1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the ALTRA LIFE MG104 Electric Meat Grinder. This appliance is designed for efficient and versatile food preparation, including meat grinding, sausage stuffing, and kibbe making. Please read this manual thoroughly before first use to ensure safe operation and optimal performance. Keep this manual for future reference.
2. Important Safety Instructions
- Read all instructions before using the appliance.
- Always ensure the power supply voltage matches the rating label on the appliance.
- Do not operate the appliance with a damaged cord or plug. Contact customer support for repairs.
- To prevent electric shock, do not immerse the motor unit in water or other liquids.
- Close supervision is necessary when the appliance is used by or near children.
- Avoid contact with moving parts. Always use the food pusher to feed ingredients. Never use fingers or other utensils.
- Ensure the appliance is properly assembled before operation.
- Do not run the grinder for more than 10 minutes continuously to prevent motor overheating. Allow it to cool down for at least 30 minutes before resuming use.
- Unplug the appliance from the outlet when not in use, before assembling or disassembling parts, and before cleaning.
- Do not use attachments not recommended or sold by the manufacturer.
- This appliance is for household and light commercial use only.
- Do not attempt to grind hard bones, nuts, or fibrous foods that may damage the motor or blades. Soft bones like chicken, rabbit, squirrel, and quail bones can be processed.
3. Package Contents
The ALTRA LIFE MG104 Electric Meat Grinder package includes the following components:

A visual representation of all items included in the ALTRA LIFE MG104 package: the main meat grinder unit, food pusher, two sausage stuffing tubes, kibbe attachment, and three grinding plates.
- Main Motor Unit
- #8 Grinding Head (Die-cast aluminum)
- Food Tray (Stainless Steel)
- Food Pusher (Plastic)
- 2 Stainless Steel Cutting Blades
- 3 Stainless Steel Grinding Plates (Fine, Medium, Coarse)
- Sausage Stuffing Tube
- Kibbe Attachment Kit
4. Product Overview
The ALTRA LIFE MG104 Electric Meat Grinder is a robust appliance designed for various food processing tasks. It features a powerful 800W (3200W MAX) copper motor and an upgraded #8 grinding head for efficient operation.

The ALTRA LIFE MG104 Electric Meat Grinder shown fully assembled with raw meat on the feeding tray, actively grinding meat into a bowl, and all included accessories laid out beside it.

This image provides the dimensions of the ALTRA LIFE MG104 Electric Meat Grinder, highlighting its compact design suitable for tabletops, along with an exploded diagram of its internal and external components for assembly reference.
Key Features:
- Powerful Motor: 800W (3200W MAX) copper motor for efficient grinding.
- #8 Grinding Head: Upgraded, thicker, and larger for processing tough meats and soft bones.
- Versatile: Functions as a meat grinder, sausage stuffer, and kibbe maker.
- Safety Features: Overload and overheat protection, locking knob.
- Food Grade Materials: 100% BPA-free and ETL certified components.
5. Assembly
Before assembly, ensure the appliance is unplugged. Wash all parts that will come into contact with food in warm, soapy water and dry them thoroughly.
- Attach the Grinding Head: Hold the grinding head at approximately a 25-degree angle to the right of the motor unit's opening. Insert it and then rotate it counter-clockwise until it locks securely into place. You should hear a click or feel it firmly seated. To disassemble, press the release button on top of the unit and rotate the head clockwise.
- Insert the Screw: Place the feeding screw (auger) into the grinding head, ensuring the shaft aligns with the motor drive.
- Place the Cutting Blade: Position one of the stainless steel cutting blades onto the end of the feeding screw, ensuring the sharp edges face outwards towards the grinding plate.
- Select and Place the Grinding Plate: Choose your desired grinding plate (fine, medium, or coarse) and place it over the cutting blade, aligning the notch on the plate with the tab on the grinding head.
- Secure with Locking Ring: Screw the locking ring onto the grinding head clockwise until it is hand-tight. Do not overtighten.
- Attach the Food Tray: Place the stainless steel food tray onto the top of the grinding head.
- For Sausage/Kibbe: If making sausages or kibbe, replace the grinding plate and cutting blade with the appropriate attachment (sausage tube or kibbe kit) before securing with the locking ring.
6. Operation
6.1 Before First Use
Wash all detachable parts (grinding head, screw, blades, plates, food tray, food pusher, sausage tube, kibbe kit) in warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry immediately. The main motor unit should only be wiped with a damp cloth.
6.2 General Grinding

This image showcases the ALTRA LIFE MG104 Electric Meat Grinder's versatility, performing three functions: ultra-fast meat grinding, quick sausage making, and traditional kibbe preparation.

An illustration of the three included stainless steel grinding plates (fine, medium, and coarse) and the different textures of ground meat they produce, suitable for various culinary needs.
- Ensure the grinder is correctly assembled with the desired grinding plate and cutting blade.
- Cut meat into small pieces (approximately 1-inch cubes) that fit easily into the feeding tube. Remove any large bones, tendons, or gristle. For best results, chill meat in the freezer for 15-30 minutes before grinding.
- Place a bowl or container under the grinding head to collect the ground meat.
- Plug the appliance into a suitable power outlet.
- Press the 'ON' button to start the motor.
- Place the prepared meat onto the food tray and gently feed it into the feeding tube using the food pusher. Never use your hands or fingers.
- After grinding, press the 'OFF' button and unplug the appliance.
6.3 Sausage Stuffing
- Assemble the grinder with the sausage stuffing tube in place of the grinding plate and cutting blade.
- Prepare your seasoned ground meat mixture.
- Slide the casing onto the sausage tube, leaving a small overhang at the end.
- Turn on the grinder and feed the meat mixture into the feeding tube using the food pusher.
- Guide the casing as it fills, ensuring even stuffing and avoiding air pockets. Twist the casing at desired intervals to form links.
- Turn off the grinder and unplug when finished.
6.4 Kibbe Making
- Assemble the grinder with the kibbe attachment.
- Prepare your kibbe dough mixture.
- Turn on the grinder and feed the kibbe mixture into the feeding tube.
- The attachment will form hollow tubes of kibbe. Cut them to your desired length.
- Turn off the grinder and unplug when finished.
6.5 Controls (ON/OFF/Reverse)

A detailed view of the control panel featuring the ON/OFF and Reverse buttons, designed for simple and efficient operation of the meat grinder, including quick clog resolution.
- ON: Press to start the motor for grinding.
- OFF: Press to stop the motor.
- REV (Reverse): If the grinder becomes clogged, press the 'OFF' button, then press and hold the 'REV' button. This will reverse the direction of the feeding screw to clear blockages. Release the 'REV' button, then press 'ON' to resume normal operation.
7. Cleaning and Maintenance
Proper cleaning and maintenance ensure the longevity and hygiene of your meat grinder.

An image illustrating the recommended cleaning methods for the ALTRA LIFE MG104 meat grinder components, distinguishing between parts that are dishwasher safe (like stainless steel blades and plates) and those that require hand washing (like the main unit and grinding head).
- Unplug: Always unplug the appliance before cleaning.
- Disassemble: Disassemble all removable parts (food tray, grinding head, screw, blade, grinding plate, sausage tube, kibbe kit).
- Hand Wash: Wash the grinding head, feeding screw, and food tray by hand in warm, soapy water. Use a brush to remove any food residue.
- Dishwasher Safe Parts: The stainless steel blades, cutting plates, and plastic food pusher are dishwasher safe. However, hand washing and immediate drying are recommended for all parts to prolong their lifespan and prevent discoloration.
- Dry Immediately: Dry all parts thoroughly after washing to prevent rust, especially for metal components.
- Clean Motor Unit: Wipe the exterior of the motor unit with a damp cloth. Never immerse the motor unit in water or any other liquid.
- Storage: Store the cleaned and dried parts in a dry, safe place.
8. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Motor does not start. | Not plugged in; power outage; motor overheated; incorrect assembly. | Check power connection; verify power supply; allow motor to cool down; reassemble correctly. |
| Grinder stops during operation or meat is not grinding. | Clogged with tough meat/bones; motor overloaded/overheated. | Press 'OFF', then use 'REV' button to clear blockage. Cut meat into smaller pieces. Do not overload. Allow motor to cool if overheated. |
| Loud noise or vibration. | Improper assembly; loose parts. | Ensure all parts are securely assembled and tightened. |
| Meat comes out mushy or uneven. | Meat is too warm; dull blade; incorrect grinding plate. | Chill meat before grinding. Ensure blade is sharp and correctly positioned. Use appropriate grinding plate for desired texture. |
| Difficulty assembling/disassembling the grinding head. | Incorrect angle or not pressing release button. | Refer to Section 5: Assembly for correct procedure, including the 25-degree angle for attachment and using the release button for disassembly. |
9. Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | ALTRA LIFE |
| Model Number | MG104 |
| Color | Silver |
| Wattage | 800 Watts (3200W MAX) |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Product Dimensions | 5.95"L x 12.96"W x 12.95"H |
| Item Weight | 7 pounds |
| Grinding Capacity | Approximately 10 lbs/min |
| Certifications | ETL Certified, 100% BPA-free |
| Recommended Uses | Commercial Use, Home Kitchen Use (Grinding, Kubbe Maker, Sausage Stuffer) |
10. Warranty and Support
ALTRA LIFE products are manufactured with quality and performance in mind. For warranty information, product support, or any inquiries, please contact ALTRA LIFE customer service.
You can visit the official ALTRA LIFE store for more information and support:
Please retain your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.