Close tolerance food slicing apparatus, blade and method

摘要

An apparatus, a slicing blade and a method for improved slicing of large food sticks (11), loaves and the like are provided. A slicing blade (14) which may have a top flat surface (22) or top flat land width along its cutting edge provides generally longitudinal forces on the food product (11) being sliced, which forces are in a direction generally opposite to the direction through which the food products (11) are fed through a slicing apparatus. The slicing blade (14) includes a bottom primary bevel surface (24) and typically steep primary angle (PA) for imparting angularly directed forces on the food products (11) being sliced so as to throw the slices (19) at a generally corresponding deposit angle. The invention is particularly important in improving handling of large luncheon meat sticks including non-frozen, high water content and reduced fat content luncheon meat sticks. Fast feed rates can be practised without experiencing jamming, yields are increased, slice quality is made more consistent and repeatable, slicing line utilization is enhanced, and sanitary conditions are more easily maintained. <IMAGE>