Treatment With Aqueous Material, E.g., Hydration, Etc. Patents (Class 426/506)
  • Patent number: 6376004
    Abstract: Provided are soup or sauce base concentrates which are ambient stable concentrates which yield, upon dilution with an aqueous liquid, a finished sauce, soup or gravy. Ambient stability is helped by a low water activity wherein the soup or sauce base concentrate includes at least on water activity lowering component such that the composition has a water activity of below 0.92 and where salt and starch are present in the soup or sauce base concentrate in a ratio of at least 1:0.5 to at most 1:7.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Assignee: Lipton, division of Conopco, Inc.
    Inventors: Gijsbert Kuil, Johannes Frederik Mulder
  • Patent number: 6365210
    Abstract: A method of preparing parbaked food products, such as pizza crust shells, apparatus and dough formulation used therein, and the product produced by the process. The process comprises the steps of providing a dough including flour, sugar and water, and preferably also a leavening agent such as instant yeast. The dough is rounded, first proofed, panned, pressed and second proofed. The prepared dough piece is then steam hydrated under conditions sufficient to cause moisture absorption and a resultant increase in moisture content throughout the dough. Then the hydrated dough piece is immediately sequentially parbaked until gelatinization of the starch is complete. At least one parbaking condition is adjusted selected from the group consisting of initial dough temperature, oven temperature, parbaking time, dough absorption and dough thickness and coordinated with the moisture content condition of the dough upon completion of the steam hydration for thereby delaying external browning of the dough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Assignee: M & M Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: John E. Schaible, II, Jeffrey R. Pakulski
  • Patent number: 6346288
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for severing roots of bean sprouts are disclosed. Bean sprouts are supplied onto a severing table having a number of severing slits each of which has such a width that a root of a bean sprout falls into each severing slit. Water is sprinkled over the severing table so that the roots of the bean sprouts on the severing table flow into the severing slits. The roots of the bean sprouts fallen in the severing slits are severed by a cutter blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2002
    Assignee: Salad Cosmo U.S.A. Corp.
    Inventor: Masahiro Nakada
  • Patent number: 6340489
    Abstract: It is an object of the present invention to provide a manufacturing process of carrot juice capable of obtaining, with high yield, carrot juice having a high-quality and stable characteristic free from occurrence of cohesion with less fishiness. To this end, the present invention comprises, first, peeling washed raw carrot, carrying out enzyme deactivation processing within one day, preferably, within 12 hours after peeling, and second, completely deactivating pectin esterase activity of carrot and carrying out enzyme deactivation processing so that a residual rate of pectinase activity is less than 60%. Such an enzyme deactivation processing may be done by blanching carrot till an internal temperature reaches 70 to 80° C. in water at 70 to 80° C., or blanching carrot till an internal temperature reaches 60 to 70° C. in 0.02M to 0.05M citric acid solution at 60 to 70° C., or processing carrot with supercritical carbonic acid gas by a microbubble SC—CO2 method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2002
    Assignee: Ito En, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yuko Suzuki, Akio Sugimoto, Takami Kakuda, Yasuhiko Ikegawa
  • Patent number: 6329008
    Abstract: In a process for treating a fried gyoza (a fried dumpling stuffed with minced pork), the binding part (i.e. the ear part) of its pastry may be retained with a favorable soft texture even when exposed to long-term preservation in a frozen or a chilled state or when heated by a microwave oven. According to the present invention, the binding part of the pastry is treated with water while its fried part is positioned facing upwardly so as not to be contacted by the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Assignee: Ajinomoto Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Naoki Wada
  • Patent number: 6319531
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for rehydrating a predetermined quantity of food granules with a predetermined quantity of water. For this purpose, the water is first of all sprayed as a fine shower onto a portion of the food granules forming a first layer of granules in a chamber (22). Food granules are then deposited in layers on the first layer of granules and sprayed with water in the form of a fine shower in the chamber (22) until the predetermined quantity of food granules and water has been obtained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Inventors: Erich Aichele, Manfred Vollmer, Christian Henge, Manfred Hoehne, Bernd Georg Jakob Voelker
  • Publication number: 20010031301
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for rehydrating a predetermined quantity of food granules with a predetermined quantity of water. For this purpose, the water is first of all sprayed as a fine shower onto a portion of the food granules forming a first layer of granules in a chamber (22). Food granules are then deposited in layers on the first layer of granules and sprayed with water in the form of a fine shower in the chamber (22) until the predetermined quantity of food granules and water has been obtained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Publication date: October 18, 2001
    Applicant: Erich Aichele and Manfred Vollmer
    Inventors: Erich Aichele, Manfred Vollmer, Christian Henge, Manfred Hoehne, Bernd Georg Jakob Voelker
  • Publication number: 20010026824
    Abstract: Simultaneous slicing and washing of relatively firm raw vegetable or fruit products is accomplished in a vat of water into which a slicer apparatus is positioned such that the slices are formed and discharge directly into the water An inclined takeout conveyor serves to receive the slices and remove them from the water. A circulating water current and fluid jets urge the slices to disperse onto the conveyor. A spray of water or air blast removes residual vegetable matter from the slice surfaces before leaving the takeout conveyor for further processing. Slicing and washing a vegetable in a flume volute where the slices are dispersed onto a takeout conveyor is disclosed where the water medium is collected in a tub and recycled back to flow in the flume to a level that covers the slicer's operative parts. The apparatus may be used for simultaneous slicing and cooling of raw vegetables where hot cooling oil is maintained in the system and recycled for reheating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2001
    Publication date: October 4, 2001
    Applicant: Heat and Control, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew A. Caridis, John Silvester, Daniel E. Brown, Leonardo P. Murgel, Carl Beitsayadeh
  • Patent number: 6287626
    Abstract: A whole grain product is described having a moisture content of from 40-80%. The product is prepared by cooking the grains in water for 5-90 minutes at a temperature of 80-150° C. Next, the grains are rinsed with cool water to remove excess starch and stop the cooking process. The grains are then either dried or flash frozen to form a free-flowing product which may be directly eaten, rehydrated in 1-7 minutes in the case of dried grains, or reheated in 1-7 minutes in the case of flash frozen grains. The invention also includes food products manufactured from the processed whole grains.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Inventor: Joseph R. Fox
  • Patent number: 6254905
    Abstract: A food additive slurry or powder composition which comprises 100 parts by weight of at least one selected from the group consisting of calcium carbonate, calcium phosphate and ferric pyrophosphate (A) and 1 to 60 parts by weight of gum arabic (B), anda calcium ion concentration M (mg/l) satisfying 10<M≦500. The composition is superior not only in re-dispersibility and dispersion stability in liquid for a long period of time, and flavor, but is capable of providing highly concentrated products, and therefor it is advantageous economically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Assignee: Maruo Calcium Company Limited
    Inventors: Hisakazu Hojo, Naoki Kubota, Shiro Minayoshi
  • Patent number: 6251453
    Abstract: A process for preparing fruits of plants in the family Solanaceae, genus capsicum is provided. The process includes the step of boiling the fruits for a period of less than 300 seconds in a solution of a sweetener such as sugar in an acideous liquid such as vinegar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Assignees: Piquante International Limited
    Inventor: Johannes Martinus Steenkamp
  • Patent number: 6242025
    Abstract: A method and apparatus provides infusing marinating liquids into foods in a relatively short period of time to enhance the flavor of said foods. The method uses air pressure above atmospheric to force marinating liquid into the foods. The foods are submerged in the marinade and the air pressure forces the marinade into the submerged foods. Air pressure and time of pressurization is electronically controlled and can be based upon the weight of the food to be marinated. The apparatus includes a sealed vessel for holding the food and marinate and electronic controls that set and manage a pump to control the pressure and duration of pressurization to insure adequate penetration of the marinating liquid into the food.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Inventors: James Lesky, Teresa Lesky, Joseph Lesky
  • Publication number: 20010000327
    Abstract: A method and rotary blancher for processing food product using a heat transfer medium and directed flows of a fluid that can comprise a liquid, a gas, a vapor or a combination thereof. The directed flows can be discharged from orifices or banks of orifices that are distributed around the food products in the blancher. The flows are discharged at a high flow rate, a high pressure, or a combination of both. Where a liquid is discharged, it preferably is discharged at a flow rate of at least 20 gpm and at least 30 psi. Where a gas is discharged, it is discharged at a flow rate of at least 60 CFM at a pressure of at least 2 psi or at a flow rate of at least 10 CFM at a pressure of at least 80 psi. If desired, discharged fluid can be recirculated to save energy. To help increase agitation and help break up clumps of food products in the blancher, direct-contact mechanical agitation devices, such as baffles, can be used.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2000
    Publication date: April 19, 2001
    Applicant: Lyco Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Zittel, Steven W. Hughes, Daniel D. Maupin
  • Patent number: 6210735
    Abstract: Quick boiling or instant cooking noodles such as udon, soba and hiyamugi or pastas such as spaghetti or macaroni can be produced by a process which includes the steps of heating dry noodles or pastas with either wet or dry heat for a short time to modify only the surface layer portion of the noodles or pastas, removing the surface moisture if the heating is done by wet heat, subsequently contacting the noodle or pasta strings with water to have it absorbed, and reheating the noodles or pastas if the final product is of an instant cooking type. The noodles or pastas thus produced can be prepared by merely boiling them for a short time or by simply pouring in hot water and letting stand for a short time or by just cooking them in a microwave oven; the thus prepared noodles or pastas have the same texture as is obtained by fully boiling dry or raw noodles or pastas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Assignee: Feed Up Inc.
    Inventor: Teruyasu Fukuyama
  • Patent number: 6207214
    Abstract: An apparatus includes an extruder having mixing screws, a speed reduces, a plurality of barrels, an extrusion die, feed hoppers, a water supply hose, and a CO2 gas supply member, and a conveyer unit having a conveyer belt, a flour distributor, a plurality of heaters and a cutter for manufacturing Korean traditional oil pastries in mass production by means of the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventor: Sang Kuen Kim
  • Patent number: 6203838
    Abstract: A method of forming consumer portions from a block of frozen foodstuff is described, in which similarly sized sections of the frozen block are removed by severing for shaping into the differently shaped consumer portions under pressure between tooling of a forming press. Each section is of a similar size and volume so that when the press is operated the severed section is formed into a consumer portion of known volume. Each consumer portion is ejected for further processing after the tooling separates. The surface of each severed section of frozen foodstuff is wetted with a liquid (typically water) just before the pressing operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Assignee: AEW Engineering Co. Limited
    Inventor: John Arthur Whitehouse
  • Patent number: 6203840
    Abstract: Full-moisture, shelf-stable pasta product having a pH of about 3.7 to 4.5, and comprising a cooked or pre-cooked pasta having a dry-matter content of from about 30 to 45 percent by weight, an acid, and an oil. A process for manufacturing a full-moisture, shelf-stable pasta product, which comprises preparing a mixture having a dry-matter content of 60 to 75 weight percent and comprising a cereal flour or semolina and added water, forming a portioned pasta product, blanching the pasta product, dipping the blanched pasta product into acidified water at ambient temperature, and packaging the pasta product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Philipp Paul Meyer, Eugene Scoville, Göran Jaelminger
  • Patent number: 6194016
    Abstract: The present invention provides for optimal extraction conditions for extracting yellow mustard gum from yellow mustard bran to provide for high yield. The four variables examined were extraction temperature, pH, water:solid ratio and extraction time. Of these variables, temperature and pH had a much greater influence on the yield and rheological properties of the extracted gum compared to water/solid ratio and extraction time. Optimum extraction conditions were temperatures between 50-70° C., pH 7-10, water/solid ratio of 40:1-60:1 and extraction time of 2-2.5 hr. The yield of gum obtained under the optimum extraction conditions was 30% of bran weight. The extracted gum exhibited maximum shear thinning flow behaviours. It can be incorporated into cosmetic products and skin lotions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Inventors: Wuwei (Steve) Cui, N. A. Michael Eskin, Nam Fong Han, Zhi Zhong Duan, Xiao Ying Zhang
  • Patent number: 6183800
    Abstract: According to the method for preparing frothed milk or café crème, milk concentrate or coffee concentrate is mixed with water, using a venturi chamber. The venturi chamber comprises a water inlet, a concentrate inlet and an outlet. Further, a whirl chamber, located downstream of the venturi chamber, is used, which is in fluid communication with the outlet. The water is supplied under pressure via the water inlet to the venturi chamber, so that a reduced pressure is created in the venturi chamber. The concentrate inlet is brought into fluid communication with a stock of milk or coffee concentrate, so that, as a result of the reduced pressure in the venturi chamber, via the concentrate inlet, milk or coffee concentrate is sucked into the venturi chamber. The milk or coffee concentrate and the water then flow together via the outlet to the whirl chamber, and the milk or coffee concentrate and the water are beaten in the whirl chamber to form frothed milk or café crème.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2001
    Assignee: Sara Lee/DE N.V.
    Inventors: Adrianus Petrus Matthijs van Straten, Jan Anne Muis, Willem Nanko Mels, E. H. Rusche, A. J. Oude Wahsink
  • Patent number: 6183798
    Abstract: A method for the steam treatment of beans in which beans are inserted into a chamber (1). Steam at high pressures (“pressure” hereinafter indicates a gauge pressure) of 5 to 7 Kg/cm2, and at high temperatures 158 to 169° C. is jetted into the chamber. Beans in chamber (1) are exposed to the saturated steam at high pressures of 5 to 7 Kg/cm2 and high temperatures of 158 to 169° C. for a period of 15 to 30 seconds so that boiling of beans achieved in a sterilized state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2001
    Inventor: Shigeru Ishii
  • Patent number: 6180149
    Abstract: A bottled water contained system for admixture of frozen juice and powdered drink concentrates is disclosed. This invention provides a plurality of plastic containers including bottled water from an identifiable commercial source of a volume which is less than the total volume of the container. The admixture of the concentrate in frozen, liquid, or powdered form provides a reconstituted fruit drink of a volume which fills the container to capacity. In one embodiment a bottled water container generally in the form of a pitcher is provided with a mouth opening which is dimensioned to receive a standard-sized can of frozen juice concentrate. In an alternative embodiment the bottled water container is provided with a cup-shaped insert which resides in the mouth opening of the container to give the appearance of a full container. The insert has a volume equal to the volume of a standard-sized can of frozen juice concentrate which is added to the container after the insert is removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Inventor: Jeffrey S. Gramm
  • Patent number: 6180145
    Abstract: A process for preparing potatoes improves the shelf life of cooked potatoes and improves the appearance, taste, and texture of the potatoes. The potatoes first are washed. They are next perforated and then coated with an edible oil. The potatoes are cooked by heating the core to between about 195 and 200° F. and holding for about 15 minutes. The cooked potatoes are soaked in a solution to rehydrate the potato cells. The rehydrated potato has an extended shelf life with improved appearance, taste, and texture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: T & M Potato, LLC
    Inventor: John Ricks
  • Patent number: 6162478
    Abstract: The invention relates to a process for preparation of hen's eggs during which the eggs are put into a cooking chamber of an egg-cooking container (2) closeable by a cover (8), which chamber contains a liquid heat-supplying medium, preferably water. The preparation temperature during a first preparation stage is below the boiling temperature of the water, and during a following second preparation stage is held below the temperature of the first preparation stage but above 55.degree. C. During the first preparation stage, the water starts at a temperature of approx. 55.degree. C. and is heated at a high heating rate to a temperature of at least 90.degree. C. during a first period with the result that the eggs rapidly reach a core temperature of approx. 58.degree. to 75.degree. C. At the start of the second preparation stage, the water temperature is reduced at a high cooling rate to a final temperature of between 80.degree. C. and 55.degree. C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Inventor: Otto Koch
  • Patent number: 6143343
    Abstract: A process and device for reducing the harmful affects of bacterial contamination in seafood products via freezing the seafood products and maintaining them in cold storage. The process and device features an ice glazing step in which the raw product is sealed in a thin layer of ice. This layer of ice serves to preserve the raw product's original taste during the cold storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Inventor: Donald W. Wilson
  • Patent number: 6113958
    Abstract: A method of preventing wound-induced browning in lettuce by applying a short thermal stress induced by immersing the lettuce in water at approximately 40.degree. C. to approximately 60.degree. C. for approximately 360 seconds or less. Alternatively, forced-air heating could be used if the air was at a relative humidity of near 100% to prevent water loss. After heat-shocking the lettuce, the lettuce can be vacuum cooled to effectively cool and dry the lettuce. The heat-shock effect is so persistent that lettuce will not show any browning even after being held for approximately 15 days in the air at 5.degree. C. This treatment could eliminate the need to store fresh-cut lettuce in low oxygen, and or high carbon dioxide modified atmospheres to prevent browning during marketing. It would also allow the use of vacuum cooling to cool the processed lettuce. It would also prevent browning of cored, whole heads of lettuce.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Mikal E. Saltveit, Julio G. Loaiza-Velarde
  • Patent number: 6106775
    Abstract: Evaporation devices and associated methods for introducing humidity into an atmosphere. The evaporation device includes a substantially rigid shell encasing an absorbent material and having a plurality of holes extending therethrough to permit air flow between the exterior and interior of the shell. The absorbent material can be a natural or synthetic sponge capable of absorbing and retaining water. After applying water to the evaporation device, it is placed in an environment to which humidity is to be introduced. Evaporation of water can be enhanced by placing a mixture of aspirin and sodium bicarbonate on the absorbent material. Examples of methods for using the evaporation device include placing the evaporation device in produce bins, produce refrigerators, cheese and meat refrigerators, and containers of dry foods, such as cookies and brown sugar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: Applied Humidity Technologies
    Inventor: Peter E. Fuller
  • Patent number: 6103285
    Abstract: A method for improving the softness of raisins in which the raisins are placed inside of a sealed, heated vessel with an excess of glycerin and allowed to stand for approximately sixteen hours. The method comprises the steps of increasing the moisture content of a quantity of raisins is increased to yield a quantity of hydrated raisins; applying a coat of glycerin to the hydrated raisins to yield a quantity of coated raisins; forming a six foot high column of the coated raisins inside of a heated vessel with an excess of glycerin; keeping the coated raisins inside the heated vessel for approximately sixteen hours; and periodically mixing the coated raisins with the excess glycerin during the sixteen hour period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Assignee: Mariani Packing Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Miguel A. Guzman, Erin Hegarty
  • Patent number: 6099887
    Abstract: Edible laminated dough, e.g. for making croissants or puff pastries, is prepared by combining a pre-dough with a lamination dispersion and subjecting the combination to rolling and folding to obtain a plurality of layers, wherein the lamination dispersion is a water-continuous dispersion, characterised in that the lamination dispersion has a pH of 5.0 or less and that the lamination dispersion comprises, calculated on the non-fat content of the lamination dispersion______________________________________ 40-80% water 17-55% aggregate forming polysaccharide gelling hydrocolloid, and 0.1-8% non-gelling polysaccaride thickening hydrocolloid that provides at 20.degree. C. and a shearrate of 50s.sup.-1 a viscosity of at least 50 mPas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: LBI Acquisition Corp.
    Inventors: Jacobus van Eendenburg, Petronella Clementia Maria Weisenborn
  • Patent number: 6086933
    Abstract: A process for dehydrating vegetable products that are free of preservatives and chemicals, high in nutrient content, and have an improved taste and appearance is disclosed. In accordance with the present invention, whole, raw vegetables are first precooked with microwave energy for about 20 to about 60 seconds. After precooking, the vegetables are cut, ground, shaped, pressed, riced or rolled into a desired form, including, for example, chunks, crunches, strips, slices, chips, patties, flakes or powders. The vegetables are then dehydrated in the temperature range of about 130.degree. F. to about 195.degree. F. to a moisture content of less than 8%. The dehydrated vegetable products can then be reconstituted using hot or cold liquid or eaten directly as a finger food snack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Inventor: Erik I. Rockstrom
  • Patent number: 6080440
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a process which includes the steps of forming a mixture by submerging a vegetative food product in an amount of water sufficient to cover the food product; degassing the mixture for a time and amount of pressure sufficient to remove gases from tissues of the vegetative food product and fill intercellular spaces of tissues with water; flushing the degassed mixture with an inert gas for a time sufficient to reestablish a pressure that is substantially atmospheric; draining water from the mixture to obtain the vegetative food product; and freezing the resultant vegetative food product for storage until use, wherein discoloration of the vegetative food product is decreased compared to vegetative food products that are not treated by this process. This process minimizes the availability of oxygen in tissue of the vegetative food product while protecting the color and texture of the product by avoiding mechanical or thermal stresses on the product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Assignee: Nestec, S.A.
    Inventor: Venkata-Ramana Sundara
  • Patent number: 6063426
    Abstract: A dough moistening apparatus. A reservoir is disposed above a conveyor. The reservoir is operably coupled to a pump that fills the reservoir, from a tank. The reservoir has a spillway such that when overfilled, the fluid cascades onto the conveyor, thereby moistening dough items conveyed thereby.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: International Baking, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel Mani
  • Patent number: 6060519
    Abstract: Hydrocolloidal compositions recovered from the liquid fraction obtained by subjecting oat or barley substrates to a heat-shearing treatment are rich in soluble fiber, principally .beta.-glucan, and are substantially free of insoluble fiber particles. Dispersions of these compositions are smooth in texture and are useful as texturizers and nutritional substitutes for dairy products in food compositions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of Agriculture
    Inventor: George E. Inglett
  • Patent number: 6033709
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a continuous process for the production of rice flour and dough. Rice flour and dough is made by hydrating rice flour or a blend of rice flour and other cereal components, tempering, and then cooking to partially gelatinize the starch in the flour.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Assignee: Cargill, Incorporated
    Inventors: Rita M. Delrue, Laurie W. Chamberlin
  • Patent number: 6027757
    Abstract: The present invention provides a process for obtaining a dehydrated plants, by blanching the chopped plant and subsequently drying the chopped plant until its moisture content is less than 3%. The product retains its natural color and has low microbial content.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Assignee: Amway Corporation
    Inventor: Gopi Menon
  • Patent number: 6007863
    Abstract: A process for treating and storing freshly cut pineapple greatly enhances flavor and increases shelf life of the cut pineapple, maintaining the enhanced flavor. The freshly cut pineapple is first surface-disinfected. Its Brix and acid, and thus Brix/acid ratio, are measured or estimated. Then selection is made from batches of previously stored pineapple juice, which may be from a different season or different part of the same season. The juice is selected to have a Brix/acid ratio which counterbalances that of the fresh fruit, so that the combined fruit/juice has a Brix/acid ratio of around 19, or preferably in the range of about 16 to 23. The previously stored juice is from prior pineapple crops, varying from batch to batch in Brix/acid ratio, filtered and pasteurized, then frozen or maintained near freezing. The freshly cut fruit, preferably chilled to just above freezing, is immersed in the selected juice, which may be a blend of several batches, and is stored and shipped preferably close to freezing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Assignee: Maui Pineapple Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Eduardo E. Chenchin, Marc M. Nishimoto, Debra D. Abram, Samson T. Hsia
  • Patent number: 5997930
    Abstract: The field of the invention relates to a method for processing food products to prepare the food products for packaging. The methods involve presteaming, steeping, steam cooking, and then drying the food products. The method reveals pressure cooking with a pressure that is maintained below 15 psi, and in a steam vessel. Chemical additives may be added to the food products during processing. The apparatus includes a conveyor, steeping tanks as needed, and a water recirculation system. A dryer which includes a rotating barrel adapted for agitation of the food products during cooking is also included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignees: Riviana Foods, Inc., USA/Higashi-Hiroshima
    Inventors: John Hugh Kendall, Ranvir Biki Mohindra, Duane Stephen Rutherford, Satoru Satake, Sigeharu Kanamoto, Katsuyuki Kumamoto
  • Patent number: 5985346
    Abstract: The present invention provides a dough transport device having an improved dough pump, an improved manifold for dividing dough, and a rotational cutter for cutting dough into pieces of uniform shape and size. The present invention also provides a method of using and cleaning a dough transport device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Assignee: Ajwad Ayash
    Inventor: Ajwad Ayash
  • Patent number: 5976600
    Abstract: A pure, smooth microcrystalline cellulose bulking agent for oil containing foods such as nut butters, chocolates, cream containing foods, mayonnaise, and salad dressings. The bulking agent having a loose bulk density greater than 0.40 and a oil absorptivity of less than 1.0.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Assignee: FMC Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas A. Ruszkay, Donald Elliott
  • Patent number: 5972413
    Abstract: A continuous method and apparatus for cooking cereal grains such as wheat is provided. The method comprises two stages, a first continuous pre-cooking stage wherein the grains are hydrated by heating in water at a temperature below 95.degree. C. for a period of time sufficient to raise the moisture content of the grains to from about 28% to about 36% while allowing a substantial amount of starch to remain ungelatinized and a second continuous stage wherein the grains are heated in water at a temperature above about 95.degree. C. for a period of time sufficient to substantially fully cook the grains.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: General Mills, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony D. Whitney, Raymond L. Hunter
  • Patent number: 5972407
    Abstract: Uncooked pasta is steamed to obtain a surface-gelatinised pasta which then is contacted with water to obtain a wet pasta, and the wet pasta is steamed to obtain a pasta product which is at least partially cooked. The pasta product may be refrigerated, or may be dried, or may be dried and mixed with water and sauce and then rotary retorted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventor: Jau Yann Hsu
  • Patent number: 5939115
    Abstract: An apparatus for bacteriologically decontaminating poultry carcasses and then chilling the carcasses to a preservation temperature includes a decontaminating tank and a chilling tank. The decontaminating tank holds a disinfectant solution, which is maintained at a temperature from about 45.degree.-75.degree. C. The poultry carcasses are immersed in the tank for a period of about 3-10 seconds, depending upon the temperature, higher temperatures requiring less time than lower temperatures. Sonic transducers are used to sonicate the poultry to dislodge bacteria, and spray curtains wash the bacteria off of the carcasses. The heated temperature increases the effect of the disinfectant solution. After removal of the carcasses from the decontaminating tank, they are transferred to a chilling tank, which contains a liquid maintained at a temperature from about 0.degree.-3.degree. C. The carcasses remain in the chilling tank for at least 45 minutes, to assure that the carcasses are thoroughly cooled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Assignees: Zheko V. Kounev, Venalin Z. Kounev, Louis D. Caracciolo
    Inventors: Zheko V. Kounev, Venelin Z. Kounev
  • Patent number: 5939123
    Abstract: Dry whole wheat grains are prepared for eating by preheating water to a temperature above a predetermined cooking temperature for said grains, adding a given weight of grains at ambient temperature to the preheated water to lower the temperature thereof to the cooking temperature, maintaining the water at the cooking temperature and cooking the grains at the cooking temperature for a period of time which provides for the weight of the grains to increase by from about 37.6% to about 64.1%, and then immediately cooling the cooked grains to preclude further cooking thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Inventor: Theodore W. Welles
  • Patent number: 5932270
    Abstract: A cold process bake fruit paste including a fruit concentrate, water, a corn syrup sweetener, and a stabilizer system including a blend of first instant granular modified corn starch hydratable into a highly viscose free standing mass when exposed to free water and a second instant granular natural corn starch hydratable by free water to form a resilient, colloidal gel structure with the first and second starches hydrated after being fully dispersed in fruit paste.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1999
    Assignee: The J. M. Smucker Company
    Inventors: Jonathan D. Rock, John P. Hansen
  • Patent number: 5914146
    Abstract: A salsa formulation comprising a tomato component, a whole pepper component, a whole spice component, and a powdered spice component. The whole pepper component comprises raw banana peppers, serrano peppers, and jalapeno peppers which are boiled until soft and light green in color to release spicy oils contained in the pepper seeds that are not normally released when said peppers are ingested raw. The boiled peppers are de-stemmed are mixed with the tomato component, whole spice component, and powdered spice component, and then blended at high speed until a paste consistency is reached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1999
    Inventor: Bonnie Kay Vallejo
  • Patent number: 5906847
    Abstract: A milk substitute composition is prepared with whey solids or whey solids and added lactose by dissolving a whey solids powder in an aqueous medium containing calcium sequestering agent and carrageenate components at a temperature of approximately from 30.degree. C. to 65.degree. C. and then, in a second step, at the same temperature, a skimmed milk solids powder is dissolved in the whey-containing medium, and before and/or after dissolving the skimmed milk solids powder, the whey solids are allowed to soak in the aqueous liquid phase of the composition so prepared for from 10 minutes to 4 hours for hydrating the whey solids. When lactose is used, the amount of whey solids powder employed may be reduced by about half.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1999
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Hans Engel, Martinas Kuslys, Heinz Wyss
  • Patent number: 5902629
    Abstract: Grain or legume material is precooked by a low moisture process and preconditioned by hydrating to a total moisture content of from about 10% to about 40% by weight, passed through a cooking extruder and, during such passage, hydrated to a total moisture content of from about 10% to about 40% by weight, extruded and dried. The products of the invention are crisp curls, puffs and chips. The extruded cooked material may also be ground and agglomerated to prepare powders which will not cake or lump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Inventors: Randall A. Baker, Rebecca R. Krueger
  • Patent number: 5888574
    Abstract: The color of vegetables and fruits which contain carotenoids is stabilized by adding to water particles of tea, by-products of tea extraction, a spice, rice bran, tomato skins, tomato seeds and/or paprika seeds so that the particulate material is contained in the water in an amount of at least 0.5 g per liter water, and vegetables or fruits which contain carotenoids are blanched in the particulate-containing water having a temperature between 70.degree. C. and 100.degree. C. for a time for stabilizing their color, and after which, blanch water is separated from the treated vegetables and/or fruits. Further, the particulate-containing water and the fruits or vegetables may be placed in and blanched in a pouch, particularly a water-permeable pouch so that blanch water may be separated from the pouch and so that particulate material is retained in the pouch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1999
    Assignee: Nestec SA.,
    Inventor: Ulrich Wissgott
  • Patent number: 5876781
    Abstract: A water-based, low fat, peanut butter-like product is provided having a pleasing texture and mouth-feel which is shelf stable at room temperatures as well as a method for producing the same. The peanut butter-like product includes defatted peanut flour, water, a humectant, a soluble salt, a gum, at least one syrup which can bean ingredient corn, malt, rice and potato syrup, at least one ingredient which is a modified food starch, a maltodextrin and a tapioca dextrin, and conventional peanut butter. The peanut butter-like product has a water activity in the range of 0.75 to 0.85 and has 70 to 95% less fat than conventional peanut butter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1999
    Assignee: Peanut Wonder Corp.
    Inventors: Lloyd Lasdon, Stuart Lasdon
  • Patent number: 5866186
    Abstract: A wand for withdrawing fluid from a bag-in-a-box container and for rinsing the bag. A method of withdrawing fluid from a bag-in-a-box container and thereafter rinsing the bag is also disclosed, as is several practical examples of use of the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Inventor: Alberto Bazan
  • Patent number: RE36516
    Abstract: A filter for fluids includes a pair of layers or multiple layers or pairs of material joined together to form a laminate having a fluid contacting surface. A plurality of spaced pockets is formed between the layers of material in the contacting surface. The layers of material are fluid permeable at the pockets whereby fluid may flow through the laminate at the pockets. The fluid contacting surface is fluid impermeable except for the pockets to require the fluid passing through the laminate to be confined to flowing through the pockets. Filter members are in the pockets for removing any contaminants from the fluid. Alternatively, additive materials such as powdered cream or sugar in the pockets dissolve in the fluid passing through the pockets to enhance the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Assignee: Robert Lehrer Associates, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Lehrer