Abstract: In a method for controlling the flow of a pumpable food product into an apparatus comprising a conveyor belt to which the product is applied and converted from liquid to solid phase, the angle of spreading of the product applied to the conveyor belt is sensed and compared with a predetermined angle of spreading. The flow of product is so controlled that the difference between these angles is reduced. An apparatus for carrying out the method includes a horizontal belt conveyor having a conveyor belt for treating a web or mat of a pumpable product which is applied to the belt and spread over its entire width. A detector senses the angle of spreading of the product on the belt, and a control unit controls the flow of product applied such that the angle of spreading will have a predetermined value.