A steam peeling system has a rotatable pressure vessel (1) for steam treating and peeling product. The vessel is substantially spherical, having an oblong configuration with opposed flattened side surfaces. The pressure vessel has at least one internal lifter (51a, 51b, 51c) for entraining and lifting the product relative to the axis of rotation of the pressure vessel (1) when it is rotated. The pressure vessel also at least one internal region (53) that is closed-off against ingress of steam during product treatment. This region (53) defines a steam saver. The system can include a batcher for delivering the product to be peeled to the vessel. The pressure in the vessel can be released on completion of a peeling operation. Arrangements can be included to minimize release of entrained solid matter or odors in the exhaust steam. A controller minimizes unproductive displacement of the pressure vessel and can control the rotation speed and direction.
