Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved process and system for cold smoking of seafood and meat. The process is directed towards the reduction of distasteful gas compounds in aerosol smoke that cause unwanted gas odors and flavors in subsequently smoked foods. The method is further effective in preserving the freshness, wholesomeness, and appearance of smoked seafood and meat by retaining the desirable preservative aerosol components of the smoke. A superior smoke aroma and flavor can be imparted to seafood and meat, without the interference of distasteful gases odors. The process is further highly efficient, by incorporation of condensation filtering to regulate water, collect, and recycle smoke flavoring liquid condensates, thereby maximizing the value recovery from the smoking system.

Abstract: A plurality of flat rigid supports protect flat surfaces, flexible membranes protect contoured surfaces, and intersections of these rigid and flexible surfaces form joints that protect the corners and edges of cut seafood such that the physical shape of each packaged seafood segment resembles its freshly cut shape. Cut seafood surfaces, corners, and edges protected by this supporting means avoid contact with other surfaces that may disfigure their original cut appearance. This supporting means accommodates varying seafood fillet sizes and shapes, and minimizes the unused space within the packing unit. As a result, a substantial cost savings is realized by shipping seafood fillets with the weight and volume of non-edible portions of the whole fish removed prior to shipping without compromising the quality of the delivered product.

Abstract: A process and apparatus for treating fish or other animals by introducing tasteless smoke or carbon monoxide into the respiratory system, so that it is absorbed into the edible muscle tissue through the circulatory system. In one embodiment, tasteless smoke or carbon monoxide is entrained or dissolved in water in which fish are swimming. In another embodiment, tasteless smoke or carbon monoxide is introduced into a foam that is applied to the fish. Devices for entraining or dissolving the tasteless smoke or carbon monoxide into water or foam are also described.

Abstract: A method of treating fish to maintain freshness after freezing and thawing. A whole fish is chilled and cut into four loins, each with two flat sides forming a corner. The loins are chilled and either sliced cross sectionally to form steaks or sliced parallel to one of the flat sides to form sashimi slabs. If sashimi slabs are formed, the slabs are then preferably dipped in a warm flavor enhancing solution. The steaks or slabs are then sealed in non-permeable bags, preferably in a “puzzle pack” configuration that maximizes density and minimizes interstices. The bag with the steaks or sashimi slabs is then submerged in a brine solution. A treatment gas is then injected into the bag. After a treatment time, the gas is removed and the bag is vacuum packed. The bags are then frozen for shipping and storage. When needed, the bags can be thawed in a brine solution.

Abstract: Tasteless super-purified smoke is manufactured to treat seafood and meat to preserve the freshness, color, texture, and natural flavor, particularly after the food is frozen and thawed. The smoke is generated by burning an organic smoking material at preferably 500 to 800 degrees F. (260 to 571 degrees C.) in a smoke generator 1. It is then passed through a precipitation filtering tower 2 comprised of filters of ice, cloth, and activated carbon to remove taste imparting, and carcinogenic, particulates and vapors. The super-purified smoke is then stored and aged in a temporary pressure pot 3 or in canisters for treatment at the same time or at another place and time. The super-purified smoke is used to treat seafood or meat in plastic bags at temperatures between its variable freezing point and 46 degrees F. (7.8 degrees C.) for twelve to forty-eight hours, or until the desired effect is achieved.

Abstract: A device and apparatus for aligning exterior faces of tiles of irregular thickness in which elongated alignment grooves are formed in edges of the tiles spaced apart from the exterior faces by a constant setback distance and a front tongue of a spacer shaped like an extruded cross is inserted into the groove in a first tile and then the corresponding groove in a second tile is mounted over the projecting rear tongue. The upper and lower tabs of the spacer define the separation between adjacent tiles and the front and rear tongues maintain the exterior faces of the tiles in alignment.