Continuous flow system for equalizing the moisture content of moisture absorbing fruit products
US4183292A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 12, 1977 |
| Grant date | Jan 15, 1980 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 12, 1997 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA23B7/00
- WIPO fieldFood chemistry
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A system for controlling the moisture content of moisture absorbing fruit products to achieve a uniform moisture content of the product. The continuous flow of raw product in chip, diced, extruded or comminuted form initially enters a rotating reel where the product is tumbled and exposed to a high-humidity environment for increasing the moisture content beyond a target value. The added humidity can be in the form of steam or water spray. The product continuously flows from the reel wherein moisture is added to a drying reel which reduces the moisture content of the product to specific target values. Although the original moisture content of raw fruit product entering the system may vary considerably, contact between product during mixing in the moisture adding and drying reels causes the final product to assume uniform and consistent characteristics. Some fruit products to be processed may require sulphur dioxide treatment and in such instances the addition of sulphur dioxide is included in the process and injected with the steam or water spray. In addition or alternatively to adding sulphur dioxide other products such as solids, preservatives or nutrients may be added in the stea…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.