Abstract: A new microwave autoclave apparatus, and a method for pasteurizing, sterilizing or retorting food product in a continuous mode, and in commercial quantities, using microwave radiant energy. In this new microwave autoclave apparatus, containers of food-stuff are held tightly within individual moving bottom vessel, and a corresponding moving top cover. The moulds therefrom, made of a material which is permeable to microwave radiation, are linked together to form a chain such that a continuous flow of container enters and leaves a microwave chamber. The synchronization of the moving top covers with the moving bottom vessels, and the opposing forces applied thereupon provide tightly fitted cavities capable of supporting substantial pressure, and thus providing a retort effect. The moulds prevent undesired expansion of containers during heating periods, without applying adverse pressure beyond its original shape during the cooling phase.

Abstract: This invention covers a shallow bottom part adapted to receive an individual lobster from the Homaridae family on its back, shaped generally of lobster shape, with claw-shaped portions for receiving the lobster's claws and an elongated portion extending therefrom receiving the lobster's tail. Extending across the claw-shaped portions are retaining strips to retain the respective claws of the lobster and breakaway parts hinged from the respective opposite sides of the elongated tail portion which when joined retain the lobster's tail and with the claws retained, release of the live lobster by itself is prevented when the bottom part containing the lobster and the cover extending thereover is placed in the microwave oven for the cooking operation. For cooking a Rock lobster from the Palinuridae family or crayfish without claws, a liner is provided that is without clawshaped portions to better confine the clawless lobster.