Importance

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Abstract

A holding device for food products, comprising: a base unit comprising a heating element and a top surface disposed above the heating element, wherein the food products are disposed on the top surface of the base unit; a top portion disposed apart from and above the top surface of the base unit, such that the food products can be disposed between the base unit and the top portion, wherein the top portion comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of: (1) an electrically conductive coating disposed on a bottom surface of the top portion which radiates heat toward the food products, (2) a low emissivity coating on a top surface of the top portion, and (3) downwardly pointing edge portions which extend beyond the dimensions of the base unit, thereby providing for convection capture of heat generated from the base unit as it rises and contacts the top portion; and at least one support post, wherein the support post supports the top portion above the base and provides a conduit or other means by which electrical connectivity is established between the base and the top portion. Alternatively, electrical connectivity may be established at the base of the device. The base may be divided into regions, one or more of which may be independently temperature-controlled.

First Claim