Dispensing machine for dispensing semi-solid food products

A dispensing machine for dispensing product from a container of product, comprising

• a deformable container for product, the container having one end and an opposite end,
• a plunger engageable with said one end to deform the container, said opposite end having an opening through which product is discharged, movement of the plunger when engaged with said one end causing the container to deform and reduce the internal volume of the container whereby product is extruded from said opening,
• shut-off valve means controlling discharge of product from the container,
• an insulated frame,
• a housing for supporting the container movably in said frame, said housing having a seating for the container,
• slide means whereby said housing is slidably mounted on said frame for generally horizontal movement relative to the frame between operative and inoperative positions, said housing extending outwards from the frame when in the inoperative position for removal of said container from said housing and, in the operative position of said housing, said container and said valve means being located within said insulated frame,
• latch means for releasably latching said housing in the operative position in said frame, discharge of product from said container taking place when said housing is in the operative position, and
• refrigeration means for providing a cold environment within the insulated frame.