System and method for automated, continuous high temperature sterilization and filling of food products

A closed automated continuous system for processing and packaging into containers flowable food products at elevated temperatures and pressures, the flowable food products received from an upstream food product supply source for packaging and thereafter the packaged food product is discharged for downstream processing, comprising:

• (a) an unmanned filling station configured as a first pressure vessel for filling containers with thermally processed flowable food products, the filling station comprising:
• (i) an automated filling apparatus for directing the flowable food product into containers;
• (ii) a first pressurized housing for closely encasing the filling apparatus, the housing having access ports to provide access to the interior of the housing;
• (iii) a pressurizing system for pressurizing the first housing to a pressure above the flash point of the food products;
• and,
• (iv) a container infeed system for receiving containers into the first housing to be filled;
• and
• (b) an unmanned sealing station in container-receiving communication with the filling station, said sealing station comprising:
• (i) an intake for receiving filled containers from the filling station,
• (ii) a cover infeed apparatus for receiving covers for the containers,
• (iii) a closure apparatus to apply the covers to the containers to seal the containers;
• (iv) a second pressurized housing closely encasing at least a portion of the closure apparatus;
• and
• (v) a pressurizing system for pressurizing the second housing to a pressure above the flash point food product, and
• (c) a sealed transport passageway extending downstream of the second housing for transporting a flow stream of filled and sealed containers for further processing.