Abstract: Disclosed is a large scale apparatus for the harvesting cell products secreted from cells grown within semipermeable artificial membranes. The apparatus comprises a number of cooperating processing stations which perform the various steps necessary in the harvesting of cell product. Included within the apparatus is a holding tank for receiving mature encapsulated cells and cell medium, as well as any reagents, from separate storage sources, used in the process. Also included, and in fluid communication with the holding tank, is a shearing station where the capsule membranes are ruptured to free the encapsulated cell product, and a separating station where the liquid cell product is separated from solid components such as cell membrane debris and cells. The apparatus may include a microprocessor which generates control signals to enhance the level of automation of the apparatus.