The Development of Semi-Automatic Deboning Processing Machine for Stuffed Milkfish

This research project seeks to resolve issues in milkfish processing through the design, improvement, and fabrication of a specialized machine. The primary objective is to develop a milkfish processing machine capable of reducing processing time and meat loss relative to manual methods, while also enhancing the capabilities of existing deboning machines. This study employed survey questionnaires and direct observation with 13 fish vendors in Barangay Mayondon and Bayog to gather data on the time involved in separating skin and meat. Subsequently, machine testing was carried out at Laguna University, utilizing 15 milkfish samples ranging from 300 to 800 grams in weight and 30cm to 45cm in length for both skin separation and deboning evaluations. With an overall efficiency of 88.33%, the machine features an automatic skin separator that cuts processing time by over 50% and reduces meat loss by roughly two-thirds. The semi-automatic deboner processes over 128.8 kg/hour with a 51.37% yield and low 12.186% bone content. High customer satisfaction (92.3%,