PROCESS AND APPARATUS FOR THE PROTECTION OF INDIVIDUAL PORTIONS FROM BLOCKS OF DEEP-FROZEN FOODSTUFFS

摘要

A method for dividing a block of deep-frozen foodstuffs, especially fish fillets, into portions of predetermined size. The method utilizes a operating temperature between -6 DEG C. and -30 DEG C. and a processing pressure of at least 100 at. In the method, the block is squeezed in a first direction, preferably perpendicular to its largest or greatest surface, through a blade lattice formed of parallel knives. The plates formed by squeezing the block through the first blade lattice are carved into portions of desired size by performing second cuts perpendicular to the first cuts. The second cuts are preferably perpendicular to the largest surface of the original block. In a preferred embodiment, the second cuts are performed by squeezing the plates through a second blade lattice formed of parallel knives. As the block or plates are being squeezed through the blade lattice, they can be squeezed in another direction perpendicular to the direction of squeezing to increase their height. An apparatus for performing the described method is also disclosed.