The field of meat processing plays a critical role in the food industry and has seen increasing adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) technology with rapid technological advancements. AI technology has tremendous potential for enhancing production efficiency and product quality in meat processing. However, further research and exploration are necessary to tackle the challenges posed by the use of AI technology. This article details the implementation of AI technology in meat processing, focusing on carcass classification, automation and intelligent processing, and meat-quality detection. We aim to provide inspiration to researchers and industry professionals and promote the advancement of AI technology in the meat processing sector.Practical applicationsOur review article showcases the potential industrial applications of artificial intelligence (AI) techniques in the meat processing industry. AI technology can greatly improve production efficiency and product quality in meat processing. By implementing AI algorithms, meat processors can accurately classify carcasses, automate various processing tasks, and detect meat quality with higher accuracy. These advancements can lead to increased profitability and improved food safety in the industry. We hope to provide valuable insights for researchers and industry professionals, encouraging them to further explore and adopt AI technology in the meat processing sector. Our study delves into the application of AI technology in pivotal areas, including carcass categorization, automation, intelligent processing, and the detection of meat quality. Our study is expected to inspire further research on AI technology in the meat processing industry and provide a reference for researchers. image