How are vegetables added to frozen meal trays?

Vegetables are added to frozen meal trays through an automated assembly process. After being procured from a frozen-food processor or frozen on-site, the vegetables are transported to processing areas in large trays.12

The actual placement is performed by depositing machines, which automatically weigh and place the required amount of vegetables onto the meal tray. These machines utilize a feed chamber with a rotating bottom containing cavities that hold a designated amount of food material. As the meal trays move along a conveyor belt, these cavities open directly over the designated slots in the tray. Once the vegetables are deposited, other components like sauces may be added to coat them. Finally, the trays are inspected to ensure proper placement before being conveyed to a freezer.2