Barbel Quattro has developed a vegetable preparation machine, which can process up to 30kg of vegetables or fruit an hour.

The machine features 40 different blades, which keep the delicate cell structure of the product intact, preventing oxidisation and therefore significantly increasing its lifespan, says the firm.

Soft fruit, such as banana and kiwi, can be sliced without bruising. In trials, the machine produced on average more than 30% more perfect slices of lemons, tomatoes and onions than equivalent preparation by hand, claims Barbel.

The whole of the top section of the machine can be removed and taken to the sink for washing, while the base can be wiped down. Barbel also provides a training video or CD-Rom on how to use the machine and can offer free introduction training.

[http://www.barbel.net]