Abstract: A method of forming clamshell shaped ground meat food article comprising the selective alignment of the meat fibers thereby producing a clamshell shape when cooked. The meat fibers are aligned through the extrusion of the ground meat through a closed channel to an aperture. The ground meat is briefly detained at the aperture while the aperture is closed resulting in a realignment of the fibers. The aperture is then opened allowing a predetermined amount of meat to pass through the diaphragm, upon which the diaphragm is closed to sever the predetermined amount. The severed portion is then cooked whereby the contraction of muscle fibers form the desired shape.

Abstract: The method of bonding and tenderizing separate portions of meat to enhance its value. The method is to applying a suitable bonding compound to separate portions of meat and bonding the portions together in a mold at refrigerated temperatures. Tenderization is controlled through the manipulation of the meat's internal temperature and the time during which it is exposed to the cooking process.