Abstract: In a method for controlling the mixing of dough ingredients in a mixer, dough ingredients are mixed. The amount of power supplied to the mixer is measured in specified time intervals. Data relating to the amount of power supplied are stored. Based on the stored data, a decline in the amount of power supplied to the mixer is identified and the mixer mixes the dough ingredients for a predetermined period of time after the decline is identified. A mixer of the present invention includes a mixing device, a motor coupled to the mixing device, a power source coupled to the motor, and a mixing-time controller.

Abstract: A continuous mixer (32) is disclosed which can be used for mixing of incoming product streams (22, 24) of different characteristics respectively to yield a final product stream (26) of predetermined, consistent characteristics. The mixer (32) includes an elongated housing (42) having a pair of product input ports (50,52) and an output (64), with a pair of elongated, axially rotatable, mixing screws (44,46) located within the housing (42). The screws (44, 46) include a series of outwardly projecting mixing elements (114) preferably of pyramidal design and arrayed in a helical pattern along the length of the screws (44,46). The mixer (32) may be used in a processing system (20,200) having individual product lines (28, 30, 204, 206) coupled to the mixer (32), and is especially useful for processing of incoming meat streams (22,24) of different fat/lean ratios, to give a final comminuted output stream (26) of an intermediate and essentially constant fat/lean ratio.

Abstract: A formulated, microbound diet product for the culture of larval fish and crustaceans either in a dry or moist form is disclosed. The food product contains protein sources such as fish protein hydrosylate, casein, egg yolk, binding agents such as soy lecithin, wheat gluten, and alginate. Other ingredients such as vitamins and minerals, lipid sources, carbohydrate sources, pigment sources, and attractant compounds are included in the diet for nutritional completeness. A method for preparation of the food product is also disclosed.

Abstract: A process of making a containerized frozen whipped topping by the following steps is improved: (a) forming a mixture comprising water, water-soluble carbohydrate, fat, protein, emulsifying agent, and thickener; (b) pasteurizing the mixture; (c) homogenizing the mixture to form an oil-in-water emulsion; (d) cooling the emulsion to a temperature in the range of about 27 to 45° F.; (e) holding the emulsion at a temperature in the range of about 27 to 45° F. for a long enough time to allow at least some of the fat to crystallize; (f) aerating and whipping the emulsion, under superatmospheric pressure, into a topping; (g) dispensing the topping into containers; and (h) freezing the topping while in the containers. The improvement, which allows lower pressures to be used in step f, involves using two turbulent mixing zones, in which a higher average shear rate is used in the second zone than in the first zone.

Abstract: An aerated frozen product comprising less than 8% fat by weight and characterized in that the aerated frozen product comprises fat platelets, and after it has been melted and cooled, comprises fat platelets and spherical fat globules at a platelet to sphere ratio of greater than 0.05.

Abstract: A fully automatic electronic milkshake mixer (10, FIG. 1) in which an operator sets scoop dial control (34, FIG. 1), based upon the number of scoops of ice-cream or related products placed in mixer cup. The mixer cup (28, FIG. 2) rotates automatically by motorized lower drive wheels (48, FIG. 1), and a top cup rim container guide/wheel assembly (54, FIG. 1) engages mixer cup upper lip (56, FIG. 2). Different sized mixer cups rotate perfectly, for faster, more complete mixing. The mixer automatically shifts from low to high speed (anti-splash feature), and turns off automatically when milkshake is done. A “ready” light (42, FIG. 1) illuminates, and a chime (68, FIG. 3) sounds—volume control and on/off being adjustable. “Manual” momentary pushbutton (32, FIG. 1) allows manual control of mixing speed and time, if desired, while cup rotates. For next milkshake, electronic mixer returns to fully automatic mode.

Abstract: Dietary fibers have their properties modified by applying a shock wave to a dispersion of the fibers in a fluid carrier. Pressure from a piston, in either a single or a series of compressive strokes or pulses exerted on the dispersion applies the shock wave. Increasing the effect of cavitation caused by the shock wave can enhance the modified properties of the fibers. The resulting pressure treated dietary fiber exhibits reduced calories, higher insoluble fiber content, reduced moisture absorption properties, and greater uniformity from batch to batch.

Abstract: A process for preparing nut spreads having a sugar level of from about 15 to about 50% and especially flavored nut spreads having such relatively high levels of sugar. A substantially homogeneous blend is prepared from a fluid suspension consisting essentially of an intimate mixture of sugar, liquid oil and lecithin as a surfactant to improve the fluidity of the suspension, a nut solids-containing mixture and a flavorant that is preferably added to the fluid suspension. The resulting flavored nut spreads are more fluid and softer than products made without using the fluid suspension.

Abstract: A recombined cream formulation for use in the commercial manufacture of frozen cream-based sweet confections, contains from 45% to 55% by weight of butter which has from 78% to 85% by weight thereof of milk fat content; and from 45% to 55% by weight of a milk constituent which has from 0.0% to 0.5% by weight thereof of milk fat content, from 4.0% to 8.0% by weight thereof of MSNF content, and from 0.02% to 0.2% by weight of phospholipid content, which is primarily lecithin. Typically, the milk constituent is real buttermilk derived from a butter churn, but it may also be made from dried buttermilk powder; skim milk to which lecithin has been added; or rehydrated skim milk or rehydrated condensed skim milk, to which lecithin has been added.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a two-compartment container for receiving a flavour for the mixture thereof with a main beverage liquid in a beverage container immediately after opening the beverage container, one compartment of which comprises a small orifice for merely slow equilibration of pressure between the inside thereof and the outside of the two-compartment container, characterized in that the two compartments are separated by an interior wall which does not allow exchange of gas or liquid between the two compartments. It is intended that one of the compartments is completely filled with the flavour, e.g. a liquid or a granulate, while the other one mainly or merely contains gas.

Abstract: Frozen aerated products having a mean ice crystal diameter of between about 20 and 60 microns and a mean equivalent diameter of about 32 to 36 microns and a homogeneous distribution of fats and proteins. These products are manufactured with a device having two endless screws, identical and parallel, meshing with each other and turning in the same direction, located in a casing fitted at one of its ends with a nozzle and at the other end with an inlet for feeding with composition to be frozen and, in an intermediate area, with an inlet for feeding air. The casing is provided with a jacket in which refrigerating fluids circulate.

Abstract: A fully automatic electronic milkshake mixer (10, FIG. 1) in which an operator sets scoop dial control (34, FIG. 1), based upon the number of scoops of ice-cream or related products placed in mixer cup. The mixer cup (28, FIG. 2) rotates automatically by motorized lower drive wheels (48, FIG. 1), and a top cup rim container guide/wheel assembly (54, FIG. 1) engages mixer cup upper lip (56, FIG. 2). Different sized mixer cups rotate perfectly, for faster, more complete mixing. The mixer automatically shifts from low to high speed (anti-splash feature), and turns off automatically when milkshake is done. A “ready” light (42, FIG. 1) illuminates, and a chime (68, FIG. 3) sounds—volume control and on/off being adjustable. “Manual” momentary pushbutton (32, FIG. 1) allows manual control of mixing speed and time, if desired, while cup rotates. For next milkshake, electronic mixer returns to fully automatic mode.

Abstract: A process for making, or preparing, a reduced-calorie fruit and/or vegetable spread product including whole, natural fruit(s) and/or vegetable(s), or combinations thereof, having improved flavor, texture (e.g., mouth feel), color, and nutritional value as compared to fruit and/or vegetable spread products made with conventional processes. More particularly, the process of the present invention includes a pasteurization step, using a swept-surface heat exchanger, for making fruit and/or vegetable spread products having reduced caloric and sugar content and having increased soluble dietary fiber content. The minimal processing of the present process enables the produced fruit and/or vegetable spread products to retain flavor, texture, color, vitamins and other nutrients which are, typically, lost in traditionally-processed fruit and/or vegetable spread products.

Abstract: A festooned, edible laminated structures that have at least one first fluid material of a sticky or flowable mass is interleaved between thin layers of a second fluid material, wherein the first fluid material forms a pattern visible through the second fluid material, which has a visually translucent thickness. Methods of molding such products are also included.

Abstract: A hydrocolloid confectionery product that includes, as a gelling agent, comprising iota-carrageenan or a mixture of carrageenans containing more than 50% iota-carrageenan in an amount sufficient to provide characteristics and properties of the product that are essentially the same as in hydrocolloid confectionery products that include gelatin as a gelling agent. Also, a process for making the hydrocolloid confectionery.

Abstract: A method of processing a soybean material including feeding the soybean material into a reactor. The soybean material is stirred with a paddle in the reactor so that the soybean material forms a thin film on an inner surface of the reactor. Steam is injected into the reactor. The soybean material is passed through a drying cyclone. The dried soybean material is fully functional and has substantially no off-flavor.

Abstract: A continuous mixer (32) is disclosed which can be used for mixing of incoming product streams (22,24) of different characteristics respectively to yield a final product stream (26) of predetermined, consistent characteristics. The mixer (32) includes an elongated housing (42) having a pair of product input ports (50,52) and an output (64), with a pair of elongated, axially rotatable, mixing screws (44,46) located within the housing (42). The screws (44,46) include a series of L) outwardly projecting mixing elements (114) preferably of pyramidal design and arrayed in a helical pattern along the length of the screws (44,46). The mixer (32) may be used in a processing system (20,200) having individual product lines (28, 30, 204, 206) coupled to the mixer (32), and is especially useful for processing of incoming meat streams (22,24) of different fat/lean ratios, to give a final comminuted output stream (26) of an intermediate and essentially constant fat/lean ratio.

Abstract: A gelatin-free gummy confection comprising the combination of gellan gum and nu-carrageenan, nu-/iota-carrageenan or both. The gellan gum and nu-carrageenan, nu-/iota-carrageenan or both, provides a firm, resilient, gelatin-like texture in a gelatin-free gummy confection.

Abstract: Device for cooking food directly in a dish includes a generator for producing hot gaseous fluid, an applicator having a body for covering the dish, an inlet connected to generator for receiving hot gaseous fluid, a seal plate for sealing to the rim of dish to create a closed cooking chamber and a distributor for distributing hot gaseous fluid to food, and an arrangement for allowing the applicator to move upwards and downwards from and to the rim of dish during cooking process to modulate the cooking pressure for the food. Method of use comprises forming a closed cooking chamber between the applicator and dish, increasing the pressure therein to a predetermined pressure, maintaining the predetermined pressure for a period of time and superimposing numerous pressure pulses upon the predetermined pressure for more effective cooking.

Abstract: A manipulating apparatus (10) receives a plurality of previously frozen pieces of foodstuffs or workpieces (23) and physically manipulates or stresses the workpieces while they remain at least partially in a frozen state. The physical manipulation causes relative movement between various points within the volume of the workpieces (23) and kills microbes within the foodstuff. The treatment process may include physically manipulating the foodstuff in multiple cycles to enhance microbe kill.

Abstract: A food additive composition in a ground particulate composition containing multiple vitamins, calcium citrate, sugar, minerals, herbs, at least 70% to 80% by volume of different types of grains, 10%-20% by volume of beans, berries, and cloves. Two different compositions containing dried (1) vegetables and (2) fruits are formulated, and the nutritious and flavorful additive compositions can be added to food being cooked or while eating out.

Abstract: The present invention provides processes for making a stable cheese product supplemented with functionally enhanced whey protein. In a preferred embodiment of these methods, the cheese product is cream cheese. The added whey protein is functionally enhanced by exposing cheese curds or dairy liquids containing the whey protein to controlled heat treatment and/or treatment at high shear rates. The invention further provides a stable cheese product that is characteristic of a particular variety of cheese and that is supplemented with functionally enhanced whey protein. In a preferred embodiment, the supplemented cheese product is cream cheese.

Abstract: A process for making a low fat nut spread having high protein and high fiber. The process comprises the steps of: (a) preparing a protein containing oil suspension; (b) preparing a sugar containing oil suspension; and (c) combining the protein containing oil suspension and the sugar containing oil suspension to form the nut spread. The “protein containing oil suspension” comprises high amounts of protein and fiber. The “sugar containing oil suspension” comprises high amounts of sugar. The resultant nut spread has a protein to fat ratio of greater than about 0.68:1 and a fiber to fat ratio of greater than about 0.18:1. The nut spread has good flavor and texture.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a malted beverage powder and a process for preparing it. In the process of the present invention, liquid beverage ingredients and a first portion of dry malted beverage ingredients are wet mixed to provide a wet mixture having a moisture content of about 20% or less. The wet mixture is vacuum dried to provide a dry cake which is comminuted to a base powder. The base powder is then dry mixed with a further portion of dry malted beverage ingredients. The malted beverage powder so obtained has a substantially homogeneous color and characteristics such as flavor and texture similar to those of conventionally-prepared malted beverage powder.

Abstract: A process for mixing or dispersing liquids is provided that includes introducing liquids to be mixed or dispersed into a mixing device having a cylindrical support. The cylindrical support includes an inlet nozzle having a bore which is in fluid communication through a turbulence chamber with a bore of an outlet nozzle, wherein the bores of the nozzles are axially spaced apart relative to one another. The liquids are then allowed to enter the turbulence chamber through the bore of the inlet nozzle where the liquids are mixed or dispersed. The mixed or dispersed liquid is then recovered from the outlet nozzle. Various devices for mixing or dispersing liquids are also provided.

Abstract: Molded ice confectionery articles are prepared by delivering a hard ice confectionery composition to a metering device chamber under a pressure greater than atmospheric pressure, keeping the composition in the device chamber under a pressure greater than atmospheric pressure and metering the composition from the composition from the device chamber under a pressure greater than atmospheric pressure into a mold member positioned in an environment for freezing the composition metered into the mold member for obtaining a molded frozen article. So operating allows the composition delivered to the device chamber to have a percentage of frozen water to total water of at least 50%.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a chewy confectionery product, preferably a chewy sweet product, and to methods for making such products. The chewy confectionery product contains oxidized starch, optionally in combination with a gum such as gum arabic, as a replacement for at least a part and preferably all of the gelatin in the product. The chewy confectionery product has the property of providing a long-lasting cohesive chew.

Abstract: A metering unit for dough and related foodstuffs having a dough feeder unit, support structure, dough hopper, effluent housing, drive motor and centerless helix, with the effluent housing including an inlet, center and outlet section. The centerless helix is disposed within the effluent housing, and is rotatably coupled to the drive motor. Dough is fed into an aperture in the input section of the effluent housing, and upon rotation of the centerless helix, is discharged from the outlet section of the effluent housing. The internal flowpath of the effluent housing can include a separate discharge liner to prevent the centerless helix from contacting the flowpath wall. Additional control mechanisms can be included to limit motor power output and protect the system in event of an overpressure condition. The system is portable, and can be coupled to a conventional conveyor system to create an integrated approach to dough metering and transport.

Abstract: A cartridge for a compressible bottle containing a liquid. The cartridge comprises a housing attachable to the bottle and a collapsible bag. The housing and the bag together form an interior which contains a concentrate such as a drink mix. A transfer mechanism is provided whereby the liquid is pumped from the bottle into the cartridge by repeatedly compressing the bottle. As liquid is transferred into the cartridge, the bag expands within the bottle. In the preferred embodiment, the transfer mechanism is provided as part of the cartridge and the cartridge may be sized to fit a standard water bottle. In an alternate embodiment, the transfer mechanism is provided as part of a special bottle.

Abstract: Composite articles of frozen confectionery are manufactured containing inclusions, by forming extrusions of a central filling surrounded by a sleeve of frozen composition by co-extrusion at a temperature for the frozen composition of less than or equal to about −8° C., and the extrusions are then processed into a mass of frozen composition incorporating the inclusions by coiling up the extrusion or folding it on itself. The filling is injected into the heart of the vein of frozen composition leaving the extruder, by a co-extrusion nozzle which may be moving of static.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a continuous process for denaturation of proteins, which comprises the steps of: a) subjecting a protein solution to a high pressure homogenizer at a pressure of about 500 to about 5000 bar, at a recirculation ranging from 0 to about 50 and at a temperature ranging from about 20° C. to about 80° C. for a period of time on the order of milliseconds, wherein the protein solution consisting of a protein fraction dispersed in water, buffer or salt solution at a concentration ranging from about 2% to about 35% w/w and at a pH adjusted between about 2.0 to about 12.0; b) concentrating the protein solution by i) evaporation, ii) ultrafiltration and sprayed dried or iii) ultrafiltration and freeze dried.

Abstract: An apparatus, system and method is provided for injecting a fluid additive into a viscous fluid food flow stream. A fluid additive injector device is utilized to inject the fluid additive which has structure to prevent or minimize the amount of fluid additive that contacts or pools along the periphery of the fluid food flow stream. A fluid additive delivery system is provided to deliver equal amounts of fluid additive to a plurality of fluid additive injectors using a single pump without adjustable flow control apparatus.

Abstract: An improved method for refining cellulose that produces a highly refined cellulosic material comprising soaking raw material in a mild NaOH using reduced temperatures and pressures, and refining the material with a plate refiner so that a waste water stream is reduced in volume and has a pH within a range of 8 to 9. Also, a HRC gel having a lignin concentration of at least about one (1)% by weight, and a water retention capacity of about 25 to at least about 56 g H2O/g dry HRC is provided.

Abstract: A method for controlling the temperature of edible dough to efficiently and promptly control the dough temperature without adversely affecting the working environments, to operate them for a long period of time, and to apply them to any type of a mixer. The method for controlling the temperature of the edible dough during a kneading step includes a step of kneading the edible dough. During the kneading of the edible dough, the method includes a step of introducing a predetermined amount of gas having a predetermined temperature and a predetermined humidity into a mixer. It is preferable that the gas for controlling the temperature of the edible dough has been prepared and kept in advance at a predetermined temperature and humidity, and is then introduced into the mixer on demand. It is also preferable that the gas is circulated and re-used without being discharged out of a system in which the mixer operates.

Abstract: Using an homogenizer operating at higher pressures (ca. 2000 bar) than those conventionally used in ice cream manufacturing, it is possible to generate smaller oil droplet sizes (ca. 0.3 &mgr;m) in an ice cream premix. It allows stabilization of a larger air:water interface, leading to smaller discrete gas cells which in turn modify the organoleptic quality of the ice cream.

Abstract: A continuous mixer (32) is disclosed which can be used for mixing of incoming product streams (22, 24) of different characteristics respectively to yield a final product stream (26) of predetermined, consistent characteristics. The mixer (32) includes an elongated housing (42) having a pair of product input ports (50, 52) and an output (64), with a pair of elongated, axially rotatable, mixing screws (44, 46) located within the housing (42). The screws (44, 46) include a series of outwardly projecting mixing elements (114) preferably of pyramidal design and arrayed in a helical pattern along the length of the screws (44,46). The mixer (32) may be used in a processing system (20,200) having individual product lines (28, 30, 204, 206) coupled to the mixer (32), and is especially useful for processing of incoming meat streams (22,24) of different fat/lean ratios, to give a final comminuted output stream (26) of an intermediate and essentially constant fat/lean ratio.

Abstract: A food additive composition in an all-in-one powder composition containing multiple vitamins, calcium citrate, minerals, herbs, beans, peas, corn, grains, flakes, berries, and cloves. The composition is prepared by forming a mixture of the ground beans, corn and peas with the grains, spices, herbs, and vitamins. The mixture is steamed and baked in an oven. At least three different compositions are formulated and with different degrees of spiciness. The nutritious and flavorful additive composition can be added to food being cooked or while eating out.

Abstract: An edible composition has a first part including a first particulated gel and at least one other part including a second particulated gel, the first part being substantially unmixed with the other part or parts. An edible composition includes a particulated gel in a continuous phase of a hydrocolloid gel. A process for the preparation of such edible compositions is provide.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the production of cottage cheese wherein precut cheese curds are provided in a vat. The curds are subjected to a cooking operation while simultaneously providing for agitation of the curds. The system includes a carriage which traverses the vat back and forth from one end wall to the other. An agitating unit is mounted on the carriage and at least one discharging pipe extends downwardly into the vat from the agitating unit. The agitating unit is continuously oscillated, and the vat is preferably semi-cylindrical in shape, so that the lower discharge end of the pipe moves closely adjacent the vat surface in the course of the combined reciprocating and oscillating movements. Whey is continuously pumped from the vat, pass through a heat exchanger, and then recirculated to the vat through the discharge end of the discharging pipe. The heated whey provides the temperature input for the cooking while the vat contents are being completely and gently agitated by the agitating unit.

Abstract: Disclosure is made of a process for producing foamed processed meat foods which comprises mixing meat with sodium chloride under agitation (so-called “shio-zuri”), foaming the resultant composition by stirring and then molding and heating it, and foamed processed meat foods produced by this process. The processed meat foods of the present invention are characterized by soft and light texture.

Abstract: There was a need for a process for thickening liquid, pourable or squeezable foodproducts without the disadvantages as mentioned above, preferably independent upon temperature during manufacture or use. In other words, the so obtained thickened food products should be thickened but preferably not gelled, be free of a starchy flavor or smell, be at least reasonably stable under heating and cooling conditions, and preferably provide a thickening effect both in hot (e.g. sauces, soups) or cold (e.g. sauces, dressings, mayonnaise) applications.

Abstract: The disclosed method for making a milkshake or smoothie includes the steps of providing a cup containing a block of ingredients, grinding the block, and adding a liquid heated to at least approximately 100° F. The ingredients in the cup are provided in the form of a block frozen to substantially conform to the interior of the cup. In one embodiment, the method includes the step of whipping to incorporate air into a mixture of the heated liquid and the ground frozen substance in the cup. In that case, the incorporated air, heated liquid, and ground frozen substance form a milkshake or smoothie which has a total volume that exceeds the volume of the mixture of the heated liquid and block of frozen ingredients alone.

Abstract: Methods of forming reconstituted compositions containing protein and carbohydrate at elevated total solids content are disclosed. The methods of the present invention may be used in the production of confectionery.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a process of making milkshake beverage compositions having improved consistency, flavor and physical stability, which process involves eliminating or modifying the pasteurization step used or reversing the sequence of pasteurization and homogenization in conventional methods of manufacturing milkshake beverage compositions so as to limit the swelling of any starch granules present and thus avoid the detrimental effects that the shearing forces found in homogenization processes have on such swollen starch granules.

Abstract: A method of making a pasta filata cheese can use equipment and methods typically used in making processed cheese. The method produces a cheese having all of the characteristics of a traditional pasta filata cheese in improved yields and with reduced waste by-products. Pasta filata designates cheeses having a plastic pliable homogeneous stringy structure, and includes such well-know cheeses as mozzarella and provolone.

Abstract: Mixtures of sorbitol fatty acid esters useful as low calorie fat substitutes are prepared through a direct esterification process. The process entails the direct esterification of sorbitol with free fatty acids, optionally in the presence of an esterification catalyst. The resulting sorbitol esters have an average degree of hydroxyl substitution ranging from about 3 to about 5.5. This partial esterification leads to a mixture of esters capable of serving as low calorie fat substitutes without undesirable physiological side effects or the need for additives. Furthermore, the direct esterification process proceeds without the need for large amounts of organic solvents or bleaching agents.

Abstract: The water holding capacity of meat is improved by agitating the meat at an alleged temperature with the processing solution and by maintaining the agitation temperature with precision. A preferred temperature is in the range of 45 ° to 60° F. and the agitation is preferably a massaging action after injection of the liquid into the meat. The heating or agitation at the elevated temperature can be carried out in one vessel while the subsequent cooling is carried out in at least one second vessel.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a cream cheese-like product where non-casein protein replaces casein protein and a method for making such product. More specifically, the invention is directed to a process which is effective for making a cream cheese-like product substantially free of casein, wherein the process comprises: mixing (1) proteins other than milk caseins, (2) fat such as butter fat or other food grade fat, and (3) water to form a mixture; subjecting the mixture to a first homogenization to form a protein matrix stabilized emulsion system; heating the protein matrix stabilized emulsion system to a temperature effective to denature the proteins to form a denatured protein matrix stabilized emulsion; adjusting the pH of the denatured protein matrix stabilized emulsion to about 4 to about 6; subjecting the pH-adjusted emulsion to a second homogenization to form the cream cheese-like product; and packaging the cream cheese-like product. Optional ingredients such as stabilizers (e.g.

Abstract: A method for making a granola or snack-food product comprises (a) mixing ingredients for said granola or snack-food product with liquid binder to obtain a formable mixture, wherein the mixing is carried out at elevated temperature and the binder is liquid at elevated temperature and the binder sets when cooled to room temperature; (b) forming the mixture into product precursor, wherein the forming is carried out at elevated temperature and whilst the binder is still liquid; and (c) cooling the precursor to set the binder, thereby obtaining the snack-food product. Apparatus for making the product is also described as is the product obtained thereby.

Abstract: A continuous mixer (32) is disclosed which can be used for mixing of incoming product streams (22, 24) of different characteristics respectively to yield a final product stream (26) of predetermined, consistent characteristics. The mixer (32) includes an elongated housing (42) having a pair of product input ports (50,52) and an output (64), with a pair of elongated, axially rotatable, mixing screws (44,46) located within the housing (42). The screws (44, 46) include a series of outwardly projecting mixing elements (114) preferably of pyramidal design and arrayed in a helical pattern along the length ofthe screws (44,46). The mixer (32) may be used in a processing system (10) having individual product lines (28, 30) coupled to the mixer (32), and is especially useful for processing of incoming meat streams (22,24) of different fat/lean ratios, to give a final comminuted output stream (26) of an intermediate and essentially constant fat/lean ratio.