Abstract: A method and apparatus for delivering a constant amount of dough per unit time is disclosed. Successive dough blocks (5) are transferred on a first conveyor (8) at times proportional to their weights. The predetermined theoretical traveling distances of the dough blocks and the actual traveling distances of the dough blocks on the first conveyor are compared to find the change of the volume or specific gravity of the dough due to fermentation. Based on the comparison the traveling speed of the first conveyor is changed to obtain a uniform amount of the dough product, and the gap between a second conveyor (11) and a stretching roller (12) may be adjusted to increase the rate at which the dough is produced.

Abstract: A process for the production of L-threonine by fermentation of Escherichia coli FERM BP-3756 or Escherichia coli FERM BP-4072 and a process for the production of L-isoleucine by the fermentation of Escherichia coli FERM BP-3757 is disclosed. The strains are resistant to purine analogues such as 6-dimethylaminopurine or 6-methylaminopurine.