Abstract: A method for green color retention and texture improvement in vegetables by blanching raw or IQF green vegetables in an aqueous zinc blanch solution for three minutes or less, wherein the aqueous blanch solution has a zinc ion concentration of at least about 500 ppm. The vegetables may then be containerized and sterilized, frozen or dried. The zinc-blanched and frozen or dried vegetables may be sold as ingredients to the food industry, or they may be containerized and sterilized in brine, or in complex products, such as soups, sauces, or any other thermally processed products.

Abstract: The invention provides a shelf-life extender for upholding the freshness of food, such as meat, vegetables, fruits, etc., in retail packages or in a refrigerator for an extended period of time. An isothiocyanic acid compound is supported on a matrix such as a natural mucilaginous polysaccharide or a solid organic acid and the supported compound is packaged in synthetic resin film or nonwoven fabric. The invention further provides an aqueous gel composition comprising a specified surfactant, an isothiocyanic acid compound, and a gelling agent and a hydrophobic gel composition comprising a specified hydrophobic dispersion medium, an isothiocyanic acid compound, and a gelling agent.

Abstract: A method of producing a crisp surface and imparting a uniform golden-brown color to a precooked whole muscle meat product by coating at least a portion of the surface of a precooked whole muscle meat product with a browning liquid pyrolysis product. The coated surface is then exposed to an energy source that selectively heats the coated surface of the whole muscle meat product at a temperature and for a time sufficient to develop a golden-brown color on the exposed surface, without substantially shrinking the precooked whole muscle meat product.

Abstract: A process for preserving the green color of green beans which comprises contacting frozen green beans with a mixture consisting essentially of a food acceptable alkaline material and ascorbic acid.

Abstract: Methods of preserving fresh fruit with fresh fruit preservatives which extend the shelf life of fresh fruit particularly fresh cut fruit, are provided. The fresh fruit preservative preserves the texture, flavor, appearance, crispness, and color of the fresh fruit, particularly the exposed skin of the fresh fruit. The method includes the following steps: providing a solution of fruit preservative comprising: water, calcium ions; and ascorbate ions, wherein the calcium ion and ascorbate ions are present in a ion ratio of preferably from about 1.5:1 to about 2.5:1; and, applying said fruit preservative to the fruit. Preferably the fruit is then stored at a temperature which will not freeze the fruit; temperatures of -6.degree. C. have been found not to freeze the apples. Preferably the fruit is stored at temperatures of between about -7.degree. C. to room temperature, about 20.degree. C., more preferably about -2.degree. to about 7.degree. C., most preferably from about 2.degree. C. to about 5.degree. C.

Abstract: This invention relates to a novel method of preserving fresh cut fruit for a prolonged period of time. More particularly, this invention is directed to a novel method of preparing and preserving fresh, vitaminized flavored or unflavored cut apple pieces to be stored in containers for extended periods of time of up to 6 weeks at refrigerated temperatures with the retention of acceptable naturally-occurring and adjunctive flavors, crisp texture and original whiteness or yellowness, being free of enzymatic browning.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for long term storage of pickles in an environment free of brine or other liquid media. The method includes treating cucumbers in a brine solution at a temperature of about 195.degree. F. and then storing for about 24-72 hours at refrigeration temperatures to make pickles. The brine includes a preservative such as sodium benzoate. The brine is drained from the pickles. The pickles are packaged in a container free of brine or other liquid media at refrigeration temperatures.

Abstract: Apple slices are introduced into a preservative solution comprising about 8%-20% of a sweetening agent, about 0.1%-0.6% of an edible acid, and about 0.015%-0.025% of sulfur dioxide. The fruit pieces are then placed under a vacuum and then, after the vacuum is released, maintained in the preservative solution for a sufficient time to allow the fruit pieces to absorb the preservative solution into the tissue thereof. Thereafter, the treated fruit pieces may then be stored in a refrigerated environment for periods up to three months or more without significant deterioration in appearance, texture and taste and without any increase in bacteria count over their near sterile condition after undergoing the above process.

Abstract: An improved pigment composition containing an anthocyanin pigment and a pigment-improving agent selected from the group consisting of flavonoid glycuronides, flavonoid glucuronides, and caffeic acid derivatives. The pigment-improving agents deepen and improve the intensity of the anthocyanin pigment and increase its stability in the presence of light, heat and/or pH.

Abstract: The color of vegetables and fruits which contain carotenoids is stabilized by adding to water particles of tea, by-products of tea extraction, a spice, rice bran, tomato skins, tomato seeds and/or paprika seeds so that the particulate material is contained in the water in an amount of at least 0.5 g per liter water, and vegetables or fruits which contain carotenoids are blanched in the particulate-containing water having a temperature between 70.degree. C. and 100.degree. C. for a time for stabilizing their color, and after which, blanch water is separated from the treated vegetables and/or fruits. Further, the particulate-containing water and the fruits or vegetables may be placed in and blanched in a pouch, particularly a water-permeable pouch so that blanch water may be separated from the pouch and so that particulate material is retained in the pouch.

Abstract: A method of inducing the formation of color determining compounds in a tea-based food product, characterized in that the tea leaves are treated with an exogenous laccase, polyphenol oxidase or peroxidase, in combination with a pretreatment with a tannase. Also, a treatment with a fungal laccase form a Pleurotus species can be performed to enhance the color of a tea-based product.

Abstract: A water-insoluble plant powder obtained by preparing a dry powder of green plant juice squeezed from a fresh raw edible green plant (e.g., barley) and removing water-soluble components from the dry powder, and a green coloring material obtained by further extracting it with a polar organic solvent. They are useful in food products.

Abstract: A composition for a guacamole preparation that inhibits spoilage and/or oxidation of the avocado fruit present in the preparation and the discoloration and souring that commonly accompanies oxidation. The inhibitory effect is achieved through the use of a natural antioxidant or preservative that is found in tomatillo. The composition only requires avocado flesh and the pulp of tomatillo as no other chemical preservatives are required to achieve stability of the preparation. The composition may optionally include flavoring additives such as spices, peppers and vegetables and as well as chemical agents for controlling the pH of the composition. A process for preparing the composition is disclosed that includes combining the avocado flesh and tomatillo pulp and heating the mixture prior to sealing it in sterilized containers.

Abstract: A method for inhibiting the deterioration of processed fresh broccoli during shipment, comprising the steps of processing the broccoli for fresh consumption and exposing the processed broccoli to a solution of sodium citrate, ascorbic acid, sodium acid pyrophosphate, and L-cysteine hydrochloride, and water in which the sodium citrate, ascorbic acid, sodium acid pyrophosphate, and L-cysteine hydrochloride have been diluted to a combined weight percentage concentration of from about 1.00 to about 1.

Abstract: Methods of debittering and coloring black ripe olives include the steps of treating the olives with iron solution at elevated temperature, in the absence of oxidizing agents, followed by the step of aerating the solution. The unique coloring method permits a relatively high concentration of lye to be used in the debittering process which precedes the coloring process, resulting in significant overall time savings for the combined processes. A three day debittering and coloring olive process is described which results in consistent, high quality product.

Abstract: Tomatoes are separated into desirable food products by subjecting them, after conventional preliminary treatments, such as crushing, to a separation of serum from pulp by centrifugation at temperatures between 75.degree. and 110.degree. C. and centrifugal force between 2600 and 4000 G, whereby to obtain a pulp that contains at least 500 ppm of lycopene. The pulp is then subjected to extraction by means of solvents having .delta.H (delta H) and .delta.P (delta P) values chosen so as to extract an oleoresin that has a desired content of lycopene, phospholipids and mono- and di-glycerides. The serum is concentrated and mixed either with dehydrated spent tomato pulp or with dispersing agents and the mixture is dried to produce a new food product which is substantially free from sugars and agrochemicals, is low in lipids, and has a water content less than 5 ww %.

Abstract: This invention provides a wheat flour whereby speck formation in a secondarily processed product can be prevented and the deterioration in the color tone due to discoloration can be prevented. To treat tyrosinase of wheat bran which remains in wheat flour in the flour producing process and causes speck formation, a tyrosinase inhibitor is added prior to a roller milling step, preferably in a conditioning step. Examples of the tyrosinase inhibitor include kojic acid, cysteine, glutathione, ascorbic acid, dithiothreitol, phytic acid, EDTA, isonicotinic acid hydrazide, p-aminosalicylic acid, ferulic acid, thiamine, peptides and combinations thereof. In particular, kojic acid and cysteine are preferable as a tyrosinase inhibitor. The wheat flour thus obtained is usable, for example, in making fresh noodles, dried noodles and tenobe somen in a secondarily processed product.

Abstract: A method of washing one or more fresh vegetables, which entails washing the one or more fresh vegetables with at least one aqueous liquid containing at least an antimicrobially effective amount of dissolve carbon dioxide, and at least an amount of dissolved argon effective to inhibit bleaching and oxidizing effects of carbon dioxide.

Abstract: A method for processing melons provides greatly enhanced shelf life and maintains excellent quality of melon products so that they are suitable for human consumption. The harvested fresh melons are cooled to a temperature of approximately 36.degree. F. before they are graded and selected for further processing. The melons are then cut along their apexes to form melon halves. The seeds and soft tissue are removed from the melon halves, which are then cut to form melon segments. The finds are removed from the melon segments, which are then washed in a chilled chlorinated bath. The melon segments are then inspected and graded. Those melon segments that pass the inspection and grading process are then cut to form melon cubes that are washed in a chilled chlorinated water bath. The melon cubes are drained to remove chlorinated water, and the melon cubes are washed in a chilled citric acid and tribasic calcium phosphate bath.

Abstract: This invention relates to a process for preserving leafy produce. The process comprises exposing the produce to be treated for a period of time to a dilute aqueous solution of a preservative composition. The preservative composition comprises sodium or calcium hypochlorite, a chloride salt and water.

Abstract: Foods and food ingredients are sterilized and preserved by the application of pressure of 250 KPa (25,000 psi) for 5 days. Some seafood requires maintenance of pressure for the duration of storage. For most fruits and vegetables ripening is stopped by the pressure treatment and packaged products can be stored without refrigeration for at least 6 months. Because no heat is used foods retain much of their firmness and texture.

Abstract: Wheat-based products of improved brightness such as noodles, pastas, doughs and vital wheat gluten are provided which include a source of Zn.sup.+2 ion, most preferably zinc chloride, and/or a source of Al.sup.+3 ion, most preferably aluminum sulfate. The Zn.sup.+2 and/or Al.sup.+3 source is added to the starting ingredients and serves to give bright products less prone to show browning off-color. Zn.sup.+2 and/or Al.sup.+3 ion also permits preparation of aqueous gluten dispersions without the need for contaminating acids or bases.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for reducing surface discoloration caused by white blush development on fresh and minimally processed vegetables and fruits due to dehydration

Abstract: There is provided a method for improving the color of containerized green vegetables, comprising the steps of: (a) blanching the vegetables for an extended period of time; (b) packing the blanched vegetables into a container along with an aqueous packing solution containing zinc or copper ions; (c) sealing the container; and (d) subjecting the containerized vegetables and packing solution to a sterilization process. Alternatively, the method may comprise the steps of: (a) holding the vegetables at an elevated temperature for a predetermined period of time; (b) blanching the vegetables with an aqueous blanching solution containing zinc or copper ions; (c) packing the blanched vegetables into a container along with an aqueous packing solution; (d) sealing the container; and (e) subjecting the containerized vegetables and packing solution to a sterilization process.

Abstract: A method for uniformly controlling the ripening of bananas and other perishable products from harvest to delivery, wherein a combination shipping and ripening container having an internal volume capable of receiving and maintaining a controlled atmosphere is provided. Freshly harvested, unripened perishable products are loaded into the container and cooled to a holding temperature in a range of from about 57.degree. to about 70.degree. F. Once the products are stabilized at the desired holding temperature, a controlled atmosphere including ethylene is preferably substantially immediately provided to the internal volume to uniformly initiate ripening of all of the loaded products. Once ripening has been initiated, the ethylene is reduced within the internal volume by displacement with a low oxygen controlled atmosphere, which is maintained within the container during storage, transportation, and delivery procedures.

Abstract: Powders of plant green juice having an improved stability and tastiness which are storable for a long period of time, characterized in that said powders comprise:(a) dry powders of the plant green juice obtained by squeezing fresh raw edible green plants and(b) a water-soluble alkaline naturally occurring mineral mixture dispersed uniformly in said dry powder,and the pH of a dispersion at the time of dispersing in water falls into a range of 6.2-9.5. The powders can be produced by adding a water-soluble alkaline naturally occurring mineral mixture to a plant green juice obtained by squeezing fresh raw edible green plants thereby to adjust the pH of said plant green juice to be a range of 6-9 and then spray-drying or lyophilizing the green juice.

Abstract: A stabilized crocetin-containing colorant which has as an effective component a crocetin included by cyclodextrin. This colorant is imparted with resistance against light and various chemicals to crocetin, which is a hydrolysate of crocin, the main component of the carotenoid gardenia yellow pigment. The colorant may be added to various food products for use of crocetin as a stable coloring matter.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an active oxygen scavenger which has been found to be contained in a water or organic solvent extract of rice. This active oxygen scavenger may be used as a medicament, beauty treatment, preservative or antibiotic.

Abstract: A puffed snack is prepared from chlorophyll-containing plant grains by pulverizing the grains under completely light shielding conditions, storing the resulting pulverized grains under complete light shielding conditions or light shielding conditions applied within 24 hours after pulverization and puffing the grains in a screw extruder having a die wherein the temperature of the die ranges from 90.degree. to 150.degree. C. for the resulting pulverized grains having a water content of 9-11%, the temperature of the die ranging from 100.degree. to 210.degree. for the resulting pulverized grains having a water content of from 11 to 15%, and the temperature of the die ranging from 160.degree. to 240.degree. C. for the resulting pulverized grains having a water content from 15 to 20%, so that the degree of puffing falls within a range of from 3.0 to 28.

Abstract: A method and package for packaging and preserving a sliced cored whole fruit (10) together with a complementary food (18). The whole fruit is prepared by coring to define an elongate central passage (12) and slicing the whole fruit into a plurality of radially symmetric segments (14). The segments are assembled in the shape of a whole fruit around a moisture impermeable inner container (16) containing the complementary food. The inner container has approximately the same outer dimensions as the inner dimensions of the central passage so that the inner container essentially fills and displaces the majority of the air from the central passage. The assembled fruit segments and filled inner container are then sealed within an outer container (20).

Abstract: Compositions which can prevent oxidation darkening of foods and beverages and methods for producing it are disclosed. The compounds inhibit the enzymatic browning of foods and beverages susceptible to browning, such as shrimp, apples, fruit juices and wines. Methods for producing the compounds and methods for inhibiting browning using the composition are described.

Abstract: A method of making a microwave reconstitutionable pizza including coating the outer peripheral edge of the pizza crust with a liquid crust coloring substance, which includes an aqueous solution of an edible dispersion agent and a natural occurring coloring agent which can be coffee, tea, chicory and mixtures thereof.

Abstract: Foodstuffs subject to oxidative or enyzmatic discoloration particularly fruits, vegetables and cereal grains are treated with a combination of hydrolysis mixtures of aldonic acids and their lactones, particularly gluconic acid and its lactones together with very small quantities of a sulfiting agent in aqueous solutions to assist in maintaining fresh appearance and inhibiting discoloration without detracting from the flavor or leaving residues of sulfites in quantities of public health significance.

Abstract: Fresh green beans in a plastic container that have an extended shelf life, the green beans being treated to slow down the normal deterioration of the beans by immersing the green beans in water at a temperature and for a time sufficient to cool the interior of the beans to that temperature, to sanitize the beans by removing spores and bacteria, and to replace some of the water lost by the beans after harvesting. After the immersion step, the moisture is removed from the surface of the green beans at a temperature of 40.degree. F. to 44.degree. F., and thereafter the beans are graded and packed into the plastic container, keeping the bean temperature below 48.degree. F.

Abstract: A process for packaging acidified vegetables without a covering brine includes sealing the brineless vegetables in an opaque package.Central to the invention is a quick equalization brine treatment which is used to reduce the respiration rate of fresh vegetables and reduce their pH to less than about 4.5 in less than about 6 hours.

Abstract: A process for preparing a preferred vegetable fiber product is described. A particular process for reducing off-flavor and off-odor problems in materials such as sugarbeet fiber is specifically described. Also, a preferred system for conducting the process, and preferred products are disclosed. In general, the products result from preferred steps of heating, heat-treating, and washing the vegetable fiber material. Food products incorporating the preferred fiber material, and methods for incorporating the preferred fiber material into food products, are described.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for producing a canned green vegetable product which utilizes a brine solution containing zinc and/or copper metal ions within the can with the vegetable. The cans are hermetically sealed with the vegetables and this brine solution therein and held at an elevated temperature prior to being subjected to either an extended sterilization event or multiple thermal treatments. The resulting canned green vegetable product has superior color and taste characteristics which can be maintained even under acidic conditions.

Abstract: A process for preparing a preferred vegetable fiber product is described. A particular process for reducing off-flavor and off-odor problems in materials such as sugarbeet fiber is specifically described. Also, a preferred system for conducting the process, and preferred products are disclosed. In general, the products result from preferred steps of heating, heat-treating, and washing the vegetable fiber material. Food products incorporating the preferred fiber material, and methods for incorporating the preferred fiber material into food products, are described.

Abstract: The invention relates to a brine for conserving cucumbers in bulk which is low in sodium chloride and optionally sodium-free. The brine according to the invention is an aqueous solution containing per liter of the solution: at least 0.02 kg sodium or calcium chloride and 0.02-0.12 kg acetic or lactic acid or a non-toxic salt thereof. The taste, crispness and color of a product processed from cucumbers stored in this brine in containers equipped with stirring means for an extended period are equal to that of fresh packed cucumbers even in tropical climates and the brine can be reused after addition of make-up ingredients.

Abstract: Resorcinol derivatives are disclosed as inhibitors of enzymatic browning in foods and beverages such as shrimp, apples, fruit juices and wines.

Abstract: The invention relates to a brine for conserving cucumber in bulk which is low in sodium chloride. The brine according to the invention is an aqueous solution containing per liter of the solution; at least 0.02 kg sodium chloride, 0,02-0.12 kg acetic or lactic acid or a non-toxic salt thereof, and at least 0.1 g calcium chloride. The taste, crispness and color of a product processed from cucumbers stored in this brine in containers equipped with stirring means for an extended period are equal to that of fresh packed cucumbers even in tropical climates and the brine can be reused after addition of make-up ingredients.

Abstract: A freshness preserving agent comprising carbon black having a specific surface area of at most 1,000 m.sup.2 /g as measured by BET method and a palladium compound supported thereon.

Abstract: A process and sulfite-free solution for use in preserving fresh-peeled vegetable and fruits, as well as fresh leafy vegetables. Fresh peeled potatoes, other peeled vegetables and fresh peeled fruits are preserved by a first dipping process or spraying employing a mixture of the commerical preservative SPORIX (tm) and citric acid. After trimming, the peeled vegetables are subjected to a second exposure to the same solution; and thereafter, the peeled vegetables are packaged and refrigerated for up to 12 days without suffering discoloration or putrificatiohn. Leafy vegetables, after a similar but shorter treatment, are storable for up to 9 days before consumption.

Abstract: Compositions and process are disclosed for treating freshly cut surfaces of edible plant parts by dipping the freshly cut parts in an aqueous solution containing edible ingredients which simultaneously protects the plant parts from degradation and coloration by oxidative, enzymatic, microbial and metal ion effects.

Abstract: A protease-free composition and method for producing it is disclosed. The protease-free composition inhibits the enzymatic and non-enzymatic browning of foods and beverages susceptible to browning, such as shrimp, mushrooms and wines. A method for inhibiting browning using the protease-free extract is described.

Abstract: A composition for reducing deterioration and extending the shelf life of fruits and vegetables, particularly fruits and vegetables used in salad bars and prepared salads sold in fast-food restaurants, comprising ascorbic acid and a thixotropic gum such as xanthan. Optionally, other ingredients such as an edible bulk filler and artificial or natural flavorings and/or aromas colorings may also be added. The composition applied to the salad ingredients to extend shelf life is advantageous in that a salad preserving agent is provided which is well retained by the salad ingredients so as to maintain freshness of the salad for long periods of time, and the extended shelf life provided is accomplished without sulfites and without adding any objectionable gummy mouthfeel to the product.

Abstract: A method of producing sulfite-free sugarbeet pulp involving contacting sugarbeet pieces with a sulfite-free aqueous solution containing a non-sulfite antioxidant composition containing sodium erythorbate, calcium chloride, araboascorbic acid, citric acid, trisodium citrate, and mixtures thereof.

Abstract: A method of making black pasta, expecially filled pasta such as tortellini and ravioli, in which powdered walnut hull and dried spinach are incorporated in the dough of the pasta and, after the pasta is formed, it is subjected to a pasteurization or sterilization with steam to impart a black coloration to the dough.

Abstract: The shelf life of root crops such as raw carrots can be substantially increased by subjecting the raw carrots, in one embodiment, to a process including (a) a mild heat treatment effective to reduce the microflora of the carrots but not to adversely affect the organoleptic qualities of the raw carrots, (b) the rapid cooling of the heat treated vegetable and (c) placing the vegetable in a sealed container to prevent microbial recontamination and maintain the vegetable in a viable condition. In another embodiment, the process includes subjecting the carrots to a vacuum, breaking the vacuum in the presence of water and placing the vegetable in a sealed container to prevent microbial recontamination and maintain the vegetable in a viable condition.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for preserving the color and texture of vegetable pasta, wherein the color of the vegetable pasta is derived from chlorophyll-containing vegetable matter added to alimentary paste at a pH above 7.0. The color preservation is enhanced by the presence or addition of a cation selected from the group consisting of magnesium, zinc, copper, calcium, and aluminum cations.