Abstract: A portable scale having a collapsed and an extended condition is provided by a pair of rigid beams, each generally elongated with opposing longitudinal ends. A weight sensor is provided proximal each opposing longitudinal end of each beam of the pair. Processing and outputting circuitry is supported by a first beam of the pair, the processing and outputting circuitry being electrically connected with each weight sensor in each of the first beam and second. One or more flexible connectors mechanically and electrically connect together the pair of rigid beams in side by side parallel orientation in a collapsed condition of the scale and in an extended condition of the scale. The flexible connectors are the only permanent physical and operable, mechanical and electrical connections between the pair of rigid beams in the extended condition of the scale.

Abstract: A method for preparing cooked meat slices includes slicing larger portions of fresh meat into pluralities of slices in one pass of each portion through a multi-blade, automatic slicer. Slicing releases cell components which bind the slices together to form a loaf of meat slices. The loaf of bound together slices are thereafter simultaneously agitated and heated in a cooking liquid at an elevated temperature for a time sufficient to cause the slices to delaminate in the loaf and separate from one another. The slices may be left in the cooking liquid at the elevated temperature for a time sufficient to cook completely therethrough or may be removed from the first liquid for subsequent cooking at higher temperature. Subsequent cooking may occur in a second liquid or in a dry cooker such an oven or grill to more thoroughly brown the meat or in a dry cooker after partial cooking in a second liquid. The fresh meat may be marinated before cooking.