Quality evaluation of pinto beans and green beans canned in two large reusable containers

As an alternative to standard metal cans, 2 large-scale, reusable containers were constructed with volumetric capacities 3.6 to 3.8 times greater and process times 1.36 to 2.05 times longer than a nr 10 can. Effects of increased process time on product quality were measured by conducting objective color and texture evaluations on green beans and pinto beans canned in both containers. Green beans and pinto beans had comparable texture profiles to beans processed conventionally in nr 10 cans. The color of green beans also was comparable; the color of pinto beans was darker, possibly due to contact with the metal container. Color and texture differences were minimal between inner and outer product layers.