Abstract: Method and apparatus for maximizing the loading of streams of products on a collapsible conveyor belt which pass through a processor in helical paths. In one embodiment, a separate infeed belt is curved in the same direction and radius as the collapsible belt for loading the products at equally spaced intervals thereon. In another embodiment, the products in each path are deposited at intervals determined as a function of belt speed, load density and the ratio of the radius of each path to the radius at the periphery of the collapsible belt in the processor.

Abstract: A process for preparing "quick-cooking" food products which comprises introducing particulate food material selected from the group consisting of rice, cereal, grain, pasta, or mixtures thereof into a fluidized bed; fluidizing said particulate food material utilizing steam as the fluidizing medium until the moisture content of said particulate food material is increased to a first predetermined level; drying said particulate food materials until a second predetermined moisture level is achieved, said second predetermined moisture level being effective to render said food material stable and nonfermenting during subsequent storage.

Abstract: A fluidized bed apparatus for treating particulate material comprising a foraminous support such as a perforate plate, a screen, or the like, gas supply means to supply a fluidizing gas beneath said support and a plurality of movable flights above said support adapted to sweep fluidized material along the support. The apparatus is useful for obtaining controlled residence time of materials being treated within an enclosed treating chamber.