A volumetric portioning apparatus includes a valve assembly operable in a first position and a second position. The first position of the valve assembly allows a food product to flow from an input hopper through the valve assembly and into a portioning assembly. The second position allows the food product to flow from the portioning assembly, through the valve assembly and into an output receiver. The apparatus further includes an actuator coupled to the valve assembly. The actuator is operable to move the valve assembly from the first position to the second position. The apparatus further includes a knife element operable to automatically cut the food product in the valve assembly to prevent the food product from limiting movement of the valve assembly from the first position to the second position.