Abstract: The present invention relates to methods, apparatuses, and systems for coating food items, such as dough-based products, with sugar-based toppings such as glazes, icings, chocolate coatings, and the like. The present invention, in one embodiment, provides a gentle means to transfer sugar-based coatings from a first container where the coatings are maintained in a fluid form suitable for coating, to a second container which comprises an applicator for coating the food product. Also described are systems for making freshly prepared food products at the point of sale comprising having the first steps of production take place at a manufacturing unit, and the final steps of production take place at the retail setting.

Abstract: A system for filtering shortening in a food production process comprises a fryer having a bottom and a side wall, a shortening removal tap positioned on the side wall, a pump, and a filter. Shortening is removed from the fryer through the shortening removal tap. The shortening is then passed through the filter and returned to the fryer.