Georgia tech researchers are making carcass lines safer with a new re-hang shackle

It takes a special kind of aggie to man a carcass station in a packing plant. With weights well into the double digits, it can be a physically-demanding job.

Researchers at Georgia Tech are looking to shake things up using a new system, giving workers a helping hand.

Dr. Konrad Ahlin has developed a re-hang shackle, which is a device that guides the bird’s legs into place, removing the need for heavy lifting. Its mission is to reduce the strain for the person running the carcass line.

Ahlin tells the MeatingPod that it is mentally challenging, too, and he hopes his device can keep packing houses safe.

His re-hang shackle is patent pending.

Related Stories
The National Milk Producers Federation will launch a new advocacy campaign to secure a final vote, urging House lawmakers to approve the bill as soon as they return from the Thanksgiving recess.
Tyson’s Nebraska plant closure and falling Cattle on Feed numbers send cattle markets tumbling. Analysts warn of tighter supplies, weak margins, and rising global competition.
A regional snapshot of harvest pace, crop conditions, logistics, and livestock economics across U.S. agriculture, prepared by RFD-TV Markets Specialist Tony St. James, for the week of Monday, November 24, 2025.
Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller warns horse owners after EHV-1 cases linked to the Waco WPRA Finals. Horses linked to recent Waco events should be isolated and closely monitored, as early action is critical to stopping the spread of EHV-1.
One trader said the products entering the U.S. are primarily grind and trim, noting that the volume and type of beef, on its own, should not cause a major disruption. However, he says fund traders are reacting heavily to headlines rather than market realities.
Leslee Oden, president of the National Turkey Federation, and Jay Jandrain, CEO of Butterball, joined us in the studio on Monday to discuss the history, significance, and expectations surrounding this year’s presidential turkey pardon.

Agriculture Shows
From the rapid technological advances in the business of farming to the policy that helps shape the industry, growers get unparalleled perspective from these guys. Max Armstrong, Mike Pearson and Greg Soulje: the names producers have long known and trusted for agriculture news, weather, and commentary.
Watch Rural Evening News to catch up on that day’s news surrounding agriculture and markets from across the world. Along with market news, our news staff will bring you news stories covering topics including auctions, cattle, farm equipment, ranch, real estate, and much more!
Every day, “Market Day Report” delivers “live” coverage of agri-business news, weather, and commodity market information from across the world. Our market coverage is constantly updated every half-hour, bringing you the latest on the markets.
Farm Monitor shines a light on Southeastern agriculture and is the only weekly news and information program dedicated to Georgia’s largest and most important industry: agriculture.
Check out FFA Today, a fun and fast-paced show featuring fascinating stories about amazing kids and unique agriculture industries.