[qohen]

where the very same M-CAM dude claimed there was a "patent on toast".

This comes pretty close no? "Bread refreshing method" (US 6080436 A).

http://www.google.com/patents/US6080436

Abstract

A method of refreshening a bread product by heating the bread product to a temperature between 2500 are maintained at this temperature range for a period of 3 to 90 seconds.

[throwawaykf03]

No, because as the claims state, the bread is heated at a temperature between 2500 F. and 4500 F. Toasters generally operate at much, much lower temperatures -- around 300 F. In case this seems like a minor distinction, consider that toasting bread at 2500 - 4500 F does not give you toast :-)

"A toaster works by applying radiant heat directly to a bread slice. When the bread's surface temperature reaches about 310 degrees Farenheit, a chemical change known as the Maillard reaction begins. Sugars and starches start to caramelize - turn brown - and to take on intense flavors.

"That's toast.

"With more heating, the sugars and underlying grain fibers start turning into carbon.

"That's burnt toast."

- Quote from a Consumer Reports test on toasters, June 1990 (found at http://www.toaster.org/works.html)

I'm not sure what this patent gives you -- heck, maybe it does refresh stale bread -- but it certainly won't give you toast.