Abstract: The present disclosure provides center-filled confectionery products and apparatuses and methods for producing the center-filled confectionery products. The apparatuses include a forming device with cooperatively engaging first and second forming members. The center-filled confectionery products may be released from the forming device with or without the use of an ejection device. The ejection device may comprise plunger members that contact the center-filled confectionery or may comprise a non-contact ejection device. The apparatuses further include an extruder having a housing. The housing has an inlet for receiving a material, at least one extrusion screw within the interior of the housing, and at least device in cooperative communication with the inlet and the extrusion screw. The extruder provides a process that allows for improved blending of chewing gum ingredients and improved processability of the chewing gum product.

Abstract: The present invention provides a simple, 1-step process for preparing a N-(aryl or heteroaryl)-hydroxyurea comprising reacting the corresponding alcohol, ester or ether with hydroxyurea and acid. This reaction is particularly useful for preparing a benzo[b]thienyl substituted N-hydroxyurea of formula: ##STR1## from compound 1: ##STR2## by reacting compound 1 with hydroxyurea and acid. R.sup.1 is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, 1-6 carbon alkyl, 1-6 carbon alkoxy, and halogen; R.sup.2 is an 1-4 carbon alkyl; and R.sup.3 is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, acyl, methyl, ethyl and mixtures thereof. Additional steps to isolate the pure bulk product follow.