Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently
Asked Questions
What can be processed with the
MPPU’s equipment?
- The MPPU is currently set up to
process poultry between 5 to 40 pounds LIVE WEIGHT.
What CANNOT be processed with the
MPPU’s equipment?
- The MPPU cannot handle small
birds such as quail, young, or bantam
chickens. It is also not equipped to
handle waterfowl.
- The MPPU cannot be used to process
rabbits.
How many birds can the MPPU
handle?
- That depends on poultry size
and breed, and your available labor. Standard
broilers are processed quicker than an “old hen”. The number of workers available and their processing
experience will also affect efficiency. A
minimal staff of 4 experienced workers should be able to process between 15 and
30 standard broilers per hour or 5 and 10 turkeys per hour.
Will I be able to use the MPPU
for packaging?
- The MPPU does not provide
equipment to package products at this time.
Can I pick-up and return the MPPU
myself?
- TRiP does not allow other farms
to move the MPPU. Only authorized
members of the TRiP team can take the unit on the road.
How much does it cost to rent the
MPPU?
- $75 plus a $2.50/mile transport fee.
What does the rental fee include?
- The basic unit consists of the
trailer, the main pieces of processing equipment (kill station, scalder, plucker, evisceration
station, stainless steel tables), hook-up to your water supply and water
hoses and nozzles needed to supply each piece of equipment, electrical hook-up
to your power supply and gas hook-up to your LP gas cylinder.
What does the rental fee NOT
include?
- TRiP does NOT provide labor for
processing the birds, LP gas and cylinder, ice, cleaning supplies, coolers or
cutlery. There are also other
miscellaneous items that you may want to supply that may come in handy to
facilitate the process (i.e.: aprons, gloves, food-grade bins, totes and other
containers).
Do I need experience?
It helps but it is not necessary. There are plenty of youtube videos to teach you how to process birds. Occasionally, TRiP offers hands-on learning experiences. Also, sometimes our local Cooperative Extension office will offer training opportunities.
