Abstract: The reduced tartness preservation system disclosed herein at least two edible acids as complete replacement for conventional acid stabilizing systems (such as 100% acetic or latic acid) at standard or high total levels of acid. The edible acids are buffered to an increased pH using one or more edible salts to reduce tartness. Such amounts of sugar may be used to enhance the tartness reduction effect.

Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for continuously preparing a mixture of two or more constituents with the apparatus including a first container having an input for the reception of a first one of the constituents, an output, and advancing means for advancing the first constituent through the output. The apparatus further includes a second container having an input for the reception of a second one of the constituents, an output, and advancing means for advancing the second one of the constituents through the output of the second container. The apparatus includes a third container having an input opening for receiving the first and second constituents from the respective outputs of the first and second containers, and the third container further includes an output and mixing means for blending the first and second ones of the constituents into a blended air-free mixture and for advancing the blended mixture through the output of the third container.