Abstract: A method of purifying an aqueous liquid stream is provided, wherein the liquid stream is pressurized and contains proteinaceous materials, such as blood, and suspended solids, comprising the introduction of carbon dioxide into the liquid stream in a manner to reduce the pH of the liquid stream sufficient to cause coagulation ofthe proteinaceous materials. Specifically, it is intended that the pH of the liquid stream is reduced to a level below the isoelectric point of the proteinaceous materials, preferably at a level below pH 4.5. In a preferred method, the liquid stream is moved by a dissolved gas pump, wherein the carbon dioxide is introduced into the dissolved gas pump, and wherein a first portion of the gas is caused to dissolve within the liquid stream, and a second portion of the gas is caused to entrain within the liquid stream in the form of micro-fine bubbles.

Abstract: A method of freezing a product, a frozen product produced thereby, and a freezing apparatus useful for performing the inventive method. The inventive method comprises the step of compressing a product to be frozen between a cooled first contacting surface and a cooled second contacting surface for a time effective for at least partially freezing the product. The inventive freezing apparatus preferably comprises: a first plate belt comprising a series of first belt freezing plates, each first belt plate having a contacting surface; a second plate belt comprising a series of second belt freezing plates, each second belt plate having a contacting surface; and a driving system for driving the plate belts.

Abstract: An apparatus for making a pizza toppings disk is disclosed. An apparatus, made in accordance with the present invention includes a conveyor means for transporting forming surfaces, and a plurality of depositing means for depositing onto forming surfaces a quantity of cheese and a plurality of pizza toppings that may include but are not limited to the following items: sliced meats, ground meats, or vegetables, as well as combinations thereof. A fusing means is also included which fuses the quantity of cheese and plurality of pizza toppings to form a pizza toppings disk that may be frozen for storage and subsequent use in assembling a pizza.

Abstract: A cleaner for a band bread slicing machine, includes a plurality of band scraper units mounted on an elongated support rod. Each scraper unit includes a pair of fixed, resilient scraper blades positioned to engage the sides of a band blade of the slicer to guide and scrape the blade. A resilient scallop scraper blade is supported adjacent the resilient scraper blades. The scallop scraper engages a beveled or scalloped portion of the band blade. Actuators position the scraper units relative to the bands and move the scallop scraper into and out of engagement with the band.