Industry first: AUS-MEAT approves MEQ Camera technology

JBS Australia has become Australia’s first beef processor to receive Facility Objective Carcase Measurement (OCM) Device Approval from AUS-MEAT for the MEQ Solutions’  cold carcase grading camera - marking a major milestone in the evolution of carcase grading technology.

Resulting from the collaborative effort between JBS, Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA), the Australian Meat Processor Corporation (AMPC) and MEQ Solutions, three JBS sites are now approved for camera grading using MEQ Solutions’ cutting-edge system. 

Driving consistency across premium beef brands

With eight beef processing facilities across eastern Australia, JBS is uniquely positioned to meet diverse global market demands.

According to JBS Northern Chief Operating Officer Brandan Tatt, this implementation is more than a technological upgrade, it’s a strategic investment for the future of Australian beef.

“By integrating OCM technology, we’re enhancing grading consistency and reinforcing our commitment to delivering a uniform eating experience for consumers, regardless of where the product is processed,” he said.

Technology removing subjectivity to enhance quality

Replacing traditional subjective assessments with technology-driven evaluations, Remo Carbon, CEO of MEQ Solutions, said the MEQ Camera has been designed to reduce grading variability and enhance carcase value. 

“Our camera gives JBS complete confidence in product quality, ensuring consistency for both domestic and export markets,” he said.

“With the United States’ herd at historical lows, it’s more important than ever for Australian red meat brands to understand their product composition and adapt to changing market conditions.”

Supporting market alignment and eating quality

MLA’s Objective Measurement Program Manager Dr Dean Gutzke notes tools like the MEQ Camera demonstrate how value can be created through consistent objective grading aligned with market expectations.

“This innovation supports the long-term competitiveness of Australian red meat,” Dean said.

“The MEQ Camera’s ability to deliver precise and repeatable measurements plays a critical role in aligning carcase grading with consumer expectations and market specifications.”

“By removing subjectivity from the grading process, processors can more accurately predict eating quality outcomes – an essential factor in maintaining consumer trust and brand loyalty.”

According to Dean, this level of consistency is especially important for branded beef programs, where uniformity in tenderness, marbling, and overall eating experience is key to premium positioning in both domestic and international markets.

With objective grading also enabling processors to better segment products, tailor offerings to specific market needs and optimise value across the carcase, Dean said the technology’s integration into commercial operations reflects a broader industry shift toward data-driven decision-making.

“Objective measurement tools like the MEQ Camera are not just about improving grading accuracy, they’re about enabling a more transparent and responsive supply chain,” he said.

“This helps ensure that Australian beef continues to meet evolving consumer preferences and maintains its reputation for quality and integrity.”

Benefits for producers and the broader supply chain

Beyond internal quality assurance, Dean said OCM technology also benefits cattle producers by providing more accurate carcase feedback.

“This data-driven insight allows producers to better understand how specific traits – such as marbling, fat distribution, and muscle conformation – impact grading outcomes and market performance,” he said. 

“With access to objective measurements, producers can make more informed decisions around breeding, nutrition, and herd management strategies.

“Over time, this leads to improvements in herd genetics, carcase quality, and overall productivity – ultimately boosting profitability and competitiveness.”

The MEQ Camera will be on display at MLA Updates on Thursday, 20 November in Adelaide, SA - offering attendees a chance to see the technology up close and learn more about its role in objective carcase measurement.