Importance

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Abstract

A container that is filled with a product through an open end and which is suitable for use in a microwave or conventional oven to hold the product while it is heated. The container is formed of a paperboard blank coated with polyethylene (microwavable) or polyester (microwavable and ovenable), and is folded, filled and thermally sealed on a slightly modified, but generally conventional machine that is otherwise used to assemble and fill prior art end filled containers. The blank includes a first panel having two end walls, front and rear sidewalls, and four gusset corners, and a second panel connected to the rear sidewall along a fold line having two end flaps, and a front flap. A tear-open access flap is defined on the second panel by partially die cut lines. In a first embodiment, the first panel is imprinted with graphics and the second panel with cooking instructions. As displayed for sale, the graphics on the top of the container are visible, while during the heating process, the container is inverted, making the instructions readily visible. A novel design enables tight reclosure of the access flap by insertion of a reclosure tab into a slotted receiver; an interference fit between the access flap and front fold line 'shoulders', and between the tab and the slot holds the access flap tightly closed. In a second embodiment, the graphics are on the top of the container as it is oriented for both sale and for heating the products. In addition, the access flap cannot be tightly reclosed. However, both embodiments permit direct heating in an oven, a benefit only previously availabale in top filled containers.

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First Claim