Process redesign for effective use of product quality information in meat chains

Abstract

To fulfil segmented consumer demand and add value, meat processors seek to exploit quality differences in meat products. Availability of product quality information is of key importance for this. We present a case study where an innovative sensor technology that provides estimates of an important meat quality feature is considered. Process design scenarios that differ with respect to sorting complexity, available product quality information, and use of temporary buffers are assessed using a discrete event simulation model. Results indicate that increasing sorting complexity by use of advanced product quality information results in a reduction of processing efficiency. Use of production buffers was found to increase processing flexibility and mitigate negative effects of high sorting complexity. This research illustrates how the use of advanced product quality information in logistics’ decision-making affects sorting performance, processing efficiency, and the optimal processing design, an area that has so far received little attention in literature.

Keywords:

• product quality information
• food supply chains
• manufacturing flexibility
• simulation
• meat

Acknowledgements

The authors gratefully acknowledge the financial support of the European Community under the Sixth Framework Programme for Research, Technological Development and Demonstration Activities, for the Integrated Project Q-PORKCHAINS FOOD-CT-2007-036245.