Abstract: A method and system for assessing a level of refrigerant in a vehicle air conditioning system. A refrigerant charge value is determined as a function of ambient air temperature, ambient air humidity, conditioned air temperature, and compressor cycling signals. The refrigerant charge value is compared to a threshold value to determine whether the level of refrigerant is acceptable.

Abstract: A method and system for assessing a level of refrigerant in a vehicle air conditioning system. A refrigerant charge value is determined as a function of ambient air temperature, ambient air humidity, conditioned air temperature, and compressor cycling signals. The refrigerant charge value is compared to a threshold value to determine whether the level of refrigerant is acceptable.

Abstract: Coated French fried potatoes which maintain crispness for at least about 10 minutes. The French fries have at least a 0.1 mm starch-based surface coating and Texture Value of at least about 170 after an extended holding time. The holding time is a measurement based on (1) 4 minutes holding under a heat lamp, (2) 3 minutes holding under a heat lamp in Foodservice serving bags and (3) at least 3 minutes holding in a closed carry-out bag. The par-fries have specific properties which, upon oven-finishing, deliver a unique texture. The coated oven-finished French fries have about 28% to about 50% bulk moisture and from about 8% to about 25% total fat.

Abstract: Coated French fried potatoes which maintain crispness for at least about 10 minutes. The French fries have at least a 0.1 mm starch-based surface coating and Texture Value of at least about 170 after an extended holding time. The holding time is a measurement based on (1) 4 minutes holding under a heat lamp, (2) 3 minutes holding under a heat lamp in Foodservice serving bags and (3) at least 3 minutes holding in a closed carry-out bag. The par-fries have specific properties which, upon oven-finishing, deliver a unique texture. The coated oven-finished French fries have about 28% to about 50% bulk moisture and from about 8% to about 25% total fat.

Abstract: Disclosed are flavored oils for use in deep frying, stir-frying and marinating, which when heated, exhibit reduced aroma. The flavored oils consist essentially of an edible oil, a flavoring agent and a polyethylene sorbitan monoester.

Abstract: This invention is a process for rendering an edible fiber more easily hydratable for addition to food products. Edible fiber is co-milled in a multi-impact mill with sugar and optionally flour and starch. This co-milling improves the dispersion and the water absorbing rate of the fiber when it is added to food. The addition of fiber allows more water to be held, resulting in better and moister tasting food products. The invention also comprises the fiber product made according of this process.

Abstract: The present invention relates to improved baked goods, and in particular brownies, which contain an absorbent edible fiber. Improvements have been noted in the areas of chocolate flavor display, texture, tolerance to underbaking, height and moisture retention. The baked goods are made from a mix which comprises from about 0.1% to about 10% cellulosic fiber, from about 45% to about 65% sugar, from about 15% to about 35% flour, from about 3% to about 18% shortening, from about 0% to about 12% cocoa, and from about 0% to about 4% starch, the balance being conventional baked good additives. The finished baked goods comprise from about 68% to about 93% of the mix, from about 0.5% to about 6% egg solids, from about 0% to about 16% oil, and from about 5% to about 20% water.

Abstract: This invention relates to acidified sauce products, specifically, to products containing textured protein or analog simulating loose, cooked ground meat. This invention further relates to an acidification process for the preparation of such products. This acidification process minimizes the necessary pH equilibration time and generates a shelf-stable product with optimum texture and flavor, and low fat content.

Abstract: Coated French fried potatoes which maintain crispness for at least about 10 minutes. The French fries have at least a 0.1 mm starch-based surface coating and Texture Value of at least about 170 after an extended holding time. The holding time is a measurement based on (1) 4 minutes holding under a heat lamp. (2) 3 minutes holding under a heat lamp in Foodservice serving bags and (3) at least 3 minutes holding in a closed carry-out bag. The par-fries have specific properties which, upon oven-finishing, deliver a unique texture. The coated oven-finished French fries have about 28% to about 50% bulk moisture and from about 8% to about 25% total fat. The par-fried potato strips used to prepare the oven-finished French fried potatoes are coated with a starch suspension. The coating has a low water solubility starch fraction as one of its ingredients. The low water solubility starch fraction has a water solubility index of less than about 30%.