Abstract: A salt-free treatment liquid for processing mushrooms comprising waxy rice starch, xanthan gum, pure dry egg white protein and water. After impregnation of the mushrooms, the mushrooms are blanched in water having a temperature of approximately 90.degree. C. to 100.degree. C. In the blancher the treatment liquid jells within the mushrooms.

Abstract: A salt-free treatment liquid for processing mushrooms comprising waxy rice starch, xanthan gum, pure egg white protein and water. After impregnation of the mushrooms, the mushrooms are blanched in water having a temperature of approximately 90.degree. C. to 100.degree. C. In the blancher the treatment liquid jells within the mushrooms, thereby providing a product which has an improved taste, texture and increased yield.

Abstract: Food products, such as vegetables, fruits, etc. are efficiently sterilized and/or cooked and canned under high vacuum by filling them into containers, e.g. conventional tin cans, in the presence of only a small amount of water; then securing lids non-sealingly to the open ends of the cans; then passing the cans over a high temperature heat source for direct flame or radiation heating, with their axes inclined, until the liquid collected in a bottom region of each can has come to a boil and the steam formed has driven the free air from the can; then sealing lids tight to the can bodies; then heating the cans to the desired temperature of sterilization and/or cooking and maintaining this temperature for a predetermined period of time; and finally cooling the cans, e.g. by a water spray, whereupon a vacuum of about 700 mm. (27 to 29 inches) of mercury is formed in each can by condensation of the steam therein.