Butcher how-to

How to Operate a Meat Grinder Safely

Grinders require strict safety habits.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Grinders require strict safety habits. In short: check; chill; feed, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Check that guards are in place.

  2. Chill meat and equipment.

  3. Feed meat with the pusher, never your hands.

  4. Grind in batches.

  5. Turn off and unplug before clearing jams.

  6. Disassemble and clean thoroughly.

Safety reminders for butchers

  • Wear cut-resistant gloves and mesh aprons
  • Keep guards on saws and grinders
  • Unplug equipment before cleaning
  • Keep floors dry and non-slip

Primal cut · Subprimal · Retail cut · Trim · Marbling · Grind: see the full butcher glossary.

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