Meat industry handling and freezing solutions on show at IFFA

MHM Automation will showcase its latest advances in materials handling, chilling and freezing solutions for meat processors at IFFA 2025 from 3–8 May 2025 in Germany.

The New Zealand-founded automation specialist, now part of Houston-based Fortifi Food Processing Solutions, will exhibit several technologies at its stand (Hall 11.0, Stand A01) — including a demonstration of an autonomous mobile robot (AMR), along with immersive virtual reality and on-screen presentations of its rapid chilling and freezing tunnels and de-boxing equipment.

Chilling and freezing solutions

Building on technology designed by its predecessor, Milmeq, MHM's carton/box chilling and freezing tunnels are claimed to deliver energy savings of around 25% compared to traditional blast freezing cells — while also achieving faster freezing times for improved product quality and extended shelf life.

Currently, MHM is installing its freezing tunnel at a UK-based meat processing facility, capable of freezing cartons of pork rapidly within 24 hours.

Equipped with fully automated loading and unloading capabilities, the tunnel completely removes the need for manual or forklift handling of product during the freezing process.

"This tunnel installation will substantially boost output at the plant and dramatically reduce workplace injury risks associated with manual handling tasks in cold environments," said Tony Johnson, General Manager Sales & Marketing at MHM Automation.

AMRs

Designed to function like an unmanned forklift, the AMRs can safely navigate crowded processing and warehousing environments, easily integrating alongside human operators.

"AMRs integrate seamlessly with existing manual operations, boosting productivity without demanding complete changes to existing workflows," Johnson said.

"This makes them particularly appealing for processors looking for incremental automation gains without major disruption."

De-boxing

After success with automating packaging removal for the cheese sector, MHM's universal de-boxer technology is now being used for operations within meat processing plants. The latest model accommodates varying carton sizes and styles — taped or shoebox configurations — without operator intervention, and delivers unboxed product directly to the line ready for further processing.

"Our de-boxing technology streamlines a previously hazardous and labour-intensive manual process," Johnson said.

"Processors handling heavy, frozen cartons significantly reduce injury risks by automating this critical stage. We're seeing substantial interest, particularly from our customers in the US market, where we presently have multiple installations underway."

Supporting its growing international presence, MHM Automation has recently expanded its dedicated service teams in key markets, including new deployments in the US and UK, complementing its established teams in New Zealand and Australia.