Buying Guide for the Best Meat Grinders That Grind Bones
Choosing a meat grinder that can handle bones is a bit different from picking a standard meat grinder. If you want to grind bones for pet food, stock, or other uses, you need a machine that is strong, durable, and easy to clean. It's important to understand the key features that make a grinder suitable for bones, so you can match your needs with the right product. Think about how often you'll use it, what types of bones you'll be grinding (like chicken, turkey, or larger bones), and how much meat and bone you'll process at a time. This will help you focus on the specs that matter most for your situation.Motor PowerMotor power refers to how strong the grinder's engine is, usually measured in watts or horsepower. This is crucial because grinding bones requires much more force than just grinding meat. Lower-powered motors (under 500 watts or less than 0.7 horsepower) are generally only good for soft meats and may struggle or even break when used with bones. Mid-range motors (around 500-1000 watts or 0.7-1.3 horsepower) can handle soft bones like chicken or rabbit, but may not be suitable for harder bones. High-powered motors (over 1000 watts or 1.3 horsepower) are best for frequent use and tougher bones. If you plan to grind bones regularly or want to process larger, harder bones, go for a higher-powered motor. For occasional use with soft bones, a mid-range motor may be enough.
Build MaterialThe build material of a meat grinder affects its durability and ability to handle tough jobs like grinding bones. Grinders are typically made from plastic, aluminum, or stainless steel. Plastic parts are lightweight and affordable but not suitable for bone grinding as they can crack or wear out quickly. Aluminum is stronger but can still wear down over time with heavy use. Stainless steel is the most durable and resistant to corrosion, making it the best choice for grinding bones. If you want a grinder that lasts and can handle bones without damage, look for one with stainless steel components, especially in the grinding plates and blades.
Grinding Plates and BladesGrinding plates and blades are the parts that actually cut and crush the meat and bones. Their size and material matter a lot. Plates with larger holes (coarse plates) are better for bones, as small holes can get clogged or put too much strain on the motor. Stainless steel blades and plates are preferred because they stay sharp longer and resist rust. If you plan to grind bones, make sure your grinder comes with or can use coarse, stainless steel plates and blades. This will make the process smoother and extend the life of your machine.
Feeding Tube SizeThe feeding tube is where you insert meat and bones into the grinder. A wider feeding tube allows you to feed larger pieces without pre-cutting, which saves time and effort. Narrow tubes require more prep work and can slow you down, especially if you're processing a lot at once. If you expect to grind whole chicken wings, necks, or other larger pieces, look for a grinder with a wide feeding tube. For smaller batches or if you don't mind cutting things up first, a narrower tube may be fine.
Ease of CleaningGrinding bones can be messy, and leftover bits can cause odors or attract bacteria if not cleaned properly. Some grinders are easier to take apart and clean than others. Look for models with removable parts that are dishwasher safe or easy to wash by hand. Stainless steel parts are generally easier to clean and sanitize than plastic or aluminum. If you plan to use your grinder often, especially for bones, prioritize ease of cleaning to keep your machine in good shape and your food safe.
Reverse FunctionA reverse function allows the grinder to spin the blades in the opposite direction, which helps clear jams caused by tough bones or sinew. Not all grinders have this feature, but it can save you a lot of frustration and prevent damage to the motor. If you expect to grind bones regularly, especially larger or tougher ones, a reverse function is a very helpful feature to have.
