Easy-open self-venting microwavable tray and overwrap
US10343835B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 25, 2013 |
| Grant date | Jul 9, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 9, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65D2205/00
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The present invention relates to improved manually openable self-venting ovenable packages which include a rigid or semi-rigid tray having a single thermoplastic overwrap comprising a polymeric laminate surrounding the tray and having a front panel and an opposing back panel. The inventive packages also include a continuous seal circumscribing a recessed cavity of the tray which comprises a heat seal formed by heat sealing a portion of the front panel to the peripheral flange of the tray. The packages of the present invention are self-venting whereby a venting region comprising a release coating applied between the inner surface of the front panel and the inner surface of the back panel permits the overwrap to rupture and release steam in response to heat and/or overpressure generated during heating of a food item in a microwave oven. The inventive packages also includes a manual tear opening feature provided by at least one line of weakness in the front panel positioned between the peelable seal and the first side edge of the front panel. The tear opening feature is configured to permit partial or complete removal of the overwrap from the tray.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.