Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for the continuous sterilization of foodstuffs arranged in particular in containers, comprising chambers for heating, sterilization and cooling, with introduction of steam or water vapor into at least one of said chambers and is distinguished in that the chambers equipped with endlessly revolving conveyors are separated from each other by separating doors (4) which are each made closable by electric motors (5) and reduction gearing (6), the first preliminary chamber (1) being configured for the preparation, the second chamber (2) for heating up and sterilization in warm water under pressure with heating by means of steam, and the third chamber (3) for cooling in cold water under said pressure and that elevatedly disposed hydrostatic chambers (8; 12) are arranged to ensure a permanently maintained operating pressure.