Abstract: The present invention relates to methods, devices and systems for associating consumable data with an assay consumable used in a biological assay. Provided are assay systems and associated consumables, wherein the assay system adjusts one or more steps of an assay protocol based on consumable data specific for that consumable. Various types of consumable data are described, as well as methods of using such data in the conduct of an assay by an assay system. The present invention also relates to consumables (e.g., kits and reagent containers), software, data deployable bundles, computer-readable media, loading carts, instruments, systems, and methods, for performing automated biological assays.

Abstract: A dry particulate mix comprised of a sugar component, a starch component and additional minor amounts of appropriate flavorants, colorants, acidulants and the like, which can be hydrated in a room temperature (or cold) aqueous medium to directly and rapidly form, without need for heating or reliance upon an independent or auxiliary gelation system, a firm, gelled mass suitable for use as a filling for pies, tarts or other pastry products. The starch component comprises a quick-setting, cold-water swellable starch, preferably derived from corn starch, possessing specified properties of solubility, pH, gel formation and gel strength. Also disclosed is a dry mix particularly adapted for preparation of a lemon pie filling.

Abstract: An instant pudding composition which, upon admixture with milk, produces a pudding having a creaminess and smoothness closely similar to that of a cooked starch pudding, while at the same time possessing sufficient firmness and cutting ability to function as a filling for dessert products such as pies or tarts, comprising pregelatinized starch, sugar, an alkali metal orthophosphate, an alkali metal pyrophosphate and an emulsifier component comprising a mixture of mono- and diglycerides.

Abstract: Disclosed are a low-fat, butter-flavored, liquid spread and a process for preparing it. The spread preferably comprises an oil-in-water emulsion having: less than 30% of a dispersed fat, a continuous aqueous phase containing an emulsion stabilizer, and an emulsifier system comprising a lipophilic emulsifier and a hydrophilic emulsifier. The product realistically simulates the flavor, texture, mouthfeel, appearance, and stability of commercial, liquid margarine, yet reduces the caloric density by from 50 to 95%.

Abstract: An improved cold water soluble gelatin and a process for preparing it. An aqueous solution comprising gelatin and a mixture of corn syrup solids and maltodextrin is dried. The total weight of the corn syrup solids and maltodextrin in the solution will be from 3 to 7 times the weight of gelatin, and the ratio of corn syrup solids to maltodextrin will be within the range of from 1:9 to 9:1. The resulting product is rapidly soluble in cold water, preferably dissolving in water at 55.degree. F. in less than one minute of spoon stirring.

Abstract: An improved cold water soluble gelatin and a process for preparing it. An aqueous solution comprising gelatin and a specific sugar composition is extruded as a foam and then dried. The foam can be prepared by incorporating a gas into the solution prior to extrusion at moderate pressure or by extruding under high pressure to effect expansion due to the volatilization of water upon exiting the extruder. The resulting product is rapidly soluble in cold water, preferably dissolving in water at 55.degree. F. in less than 1 minute of spoon stirring.

Abstract: A cold water soluble gelatin and process by drying a thin layer of a gelatin solution containing sugar, corn syrup solids, maltodextrin, acid, and surfactant with heat from steam under pressure while maintaining the solution itself under an absolute pressure of less than 5 in. of mercury.

Abstract: Disclosed are a low-fat, butter-flavored, liquid spread and a process for preparing it. The spread preferably comprises an oil-in-water emulsion having: less than 30% of a dispersed fat, a continuous aqueous phase containing an emulsion stabilizer, and an emulsifier system comprising a lipophilic emulsifier and a hydrophilic emulsifier. The product realistically simulates the flavor, texture, mouthfeel, appearance, and stability of commercial, liquid margarine, yet reduces the caloric density by from 50 to 95%.

Abstract: Disclosed are a low-fat, butter-flavored spread and a process for preparing it. The spread is solid at 40.degree. F., preferably at 70.degree. F., and will preferably comprise: from 10 to 30% of a dispersed fat; a continuous aqueous phase containing an emulsion stabilizer; and an emulsifier system comprising a lipophilic emulsifier and a hydrophilic emulsifier. According to a preferred aspect of the process: the ingredients are emulsified at a temperature elevated sufficiently to maintain the fat in the liquid state; the emulsion is rapidly cooled; and, the cooled emulsion is then agitated to promote crystallization of the fat and enhance solidification. The product realistically simulates the flavor, texture, mouthfeel, appearance, and stability of butter, yet reduces the caloric density by from 50 to 90%.

Abstract: Disclosed are a low-fat spread and a process for preparing it. The spread, can be flavored as desired, is solid at 40.degree. F., preferably at 70.degree. F., and will preferably comprise: from 10 to 30% of a dispersed fat; a continuous aqueous phase containing an emulsion stabilizer; and an emulsifier system comprising both lipophilic and hydrophilic emulsifiers. According to a preferred aspect of the process: the ingredients are emulsified at a temperature elevated sufficiently to maintain the fat in the liquid state; the emulsion is rapidly cooled; and, the cooled emulsion is then agitated to promote crystallization of the fat and enhance solidification. The product has a wide range of applications due to its texture, mouthfeel, appearance, and stability. It provides a rich tasting product with a caloric density which is preferably about 25 calories per 14 gram serving.

Abstract: Disclosed are a low-fat, liquid spread and a process for preparing it. The spread preferably comprises an oil-in-water emulsion having: less than 30% of a dispersed fat, a continuous aqueous phase containing an emulsion stabilizer, and an emulsifier system comprising a lipophilic emulsifier and a hydrophilic emulsifier. The product has a wide range of applications due to its texture, mouthfeel, and stability. It can be flavored and colored as desired, and provides a rich-tasting product with a caloric density which is preferably about 25 calories per 14 gram serving.