Abstract: An automatic system for processing poultry carcasses such as turkeys and the like which vary in size and shape as they are being conveyed on a conveyor is disclosed. The weight of the carcass is determined by a weighting system and the relative position of a preselected portion of the anatomy of the carcass such as the anterior or posterior edges of the breast is ascertained by a photosensor as the carcasses are being conveyed. A data processing computer receives the weight and position data for each carcass and causes a tool such as a needle to inject a basting additive to move to a position where the tool can perform the desired task, i.e., insertion of the needle at the preselected position on the carcass. A measured amount of the basting additive is automatically injected depending upon the measured weight of each of the carcasses. The carcasses are removed from the conveyor at discharge points depending on the weight and rated quality of the carcass.