Abstract: A method for improving the properties of particles of a starch hydrolyzate product made by the partial hydrolysis of cereal and root based starches. Particles of starting material are blended with a volatile liquid other than water, and the resulting blend is compacted in a roller compactor without extraneous lubricant, to form a sheet. The sheet is broken into small particles which are sieved and dried. The resulting particles are non-spherical, appear crystalline under a light microscope and have a surface topography comprising cracks, crevices and fissures. These particles have good solubility, a bulk density comparable to the starting material, and no flow or dusting problems.

Abstract: Fried snack food product in ribbon-like form, preferably spiral, of a masa dough that has been ground and then further comminuted by cutting to have a maximum particle size of 0.05 inch.

Abstract: An acidic molasses-based liquid animal feed supplement including nutritionally appropriate phosphorus and magnesium and, optionally, non-protein nitrogen, is hardened into a solid form by the addition of a small amount of a soluble calcium compound, preferably calcium chloride, so that the calcium to magnesium weight ratio is between about 1.5 and 3. The disclosed solid animal feed supplement is sufficiently palatable to permit its free choice feeding, yet discourages overfeeding by its hardness and acidity. The block contains sufficient molasses to help meet the energy requirements for maintenance and weight gain of grazing animals, but is sufficiently low in pH to minimize the risk of ammonia poisoning due to breakdown of non-protein nitrogen sources to free ammonia during rumination.

Abstract: This invention constitute a novel binder composition for pelleted and compressed animal feeds, comprising a mixture of a reactive metal salt and a reactive metal oxide or hydroxide.

Abstract: An improved method and resulting animal and fowl feed supplement involving the impregnation of diatomaceous earth with a blood serum to provide a food supplement at a reasonable cost from slaughterhouse blood.

Abstract: Apparatus and process for chemically treating particulate solids material in free flowing condition with fluid reactants in a drum reactor having an acidifying chamber in which acid is introduced into the solids material and an ammoniation chamber in which ammonia is introduced into the solids material.

Abstract: A process for making a corn chip with potato chip texture is described. The chip has increased mouthmelt, crispness, and lightness like potato chips and it is less hard and gritty than standard corn chips. It also has a distinctive corn flavor. In a preferred process, corn is cooked in water at 140.degree. F. (60.degree. C.) to 212.degree. F. (100.degree. C.) for 30 minutes to 4 hours. The corn hulls are removed, and the corn is comminuted. A starch material is cooked in water until it is adequately hydrated, and then comminuted. The comminuted corn and starch material are mixed together to form a dough having a ratio of corn to starch material of 95:5 to 80:20. The dough is extruded, formed into a sheet, cut into segments, and deep-fried to form the finished chip.

Abstract: A food chip process that involves subjecting a comminuted starch-containing food composition having a controlled moisture content, illustratively, about 25 percent to about 40 percent by weight where a corn masa constitutes the food composition, to compression at a pressure of at least 1000 psig and at a temperature of no more than 110.degree. F., and sequentially, and without drying, frying the compressed composition in an edible oil. The process relates, as well, where a corn masa is employed, to partial gelatinization of the corn used in preparation of the masa.

Abstract: Unnecessary loss of valuable fiber and unnecessary consumption of energy, as well as undue gelatinization of starch contained in the endosperm are avoided by subjecting the whole corn kernels to a selective nixtamalization process which comprises separating the hull from the kernels for forming a hull fraction and an endosperm-germ fraction, subjecting only the hull fraction to nixtamalization such as by heating in an alkaline solution and then mixing the nixtamalized hull fraction with the untreated endosperm-germ fraction.This mixture is suitable for producing a good quality corn flour suitable for producing tortillas having excellent rheological properties.

Abstract: Cereal grains having a moisture content of about 30% by weight are made into masa by radiating with infrared radiation until partially gelatinized. Thereafter, they are ground to a meal. If it is desired to dehusk the grains, this is done by agitating an aqueous slurry as by repeated pumping and surface drying and aspirating the husk before radiation. After radiation, any remaining husks are separated by cracking the radiated grain, sizing the cracked grain, and separating the husks from each size. Some grains may be dehusked by only the cracking, sizing, and separation steps. A variation of masa is made from a mixture of corn with husks and milo without husks.

Abstract: Lignocellulose-containing materials are chemically converted to a form which is suitable for feeding to ruminant animals by wetting the materials with dilute acid, storing the wet material at ambient temperature and pressure in a low acid environment to effect mild hydrolysis of the materials, drying the acidified materials and partially neutralizing the dried material with ammonia.

Abstract: Embodiments of this invention include methods and apparatus for the production of flour from which products such as corn tortillas, tortilla chips, "taco shells", and the like, may be produced, in a continuous process, by pre-cooking the grain, stabilizing its moisture content, milling it to particulate form for suspension in a super-heated stream of air, replacing the ambient air with air which has lower moisture content and is cooler, and segregating out the flour-size particles from larger particles which are further processed into flour.

Abstract: A description is given of the use of agricultural waste in the form of chemically treated cereal straw or fruit plant prunings together with the liquid residue from sugarbeet molasses in the production of balanced feedingstuffs suitable for feeding polygastric animals. The final useful mixture contains the agricultural waste as its main component and up to 60% of sugarbeet pulp, the remainder consisting of conventional additives.

Abstract: For supplying a desired amount of ammonia to a straw bale, particularly a large round bale, in order to convert the straw material into a feedstuff, the bale is subjected to an ammonia injection treatment in direct association with the bale being reloaded from a local receiving position to a final storing position by a tractor fitted with a suitable bale carrier implement. The bale carrier implement may comprise carrier spears which are provided with injector for supplying the ammonia to the interior of the bales from an ammonia tank carried by the tractor itself.

Abstract: A process for treating cereal grains and particularly oats, to separate the endosperm from the remainder of the kernel without dry milling. The grains are soaked in an aqueous medium having a pH of 3.0-7.0 at a temperature in the range 40.degree.-70.degree. C. for sufficient time to absorb at least an equal weight of the liquid medium. The conditions are such that the endosperm portion of the grain liquefies, as opposed to softens. The grain may be crushed in a variety of ways to split the husk and release the liquid endosperm contents which are then dispersed in water. The endosperm solids can be recovered from dispersion, following a screening step to separate the husks by drying to yield a substantially white, lower fiber whole endosperm flour product. Alternatively, the dispersion may be sedimented and/or centrifuged to produce a wet solids fraction and a soluble fraction, each of which can be subsequently recovered in dry form.

Abstract: Grain for human consumption is cleaned by washing it for at least 8 minutes with calcium hydroxide, whereupon the calcium hydroxide is neutralized by converting it in the presence of carbon dioxide into calcium carbonate, and the two outermost layers of the four-layer pericarp surrounding the grain are then removed mechanically.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for modifying the conformation of plant proteins for increasing their biological utilization, which comprises treating said plant protein with gaseous hydrogen chloride to adjust its pH to a value between 1.6 and 2.4, as measured in a 20% by weight aqueous suspension, for a period sufficient to increase the digestibility of said protein without bringing the protein into solution or suspension, and thereafter bringing the pH of said protein to a value between 4 and 7 with an alkalizing agent, wherein the moisture content of said protein is increased with the alkalizing agent at most to 50% by weight.

Abstract: Dehydrated onion products can be prepared using a wide variety of drying conditions without pinking of the onions by treating the onions with an effective amount of base before or during the initial stages of drying.

Abstract: A process which involves treating animal or poultry waste contained in a dropping pit or sedimentation tank of an animal or poultry confinement or holding pen with a sufficient amount of an acid to achieve and maintain the animal or poultry waste at a pH of about 4. Also, animal or poultry bedding material can be treated with acid (and after usage treated as above). The treatment eliminates the problems of the giving off of unhealthy gases and the growth of pathogens in the environment. The acid-treated waste material can be used as an animal feed or fertilizer ingredient.

Abstract: There is disclosed a fine-grained multiple lactate concentrate for use in baking agents and finished flours comprising (1) a cereal product, (2) lactic acid, (3) a basic calcium compound and (4) a water binding agent.

Abstract: Fermented ammoniated condensed whey (FACW) is solidified by mixing it with certain calcium salts and allowing the mixture to stand. The mixture, while still liquid, may be mixed with grains, roughage and forage materials, or it may be shaped into blocks, cubes or pellets. Solidified FACW can be used as a feed supplement for ruminant animals. During the solidification calcium ammonium lactate is formed which is a new crystalline chemical composition. Calcium ammonium lactate (CAL) may be prepared in purified form from lactic acid, calcium hydroxide and ammonia. CAL is useful independently as a feed supplement for ruminant animals.

Abstract: This invention relates to methods and apparatus for processing grain, such as corn, into flour and dough useful in making foodstuff products, such as tacos, tortillas, corn chips, etc. In one embodiment, atmospheric pre-heating of the grain with consequent cracking of the hull is combined with the softening effects of a lime water spray to deliver partially cooled grain in a comparatively dry state to a mill for efficient pulverization, following which it is made into a dough which is finally cooked and formed into the desired end product.

Abstract: A coating for simulating the taste of toasted, baked, and leavened food products such as bread or the like, and the method of preparing such a coating. The coating is applied to an untoasted, baked and leavened food product, particularly on the outer surface thereof in order to simulate toasting. The coating in addition to providing a simulated taste of a toasted product, further provides a sealant to resist or retard the penetration of moisture, grease, or condiments into the interior portions. The coating contains roasted ground wheat, and preferably includes a quantity of roasted ground wheat which, in the whole grain form, has been soaked in an aqueous solution of a food grade acid selected from the group consisting of phosphoric, adipic, hydrochloric, citric and malic acids and mixtures thereof. The soaked grain is roasted at temperatures of between about 150.degree. F.-510.degree. F. for a period sufficient to reduce the moisture content to 4% or less.

Abstract: This invention relates to methods and apparatus for processing grain, such as corn, into flour and dough useful in making foodstuff products, such as tacos, tortillas, corn chips, etc. In one embodiment, atmospheric pre-heating of the grain with consequent cracking of the hull is combined with the softening effects of a lime water spray to deliver partially cooled grain in a comparatively dry state to a mill for efficient pulverization, following which it is made into a dough which is finally cooked and formed into the desired end product.

Abstract: A process for the preparation of fermentation media suitable for culturing yeast for animal consumption and microspores and/or for the production of protein from vegetable waste matter. Any vegetable matter containing a considerable amount of hemicelluloses, pentosans, pectins or other polysaccharides in addition to cellulose and not very suitable for direct feeding of animals is usable as starting material. Preferred representatives are: corn-cob and/or stalks, reeds, sunflower stalks, fallen autumn leaves. An animal food product made by the method is also disclosed.

Abstract: The palatability as well as digestibility and protein content of straw is enhanced by treating it with a dilute aqueous solution of hydrochloric and phosphoric acids, ammoniating the acid-treated straw, and fermenting it with a yeast such as Aureobasidium pullulans. The so-treated straw is useful as a feed for ruminants and other animals.

Abstract: A process for increasing the feed value of lignocellulosic materials by alkali-treatment and subsequent neutralization with an acid in a closed system under circulation of the treating agents. Said treating agents are supplied or prepared during the course of the treatment at a rate essentially corresponding to the liquid uptake of the lignocellulosic material, the quantities of residual solutions resulting from the treatment being kept at a minimum. Moreover, an apparatus for carrying such process into effect.

Abstract: A processed vegetable seed fiber, particularly corn and soybean fiber, for use in food products is disclosed. Processing is accomplished by heating an aqueous slurry of the crude vegetable seed fiber to about 155.degree.-180.degree. F., and then maintaining the pH of the heated slurry in the range of about 2.5 to 5.0. The elevated temperature of the slurry is maintained for up to about 15 to 60 minutes while the slurry is agitated.The resulting acid-pasteurized slurry is then dewatered to obtain a fiber material at about 20-30% dry solids. Fresh water is then added to the dewatered fiber material to reslurry it to about 3-4% dry solids. The reslurried fiber material is agitated at a temperature up to about 140.degree. F. for about fifteen to thirty minutes, dewatered a second time, and then dried to about 10% moisture.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for increasing the feed value of lignocellulosic materials by contacting the material with an alkaline liquid. The alkaline liquid is applied on top of a mass of lignocellulosic material within a limited zone, said zone being moved across the whole upper surface of said mass. The invention also provides for an apparatus suitable for carrying out such process.

Abstract: A process for the conversion of cellulose and lignin organic waste materials into a more digestible and manageable form. The process includes reducing, if necessary, the cellulose or lignin organic waste material to a size to 2 inches or less. An acid selected from the group consisting of phosphoric acid, hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid and mixtures thereof is admixed with about 40 to about 60 percent by weight of the organic waste material. Before, after or simultaneously with such admixing steps, a base selected from the group consisting of calcium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, ammonium hydroxide and mixtures thereof is admixed with the remainder of the organic waste material. The acidified waste material is mixed and reacted with the basified organic waste material, a more digestible form of said organic waste material resulting. About 80 to 120 parts by weight of the acidified organic waste material is used per 100 parts by weight of the basified organic waste material.

Abstract: A process is disclosed for debranning wheat and the debranned wheat product obtained therefrom. The process for obtaining the debranned wheat product comprises mixing wheat with an acid medium containing sulphuric acid at a concentration of at least about 80% by weight, the amount of acid medium and wheat being present so as to provide an acid medium: wheat ratio no greater than about 30% by weight. The wheat is permitted to remain in contact with the acid medium for a period sufficient to recover therefrom a debranned wheat product wherein the wheat loss is no greater than about 40% by weight.

Abstract: Corn infected by Fusarium is detoxified by spraying the same with a 2 to 10%, preferably 3 to 6%, aqueous solution of hydrogen peroxide and/or ammonium hydroxide, followed by heat drying.

Abstract: There is provided, a method for preserving high moisture content agricultural grains, which comprises treating such grains with a composition consisting essentially of: 1) an organic food-grade acid or phosphoric acid, 2) any water-soluble, non-corrosive, non-toxic, alkali or alkaline earth metal sulfate salt, and 3) a synthetic organic cationic or anionic surfactant for enhancing the penetration of said acid into said grains.

Abstract: There is provided, a method for preserving high moisture content agricultural grains, which comprises treating such grains with a composition consisting essentially of (1) an organic foodgrade acid or phosphoric acid, and (2) a synthetic organic cationic or anionic surfactant for enhancing the penetration of said acid into and through said grains.