A cutting tool for cutting netting used for encasing meat products comprises a blade and a guard. A control circuit is electrically connected to the blade, and configured to maintain the temperature of the blade at a cutting temperature in the range of 300° C. to 500° C. The guard defines an interior cavity surrounding the blade and further comprises a slot exposing a portion of the blade. The guarding is further shaped to define a funnel at a distal end of the cutting tool leading to the slot such that in use the funnel guides a netting to be cut towards the blade. The cutting tool may be provided as a hand tool or in a bench mounted form.