A method for injecting fluid into meat products comprises taking a plurality
of
hollow fluid injection needles having sharpened discharge ends, and connecting
the needles to a source of pressurized liquid; penetrating the sharpened ends of
the needles into the product and thence withdrawing the same while discharging
fluid into the product and vibrating the needles for a period of time while they
are within the product to enlarge the size of a penetration hole within the product
caused by the penetration of the needles to a size greater than the size of the
needles to create at least a partial space around the needles to permit fluid from
the needles to migrate into the spaces around the needles. The needles have a roughened
outside surface.