Meat tenderizers alter the texture of meat fibers, soften the meat, and make it easier to chew and digest. In addition to breaking down and softening meat fibers, tenderizers poke holes in the meat with blades or needles, making it easier for the meat to absorb marinades and rubs. Restaurants that serve meat need a reliable tool to prepare cuts for cooking. Here are a few features to look for in an electric meat tenderizer.

Durability and Efficiency

Restaurants that serve steaks and chops use a meat tenderizer for hours daily. A commercial meat tenderizer with metal gears and knives or cutters will last longer and perform better than a machine made with plastic parts.

Some large commercial tenderizers have accessories like trays that help process meat efficiently by minimizing waste. Some use dual-blade set ups that work from both sides or from the top and the bottom of the meat.

Versatility

Tenderizing isn’t the only process chefs need to perform with meat – there’s also slicing, grinding, and cutting. Electric meat tenderizers that offer various attachments provide the kind of versatility busy restaurant kitchens need to prepare different cuts and ground meats for burgers. Check out the dimensions of the machine and whether it can be used from a countertop or if it will occupy floor space. Adjustable speeds and portability should also be a factor.

Safety

Safety is one of the most important features to look for in an electric meat tenderizer. Like a lot of other restaurant equipment, meat tenderizers can cause injury. Check for appropriate safety features. Examine the size, positioning, and operation of the chute and attachments, and review the details in the manual about safe operation.

Cleaning and Repair

A meat tenderizer should be easy to disassemble for cleaning and repair. Make sure you can replace parts like blades and plates within the tenderizer without buying an entirely new machine. Check the availability of replacement parts and find out about the lifespan of the motor. Tenderizers that separate the motor and hub from the attachments provide longer life and use because you can replace the attachments, motor, and hub separately.

Pro Restaurant equipment carries reliable, versatile electric meat tenderizers, as well as bakery equipment like spiral mixers and dough sheeters.