Abstract: An extrusion assembly for a micro puree machine is disclosed. The extrusion assembly includes a plunger drive inhibitor configured to restrict input torque applied to the extrusion assembly from transferring to the extrusion drive train and the extrusion plunger. The plunger drive inhibitor may be implemented with various mechanisms, including a slip clutch assembly (with or without a frictional cone brake), a torsion spring, and/or an automated slip clutch assembly configured to cut power to the extrusion drive train when slipping of the clutch plates is detected.

Abstract: Food processing devices having a door assembly for a mixing bowl are described. The mixing bowl includes an opening extending through at least a portion of one wall of the mixing bowl. The door assembly includes a feed chute positioned adjacent to the opening and a plunger. The plunger has a face and is configured to pivot between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the face of the plunger is flush with an interior surface of the mixing bowl. In the second position, the face of the plunger retracts into the feed chute and permits food ingredients from the mixing bowl to enter and flow through the feed chute.

Abstract: Food processing devices capable of performing multiple functions, including mixing and extruding pasta or other food products, are described. The food processing devices have a door assembly with a feed chute extending from an opening in the mixing bowl and leading to an extruder. The door assembly can be closed or opened, depending on the type of food processing to be performed. The food processing device mixes food ingredients within the mixing bowl while the door assembly is in a closed position. When the food ingredients are sufficiently mixed, the door assembly is moved to an open position to allow the mixed food ingredients to flow through the feed chute to the extruder. The disclosed food processing devices conveniently allow for both mixing and extruding of food products within a single device configured to efficiently and safely perform both tasks.

Abstract: An accessory for use with a container of a food processing system includes a body positionable within a base of the food processing system, said body having a first side and a second side, an opening formed in said body, a member configurable with said opening to selectively seal said opening, said member being arranged at said second side of said body, a vacuum sealing assembly for sealing a chamber of the container, and a release mechanism operable to selectively fluidly couple said chamber to an ambient atmosphere.

Abstract: An accessory for use with a container of a food processing system includes a body positionable within a base of the food processing system, said body having a first side and a second side, an opening formed in said body, a member configurable with said opening to selectively seal said opening, said member being arranged at said second side of said body, a vacuum sealing assembly for sealing a chamber of the container, and a release mechanism operable to selectively fluidly couple said chamber to an ambient atmosphere.