9+ Best Industrial Meat Slicer Machines 2023


9+ Best Industrial Meat Slicer Machines 2023

Excessive-volume meals processing operations depend on automated tools for environment friendly and exact portioning of proteins. These gadgets, able to dealing with massive portions of meat with velocity and consistency, are important in industrial kitchens, delis, butcher outlets, and industrial meals manufacturing services. A typical instance would possibly characteristic a round blade, automated carriage system, and adjustable thickness settings to provide uniform slices for numerous purposes, from deli meats to steaks.

Such tools performs an important position in sustaining productiveness and profitability. The flexibility to shortly and precisely slice massive volumes of meat reduces labor prices, minimizes waste, and ensures constant product high quality. This expertise has developed considerably over time, from guide hand-cranked gadgets to stylish, programmable equipment. This evolution has immediately impacted meals security requirements and enabled mass manufacturing of constantly sliced meat merchandise.

The next sections will discover numerous features of those essential meals processing instruments, together with security options, upkeep procedures, differing kinds out there, and their respective purposes inside the meals trade.

1. Automated Operation

Automated operation is a defining attribute of contemporary industrial meat slicers, considerably impacting their effectivity, security, and general efficiency. This automation encompasses numerous features of the slicing course of, from product loading and carriage motion to blade operation and slice thickness management. Understanding these automated options is essential for maximizing productiveness and guaranteeing operator security.

  • Automated Carriage Techniques

    Automated carriage programs management the motion of the product in direction of the blade, guaranteeing constant slice thickness and minimizing guide intervention. These programs might be programmed for particular slicing parameters, equivalent to slice thickness, variety of slices, and reducing velocity. This precision and repeatability are important for high-volume manufacturing environments.

  • Computerized Blade Sharpening

    Some superior fashions incorporate automated blade sharpening programs, sustaining optimum blade sharpness all through operation. This automated characteristic not solely improves slicing consistency but additionally reduces downtime related to guide sharpening, thereby maximizing throughput.

  • Programmable Controls

    Programmable controls permit operators to pre-set slicing parameters, equivalent to slice thickness and variety of slices per cycle. This characteristic ensures constant product output, reduces operator error, and optimizes slicing for various product varieties. Fashionable interfaces usually characteristic touchscreens and intuitive programming choices.

  • Security Interlocks and Sensors

    Automated operation additionally encompasses security options. Interlocks and sensors forestall operation when security guards are eliminated or when elements are usually not accurately positioned. These security mechanisms are crucial for minimizing the chance of operator harm and guaranteeing a protected working surroundings.

These automated options collectively contribute to the effectivity and security of commercial meat slicers. By minimizing guide dealing with and guaranteeing constant operation, these machines allow high-volume meat processing whereas sustaining product high quality and operator security. This degree of automation is essential for assembly the calls for of contemporary meals processing industries.

2. Excessive-Quantity Processing

Excessive-volume processing represents a core requirement inside the meals trade, necessitating specialised tools like industrial meat slicers. These machines are engineered to deal with substantial portions of meat quickly and effectively, immediately addressing the calls for of large-scale manufacturing. The hyperlink between high-volume processing and these machines is prime, because the latter permits the previous. With out such automated options, assembly manufacturing targets in massive services can be considerably difficult, resulting in potential bottlenecks and elevated labor prices.

Think about a industrial meat processing plant supplying supermarkets. Day by day output can contain hundreds of kilos of varied cuts requiring exact slicing. Industrial meat slicers, with their automated carriage programs and high-speed blades, facilitate this high-volume processing effectively. The machines’ constant efficiency permits for predictable output, essential for assembly supply schedules and sustaining product availability for customers. Equally, in massive delis or catering operations, these slicers allow fast and environment friendly preparation of enormous portions of sliced meats for sandwiches, platters, and different menu objects. The flexibility to quickly slice important quantities of meat immediately impacts service velocity and buyer satisfaction throughout peak hours.

Understanding the position of commercial meat slicers in high-volume processing is essential for optimizing manufacturing effectivity and guaranteeing constant product high quality. Challenges related to upkeep, sanitation, and operator coaching should be addressed to maximise the advantages of this expertise. Efficient implementation of those machines requires cautious consideration of things equivalent to throughput necessities, product varieties, and security protocols. In the end, the profitable integration of commercial meat slicers inside high-volume processing environments contributes considerably to the profitability and sustainability of contemporary meals manufacturing operations.

3. Precision Slicing

Precision slicing is paramount in industrial meals processing, immediately influencing product high quality, consistency, and yield. Industrial meat slicers are engineered to ship this precision, impacting numerous downstream processes and finally client satisfaction. The flexibility to provide uniform slices of meat just isn’t merely an aesthetic consideration; it impacts cooking occasions, portion management, and the general presentation of meals merchandise. This part explores the multifaceted nature of precision slicing within the context of commercial meat slicers.

  • Constant Thickness

    Sustaining constant slice thickness is a defining attribute of precision slicing. Industrial meat slicers obtain this via exact blade management and automatic carriage programs. Constant thickness ensures even cooking, essential for meals security and optimum product high quality. For instance, uniformly sliced bacon cooks evenly, stopping some items from being overcooked whereas others stay undercooked.

  • Diminished Waste

    Precision slicing minimizes waste by producing uniform slices, optimizing yield from every lower of meat. This effectivity is essential for price management in high-volume processing environments. In distinction, inconsistent slicing can result in off-sized items unsuitable for supposed purposes, leading to important product loss. Exact slicing maximizes the usable product from every primal lower.

  • Improved Presentation

    Uniformly sliced meat enhances the visible enchantment of meals merchandise, whether or not in pre-packaged deli meats or on a restaurant platter. This consideration to element influences client notion and buying choices. Constantly sized slices challenge knowledgeable picture and convey high quality, particularly in retail settings.

  • Enhanced Portion Management

    Precision slicing permits correct portion management, important for sustaining consistency in packaged meals merchandise and restaurant servings. Exactly sliced parts contribute to correct dietary data and constant buyer expertise. That is particularly related for meal equipment companies and pre-portioned meat packages.

These sides of precision slicing exhibit the essential position industrial meat slicers play in fashionable meals processing. The flexibility to provide constantly sized slices impacts not solely the effectivity and profitability of operations but additionally the standard and presentation of the ultimate product. This emphasis on precision underscores the significance of those machines in assembly the calls for of at present’s meals trade.

4. Adjustable Thickness

Adjustable thickness constitutes a crucial characteristic of commercial meat slicers, enabling versatility and exact management over the ultimate product. This performance permits operators to tailor slice thickness to particular necessities, influencing numerous features of meals processing, from portion management and cooking occasions to product presentation and packaging. The flexibility to regulate slice thickness immediately impacts effectivity, minimizes waste, and caters to numerous product purposes.

Think about the manufacturing of shaved deli meats. An industrial meat slicer with adjustable thickness settings permits operators to provide skinny, delicate slices preferrred for sandwiches. Conversely, thicker slices might be produced for steak cuts or different purposes requiring a extra substantial portion. This adaptability is essential for maximizing product versatility and assembly numerous buyer calls for. Moreover, adjustable thickness facilitates exact portion management, contributing to constant weights in packaged merchandise and guaranteeing uniformity in restaurant servings. This precision minimizes waste and helps correct dietary labeling, very important for client transparency and dietary planning.

The sensible significance of adjustable thickness in industrial meat slicers extends past versatility and portion management. It immediately impacts cooking occasions, guaranteeing uniform cooking and meals security. Constant slice thickness ensures that each one items prepare dinner evenly, stopping some parts from being overcooked whereas others stay undercooked. This consistency is paramount for sustaining product high quality and adhering to meals security requirements. In conclusion, adjustable thickness represents a vital characteristic in industrial meat slicers, contributing considerably to effectivity, product high quality, and operational flexibility inside the meals processing trade. Understanding the influence of this characteristic on numerous features of manufacturing, from portioning and cooking to presentation and packaging, is crucial for optimizing using these machines and attaining desired outcomes.

5. Sturdy Building

Sturdy development is paramount for industrial meat slicers, given the demanding environments during which they function. These machines are subjected to heavy use, processing substantial volumes of meat every day. Strong development ensures longevity, minimizes downtime, and contributes to operator security. The supplies and design ideas employed immediately affect the machine’s potential to resist rigorous use and keep efficiency over prolonged durations. Trigger and impact are immediately linked: strong development results in dependable operation and prolonged lifespan, whereas insufficient development may end up in frequent breakdowns, security hazards, and finally, elevated operational prices.

Think about the influence of steady operation on a slicer’s elements. Excessive-grade chrome steel is commonly used for the machine’s physique and food-contact surfaces, resisting corrosion and facilitating sanitation. Heavy-duty motors and gearboxes are important for powering the blade and carriage system, guaranteeing constant efficiency underneath heavy hundreds. Strengthened elements, such because the blade guard and carriage meeting, contribute to structural integrity and operator security. As an illustration, a slicer constructed with inferior supplies would possibly expertise untimely put on in high-volume processing environments, resulting in blade misalignment or part failure. Conversely, a durably constructed machine withstands these stresses, sustaining constant efficiency and increasing its operational lifespan. This sturdiness interprets to decrease upkeep prices, elevated productiveness, and a safer working surroundings.

In conclusion, sturdy development just isn’t merely a fascinating characteristic however a crucial requirement for industrial meat slicers. The demanding nature of high-volume meat processing necessitates strong machines able to withstanding steady operation and sustaining efficiency over time. Investing in durably constructed tools minimizes downtime, reduces upkeep bills, and ensures operator security. Understanding the connection between sturdy development and operational effectivity is essential for making knowledgeable buying choices and maximizing the return on funding in industrial meat slicing tools.

6. Enhanced Security Options

Enhanced security options are paramount in industrial meat slicers, mitigating inherent dangers related to high-speed blades and automatic operation. These options defend operators from potential accidents, guaranteeing a protected working surroundings and minimizing downtime as a consequence of accidents. Understanding these security mechanisms is essential for each operators and facility managers, contributing to a tradition of security and accountable tools operation.

  • Emergency Cease Mechanisms

    Emergency cease mechanisms present speedy shutdown of the machine in crucial conditions. Massive, simply accessible buttons or levers situated prominently on the machine permit for speedy halting of operation in case of emergencies. This characteristic is essential for stopping critical accidents ought to an operator turn into entangled or expertise an sudden occasion throughout operation. Fast response time is paramount for efficient emergency stops.

  • Blade Guards and Interlocks

    Blade guards and interlocks bodily protect the blade throughout operation and stop entry to shifting components. Interlock programs make sure the machine can not function until the blade guard is securely in place. These options forestall unintentional contact with the blade, mitigating the chance of lacerations. Strong development and safe fastening of those guards are crucial for sustaining their effectiveness.

  • Non-Slip Toes and Secure Base

    Non-slip ft and a steady base forestall the machine from shifting throughout operation, sustaining stability and decreasing the chance of tipping. This stability is essential throughout high-volume processing when the machine is subjected to steady operation and vibrations. A safe basis minimizes the chance of the machine shifting throughout operation, which might result in accidents or injury.

  • Security Coaching and Working Procedures

    Whereas not a bodily characteristic, complete security coaching and well-defined working procedures are important for protected machine operation. Coaching applications ought to cowl correct machine dealing with, cleansing procedures, emergency protocols, and the significance of utilizing private protecting tools (PPE). Common reinforcement of security procedures and ongoing coaching are essential for sustaining a protected working surroundings.

These enhanced security options collectively contribute to a safer working surroundings when working industrial meat slicers. By minimizing the chance of operator harm, these options not solely defend personnel but additionally contribute to uninterrupted manufacturing and lowered downtime related to accidents. Prioritizing security via these options is integral to accountable operation and displays a dedication to employee well-being inside the meals processing trade.

7. Sanitary Design

Sanitary design is integral to industrial meat slicer machines, immediately impacting meals security and operational effectivity. The hygienic design of those machines minimizes the chance of bacterial contamination, preserves product high quality, and simplifies cleansing procedures. Trigger and impact are intrinsically linked: correct sanitary design prevents bacterial progress and cross-contamination, whereas insufficient design can result in product spoilage, remembers, and potential well being hazards. This connection underscores the crucial significance of sanitary design within the meals processing trade.

A number of design parts contribute to the sanitary operation of those machines. Easy, simply washer-friendly surfaces, sometimes constructed from chrome steel, decrease crevices the place micro organism can harbor. Detachable elements, equivalent to blades, guards, and carriage assemblies, facilitate thorough cleansing and disinfection. Open development and minimized inner components scale back hard-to-reach areas, simplifying sanitation processes. As an illustration, a slicer with a fancy, enclosed blade meeting would possibly lure meals particles and moisture, creating an excellent surroundings for bacterial progress. Conversely, a slicer designed with simply accessible and detachable elements permits for thorough cleansing and sanitation, decreasing the chance of contamination. The sensible implications are important: efficient sanitary design immediately interprets to safer meals merchandise and lowered threat of foodborne diseases.

In conclusion, sanitary design just isn’t merely a fascinating characteristic however a elementary requirement for industrial meat slicers. The hygienic design of those machines is immediately linked to meals security, product high quality, and operational effectivity. By minimizing the chance of bacterial contamination and simplifying cleansing procedures, sanitary design contributes considerably to the manufacturing of protected and healthful meals merchandise. Understanding the significance of this design precept is essential for sustaining excessive hygiene requirements and upholding client belief inside the meals processing trade. Moreover, it contributes to minimizing downtime related to cleansing and upkeep, additional enhancing operational effectivity.

8. Straightforward Upkeep

Straightforward upkeep is a crucial issue influencing the operational effectivity and longevity of commercial meat slicer machines. Minimizing downtime related to cleansing, sanitation, and part substitute is paramount for sustaining productiveness and cost-effectiveness. Streamlined upkeep procedures contribute on to a safer and extra hygienic processing surroundings. This part explores the important thing sides of straightforward upkeep inside the context of those important meals processing instruments.

  • Simplified Disassembly and Cleansing

    Simplified disassembly and cleansing procedures are important for sustaining hygiene and stopping bacterial progress. Simply detachable elements, equivalent to blades, guards, and carriage assemblies, facilitate thorough cleansing and sanitation. Instrument-less disassembly additional streamlines the method, decreasing downtime and selling environment friendly cleansing practices. For instance, a slicer designed with quick-release mechanisms for the blade and carriage system permits for speedy disassembly and cleansing, minimizing the time required for sanitation and maximizing operational uptime.

  • Accessibility of Parts

    Accessibility of elements simplifies routine upkeep duties, equivalent to blade sharpening, belt substitute, and lubrication. Quick access to key elements reduces the effort and time required for these procedures, minimizing disruption to manufacturing schedules. Clearly labeled components and available upkeep manuals additional improve the benefit of upkeep. As an illustration, a slicer with simply accessible sharpening ports permits for handy blade upkeep with out requiring in depth disassembly, decreasing downtime and sustaining optimum slicing efficiency.

  • Sturdy, Corrosion-Resistant Supplies

    Sturdy, corrosion-resistant supplies, equivalent to chrome steel, contribute to the longevity of the machine and simplify cleansing. These supplies face up to harsh cleansing brokers and frequent washdowns, guaranteeing the machine stays in optimum situation over prolonged durations. Corrosion resistance is especially vital in meals processing environments the place moisture and cleansing chemical compounds are prevalent. The usage of high-quality supplies minimizes the chance of rust and different types of corrosion, preserving the integrity of the machine and contributing to a hygienic processing surroundings.

  • Modular Design for Element Substitute

    Modular design facilitates straightforward substitute of worn or broken elements. Modular elements might be shortly and simply swapped out, minimizing downtime and restore prices. This design strategy simplifies upkeep procedures and reduces reliance on specialised technicians for routine repairs. For instance, a slicer with a modular blade meeting permits for fast substitute of a boring or broken blade with out requiring in depth disassembly of your complete machine, minimizing manufacturing interruptions and sustaining optimum slicing efficiency.

These sides of straightforward upkeep underscore its significance within the context of commercial meat slicer machines. Streamlined upkeep procedures contribute on to elevated operational effectivity, lowered downtime, and enhanced meals security. By prioritizing straightforward upkeep in tools design, meals processing operations can keep optimum productiveness, decrease prices, and guarantee a hygienic processing surroundings. The long-term advantages of straightforward upkeep translate to improved profitability and a safer, extra environment friendly office.

9. Varied Blade Sorts

Blade sort choice is crucial for industrial meat slicer efficiency and immediately influences the standard and effectivity of meat processing. Totally different blade designs cater to particular meat traits and desired outcomes, impacting components equivalent to slice precision, product yield, and operational effectivity. Understanding the connection between blade sort and the fabric being processed is prime for optimizing slicer efficiency and attaining desired outcomes. The selection of blade immediately impacts the ultimate product; an incorrect choice can result in tearing, shredding, or uneven slicing, affecting product high quality and growing waste.

A number of blade varieties are generally utilized in industrial meat slicers, every designed for particular purposes. Easy blades are perfect for slicing delicate merchandise like deli meats and cheeses, producing clear, even slices with out tearing. Serrated blades excel at reducing via more durable supplies, together with frozen meats and merchandise with crusts or pores and skin, minimizing slippage and guaranteeing constant slice thickness. Granton edge blades, that includes air pockets alongside the blade floor, scale back friction and stop sliced product from sticking, enhancing slicing effectivity and minimizing waste. The choice of a selected blade sort relies on the particular software; for instance, utilizing a clean blade on frozen meat would probably lead to dulling or injury, whereas a serrated blade is particularly designed for such purposes. Selecting the suitable blade sort is subsequently important for maximizing slicer efficiency and product high quality.

Efficient blade administration, together with common sharpening and correct cleansing, is essential for sustaining optimum slicing efficiency and increasing blade lifespan. Uninteresting blades can result in elevated friction, tearing, and uneven slicing, compromising product high quality and growing waste. Common sharpening ensures clear, exact cuts, maximizing product yield and minimizing operational prices. Moreover, correct cleansing protocols forestall bacterial progress and cross-contamination, guaranteeing meals security and sustaining the hygiene of the processing surroundings. Due to this fact, understanding the connection between blade sort, materials being processed, and upkeep procedures is essential for maximizing the effectivity, longevity, and security of commercial meat slicing operations.

Regularly Requested Questions

This part addresses widespread inquiries concerning industrial meat slicers, offering concise and informative responses to facilitate knowledgeable decision-making and promote finest practices.

Query 1: How incessantly ought to blades be sharpened?

Blade sharpening frequency relies on utilization, product sort, and noticed blade efficiency. Usually, every day sharpening is really helpful for high-volume operations, whereas lower-volume purposes would possibly require much less frequent sharpening. Visible inspection and evaluation of slice high quality are essential for figuring out optimum sharpening schedules.

Query 2: What security precautions are important throughout operation?

Important security precautions embrace utilizing acceptable private protecting tools (PPE), equivalent to cut-resistant gloves and eye safety. Guaranteeing all security guards are in place and functioning accurately earlier than operation is paramount. Operators should be skilled on correct working procedures, emergency shutdown protocols, and lockout/tagout procedures for upkeep.

Query 3: How are these machines cleaned and sanitized?

Cleansing and sanitation contain disassembling detachable elements, such because the blade, guard, and carriage meeting, and washing them with scorching, soapy water. Sanitizing options permitted for meals contact surfaces needs to be used in line with producer suggestions. Thorough rinsing and drying are important to forestall bacterial progress. Common deep cleansing and sanitation are essential for sustaining hygiene.

Query 4: What components decide the suitable slicer measurement for a given software?

Elements influencing slicer measurement choice embrace manufacturing quantity, product varieties, and out there area. Excessive-volume operations require bigger machines with greater throughput capacities. Particular product traits, equivalent to measurement and texture, affect blade measurement and carriage design. Obtainable area inside the facility dictates the machine’s bodily footprint.

Query 5: What upkeep duties are sometimes required?

Routine upkeep consists of blade sharpening, lubrication of shifting components, belt inspection and substitute, and cleansing. Common inspection {of electrical} elements and security interlocks can be essential. Preventative upkeep schedules needs to be established and adhered to for optimum efficiency and longevity.

Query 6: What are the important thing concerns when selecting between automated and semi-automatic fashions?

Key concerns embrace manufacturing quantity, finances, and operational necessities. Computerized slicers supply greater throughput and lowered labor prices however come at the next preliminary funding. Semi-automatic fashions present a stability between price and automation, appropriate for lower-volume purposes or operations requiring better operator management over the slicing course of.

Addressing these widespread questions supplies helpful insights into the operation and upkeep of commercial meat slicers. Prioritizing security, hygiene, and preventative upkeep ensures optimum efficiency, extends tools lifespan, and contributes to a protected and environment friendly processing surroundings. Cautious consideration of those components is crucial for maximizing the advantages of those crucial meals processing instruments.

The next part delves into particular purposes of commercial meat slicers inside numerous meals processing sectors.

Operational Suggestions for Industrial Meat Slicing Tools

Optimizing efficiency and guaranteeing longevity of commercial meat slicing tools requires adherence to established finest practices. These tips handle key features of operation, upkeep, and security, contributing to environment friendly and dependable efficiency.

Tip 1: Blade Choice and Upkeep:

Deciding on the suitable blade sort for the particular product being processed is essential. Match blade traits, equivalent to smoothness or serration, to the product’s texture and desired slice thickness. Implement an everyday sharpening schedule primarily based on utilization and noticed blade efficiency to keep up optimum reducing effectivity and decrease product injury. Retailer blades correctly when not in use to forestall injury and corrosion.

Tip 2: Carriage Alignment and Lubrication:

Often examine and alter carriage alignment to make sure constant slice thickness and decrease put on on elements. Correct lubrication of shifting components, together with the carriage rails and gearbox, reduces friction, extends part lifespan, and ensures clean operation. Seek the advice of the producer’s suggestions for acceptable lubricants and lubrication schedules.

Tip 3: Sanitation and Hygiene:

Set up and cling to strict sanitation protocols to forestall bacterial progress and cross-contamination. Disassemble detachable elements for thorough cleansing and sanitizing after every use, paying specific consideration to areas the place meals particles could accumulate. Use permitted sanitizing options and observe producer tips for cleansing and disinfection.

Tip 4: Operator Coaching and Security Procedures:

Present complete coaching to all operators on correct machine operation, security procedures, and emergency protocols. Emphasize the significance of utilizing private protecting tools (PPE) and adhering to lockout/tagout procedures throughout upkeep. Often reinforce security tips and conduct refresher coaching to keep up a protected working surroundings.

Tip 5: Preventative Upkeep Schedule:

Implement a preventative upkeep schedule that features common inspections, lubrication, and part substitute as wanted. Adhering to a preventative upkeep plan minimizes downtime, extends tools lifespan, and optimizes efficiency. Seek the advice of the producer’s suggestions for particular upkeep duties and schedules.

Tip 6: Voltage and Energy Provide Stability:

Guarantee a steady and constant energy provide to forestall motor injury and operational inconsistencies. Voltage fluctuations can have an effect on motor efficiency and compromise the accuracy of automated features. Confirm that {the electrical} provide meets the producer’s specs and think about using voltage regulators or surge protectors to mitigate energy fluctuations.

Tip 7: Correct Product Dealing with and Feeding:

Correct product dealing with and feeding strategies are important for optimizing slicer efficiency and minimizing waste. Guarantee merchandise are correctly chilled or tempered as wanted, and feed them into the slicer constantly to keep up uniform slice thickness and stop jamming. Keep away from overloading the slicer, as this may pressure elements and compromise security.

Adherence to those operational suggestions contributes considerably to the effectivity, longevity, and security of commercial meat slicing tools. By prioritizing preventative upkeep, correct cleansing, and operator coaching, meals processing operations can maximize productiveness, decrease downtime, and guarantee a protected and hygienic working surroundings. These practices characterize a proactive strategy to tools administration, contributing to the general success and profitability of meals processing companies.

The next conclusion summarizes the important thing takeaways concerning industrial meat slicing tools and their essential position inside the meals processing trade.

Conclusion

Industrial meat slicer machines characterize a vital ingredient inside fashionable meals processing operations. Exploration of their core functionalities, together with automated operation, high-volume processing capability, precision slicing capabilities, and adjustable thickness management, reveals their significance in guaranteeing effectivity, product consistency, and operational scalability. Moreover, examination of sturdy development, enhanced security options, and sanitary design ideas underscores their position in sustaining protected and hygienic processing environments. The number of out there blade varieties highlights the adaptability of those machines to numerous product necessities, whereas the emphasis on straightforward upkeep underscores their contribution to minimizing downtime and optimizing operational effectivity.

As meals manufacturing calls for proceed to evolve, ongoing developments in industrial meat slicer expertise will additional refine effectivity, security, and hygiene requirements. Continued deal with automation, information integration, and sustainable practices will form the way forward for meat processing. Investing in and successfully using these important instruments stays essential for sustaining competitiveness, assembly client calls for, and guaranteeing the supply of protected, high-quality meals merchandise.