The invention relates to a device for grouping into batches at least semi-buoyant objects belonging to the group of fruit and vegetables, comprising a plurality of accumulation channels (11), a hydraulic supply device for each accumulation channel (11), a device for supplying objects to an upstream portion of each accumulation channel, a collecting channel downstream of each accumulation channel (11), a device (14) for holding/releasing the objects in each accumulation channel Each accumulation channel (11) comprises at least one bypass passage (30) for the hydraulic stream extending from at least one inlet of the bypass passage (30) located upstream of the holding/releasing device (14) to at least one outlet of the bypass passage (30) issuing downstream of the holding/releasing device (14). A bypass valve (32) allows adjustment of said part of the diverted flow.

A filling device and method for filling a container with floating and/or suspended products, in particular for apples and pears. The device has a frame provided with a supply tank fillable with aqueous liquid, and a vacuum chamber for realizing an underpressure in at least a part of the supply tank; immersion means operatively connected to the frame for the purpose of placing the container into or removing the container from the supply tank; and feeder for feeding to the supply tank the aqueous liquid in which the floating and/or suspended products are entrainable. The feeder includes a flow tube or flow channel with which the floating and/or suspended products are carriable into the vacuum chamber.