Abstract: An item holding device, having a multi-segmented arm wherein each segment is connected to each adjacent segment by a swivel joint having a substantial fictional resistance to motion, wherein a first quick release clamp is provided on one end of the arm, wherein a second such clamp or the base of an item is provided on the other end of the arm, and wherein the first clamp is adapted for gripping an action-site member whereby an item can be held in a desired position at the action-site.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for producing a non-caloric citrus albedo bulking agent comprising obtaining albedo from citrus peels to produce albedo particles substantially free of flavedo, water-washing to reduce soluble carbohydrates, constituents, removing alcohol and water, and bitter constituents, removing alcohol and water, and finally milling to the consistency of flour. The citrus albedo bulking agent obtained from this process is especially useful as a partial replacement for high-caloric ingredients such as flour, fat and/or sugar in a food product with at least a one-third reduction in caloric density, more preferably from 50% to 75% or higher. The citrus albedo bulking agent has a water binding capacity of from 10 to 20 grams of water per one gram of the albedo bulking agent.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for producing a non-caloric sugar beet pulp bulking agent comprising placing sugar beet pulp slices, particles or spent cossettes into a stabilizing solution to prevent darkening, water-washing to remove a majority of soluble carbohydrates, contacting with an alcoholic solution to remove color and bitter constituents, removing water and alcohol and milling to a flour consistency. The sugar beet pulp bulking agent is especially useful as a partial replacement for high-caloric ingredients such as flour, fat and/or sugar in a food product with at least a one-third reduction in caloric density, more preferably from 50% to 75% or higher. The sugar beet pulp bulking agent has a high water binding capacity of from 15 to 25 grams of water per 1 gram of bulking agent.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for producing a pineapple core bulking agent comprising coarsely grinding or slicing pineapple core to obtain particles or slices of 1/4 inch or less, water-washing to remove soluble carbohydrates, contacting with alcohol to remove colors and flavor constituents, removing water and alcohol, and finally milling to the consistency of flour. The pineapple core bulking agent obtained from this process is especially useful as a partial replacement for high-caloric ingredients such as flour, fat and/or sugar to prepare a food product with at least a one-third reduction in calories, more preferably from 50% to 75% or higher. The pineapple core bulking agent has a high water binding capacity of from 10 to 30 grams of water per 1 gram of pineapple core bulking agent.