The present invention provides a novel process for removing the pellicle from nut kernels and a blanching composition for use in the treatment of nuts. More particularly, the process of the invention comprises the steps of: (a) immersing nut kernels in a composition comprising a mixture of a vegetable oil and a wetting agent in a solution of water and, optionally, a sugar, at ambient temperature to soften and loosen the pellicle; (b) removing the nut kernels from the composition and draining the nut kernels; (c) exposing the nut kernels to ambient temperature water to remove the pellicle; and (d) separating the nut kernels from the pellicle.
A product and process of removing the skins from nuts involves wetting the nut kernels with an alkaline solution and then with a peroxygen solution. The two substances react underneath the skin to liberate gas between the nut meat and the skin. The gas bubbles blister the skin, causing it to become loosened. Slight mechanical brushing is used to dislodge the blistered skins from the nut meats.
A method and apparatus for bleaching the shells of in-shell nuts and for bleaching the meats of shelled nuts involves wetting the nuts with an alkaline solution and then with a peroxygen solution. The two substances react to form a bleaching agent which whitens the shell or nut meat. Slight mechanical brushing may be used to dislodge debris loosened by the process. The apparatus includes means for recycling the reagents through the system without causing the desired temperature and concentration of the reagents to deviate significantly from predetermined values.
