FAQ

The Prawnto machine is a cutter and de-veiner. It makes precision cuts and removes the vein from the shrimp quickly and consistently - it does not peel the shrimp.

Prawnto cuts each shrimp precisely from the first joint (shoulder) to the next-to-last joint or tail in one pass, cutting and deveining simultaneously.

Prawnto produces six shrimp styles:

• Scored Cut – Shallow shell cut for easy peel; vein left intact.
• Easy Peel – Deeper shell cut for hand peeling; vein removed.
• Round Cut – Decorative shallow cut; vein optional.
• Butterfly – Deep full-back cut exposing meat; vein removed.
• Western Cut – Deep split; vein removed, meat fully opened.
• Split Cut – Full open cut from back to tail; vein removed.

Yes. Adjustments allow cutting from the first joint (shoulder) to the tail, with customizable depth for each shrimp style.

Yes. Prawnto removes the vein where it cuts, delivering clean, consistent results.

Yield loss is typically under 1%, far less than manual methods, helping maintain product value and profitability.

Yes. Prawnto manages all types of shrimp. Simple feed and depth adjustments ensure consistent results across assorted sizes and textures.

Since 1952, Prawnto has been the original shrimp-cutting and deveining machine — built for commercial use; made with high-quality materials such as stainless steel, aluminum diecast and food grade materials. A Prawnto is not a throw away plastic look alike but built as a dependable well designed for long service life. In addition, it is supported with training, parts and service to help make your day ShrimperfectTM. Designed for long service life. Every Prawnto is supported with training, parts, and service to help make your day Shrimperfect™.

Prawnto offers the Model 400 and Model 300, both built for commercial use. A single Prawnto with accessory for retail applications. Each delivers consistent cuts, deveining, and high throughput.

The Single Prawnto System is a standalone machine paired with a Processing Table or Speed Pan — ideal for restaurants or seafood markets. The Model 300 (using 4 single units) is an entry-level commercial processor, while the Model 400 (using 4 single units) provides higher output and capacity.

Each Prawnto comes with a tool kit and a bottle of Prawnto Oil for setup and maintenance. A detailed picture of a tool kit can be found in the Maintenance section on the Prawnto website.

A Prawnto can be installed individually or integrated into conveyors for larger production lines. The Speed Pan (Model #600) sits on top of the Prawnto, holding up to 10 lbs. of shrimp for smooth, gravity-fed operation. The Processing Table (Model #900) holds 20 lbs. of shrimp, has a middle shelf for the Prawnto, and swivel-locking casters for easy positioning. Both use funnels — the table has two removable sizes, and the pan has one fixed. The customer can then integrate the Prawnto into conveyors to create a continuous processing line. Prawnto requires connection to electrical power based on model voltage. All pieces are ready to use out of the box.

Accessories like the Processing Table and Speed Pan reduce operator motion, improve comfort, and increase speed.

Yes. All models, due to increase productivity versus hand processing, provide immediate improvement in output. Even a single Prawnto dramatically increases throughput when paired with accessories such as a Processing Table or Speed Pan.

Yes. A single Prawnto setup is fully self-contained and does not require running water.

Oil contact points between discs before first use and before each shift. Use Prawnto Food-Grade Oil to reduce friction and prevent wear.

Remove and clean only the parts that come into contact with shrimp. After cleaning, reassemble and lightly oil the contact points before storage or next use.

The Tune-Up Kit includes the parts that come in contact with shrimp — feeder disc, roller disc, roller shaft, blade, seals, and extra spacers — along with the drive belt, which powers the cutting components. The belt does not come in contact with the shrimp. A detailed picture of these parts can be found in the Maintenance section on the Prawnto website.

Most users replace the Tune-Up Kit about once a year, depending on usage and shrimp volume. Every new Prawnto includes a 1-year limited warranty covering workmanship (not parts).

Prawnto provides a full series of step-by-step training videos available at prawnto.com:

1. Setting up a Prawnto
2. Oiling a Prawnto
3. Cleaning a Prawnto
4. Installing a Tune-Up Kit
5. Alignment & Maintenance

Check disc alignment and spacing regularly, keep the unit lightly oiled, and perform an annual tune-up with Kit #539. Alignment and maintenance are also demonstrated in the online training videos. Always store the Prawnto in a dry area to extend service life and maintain precision.

Tune-Up Kits, Prawnto Oil, and replacement components can be ordered directly at prawnto.com or by calling the 800-support line for personalized assistance. Most standard parts ship the same day.

The Prawnto is built from stainless steel, aluminum die-cast, and food-grade materials designed for corrosion resistance, easy cleaning, and long-term durability.

Each Prawnto is ETL-certified for the U.S. and Canadian markets and conforms to UL STD 763 and NSF/ANSI Standard 8 for food-preparation equipment.

Yes. The Prawnto is fully enclosed for operator safety, uses food-grade lubricants, and is engineered to exceed commercial equipment safety standards.

Prawnto machines and accessories can be purchased directly from prawnto.com or through one of our authorized dealers and sales companies located throughout the U.S. and abroad. You may also call the 800 support line for ordering direct.

Delivery time depends on location and order volume, but most standard orders ship within 3–5 business days.

Yes. You can contact Prawnto through the website or by calling the 800 support line. All calls go to voicemail, which is converted to text for faster, more accurate responses.

Yes. International customers can order directly through Prawnto for coordination of shipping and voltage compatibility.

Replacement parts, Tune-Up Kits, and Prawnto Oil are available for direct factory purchase at prawnto.com.

Yes. The Prawnto website offers English as the default and options for French or Spanish. The manuals and training videos are not yet updated in multiple languages.

All materials — including manuals, FAQs, and training videos — are created and maintained by Team Prawnto to ensure accuracy, consistency, and the best customer experience possible.

We genuinely appreciate your feedback! The easiest way to leave us a review is by visiting our website at www.prawnto.com and clicking the Google Review link. Your review helps us improve our service and makes it easier for other customers to learn about Prawnto.

At Prawnto, we believe that every customer who uses our equipment becomes part of Team Prawnto — a global family of operators, chefs, markets, and processors. All our customers show us every day how Prawnto helps them deliver consistency, efficiency, and quality, all while striving to create a Shrimperfect™ Day for their own customers.