Abstract: Thermal processing apparatus and a method for the defrosting of meat are disclosed. A vessel includes an opening, and a rotation assembly is adapted to rotate the vessel such that the opening is disposed on the axis of rotation. The vessel preferably comprises electrically conductive walls. An RF source is adapted to direct electromagnetic energy into the vessel through the opening. Preferably, the electromagnetic energy is in the microwave spectrum. The apparatus includes a waveguide which couples electromagnetic energy from the RF source to the opening in the vessel. A rotary coupling is used to couple electromagnetic energy from the RF source to the opening in the vessel. The process includes tumbling and radiating the product with microwave energy to bring the product from below the latent heat stage to fully defrosted.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for processing food products including a rotatable container mounted on a frame structure. There are spiral fins disposed in the interior of the container for imparting movement to the food products at least in part along an axis of rotation of the container when the container is rotated about the axis of rotation. A temperature-controlling fluid is introduced into contact with at least the spiral fins to effect heat transfer between the fin surface area and the food products without direct contact between the food products and the temperature-controlling fluid, thereby controlling the temperature of the food processing operation.