#$%^&*AU2013206700A120130725.pdf#####In one embodiment of the invention, there is provided a method of improving homogeneity in confectionery mixing processes, which includes the steps of: mixing a predetermined amount of confectionery base and bulk sweeteners in a first direction for a first cycle period to provide a mixture adding a predetermined amount of a flavoring component to the mixture mixing the mixture in a second direction for a second cycle period mixing the mixture in the first direction for a third cycle period. In another embodiment of the invention, there is provided a method of preparing a confectionery product, including the steps of: mixing a predetermined amount of products in a kettle to form a confectionery base heating the mixed confectionery base to a predetermined temperature feeding the heated confectionery base into a first extruder extruding the confectionery base into a cooling apparatus to provide a cooled confectionery product feeding the cooled confectionery product into a second extruder extruding the cooled confectionery product from the second extruder and passing the extruded confectionery product into a finishing apparatus to finish the confectionery pieces.
