Foods(for example root crops)are fed in batches into a pressure vessel which is rotated at 4-6 rpm.High-pressure steam(1500*〖10〗^3 Pa)is introduced and all food surfaces are exposed to the steam by the rotation of the vessel for a predetermined time,which differs according to the type of food. The high temperatures cause rapid heating of the surface layer (within 15-30)but the low thermal conductivity of the product prevents further heat penetration,and the product is not cooked.Texture and colour are therefore preserved.The pressure is then instantly released which causes steam to form undre tha skin,and the surface of the food 'flashes off'.Most of the peeled material is discharged with the steam,and water sprays are needed only to remove any remaining traces.This type of peeler is gaining in popularity owing to the lower water consumption,minimum product loss, good appearance of the peeled surfaces, a high throughput(up to 4500 kg/h) with automatic control of the peeling cycle,and the production of a more easily disposable concentrated waste.