Apparatus for pasteurizing or sterilizing edible foodstuffs
US4739699A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 14, 1986 |
| Grant date | Apr 26, 1988 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 14, 2006 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA23B2/30
- WIPO fieldFood chemistry
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
An apparatus for pasteurizing or sterilizing and subsequent cooling of edible foodstuffs in containers. The containers are relatively thin-walled and are fabricated from plastic. At least one of the containers is provided with an internal probe which monitors the pressure and temperature at its substantially geometric center. The pressure within a chamber of the apparatus, within which pasteurization or sterilization is to be effected, is also monitored. A comparitor compares the pressures within the chamber and the container having the probe therein to develop a control signal representative of the pressure difference. A controller is arranged to respond to the control signal to maintain a predetermined pressure relationship while heating and subsequently cooling the foodstuffs. The pressure difference which is maintained may be zero, or be slightly above or below zero.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.