technology to reduce carbon footprints and improve fish management is building an industry ready for whatever the future holds.

At an individual business level, sustainable practices increase long term profits for salmon processors, minimizing margin pressures by reducing energy consumption and maximizing raw material value. Smart sensors can be used to monitor and control energy consumption, water use and waste generation across processing lines. While smart machines can predict maintenance needs, minimizing downtime and reducing machine failure risks. Across all areas of a business, accurate measurement and control over systems reduce costs, optimize machines and operations, and support sustainability goals.

Technology is visible in every corner of our lives. For the seafood industry the options available show ever-growing benefits to processors who adopt them, helping them meet industry challenges and remain competitive, with improved efficiency and reduced operational costs.

From robotics to data-driven solutions or a combination of both, processors of every size can take advantage of technology to future-proof their business.

Explore the possibilities further by following the links or contacting an expert at Marel.