Modern fish processing equipment in the seafood industry
This article was featured in Eurofish Magazine 1 2025.
The global seafood industry has emerged as a pivotal sector within the food production landscape, driven by rising consumer demand for high-quality, sustainable protein sources. Fish processing, a critical link in the supply chain, ensures that seafood products meet market standards for safety, taste, and convenience.
In 2024, the worldwide fish processing equipment market was valued at approximately EUR 2.03 billion and is projected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.1%, reaching EUR 3 billion by 2033. This growth reflects increasing urbanisation, dietary shifts toward protein-rich foods, and heightened awareness about sustainable food production practices.
Modern fish processing facilities are characterised by their reliance on state-of-the-art equipment, enabling efficient, hygienic, and environmentally friendly operations. These advances are particularly relevant as global fish production has surpassed 180 million tonnes annually, with aquaculture accounting for over half of this output. To process such high production volumes while adhering to strict regulatory standards, companies are investing heavily in innovative technologies that optimise every stage of processing, from sorting and filleting to packaging and waste management.
Focus on sustainability
The transition from manual to automated and semi-automated processes has not only increased production capacity but also improved product consistency and reduced labour costs. For example, automated filleting machines can handle over 25 fish per minute, significantly outperforming traditional methods. Concurrently, the industry faces the dual challenge of maximising yield and minimising waste. It is estimated that advanced equipment can recover up to 90% of edible fish meat, compared to less than 70% with older technologies.
Additionally, sustainability is becoming a cornerstone of the industry. Modern processing plants are adopting energy-efficient machinery and incorporating circular economy principles, such as repurposing fish by-products for use in animal feed, fertilisers, or biofuels. This not only reduces environmental impact but also unlocks additional revenue streams. With such innovations leading the way, the seafood industry is poised for a technological revolution, ensuring it meets the growing global demand while maintaining its commitment to sustainability and quality.
Automation and robotics
Automation and robotics have become integral to modern fish processing, enabling increased efficiency and precision while reducing the reliance on manual labour. Among the standout technologies is Marel’s FleXicut system, which automates trimming of fish fillets, significantly reducing labour costs and improving product yield. Another example is the Baader 144 automated gutting machine, which uses advanced engineering to perform hygienic and precise gutting operations at high speeds, catering to diverse fish species. Additionally, it is likely the first fish processing machine to use a camera system for controlling the gutting and cleaning quality of each processed fish.
Sorting technology has also seen remarkable improvements. For instance, Marel automated sorting systems leverage advanced sensors to classify fish by size and quality, streamlining operations and ensuring consistency. Similarly, Uni-Food offers modern skinning machines designed to handle delicate fish species without damaging the product, demonstrating how robotics enhance both speed and care in processing.
These innovations underline the transformative impact of automation in addressing industry challenges, such as labour shortages and demand for consistent, high-quality products. By integrating robotics and automation into processing lines, seafood companies can achieve unparalleled precision and efficiency.
Advanced filleting machines
Modern filleting machines exemplify the advancements in fish processing technology, combining precision engineering and cutting-edge design to optimise yield and minimise waste. A notable example is Marel’s MS 2730, a filleting machine designed specifically for salmon processing. This machine not only ensures consistent and high-quality fillets but also incorporates technology to reduce downtime through easy maintenance and quick adjustments for different fish sizes. Additionally, the machine can be equipped with a back/belly trimming kit, which helps to minimise the manual trimming of fillets.
Refurbished equipment is a way for processors to equip their factories with machinery that is reliable and efficient and costs significantly less than comparable new equipment.
Another standout is the Baader 582 filleting machine, which offers flexible and efficient filleting for whitefish. It features automated cutting programs that adapt to varying fish shapes, sizes, and conditions, maximising yield while maintaining product integrity. Its hygienic design facilitates thorough cleaning, ensuring compliance with stringent food safety standards.
The Uni-Food FR-9000 is another innovation in the field, specialising in small and medium-sized fish. Its unique design allows for minimal operator intervention while delivering precision cuts. The machine’s modular setup enables easy integration into existing processing lines, providing scalability for growing operations.
These advanced filleting machines demonstrate how technology addresses the critical needs of the seafood industry: efficiency, precision, and adaptability. By investing in such equipment, fish processing companies can enhance productivity while meeting the high standards demanded by global markets.
Breakthroughs in processing technology
While the fish processing industry faces significant challenges, the future holds immense potential for technological breakthroughs that could reshape its operations. Emerging trends in processing equipment and techniques promise to address key concerns while propelling the sector toward greater efficiency and sustainability.
Innovations such as machine vision systems are beginning to revolutionise quality control processes. Systems like Marel’s SensorX detect bones and other impurities with unparalleled accuracy, ensuring product consistency and safety. Additionally, AI-driven software is being tested to optimise processing lines in real time, reducing waste and improving throughput.
In the realm of filleting and cutting, advancements in waterjet technologies are offering unprecedented precision and minimal product loss.
Focus on refurbished equipment
Restored equipment is gaining traction as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution for fish processing businesses. Companies like Normar Trading AS specialise in refurbishing previously used machinery, offering it to clients at significantly lower prices compared to new equipment. These restored machines undergo rigorous testing and customisation to meet specific operational needs, ensuring reliability and efficiency.
This approach not only reduces the financial burden on smaller and medium-sized enterprises but also addresses the environmental issue of equipment disposal. By extending the lifecycle of machinery, the industry minimises waste and decreases its ecological footprint. Additionally, these providers offer post-sale support and maintenance services, further enhancing the value of restored equipment for buyers. As more businesses recognise the benefits of refurbished machinery, this practice is poised to play a pivotal role in advancing sustainability and accessibility within the fish processing sector.
Adaptability is the future
Future machines are expected to become increasingly modular and adaptable. This will allow processors to customise equipment configurations based on seasonal demands, species variations, or market trends, ensuring maximum flexibility and efficiency.
By embracing these emerging technologies and sustainable practices, the fish processing industry can overcome current limitations and position itself as a leader in innovation, meeting global demand with efficiency and responsibility.
Slavik Berger, Normar Trading AS