Slicers Berkel

Berkel meat slicers combine mechanical precision, meticulous construction and an instantly recognisable design. The brand’s history began in 1898, when Dutch butcher Wilhelmus Van Berkel developed a machine capable of mechanically reproducing the movement of the hand during slicing. The first factory opened in Rotterdam on 12 October of the same year. After obtaining the patent, Berkel expanded into Europe, the United States, South America and Canada, while also broadening its range of equipment. The brand’s Italian history began in Milan in 1924. Today, the catalogue includes electric and manual meat slicers intended for home kitchens, catering businesses and professional food establishments.

At AgriEuro, the main types of Berkel meat slicers can be compared according to blade diameter, operating system and intended application:

• Berkel meat slicers with 170 mm blade: these compact models are suitable for non-intensive household tasks and smaller food products. Their reduced diameter makes it easier to place the machine on kitchen worktops where space is limited.
• Berkel meat slicers with 190, 195 and 200 mm blades: their dimensions are suitable for slicing cured meats, bread and other foods compatible with the individual model at home. They provide an intermediate solution between 170 mm machines and slicers with larger blades.
• Berkel meat slicers with 250 mm blade: they offer a capacity suited to larger foods and regular preparation work. The stated cutting capacity should be checked before choosing, as it does not match the full blade diameter.
• Berkel meat slicers with 300 mm blade: these are suitable for bulky foods and more frequent work, in accordance with the model’s declared intended application. They require a stable worktop and sufficient space for the carriage to complete its full travel.
• Berkel professional CE electric meat slicers: they are designed for workplaces consistent with the certification and technical specifications of the model. The motor drives the blade and allows repeated slicing with a thickness selected by the operator.
• Berkel flywheel meat slicers: they follow the mechanical principle that shaped the brand’s history and operate through manual rotation of the flywheel. This rotation coordinates the blade and carriage movement, providing direct control over the slicing pace.

At AgriEuro, Berkel meat slicers can be selected according to their technical features, helping users identify the model best suited to the foods being sliced, the frequency of operation and the available space. The individual model specifications must always be checked, as equipment, dimensions and intended applications can vary across the range.

• Blade diameter: the selection includes compact 170 mm sizes, intermediate 190, 195, 200 and 250 mm formats, and configurations of 300 mm or more. A larger diameter can accommodate bulkier foods but also results in larger overall machine dimensions.
• Cutting capacity: this specifies the largest food size the machine can process and may be given for round or rectangular products. The figure does not automatically match the nominal blade diameter and must be checked in the technical specifications.
• Operating system: electric slicers use a motor to rotate the blade; flywheel models are powered by the operator. The choice depends on the pace of work, installation setting and level of control required.
• Slice thickness adjustment: the dedicated control changes the distance between the blade and thickness plate within the model’s stated range. It allows thin or thicker slices to be prepared according to the food and recipe.
• Carriage and food press: the carriage supports the food as it passes in front of the blade, with dimensions and travel that vary between models. The food press keeps the product stable and must be used in accordance with the manual.
• Certification and intended application: professional CE certification identifies machines designed for a specific workplace setting. This classification must be distinguished from models intended for household preparation before purchase.
• Cleaning and maintenance: removable parts, surface accessibility and sharpening systems vary depending on the machine. Every procedure must follow the Berkel manual, with the power disconnected, the blade closed and suitable protective equipment worn.

Models for household applications meet occasional requirements such as preparing platters, sandwiches and appetisers. Semi-professional slicers are suitable for more regular preparation and larger foods, always within the declared limits. Professional machines are intended for restaurants, delicatessens and food businesses requiring specifications consistent with their operating environment.

The range available at AgriEuro allows users to select a slicer according to food size, preparation frequency and operating system. Blade diameter is an initial criterion, but it must be assessed together with the actual cutting capacity, carriage dimensions and declared intended application. The following categories help narrow the selection to a configuration consistent with the planned work.

Berkel meat slicers with a 170 mm blade represent the most compact segment of the selection. They are suitable for users preparing small quantities of cured meats, bread or other foods compatible with the model and wishing to limit the space occupied on the worktop. The reduced diameter makes them easier to position in home kitchens, but the maximum workable product size must be checked carefully. An oversized food product may need to be divided before slicing. Actual capacity depends on carriage travel and the usable dimensions stated in the technical specifications, not solely on the 170 mm blade. This category is therefore intended for non-intensive tasks such as family platters, sandwich fillings and everyday portions. Before purchase, the available space should be measured, including the clearance needed for the carriage.

• Compact size: these machines fit more easily on household worktops than models with larger blades. Enough surface must still be left free for the carriage movement.
• Small food products: the 170 mm blade is intended for foods compatible with the capacity stated in the specifications. Food shape and dimensions affect whether a complete slice can be obtained.

Berkel meat slicers with 190, 195 and 200 mm blades are intended for household preparation requiring a larger cutting surface than 170 mm models. They can process cured meats, cooled cooked meat, bread, fruit and vegetables when these foods are compatible with the selected model. Their intermediate size remains suitable for many kitchen worktops and accommodates common food sizes without moving to a 250 or 300 mm machine. The round and rectangular cutting capacities must still be checked, as blade diameter alone does not describe the space available on the carriage. Maximum slice thickness, the presence of a sharpener and removable parts can also vary between ranges. These slicers are suited to the regular preparation of appetisers, sandwiches and household platters.

• Intermediate dimensions: diameters from 190 to 200 mm provide a balance between cutting capacity and occupied space. The overall machine measurements must still be checked before installation.
• Household preparation: this category is suitable for limited quantities and regular tasks. Frequency, food hardness and product size must remain within the limits stated by the manufacturer.

Berkel meat slicers with a 250 mm blade offer greater capacity than smaller household machines. They are suitable for medium-sized foods and users who prepare food more regularly, in accordance with the classification of the individual model. A 250 mm blade does not provide an equal cutting capacity, since part of the blade remains protected and capacity also depends on the carriage structure. The stated round or rectangular dimensions should therefore be compared with the foods normally processed. The supporting worktop must hold the machine correctly and leave enough space for the operator’s movements. This category can meet the needs of home kitchens focused on cured-meat preparation and smaller working environments, provided that the machine’s intended application is consistent with the activity.

• Greater capacity: the 250 mm diameter handles larger food products than compact categories. The usable measurement must be checked separately for round and rectangular products.
• Structure and positioning: increased dimensions require a stable worktop and sufficient free space. Machine weight and measurements must also be checked before purchase.

Berkel meat slicers with a 300 mm blade are intended for larger food products and frequent work, according to the model’s certification and specifications. The greater diameter broadens the available slicing options, but makes comparison between blade size, usable capacity, carriage travel and food dimensions even more important. These machines require a large working space and a stable surface allowing full carriage travel and easy collection of the slices. They may be used in catering and food businesses when they carry the required professional classification. Not all 300 mm models share the same equipment: power, sharpener, materials, adjustable thickness and removable components must be checked individually. The choice should therefore begin with the largest product to be sliced and the actual frequency of preparation.

• Larger food products: the 300 mm blade is suitable for bulkier foods than 170 or 200 mm models. Actual capacity remains dependent on the carriage and food plate dimensions.
• Working space: these slicers need a worktop suited to their weight and carriage travel. Measuring beforehand prevents interference with walls, equipment and counter edges.

Berkel professional CE electric meat slicers are designed for workplaces consistent with the certification stated in their technical specifications. The motor keeps the blade rotating and the operator guides the carriage according to the procedures described in the manual. This configuration is suited to repeated preparation in restaurants, delicatessens and other food businesses, within the operating limits of the model. Blade diameter, cutting capacity, power, carriage structure and thickness adjustment must be compared with the foods and expected workload. Accessibility of cleaning points and the sharpening system also affect daily operations. The professional CE designation must not be confused with the mere presence of CE marking: it identifies a specific declared application for the machine and must be checked before purchase.

• Electric operation: the motor rotates the blade, leaving carriage and food control to the operator. Power and permitted operating times depend on the model specifications.
• Professional application: certification must be consistent with the environment in which the machine will be installed. The technical data sheet, manual and requirements applying to the business should be checked.

Berkel flywheel meat slicers recall the invention that gave rise to the brand in 1898. The operator turns the flywheel manually, transmitting movement to the blade and carriage mechanism. Slicing speed therefore depends on the rotation applied to the machine and provides direct control over the work. These models should not be selected solely for their appearance: blade diameter, usable capacity, footprint, weight, adjustment system and declared application must all be assessed. Their structures may require large surfaces or dedicated stands, as specified in the product details. Maintenance includes cleaning the indicated parts and lubricating the points listed in the Berkel manual. Sharpening must follow the procedure for the specific model and be performed with suitable protection.

• Manual movement: the flywheel coordinates blade rotation with carriage travel. The operator retains control over the pace of each pass.
• Size and maintenance: weight and dimensions can be considerable, particularly on models with a dedicated stand. Cleaning, lubrication and sharpening must follow the procedures and intervals specified by Berkel.

Buying a Berkel meat slicer from AgriEuro makes it possible to compare models, blade diameters, certifications and main technical specifications in one catalogue. Dedicated services support both the order and subsequent requirements relating to the purchased machine.

• Fast, free delivery: orders are prepared and dispatched from AgriEuro logistics centres according to the availability shown on the product page. The service allows the slicer to be delivered to the selected address without the shipping charges specified for the item.
• Spare parts can be ordered: after purchase, the spare-parts diagram associated with the product becomes available in the AgriEuro account. This system facilitates the identification and ordering of components compatible with the specific model purchased.
• After-sales support: AgriEuro provides assistance after delivery and handles requests relating to the product. Where applicable, repairs can be carried out at the central workshop or through the connected service centres.

Compare the available Berkel meat slicers and purchase the model best suited to your preparation needs from AgriEuro.

The diameter should be selected according to the largest food product that will be sliced. Blades from 170 to 200 mm are suitable for smaller products and household preparation; 250 and 300 mm diameters accommodate larger foods. The round or rectangular cutting capacity must also be checked, as part of the blade remains covered by protective devices. Work frequency, available space and professional or household classification complete the assessment.

A 170 mm blade is suitable for non-intensive household preparation and smaller foods compatible with the machine. It can be selected for preparing limited quantities of sliced meats, fillings and platters. Actual capacity must be checked in the specifications, as it also depends on the carriage and food shape. Products exceeding the stated dimensions should not be forced into the machine.

The nominal difference concerns only a few millimetres in diameter, but the choice should not be based on this figure alone. Two models with similar blades may have different cutting capacities, carriages, thickness settings and equipment. Their technical specifications must therefore be compared. These sizes generally belong to the compact range intended for regular household preparation.

A 250 mm blade is suitable when foods exceed the capacity of compact models or preparation becomes more regular. It provides a larger working surface but requires more room on the worktop. The choice must consider usable cutting capacity, machine weight and intended application. The certification of the individual model determines whether it is suitable for household or professional settings.

A Berkel 300 mm meat slicer is suitable for larger food products and frequent work when these conditions are compatible with the model specifications. It can meet the requirements of catering and food businesses if it carries the correct professional classification. It requires a stable surface and sufficient carriage clearance. Usable capacity, size, weight, power and equipment should be compared before purchase.

On electric models, the blade is powered by a motor; on flywheel slicers, movement is produced manually by the operator. The electric version suits users seeking continuous operation consistent with the machine’s permitted working times. The flywheel provides direct control over the pace of each pass. The two types also differ in size, weight, maintenance and operating method.

The professional CE designation identifies a machine designed for a specific working application and is not the same as the mere presence of CE marking. This classification must be checked in the technical specifications and model documentation. Restaurants, delicatessens and other businesses must select a machine consistent with their working environment and applicable provisions. Blade size and power alone do not define professional classification.

Berkel household slicers can process cured meats, cooled cooked meat, fruit, vegetables, bread and certain fish preparations, according to the model instructions. Frozen products must not be sliced because they could damage the blade. Bread should not be excessively soft or have an overly thick crust. For cheese, texture and compatibility must be checked, as soft varieties may adhere to smooth surfaces.

Cleaning must begin by unplugging the machine, closing the blade and removing only the parts specified in the manual. Berkel recommends lukewarm water, foaming washing-up liquid and a soft cloth. The blade guard, slice deflector and carriage must not automatically be placed in a dishwasher. Parts should be washed, dried and reassembled according to the specific instructions, using cut-resistant gloves when required.

Lubrication is required when carriage travel shows unusual resistance or according to the frequency stated in the manual. Berkel recommends lubricants compatible with the machine, such as the acid-free synthetic oils specified in its documentation, and advises against vegetable oils. Sharpening should be performed when cutting quality declines and only with the system provided for the model. Sequence, duration and protective equipment must comply with the slicer manual.