Addressing barriers for adoption of RCT® by lamb processing plants

Rinse and Chill Technology® (RCT®) is a scientifically proven technology which can improve the removal of residual blood, has more efficient heat removal, improves pH and temperature declines and therefore improves meat quality and meat safety. Despite these benefits there has been barriers to adoption. Smallstock processors are unable to install RTC® due to the footprint required on the slaughter floor by the current rinse delivery system. To address these issues this project will develop, build and test a high-speed lamb rinser which occupies a minimal footprint. The project will support improved quality and consistency of RCT® applications and enable adoption into plants which are constrained by the current system design. The rinsing of lambs requires a level of precision and skill to insert a catheter into the left ventricle of the heart. The project will develop training materials to support processors in training staff. Potential technology solutions will be identified to monitor the accuracy and effectiveness of the insertion of the catheter and delivery of the isotonic solution. Learnings from the design, build, testing, installation and staff training will be used to support continuous improvement processes for existing and future clients of RCT®.