Perfect portions every time

JBT Marel leads the way in this field, offering integrated solutions that maximize the value of every piece of boneless poultry. At the core of these processing lines are two advanced, but distinct portioning methods: waterjet cutting and blade cutting. Choosing the right technology depends on production goals—sometimes blade cutting is ideal, while in other cases, waterjet portioning is the better choice.

Flexible and precise: waterjet cutting

When ultimate flexibility and maximum yield from every piece of meat are required, waterjet portioning is the technology of choice. This method is essential for handling highly variable raw materials or creating fat-free, fixed-weight products with minimal giveaway. By scanning each fillet’s size, shape, and thickness, a waterjet cutter calculates and performs complex cuts to produce perfect fixed-weight portions. Even curved cuts can be achieved, and fat can be cut away precisely—setting it apart from straight blade cutting. For uniquely shaped products with trimmed fat and near-zero waste, waterjet portioning is the premier solution.

"If you can draw it, we can cut it"

The concept is simple: the DSI 800 Series Waterjet Portioner can cut any shape you design. Each piece of meat is first scanned, including fat deposits, and then dedicated software determines the optimal way to cut it for maximum value. High-pressure waterjets then slice the meat into the desired shapes—whether fillets, strips, or cubes—while trimming fat in a single pass. The result? Custom products with almost no waste, minimal giveaway, and a limited water usage.

Fast and efficient: blade cutting

For high-volume production where speed, throughput, and consistency are top priorities, blade cutting is the ideal solution. When thousands of identical chicken strips, cubes, or sized fillets are needed for fast-food chains or large food service contracts, blade cutters excel. Using high-speed knives, they make clean, straight cuts with unmatched efficiency, making them the workhorses of portioning—designed to process large quantities quickly and reliably.

Consistent recipes

A standout example is the dual-lane I-Cut 122 TrimSort, which allows processors to run two different programs simultaneously on the same machine. One lane can cut sandwich fillets while the other produces strips—which can then be fed back to the first lane to be cut into cubes. The machine also automatically sorts the main product and trim, eliminating the need for manual sorting. With user-friendly software, processors can store recipes and maintain consistent results, even across multiple orders over time.

Integrated solutions

What sets JBT Marel’s portioning solutions apart is their full integration. Machines communicate with each other, sharing feedback and optimizing portioning strategies based on real-time calculations. A fully integrated line may include:

• Robotic Positioning: The RoboOptimizer precisely places meat on the belt, removes overlapping pieces, and ensures smooth processing.
• Product Preparation: Splitting systems horizontally divide large fillets to ensure uniform thickness for better "3D" cutting.
• Sorting: After portioning, products must be sorted—such as separating offcuts from main products. JBT Marel offers multiple sorting solutions, including the integrated TrimSort in the I-Cut 122.
• Central Software Control: JBT Marel’s Portioning Software manages the entire line, providing a clear overview, allowing operators to adjust settings, and tracking real-time data on yield and speed. It also ensures full traceability from raw meat to packed product.

Profitable portioning

JBT Marel provides powerful solutions for any portioning need. Whether you require the flexibility of waterjet cutting or the speed of blade cutting, these integrated systems deliver high-quality, consistent products. Whatever you prioritize—with JBT Marel, you get the most out of every piece of boneless poultry. By combining advanced machinery with robotics and smart software, JBT Marel helps you stay competitive and profitable in a dynamic market.