Abstract: A filled dough product having a plurality of segments of filling is recited. Each segment of filling from the plurality of segments of filling is encapsulated by a dough shell. A leading crimp line seals the dough shell over the plurality of segments of filling at a leading edge of the dough product. A trailing crimp line seals the dough shell over the plurality of segments of filling at a trailing edge of the dough product.

Abstract: A filled dough product having a plurality of dough sticks is provided. The plurality of dough sticks of the filled dough product can be connected by a web of dough. Each dough stick from the plurality of dough sticks can be separable from the plurality of dough sticks along a break line in which liquid starch had been applied.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for extruding gelled product by conveying a liquid mixture of chemically reacting components into and through a conveyance channel wherein the components chemically react to form a gel while being conveyed through the conveyance channel. The conveyance channel includes internal surfaces that form flow surfaces for conveyance of the product through the channel. The conveyance channel further includes a fluid flow path communicating with the internal surfaces so as to continuously apply a film of fluid over the internal surfaces as the liquid mixture is conveyed through the channel so that the liquid mixture is conveyed as a first phase within the channel surrounded by the film acting as a second phase to separate the first phase from the internal surfaces.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for a high-volume, mass production process for extruding a gel wherein the gelled extrudate has a preselected shape and is produced without breaking apart and without loss of integrity of the gel. More specifically, the present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for continuously forming a gelling mixture and conveying the gelling mixture into a plurality of extrusion dies in a manner such that shear forces that may be produced during conveyance through the extrusion dies are eliminated during the critical period when the gelling mixture forms a gel. The gelled extrudate may be produced, for example, in the form of onion rings comprised of a substantially homogeneous gel having a preselected shape. An improved method for cutting off the gelled extrudate to produce the onion rings is also disclosed.

Abstract: A grillable/broilable food product is disclosed. The product is based upon meat, fish or other seafood, poultry or vegetables, and is coated with an edible artificial skin forming composition which reduces sticking or charring of the food product to or on a hot surface. The composition utilizes a blend of an alkyl cellulose ether and a protein, e.g. a plasma protein, and optionally a gum or browning agent, and a flavorant.

Abstract: A grillable/broilable food product is disclosed. The product is based upon meat, fish or other seafood, poultry or vegetables, and is coated with an edible artificial skin forming composition which reduces sticking or charring of the food product to or on a hot surface.The composition utilizes a blend of an alkyl cellulose ether and a protein, e.g. a plasma protein, and optionally a gum or browning agent, and a flavorant.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for conveying a product. In accordance with the method aspects of the present invention, the steps comprise providing a flow channel having internal surfaces and introducing the product into the channel and causing the product to move through the channel for flow as a first phase through the channel. Pursuant to a feature of the present invention, a step of simultaneously applying a film of fluid over the internal surfaces is carried out during movement of the product through the channel to provide a second phase to surround the first phase and separate the first phase from the internal surfaces during conveyance of the product through the channel so that the first phase moves as a plug of material through the channel.

Abstract: A grillable/broilable food product is disclosed. The product is based upon meat, fish or other seafood, poultry or vegetables, and is coated with an edible artificial skin forming composition which reduces sticking of the food product to a hot surface. The composition utilizes a blend of an alkyl cellulose ether and a protein, and optionally a gum or browning agent, and a flavorant.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for conveying a product. In accordance with the method aspects of the present invention, the steps comprise providing a flow channel having internal surfaces and introducing the product into the channel and causing the product to move through the channel for flow as a first phase through the channel. Pursuant to a feature of the present invention, a step of simultaneously applying a film of fluid over the internal surfaces is carried out during movement of the product through the channel to provide a second phase to surround the first phase and separate the first phase from the internal surfaces during conveyance of the product through the channel so that the first phase moves as a plug of material through the channel.

Abstract: A package includes a food containing shell for storing, displaying, shipping and heating of the enclosed food in a microwave oven. The shell includes a lower portion and an upper portion, and is constructed, at least in part, of a multi-layer laminate which includes a microwave-interactive layer of a metallic alloy of nickel and chromium. The laminate also includes a structural layer and a protective layer on the side of the laminate facing the food. The shell may also include slits which remain closed during storing, displaying and shipping, but which open under the internal pressure of the vapors formed during heating allowing the vapors to be vented from the interior of the shell.