Chipotle’s Automated Guacamole Maker to Peel and Core Avocados Indefinitely

Chipotle continues to explore the use of robots to streamline operations for its restaurant staff. In collaboration with robotics company Vebu, the chain is currently testing a prototype robot called Autocado, specifically designed to cut, core, and peel avocados for guacamole preparation. The robot simplifies the process for kitchen workers, who only need to load the machine with up to 25lbs of ripe avocados and select a desired size. Once the robot completes the avocado processing, the workers can collect the fruit in a bowl, add the remaining ingredients, and begin mashing.

As Autocado improves, Chipotle plans to cut guacamole preparation time in half—no small feat when it usually takes 50 minutes to make a batch. This could ensure a steady supply of guac while eliminating some of the labor of the workers. The restaurant also believes that the robot could reduce food waste (and thus costs) through more efficient handling.

Autocado is currently limited to a testing center in Irvine, California. This is the start of a “long-term partnership” with Vebu, Chipotle adds. They haven’t said what’s next, but the focus is on collaborative robots that “drive efficiency” and “alleviate pain points” for workers. Last year, Chipotle began testing Miso Robotics’ Chippy robot to help make tortilla chips.

Chipotle is far from alone. McDonald’s and other restaurants are experimenting with artificial intelligence, robots and other automated solutions to enhance their experiences. These moves theoretically help focus on customer service and other tasks where humans are still better. Of course, critics also constantly worry that restaurants could use this to automate people out of jobs. They may decide to cut staff and cut costs instead of reducing workload. That certainly won’t happen with Autocado while people are still essential, but the long-term future isn’t quite so clear.