Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing flowable material from a flowable material source comprises a dispensing means for receiving and dispensing the material under pressure and conduit means in communication with the dispensing means for receiving the dispensed material. A self-closing elastomeric flap valve surrounds and is sealed against the conduit means. The flap valve has a closure portion which is pre-stressed to remain closed when no pressure is applied to the dispensed material and which opens to prevent the free flow of material therethrough upon the application of pressure sufficient to force the dispensed material through the closure portion. A clamping means may be employed for securing the flap valve to the conduit means.

Abstract: An apparatus for releasably retaining a confection stick in a machine during at least a portion of a process for forming a confection on a stick comprises an extractor member having a slot extending therethrough for receiving a confection stick. A one piece plastic retainer member is positioned proximate the slot for engaging and retaining a confection stick which is received within the slot.