Question 1

What peeling yield should I expect from a mechanical shrimp peeler?

Accepted Answer

Mechanical shrimp peeling yield (peeled meat as a percentage of shell-on shrimp weight) depends on the shrimp species, size, freshness, and condition. For warm-water penaeid shrimp (vannamei, monodon), typical peeled yield from shell-on headless shrimp is approximately 60–70%. For cold-water Pandalus borealis (northern shrimp), the shell-on to peeled yield is typically 35–40% because these small shrimp have a proportionally heavier shell. Mechanical peelers are generally somewhat lower in yield than skilled manual peeling on the same product. Confirm expected yield for your specific species and size with the machine supplier and request a trial before purchase.

Question 2

What is the difference between 'peeled and deveined' (P&D) and 'peeled, deveined, and tail-off' (PDTO) shrimp?

Accepted Answer

These are standard US and international trade terms for shrimp product specifications. P&D (peeled and deveined) shrimp has the shell removed and the dorsal digestive vein removed, but the tail segment of the shell is retained — common in retail, the tail is a visual indicator of quality and allows the shrimp to be held while eating. PDTO (peeled, deveined, and tail-off) has both the shell and the tail section of shell removed — fully peeled, suitable for catering applications where shrimp are incorporated into dishes. Mechanical processing equipment can be configured to retain or remove the tail section — confirm the required product specification with your buyers before specifying the processing line.

Shrimp Processing Machine Manufacturers

Shrimp and prawn processing — line overview

Shrimp Processing Machine Manufacturers

Shrimp and prawn processing — line overview

Frequently asked questions

What peeling yield should I expect from a mechanical shrimp peeler?

What is the difference between 'peeled and deveined' (P&D) and 'peeled, deveined, and tail-off' (PDTO) shrimp?

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