EP1737756B1 - Emballage pour mais souffle compatible micro-ondes - Google Patents

Emballage pour mais souffle compatible micro-ondes Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1737756B1
EP1737756B1 EP05725441A EP05725441A EP1737756B1 EP 1737756 B1 EP1737756 B1 EP 1737756B1 EP 05725441 A EP05725441 A EP 05725441A EP 05725441 A EP05725441 A EP 05725441A EP 1737756 B1 EP1737756 B1 EP 1737756B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
popcorn
fold
fields
package
inches
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Not-in-force
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EP05725441A
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German (de)
English (en)
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EP1737756A1 (fr
Inventor
Eric Craig Jackson
Denise Ellen Hanson
James W. Montealegre
Lance Benard Schilmoeller
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Conagra Brands Inc
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Conagra Foods Inc
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Publication of EP1737756A1 publication Critical patent/EP1737756A1/fr
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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D81/00—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents
    • B65D81/34—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents for packaging foodstuffs or other articles intended to be cooked or heated within the package
    • B65D81/3446—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents for packaging foodstuffs or other articles intended to be cooked or heated within the package specially adapted to be heated by microwaves
    • B65D81/3461—Flexible containers, e.g. bags, pouches, envelopes
    • B65D81/3469—Pop-corn bags
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2581/00—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents
    • B65D2581/34—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents for packaging foodstuffs or other articles intended to be cooked or heated within
    • B65D2581/3401—Cooking or heating method specially adapted to the contents of the package
    • B65D2581/3402—Cooking or heating method specially adapted to the contents of the package characterised by the type of product to be heated or cooked
    • B65D2581/3421—Cooking pop-corn
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2581/00—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents
    • B65D2581/34—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents for packaging foodstuffs or other articles intended to be cooked or heated within
    • B65D2581/3437—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents for packaging foodstuffs or other articles intended to be cooked or heated within specially adapted to be heated by microwaves
    • B65D2581/3471—Microwave reactive substances present in the packaging material
    • B65D2581/3472—Aluminium or compounds thereof
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2581/00—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents
    • B65D2581/34—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents for packaging foodstuffs or other articles intended to be cooked or heated within
    • B65D2581/3437—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents for packaging foodstuffs or other articles intended to be cooked or heated within specially adapted to be heated by microwaves
    • B65D2581/3486—Dielectric characteristics of microwave reactive packaging
    • B65D2581/3494—Microwave susceptor

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to microwaveable packaging for food.
  • the disclosure shown particularly concerns arrangements for popping microwaveable popcorn.
  • the principles herein relate to preferred arrangements for a package with an interior, typically configured to preferably internally receive a popcorn charge.
  • the principles particularly relate to utilization of preferred paper materials for generation of the microwave popcorn packaging and in packaged microwave popcorn products.
  • microwaveable food products are presently known.
  • the ones of particular concern herein are those in which the construction is used to pop microwaveable popcorn.
  • the related consumer product is a package which includes a popcorn charge.
  • the package including the unpopped popcorn charge is positioned appropriately in a microwave oven, and is exposed to microwave energy. During the microwave process, the popcorn is popped.
  • the bags are generally provided in a configuration wherein side gussets are used to separate the internal volume of the bag into first and second "tubes."
  • the popcorn charge is placed in one of the two “tubes” and is substantially retained therein, prior to popping. This is shown, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 5,044,777 , Fig. 3.
  • the popcorn charge is positioned in a center portion (typically about a center one-third) of the package arrangement.
  • the packing arrangement is folded into a "tri-fold" configuration.
  • This is referenced generally in the U.S. patents identified above, and specifically in connection with U.S. Patent Nos. 4,548,826 and 4,691,374 .
  • the popcorn charge is "substantially only" in a location, it is meant that preferably at least 80% (more preferably at least 95%, by weight, most preferably essentially all; i.e., at least 99%) by weight of the charge (popcorn, fat, flavor, etc.), is at the stated location.
  • the microwave popcorn packages comprise two-ply paper arrangements, made from materials so as to provide an acceptably low level of passage of grease (i.e., oil/fat), if any, through the packaging, during storage. Often this is accomplished by utilizing fluorocarbon treated papers, for the inner ply, the outer ply or both.
  • a microwaveable popcorn arrangement comprising an inner and an outer ply of kraftpaper is disclosed in document US-A-5 690 853 .
  • the present invention relates to improvements in microwave popcorn packaging and products.
  • microwaveable popcorn arrangements which include a flexible, expandable, bag configuration.
  • the construction preferably comprises at least one sheet or layer of paper which has not been treated with fluorocarbon treatment agent.
  • both plies of a two-ply arrangement are made with paper materials that have not been fluorocarbon treated.
  • two-ply when used in this context, is meant to refer to a construction used to form bag side walls, comprising two sheets of paper secured to one another.
  • the term “two-ply” is meant to be applicable in this context, even if between the two paper plies a microwave interactive construction or susceptor, in a sheet form, is positioned.
  • the inner ply is generally the ply of material which defines the interior of the microwaveable popcorn arrangement or package.
  • the inner ply will preferably comprise a paper (typically highly refined) having a porosity, before inclusion in the bag, of no greater than 300,000 Gurley-sec.
  • a paper typically highly refined
  • it comprises a material having a porosity of no greater than 600,000 Gurley-sec, and most preferably it is made from a sheet material having a porosity of no greater than 950,000 Gurley-sec.
  • Gurley-sec is a unit of measurement for porosity, according to a test identified below. A higher number in Gurley-sec generally references a lower porosity.
  • the inner ply may include fields of sealant, adhesive or other (preferably non-fluorocarbon) material applied on the inner surface, if desired.
  • outer ply is meant to refer to the layer of paper that forms the outer surface of the microwaveable popcorn arrangement or flexible bag.
  • it comprises a paper (typically highly refined) having a porosity, before use in the bag, of no greater than 30,000 Gurley-sec, more preferably no greater than 35,000 Gurley-sec, most preferably no greater than 40,000 Gurley-sec.
  • the preferred inner ply and outer ply materials can be configured, in a variety of shapes and with the variety of seal arrangements, to form microwaveable popcorn arrangements.
  • An example is characterized herein, but alternatives are possible.
  • Typical preferred bags will be ones in which the two-ply arrangement is folded to define a bag interior including first and second, opposite, face panels joined by first and second, opposite, inwardly directed side gussets.
  • Each side gusset preferably comprises two panel sections, the first one adjacent the first face panel and the second one adjacent the second face panel.
  • the fluorocarbon treatment in at least one of the plies of paper has been considered to be very important with respect to obtaining desirable oil/fat retention characteristics, during storage, shipping and handling of the microwave popcorn products. Indeed many commercial paper microwave popcorn products, utilize fluorocarbon treated paper, to obtain desirable, reduced, wicking characteristics with respect to contained oil/fat within the unpopped popcorn charge contained therein.
  • microwave popcorn products which provide for desirable levels of operation in a variety of microwave popcorn charges therein, with respect to wicking characteristics of contained oil/fat, without the use of fluorocarbon treated papers.
  • highly refined fibers are more flexible. This can be important to microwave popcorn packaging, since with such packaging microfractures that occur during creasing and folding facilitate making the oil leakage. More flexible fibers will be less likely to be undesirably damaged, during folding or creasing processes.
  • film former is typically applied to the surface of the paper sheet.
  • film formers are copolymers of EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) and PVOH (poly vinyl alcohol) or acrylics.
  • EVA ethylene vinyl acetate
  • PVOH poly vinyl alcohol
  • acrylics An example is Johnson Polymer F41.
  • non-fluorocarbon (non-FCT) treated, highly refined, grease proof papers for use in microwave popcorn packaging are provided herein below.
  • Some commercially available types of paper which meet these general characteristics are obtainable from Rhinelander Paper Company, Inc., Rhinelander, Wisconsin, 54501.
  • Rhinelander is a Wausau-Mosinee Company.
  • the products are those designated by product code number 238-9577 and product code 238-9696.
  • product number 238-9577 is particularly well configured for use as the inner sheet of a microwave popcorn bag
  • product number 238-9696 is particularly useful as the outer ply of a microwave popcorn bag construction.
  • Wausau 238-9696 is preferred for the outer sheet typically due to its higher opacity or greater whiteness. (It is noted that Wausau 238-9646 is also useable for the outer ply. It is similar to 238-9696, but has a higher basis weight.)
  • high refined as used herein, sometimes abbreviated HR, is meant to have its ordinary definition from the paper making industry, in which in general oil and grease resistance is obtained in paper by reduction of porosity typically by refining an easily hydrated pulp to extremely low freeness, resulting in a closed sheet with a minimum or reduced space. Historically, valley beaters were used to accomplish this level of refinement. Modem paper mills generally use refiners to accomplish this.
  • the flexible paper material utilized for the inner sheet i.e., the sheet which defines the interior surface of the bag construction, have a porosity (Gurley-sec) of no more than 300,000, preferably no more than 600,000 and more preferably 950,000 or less.
  • Gurley-sec porosity
  • Wausau grade 238-9577 meets this qualification, as a non-fluorocarbon treated material, but Wausau grade 238-9696 does not.
  • higher numbers are lower porosity.
  • the statement "or less” actually refers to higher numbers.
  • the statement could alternately be "having a porosity value in Gurley-sec of at least 300,000, preferably at least 600,000 and more preferably at least 950,000."
  • the outer ply i.e., the layer which form the outer surface of a flexible microwave popcorn bag
  • highly refined paper material have a porosity (Gurley-sec) of no more than 30,000, preferably no more than 35,000 and typically and most preferably 40,000 or less.
  • Gurley-sec porosity
  • Wausau grade 238-9696 and Wausau grade 238-9577 meet this characteristic. (Also Wausau grade 238-9646, 25# paper is useable for this.)
  • each paper Preferably for each paper (ply), a material having basis wt. of 20-30 lb/ream (3000 sq. feet) is used. More preferably the basis wt. is not greater than 25 lbs/ream. Typically each sheet has a thickness (caliper) of 1.75 - 2.0 mils, typically no more than 1.9 mils, for example 1.8 - 1.9 mils.
  • Table 1 comparative characteristics of two materials, usable as outer plies in preferred microwave popcorn packaging, are provided.
  • the material designated "X” is a material commercially used for the outer ply in at least the following commercial products: Act II Butter (in 2003); Orville Reddenbacher Movie Theater Butter (2003); Act II Extreme Butter (2003). These products are manufactured and sold by ConAgra Foods, Inc., the assignee of the present invention.
  • the comparative is with the non-fluorocarbon treated, highly refined paper, Wausau Grade 238-9696 mentioned above.
  • the caliper dimension is in mils (thousandths of an inch).
  • Table 1 X Wausau Grade 238-9696 Non-FCT Outer Test Method Fluorochemically Treated Yes No Basis Weight 20.4 lbs/3000 sq.ft. 21 lbs/3000 sq.ft.
  • TAPPI T 410 om-98 Caliper 1.74 mils 1.81 mils TAPPI T 411 om-97 Porosity 136 Gurley-sec 42,000 Gurley-sec TAPPI T 536 om-96** Seffield Smoothness 71 Sheffield 135 Sheffield TAPPI T 538 om-96 Tear MD 18 grams force 18 grams force TAPPI T 414 om-98 Tear CD 10.2 grams force 11.5 grams force Opacity 52% 58% TAPPI T 425 3M Kit Wire 9 NA TAPPI 559 pm-96 3M Kit Felt 9 NA Color L 94.6 93.2 Datacolor instrument Color a -0.08 -0.02 (CIELAB/D50) Color b 3.8 1.6 Brightness 84.8 85% TAPPI T 452 om-98 Turpentine 2 minutes 10 seconds TAPPI T 454 om-94 RP-2 Crease* 100% 14% RP -2 (Ralston Purina) * % grid stained after 140F for 24 hours (grid
  • a comparative presentation is made of a fluorocarbon treated paper and a non-fluorocarbon treated paper, each of which is acceptable for use in preferred microwave popcorn packaging.
  • the paper designated "Y” is a fluorocarbon treated paper currently used as the inner ply of the microwave popcorn packaging of at least the above mentioned ConAgra commercial products.
  • the product designated Wausau Grade 238-9577 is a highly refined, non-fluorocarbon treated paper.
  • Table 2 Y Wausau Grade 238-9577 Non-FCT Inner Test Method Fluorochemically Treated Yes No Basis Weight 22.5 lbs/3000 sq. ft. 23 lbs/3000 sq. ft.
  • TAPPI T 410 om-98 Caliper 2.0 1.85 TAPPI T 411 om-97 Porosity 8000 Gurley-sec 999,999+ Gurley-sec TAPPI T 536 om-96** Seffeld Smoothness 150 Sheffield 151 Sheffield TAPPI T 538 om-96 Tear MD 17 grams force 16 grams force TAPPI T 414 om-98 Tear CD 18 grams force 8 grams force Opacity 42% 38% TAPPI T 425 3M Kit Wire 10 NA TAPPI 559 pm-96 3M Kit Felt 12 NA Color L 94.0 92.6 Datacolor instrument Color a -2.0 -1.5 (CIELAB/D50) Color b 6.0 5 Brightness 81 % 80% TAPPI T 452 om-98 Turpentine 180 minutes* 3 minutes TAPPI T 454 om-94 RP-2 Crease* 0.20% 1.90% RP -2 (Ralston Purina) * % grid stained after 140F for 24 hours (grid 10 cm
  • Microwave popcorn arrangements generally involve a collapsed package, having a microwave interactive sheet or susceptor operably positioned therein, and with a microwaveable popcorn charge positioned in a covering relation or thermoconductive relation to the microwave interactive construction.
  • the package is generally folded into a tri-fold configuration during storage and prior to use.
  • the tri-fold is typically positioned in a moisture barrier overwrap to enhance shelf life for the contents.
  • the microwave popcorn charge generally comprises at least 50 grams of unpopped popcorn kernels and at least 20 grams of oil/fat, typically having a melting point of under 130° F (54.4°C); often the popcorn charge contains at least 60 grams of unpopped popcorn kernels and at least 25 grams of oil/fat, having a melting point of under 130° F (54.4°C).
  • One pair of opposite edge folds is generally located on opposite sides of a first face panel in one tube of the bag, with a second pair of opposite edge folds at opposite sides of a second face panel in an opposite, second, tube.
  • the popcorn charge is generally placed in one of the two tubes, against a portion of a panel between the creased or folded side edges.
  • leakage or wicking adjacent selected creases or folds in the microwave popcorn construction can be better managed, if desired, than with conventional arrangements.
  • this can be managed by providing specific seal patterns or arrangements within the packaging.
  • it can be managed by applying material at selected regions on an interior of the package, to affect surface tension between oil and the internal ply of paper. For this latter, the same type of material (adhesive) as used for the seals, can be used.
  • the reference numeral 1, Fig. 1 depicts a microwaveable popcorn package according to the present disclosure.
  • the popcorn package 1 is depicted in a conventional "tri-fold" configuration 2, for storage.
  • the tri-fold 2 is sealed within a storage overwrap 3.
  • a useable storage overwrap 3 would comprise a 110-140 gauge, biaxially oriented, polypropylene, although other materials can be used. The overwrap 3 is discarded, when the popcorn package 1 is removed from storage, for use.
  • package 1 is shown stood up on an edge, as it would typically be when stored.
  • Package 1 has two opposite sides 5, 6, each side 5, 6, as discussed in detail below, comprising two side gusset outside edges, along which creases are located.
  • Fig. 1 the arrangement depicted in Fig. 1 is a "tri-fold.”
  • the invention is described and depicted in connection with an arrangement folded, or intended to be folded, as a tri-fold. It will be apparent, however, that the techniques according to the present disclosure can be utilized in other folded arrangements, i.e., even when the arrangements are not folded as "tri-folds," for storage.
  • a top plan view, package 1 is schematically shown in an unfolded configuration oriented much as it would be when positioned in a microwave oven for popping of an internally received popcorn charge, but before expansion.
  • lines 11 and 12 indicate fold lines which define central region 13 in the arrangement and which formed the folds to make the trifold, Fig. 1.
  • the unpopped popcorn charge will generally be positioned in an orientation against, and when oriented as shown in Fig. 2 above, a portion of the package 1 in which a microwave interactive construction is preferably positioned.
  • microwave interactive is meant to refer to a material which absorbs energy and becomes hot, upon exposure to microwave energy in a microwave oven.
  • the microwave interactive material absorbs microwave energy and dissipates heat to the popcorn charge.
  • the microwave interactive material occupies at least central region 13 (internally) and is in greater thermoconductive contact with a portion of that region than any other portions of an interior of popcorn package 1. That is, most of the microwave interactive material (by area or weight) is positioned in thermoconductive contact with a region of the bag interior whereat the microwave interactive will be covered by the popping charge, when the package 1 is positioned in a microwave oven for material use. This is preferred, since it leads to a preferred and efficient utilization of microwave interactive material and also due to preferred heat transfer or heat retention characteristics in connection with the popcorn popping process. This technique is also used in conventional arrangements, such as those of the incorporated references.
  • Fig. 4 a cross-section taken generally along line 4-4, Fig. 2.
  • the popcorn package generally comprises a construction defining first and second opposite face panels 20, 21 joined by first and second, opposite, inwardly directed side gussets 22, 23.
  • inwardly directed in this context it is meant that, in the cross-section of Fig. 4, gussets 22, 23 point or extend toward one another.
  • the gussets 22 and 23 generally separate popcorn package 1 into first and second expandable tubes 28 and 29.
  • a popcorn charge 30 is substantially positioned and substantially retained within one of the tubes, in this instance tube 29.
  • the other tube, tube 28, prior to popping, is generally collapsed. Indeed, in preferred arrangements, tube 28 is sealed closed by temporary heat seals, prior to the popping operation.
  • side gusset 22 generally comprises: outwardly directed edge creases or folds 33 and 34, fold 34 being adjacent face panel 21 and fold 33 being adjacent face panel 20; and, inwardly directed, central, fold 35.
  • gusset 23 comprises: outwardly directed edge creases or folds 38 and 39; and, inwardly directed central fold 40; fold 39 being adjacent face panel 21 and fold 38 being adjacent face panel 20.
  • Package I for the arrangement shown in Fig. 4, is folded from a two ply sheet of material, and panel 20 includes central longitudinal seam 42 therein.
  • Such folds as folds 33, 34, 35, 38, 39 and 40 are known for flexible microwave packaging, for example as shown in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,044,777 ; 5,195 , 829 ; and, 5,650,084 .
  • arrangement or package 1 includes microwave interactive construction or susceptor 45.
  • the microwave interactive construction or susceptor 45 may be of a conventional design. In certain arrangements, such as the one shown in Fig. 4, the susceptor 45 is positioned between layers or plies 46, 47 from which the flexible package 1 is folded.
  • a typical microwave interactive construction comprises a flexible, metallized polyester sheet. Even with the susceptor 45 positioned between sheets 46, 47, the package 1 is referenced as two-ply. For the example shown, the susceptor 45 only occupies a portion of the area between the plies 46, 47.
  • region 21 a an inside surface of panel 21 is shown.
  • Region 21 a defines an unpopped popcorn charge retention surface. This is because the unpopped popcorn charge 30 is generally positioned in contact with surface 21a, and generally sitting on surface 21a, when the package 1 is positioned in a microwave oven, for popping.
  • the gusset 23 includes a panel section 49 adjacent to, and integral with, face panel 21; and, gusset 22 includes panel section 48 adjacent to, and integral with, face panel 21.
  • FIG. 3 a top plan view of a bag blank, panel or sheet 60 from which an arrangement according to Figs. 1 and 2 can be folded, is shown.
  • Many of the features illustrated in Fig. 3 are generally analogous to features shown and described in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,195,829 ; 5,044,777 ; and 5,650,084 .
  • sealant arrangements are utilized to provide for desirable features in the package 1. Any or all of these can be implemented, as well as variations, as desired.
  • the sealant fields indicated are meant to provide an example of a useable system.
  • the view in Fig. 3 is of what is sometimes referred to as the "backside” of sheet 60; i.e., the side 65 of sheet 60 which forms the interior surface of the assembled package 1, Fig. 1.
  • the side opposite the side viewable in Fig. 3, is sometimes referred to as the "front side,” and will form the exterior surface of the package 1.
  • a mirror image arrangement is also possible.
  • line segment 62 defines a region 63 within which, for preferred embodiments, most of the microwave interactive material, such as a microwave interactive material and construction, or susceptor 45, would be associated.
  • the microwave interactive construction for example susceptor 45, Fig. 4, may be positioned on an interior of the arrangement, an exterior, or between plies 46, 47. In general, for preferred embodiments, susceptor 45 is positioned between plies 46, 47 of the sheet 60.
  • the surface 65 viewed is the surface which, when package 1 has been folded, forms the interior surface of the package 1.
  • the popcorn charge 30, Fig. 4 then, will eventually be positioned over central region 63.
  • line 66 generally indicates where fold 34, Fig. 4, will be formed; and, line 67 generally indicates where fold 39, Fig. 4, will be formed.
  • Folds or creases 34, 39 are generally outwardly directed folds or creases in opposite side gussets 22, 23 adjacent one face 21. Surface 21a, for positioning of a popcorn charge thereon, in use, extends between the folds 34, 39.
  • Line 68 corresponds with fold 35 (Fig. 4); line 69 with fold 40 (Fig. 4); line 70 with fold 33 (Fig. 4); and, line 71 with fold 38 (Fig. 4).
  • region 75 between fold lines 68 and 66, will generally define gusset panel section 48, Fig. 4; and, region 77 between fold lines 67 and 69 will generally define gusset panel section 49, Fig. 4.
  • the tri-fold, Fig. 1 is eventually formed by folding the overall package 1 such that it folds along lines 80 and 81, respectively. It will be understood that this latter folding would generally be after the bag construction, Fig. 2, has been otherwise assembled.
  • Line 81 will form the bottom edge, Fig. 1. Referring to Figs. 3 and 2, line 80 will form fold 11 and line 81 will form fold 12.
  • sealant field 84 along edge 84a positioned an opposite side of sheet 60 from side 65, is used to engage field 85 (positioned along edge 85a), during folding (with applied heat and pressure), to form the longitudinal seam or seal 42, Fig. 4.
  • field 85 positioned along edge 85a
  • various portions of field 89 along edge 89a on side 65 will line up with one another to form various portions of end seal 90, Fig. 2 (with application of heat and pressure); and, various portions of field 92, along edge 92a on side 65, Fig. 3, will line with one another to form end seal 93, Fig. 2, with application of heat and pressure.
  • field 92 will form a top edge of the completed bag, through which popped popcorn is removed, after popping.
  • Sealant fields 95 and 96, on the opposite side of the sheet 60, Fig. 3, will align with one another, when folding around fold line 68 is conducted, and heat and pressure are applied, to help secure sheet 60 in a preferred configuration, along end 90, Fig. 2, after folding. This is analogous to what was done in the arrangement of U.S. Patent No. 5,195,829 , Fig. 1a.
  • sealant fields 98 and 99, on underside of sheet 60, Fig. 3 are aligned with one another when the panel is folded around fold line 69, also to provide a secure end and preferred end configuration to end 90, Fig. 2, when heat and pressure are applied.
  • sealant fields 120, 121, 122, 123 When the arrangement is folded about fold line 66, sealant field 120 aligns with (and with pressure and heat is sealed to) sealant field 121; and, when the arrangement is folded about fold line 67, sealant field 123 aligns with (and with pressure and heat is sealed to) sealant field 122.
  • the engagement between fields 120, 121 (with heat and pressure) further ensures that the panel 48 will be sealed against the panel 21 (Fig. 4); and, the engagement between fields 123 and 122 (with heat and pressure) will further ensure that panel 49 is sealed against panel 21, at regions whereat the popcorn charge 30 is not positioned.
  • This is similar to the utilization of fields in Fig. 1, of U.S. patent 5,195,829 .
  • the shape and direction of fields 105, 106, 107, 108, 120, 121, 122 and 123 help ensure that central section 63 will remain relatively flat, as the package 1 expands in use under the steam from popping popcorn.
  • sealant fields 129, 130, 133 and 134 are also used to ensure that panels 115 and 116 are sealed against panel 20, Fig. 4, so that the popcorn charge 30 is substantially retained in tube 29 (Fig. 4), and does not expand or spread substantially into tube 28 until desired during heating.
  • fields 129 and 130 are oriented to engage one another, when the arrangement is folded about fold line 70 (with application of heat and pressure); and, fields 133 and 134 are oriented to engage one another, when the arrangement is folded about fold line 71 (with application of heat and pressure).
  • sealing results from application of heat and pressure, after folding, to the region where the sealant is located. It is noted that for the various seals discussed, sealant is positioned on both adjoining paper surfaces. This is convenient. However if sealant is only positioned on one side, and the two sides are folded together with follow-up application of appropriate heat and pressure, a seal can be formed.
  • sealant fields discussed are configured to form seals with application of heat and pressure.
  • seals for example cold seals, could be implemented in arrangements according to the present disclosure.
  • sealant field 151 When the fold around fold line 66 is made, sealant field 151 will overlap sealant field 150, with gusset fold insulating seal 155, Fig. 4, resulting by provision of appropriate heat and pressure. Similarly, when folding around fold line 67 occurs, field 154 will overlap field 153, with gusset fold insulating seal 156, Fig. 4, resealing when appropriate heat and pressure are applied.
  • the popcorn charge When the popcorn charge is positioned in region 63, the popcorn charge, and components such as oil/fat therein, are inhibited from flow to, i.e., from reaching, creases or folds 66, 67 (i.e., creases at 34, 39, Fig. 4), due to the presence of the seals 155, 156.
  • the seals 155, 156 can be configured to release, upon exposure to steam and heat during a microwave popcorn popping operation, if desired. However, such a release is typically not preferred, when these seals are used.
  • seals of the type of seals 155, 156 are sometimes be referred to herein as "insulating seals" with respect to an associated (typically adjacent) crease or fold. This is because these seals insulate the crease or fold, during package 1 storage, with respect to flow of material from within the popcorn charge, to direct contact with the associated crease or fold.
  • seal 155 is an insulating sealant field with respect to fold or crease along line 66 to form crease or fold 34 (Fig. 4); and field 156 is an insulating sealant field with respect to fold or crease line 67; i.e., fold or crease 39 (Fig. 4).
  • fields 150, 151, 153 and 154 are continuous, i.e. without gaps therein, in extension along the folds 66, 67 respectively, defining edges 63a, 63b of central region 63.
  • This continuous nature to the sealant fields, and in the resulting seals 155, 156 (Fig. 4) helps inhibit undesirable wicking or leaking at the creases caused in folds 66, 69. It is noted that some beneficial results would be obtained even if the insulating fields were not continuous, provided any gaps were sufficiently small.
  • a preferred total length to the fields 150, 151 and 153, 154 is preferably at least 20% (usually at least 25% and typically at least 30%) of the entire length of the package (or length of the folds 66, 69) between ends 190, 193 (Fig. 2). More preferably there are each at least 45% of the length of the package 1, Fig. 2 or folds 66, 69, Fig. 3; most preferably and typically the length of the fields 150, 151, 153, 154 in the longitudinal direction of extension of the package, is 50% - 60% of the total length of package 1, or folds 66, 69, (Fig. 3), between ends 90, 93. While alternatives are possible, these will be preferred seals.
  • the portions of sheet 60 that form ends 90, 93, Fig. 2 are edges 92a and 89a, respectively.
  • seals 155, 156 are at least positioned and configured to extend continuously between the folds 80, 81 of the tri-fold (corresponding folds 11, 12 respectively, Fig. 2). It can be seen from Fig. 3, that the sealant fields that form seals 155, 156 extend even further than this.
  • the fields 150, 151, 153, 154, Fig. 3 terminate with ends spaced from associated edges 92a, 89a of the package sheet 60, which will correspond to ends 90, 93 of the folded package 1, Fig. 2.
  • the spacing is at least 70 mm (for example about 80-95 mm) from edge 89a; and, at least 70 mm from edge 92a.
  • the spacing will not necessarily be the same, from each edge 89a, 92a. Indeed, in the embodiment shown it is not.
  • sealant fields 160, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165 and 166 are now directed to sealant fields 160, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165 and 166.
  • field 160 will overlap field 161, with formation of a seal therebetween, upon application of heat and pressure.
  • field 162 will overlap field 163, with formation of a seal therebetween upon application of heat and pressure.
  • Region 164 will seal to regions 165, 166, when folding around fold lines 68, 70, 69 and 71 occur, after application of heat and pressure.
  • region 151a of sealant field 160 is also part of field 150.
  • region 150a in region 161 is also part of region 150.
  • the net result will be formation of a region in a folded package 11 of a transverse containment seal extending between gusset fold insulating seals 155, 156, Fig. 4.
  • This sealant field will help contain oil/fat within the popcorn 30, at a location between seals 155, 156, Fig. 4, and also at a location over center 63, during storage and use.
  • the transverse containment seal is preferably continuous in extension between insulating seals 155, 156, although alternatives are possible.
  • the seals formed by fields 160, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165 and 166 can be made releasable seals, i.e., such that heat, steam and package expansion, during a popping operation, will generally open these seals.
  • the fields indicated at 200, with the dotted print pattern, are indicating a preferred location for having continuous coverage, depending, in part, on the nature of the paper used for the plies 46, 47. This is because the sealant can preferably be chosen to provide some beneficial greaseproof effect. In the regions that are not dotted, it is expected that a discontinuous coverage can be used.
  • seals 155, 156 are at least 0.25 cm wide, typically and preferably at least 0.5 cm wide, typically about 0.8 - 1.4 cm. wide.
  • the "width” is the distance of extension inwardly, i.e., toward each other, from edges 155a, 156a, respectively.
  • the seals 155, 156 do not need to be of constant width, although they are shown this way.
  • a typical popcorn product containing a charge of about 20-90 grams, typically about 60-75 grams of popcorn.
  • the charge may be conventional and also contain oil/fat and/or flavorings, with a total weight of about 90-100 grams.
  • the issue for which the present invention provides advantage relates to reducing undesired levels of leakage of oil/fat through the package side wall, during storage and handling.
  • sheet 60 Fig. 3
  • the various fold lines would be oriented such that region 63, defined by line 62, would have an outer perimeter of about 5.625 inches by 6.5 inches (14.3 cm by 16.5 cm).
  • the multi-ply laminate for sheet 60 could comprise the following materials, although alternates are possible.
  • the non-fluorocarbon treated sheet of paper which forms the outer surface of the bag, when folded, would be Wausau Grade 238-9696 or a similar paper with the preferred characteristics described herein.
  • the non-fluorocarbon treated sheet of paper which forms the innermost ply paper would be Wausau Grade 238-9577 or a similar paper with the preferred characteristics described herein.
  • the microwave interactive or susceptor arrangement would preferably be positioned between the two plies.
  • the microwave interactive material would preferably comprise metallized polyester such as a Saehan America, Fort Lee, N.J. polyester film (typically 48 gauge) vacuum metallized with aluminum to give a density of 0.25 +/- 0.05 as measured by a Tobias densitometer. Companies which can prepare such a material include: Rolvac, Windham NH; and Vacumet Corp., Wood Dale, IL.
  • the same adhesive for example PWF 3007, H.B. Fuller, St. Paul, MN
  • the seal is formed with either relatively low pressure, by comparison to other locations, over less surface area of contact between the secured surfaces, or both. Conventional techniques to accomplish this may be used.
  • PWF 3007 or PWF 8540 (also available from H.B. Fuller) can be used.
  • PWF 8540 is an ethylene vinyl acetate-polyvinyl alcohol (EVA-PVOH) adhesive, and can be used to improve greaseproofness.
  • EVA-PVOH ethylene vinyl acetate-polyvinyl alcohol
  • Fig. 5 in which various dimensions and angles are indicated with letters. These provide an example, of a useable package.
  • the dimensions for the particular example shown are as follows: (A) 21 inches (53.3 cm); (B) 3.4375 inches (8.73 cm); (C) 2.0625 inches (5.24 cm); (D) 2.0625 inches (5.24 cm); (E) 5.8750 inches (14.9 cm); (F) 1.0 inches (2.54 cm); (G) 0.8579 inches (2.18 cm); (H) 2.9375 inches (7.46 cm); (I) 37°; (J) 0.375 inches (0.953 cm); (K) 5.6250 inches (14.3 cm); (L) 0.5 inches (1.27 cm); (M) 2.5625 inches (6.51 cm); (N) 5.8750 inches (14.9 cm); (O) 5.1875 inches (13.2 cm); (P) 6.5 inches (16.5 cm); (Q) 1.6875 inches (4.29 cm); (R) 0.2 inches (0.51 cm); (S) 1.1562 inches (2.94 cm); (T
  • Fig. 6 a top plan view of a bag blank, panel or sheet 260 from which an alternate arrangement according to Fig. 1 can be folded, is shown.
  • Many of the features illustrated in Fig. 6 are generally analogous to features shown and described in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,195,829 ; 5,044,777 ; and 5,650,084 , as well as above with respect to Fig. 3.
  • a variety of sealant arrangements are utilized to provide for desirable features in the package 1. Various combinations of these can be implemented, as well as variations, as desired.
  • the sealant fields indicated are meant to provide examples of useable arrangements.
  • sealant fields are indicated that can be alternatively or optionally used, to provide desirable arrangements. This will be understood from further descriptions below.
  • the view in Fig. 6 is of what is sometimes referred to as the "backside” of sheet 260; i.e., the side 265 of sheet 260 which forms the interior surface of the assembled package 1, Fig. 1.
  • the side opposite the side viewable in Fig. 6, is sometimes referred to as the "front side,” and will form the exterior surface of the package 1.
  • a mirror image arrangement is also possible.
  • line segment 262 defines a region 263 within which, for preferred embodiments, most of the microwave interactive material, such as a susceptor 45, Fig. 4, would be associated.
  • the microwave interactive construction for example susceptor 45, Fig. 4, may be positioned on an interior of the arrangement, an exterior, or between plies 46, 47. In general, for preferred embodiments, susceptor 45 is positioned between plies 46, 47 of the blank 260.
  • the surface 265 viewed is the surface which, when package 1 has been folded, forms the interior surface of the package 1.
  • the popcorn charge 30, Fig. 4 then, will eventually be positioned over central region 263.
  • line 266 generally indicates where fold 34, Fig. 4, will be formed; and, line 267 generally indicates where fold 39, Fig. 4, will be formed.
  • Folds or creases 34, 39 are generally outwardly directed folds or creases in opposite side gussets 22, 23 adjacent one face 21. Surface 21 a, for positioning of a popcorn charge thereon, in use, extends between the folds 34, 39.
  • Line 268 corresponds with fold 35 (Fig. 4); line 269 with fold 40 (Fig. 4); line 270 with fold 33 (Fig. 4); and, line 271 with fold 38 (Fig. 4).
  • region 275, between fold lines 268 and 266, will generally define gusset panel section 48, Fig. 4; and, region 277 between fold lines 267 and 269 will generally define gusset panel section 49, Fig. 4.
  • the tri-fold, Fig. 1 is eventually formed by folding the overall package 1 such that it folds along appropriately spaced perpendicular to lines 266, 267, 268, 269, 270, 271. It will be understood that this latter folding would generally be after the bag construction, Fig. 2, has been otherwise assembled.
  • sealant field 284, along edge 284a positioned an opposite side of panel 260 from side 265, is used to engage field 285 along edge 285a, during folding (typically with applied heat and pressure), to form the longitudinal seam or seal 42, Fig. 4.
  • various portions of field 289 along edge 289a on side 265 will line up with one another to form various portions of end seal 90, Fig. 2 (typically with application of heat and pressure); and, various portions of field 292, along edge 292a on side 265, Fig. 6, will line with one another to form end seal 93, Fig. 2, typically with application of heat and pressure.
  • field 292 will form a top edge of the completed bag, through which popped popcorn is removed, after popping.
  • Sealant fields 295 and 296, on the opposite side of the panel 260, Fig. 6, will align with one another, when folding around fold line 268 is conducted, and heat and pressure are applied, to help secure panel 260 in a preferred configuration, along end 90, Fig. 2, after folding. This is analogous to what was done in the arrangement of U.S. patent 5,195,829 , Fig. 1 a.
  • sealant fields 298 and 299, on underside of panel 260, Fig. 6, are aligned with one another when the panel is folded around fold line 269, also to provide a secure end and preferred end configuration to end 90, Fig. 2, when heat and pressure are applied.
  • fields 303a-310a indicate optional extensions to fields 303, 310 respectively, to create a V or chevron shape to the overlapping seals. These can be and have been used in popcorn packaging, as indicated in U.S. patent 5,195,829 . However the optional portions 303a-310a can be avoided to advantage, if desired. This is because extensions 303-310 project at an angle appropriate to generate the desirable resulting seal in the folded arrangement, without necessarily using the complete chevron shape.
  • sealant fields 329, 330, 333 and 334 are used to ensure that panels 315 and 316 are sealed against panel 20, Fig. 4, so that the popcorn charge 30 is substantially retained in tube 29 (Fig. 4), and does not expand or spread substantially into tube 28 until desired during heating.
  • fields 329 and 330 are oriented to engage one another, when the arrangement is folded about fold line 270 (with application of heat and pressure); and, fields 333 and 334 are oriented to engage one another, when the arrangement is folded about fold line 271 (with application of heat and pressure).
  • sealing results from application of heat and pressure, after folding, to the region where the sealant is located. It is noted that for the various seals discussed, sealant is positioned on both adjoining paper surfaces. This is convenient. However if sealant is only positioned on one side, and the two sides are folded together with follow-up application of appropriate heat and pressure, a seal can be formed.
  • sealant fields discussed are configured to form seals with application of heat and pressure.
  • seals for example cold seals, could be implemented in arrangements according to the present disclosure.
  • sealant fields are used in one of two ways, as follows. First, a sealant field can actually be used to form an insulating seal, to manage location of the oil/fat, by insulating it from portions of the package. Secondly, application of a sealant to a paper surface changes the surface tension properties of that surface, and thus its interaction with the oil/fat material. In general the properties of the sealants used will operate for some containment of the oil/fat material into untreated locations. Thus, sealant fields can be applied to the paper at preferred locations where it is desired to inhibit flow of the oil/fat material as its liquefies. Both of these properties are discussed below, and options for implementing them.
  • fields 350, 351 are integral with one another, and meet at fold line 260, and that similarly fields 353, 354 are integral with one another and meet at fold line 267, although this is not required.
  • fields 350, 351 are parts of a single field with fold line 260 therethrough, and preferably fields 353, 354 are parts of a single field with fold line 267 therethrough.
  • sealant field 351 When the fold around fold line 266 is made, sealant field 351 will overlap sealant field 350, with gusset fold insulating seal 155, Fig. 4, resulting by provision of appropriate heat and pressure. Similarly, when folding around fold line 267 occurs, field 354 will overlap field 353, with gusset fold insulating seal 156, Fig. 4, resealing when appropriate heat and pressure are applied.
  • the popcorn charge When the popcorn charge is positioned in region 263, the popcorn charge, and components such as oil/fat therein, would be inhibited from flow to, creases or folds 266, 267 (i.e., creases at 34, 39, Fig. 4), due to the presence of the seals 155, 156.
  • the seals 155, 156 would typically be configured to release, upon exposure to steam and heat during a microwave popcorn popping operation.
  • seals of the type of seals 155, 156 are sometimes be referred to herein as "insulating seals" with respect to an associated (typically adjacent) crease or fold. This is because these seals insulate the crease or fold, during package 1 storage, with respect to flow of material from within the popcorn charge, to direct contact with the associated crease or fold.
  • seal 155 is an insulating sealant field with respect to fold or crease along line 266 to form crease or fold 34 (Fig. 4); and field 156 is an insulating sealant field with respect to fold or crease line 267; i.e., fold or crease 39 (Fig. 4).
  • fields 350, 351, 353 and 354 are continuous, i.e. without gaps therein, in extension along the folds 266, 267.
  • This continuous nature to the sealant fields, and in the resulting seals 155, 156 (Fig. 4) would help inhibit undesirable wicking or leaking at the creases caused in folds 266, 269. It is noted that some beneficial results would be obtained even if the insulating fields were not continuous.
  • a preferred total length to the fields 350, 351 and 353, 354 is preferably at least 20% (usually at least 25% and typically at least 30%) of the entire length of the package (or length of the folds 266, 269) between ends 90, 93 (Fig. 2). More preferably there are each at least 45% of the length of the package 1, Fig. 2 or folds 266, 269, Fig. 6; most preferably and typically the length of the fields 350, 351, 353, 354 in the longitudinal direction of extension of the package, is 50% - 60% of the total length of package 1, or folds 266, 269, (Fig. 7), between ends 90, 93. While alternatives are possible, these will be preferred seals.
  • the portions of blank 260 that form ends 90, 93, Fig. 2 are edges 292a and 289a, respectively.
  • seals 155, 156 are at least positioned and configured to extend continuously between the folds of the trifold (corresponding folds 11, 12 respectively, Fig. 2).
  • the fields 350, 351, 353, 354, Fig. 6, terminate with ends spaced from associated edges 292a, 289a of the package blank 260, which will correspond to ends 90, 93 of the folded package 1, Fig. 2.
  • the spacing is at least 70 mm (for example about 80-95 mm) from edge 289a; and, at least 70 mm from edge 292a.
  • the spacing will not necessarily be the same, from each edge 289a, 292a. Indeed, in the embodiment shown it is not.
  • sealant fields 375, 376 can help contain oil/fat material positioned in region 377.
  • sealant treatment in regions 380 can be used for this purpose. That is, it would not actually form seals, but rather comprise surface treatments to inhibit undesirable flow of oil/fat material from region 377.
  • the fields indicated at 400, with the dotted print pattern, are indicating a preferred location for having continuous coverage, depending, in part, on the nature of the paper used for the plies 46, 47. This is because the sealant can preferably be chosen to provide some beneficial greaseproof effect.
  • a discontinuous adhesive coverage such as, for example, described in: 5,753,895; 5,928,554 and 6,396,036, each of which is incorporated herein by reference, can be used.
  • seals 155, 156 are at least 0.25 cm wide, typically and preferably at least 0.5 cm wide, typically about 0.8 - 1.4 cm. wide.
  • the "width” is the distance of extension inwardly, i.e., toward each other, from edges 155a, 156a, respectively.
  • the seals 155, 156 do not need to be of constant width, although they are shown this way.
  • Fig. 7 is a view analogous to Fig. 6, except with letter designations of certain dimensions.
  • the dimensions provided herein, are for an example, as follows: (A) 21 inches (53.3 cm); (B) 3.4375 inches (8.7 cm); (C) 2.0625 inches (5.2 cm); (D) 2.0625 inches (5.2 cm); (E) 5.8750 inches (14.9 cm); (F) 2.0625 inches (5.2 cm); (G) 2.0625 inches (5.2 cm); (H) 3.4375 inches (8.7 cm); (I) 1 inch (2.5 cm); (J) 2.9375 inches (7.5 cm); (K) 0.2000 inches (0.5 cm); (L) 1.1562 inches (2.9 cm); (M) 0.8579 inches (2.2 cm); (N) 0.1875 inches (0.5 cm); (O) 10.0000 inches (25.4 cm); (P) 5.6250 inches (14.3 cm); (Q) 0.5 inches (1.3 cm); (R) 0.5 inches (1.3 cm); (S) 2.5625 inches (6.5 cm); (T) 5.87
  • non-fluorocarbon treated paper is characterized in the section as used, the following adhesives are example of useable materials.
  • PWF 3007 available from H.B. Fuller, St. Paul, Minnesota can be used.
  • PWF 8540 also available from H.B. Fuller, can be used.
  • a preferred microwave popcorn product with respect to avoidance of fluorocarbon treated package materials, results when the preferred papers defined are used.
  • the package is such that it is a folded bag having a bag interior and including a first and second opposite face panels joined by first and second opposite, inwardly directed, side gussets.
  • a popcorn charge is positioned on an inside surface or against an inside surface of the first face panel.
  • a microwave interactive construction is positioned in association with a bag, between the two plies.
  • the microwave interactive construction is provided in thermoconductive contact with a popcorn charge retention surface, i.e., a portion of the inside of the bag against which the microwave popcorn charge is placed.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Food Science & Technology (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Grain Derivatives (AREA)
  • Packages (AREA)
  • Package Specialized In Special Use (AREA)
  • Bag Frames (AREA)
  • Cookers (AREA)

Claims (6)

  1. Emballage pour maïs soufflé pour cuisson au micro-ondes (1), comprenant :
    (a) un emballage formant un sac plié ayant un intérieur et comprenant une couche interne de papier traité non fluorocarboné et une couche externe de papier traité non fluorocarboné ;
    (i) la couche interne ayant une porosité inférieure ou égale à 300 000 Gurley/s ; et
    (ii) la couche externe ayant une porosité inférieure ou égale à 30 000 Gurley/s ; et,
    (b) une charge de maïs soufflé comprenant des grains de maïs non soufflés et un composant d'huile/matière grasse positionnés à l'intérieur du sac.
  2. Emballage pour maïs soufflé pour cuisson au micro-ondes selon la revendication 1, dans lequel:
    (a) la couche interne a une porosité inférieure ou égale à 600 000 Gurley/s et,
    (b) la couche externe a une porosité inférieure ou égale à 35 000 Gurley/s.
  3. Emballage pour maïs soufflé pour cuisson au micro-ondes selon la revendication 2, dans lequel :
    (a) la couche interne a une porosité inférieure ou égale à 950 000 Gurley/s ; et
    (b) la couche externe a une porosité inférieure ou égale à 40 000 Gurley/s.
  4. Emballage pour mais soufflé pour cuisson au micro-ondes selon la revendication 3, comprenant .
    (a) une construction d'interaction pour micro-ondes positionnée entre la couche interne de papier traité non fluorocarboné et la couche externe de papier traité non fluorocarboné.
  5. Emballage pour maïs soufflé pour cuisson au micro-ondes selon la revendication 4, dans lequel :
    (a) la charge de maïs soufflé comprend : au moins 50 grammes de grains de maïs non soufflés ; et au moins 20 grammes d'un composant d'huile/matière grasse ayant un point de fusion inférieur ou égal à 54,4°C.
  6. Emballage pour maïs soufflé pour cuisson au micro-ondes selon la revendication 5, dans lequel .
    (a) le sac plié comprend un premier et un second panneaux de face (20, 21) opposés reliés par un premier et un second soufflets latéraux (22, 23) opposés orientés vers l'intérieur.
EP05725441A 2004-03-12 2005-03-11 Emballage pour mais souffle compatible micro-ondes Not-in-force EP1737756B1 (fr)

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US55256004P 2004-03-12 2004-03-12
US57470304P 2004-05-25 2004-05-25
PCT/US2005/008257 WO2005090200A1 (fr) 2004-03-12 2005-03-11 Emballage pour mais souffle compatible micro-ondes

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US7858909B2 (en) * 2004-02-13 2010-12-28 Conagra Foods Rdm, Inc. Microwave popcorn bag construction with seal arrangement for containing oil/fat, microwave popcorn product, and methods
US8282539B2 (en) 2008-12-22 2012-10-09 Exopack, Llc Multi-layered bags and methods of manufacturing the same
US20070047852A1 (en) * 2005-08-29 2007-03-01 Exopack-Technology, Llc Grease-resistant pinch-bottom bag, adhesive closure for bag, and related methods
US20070042146A1 (en) * 2005-08-19 2007-02-22 Exopack-Technology, Llc Grease-resistant bag and related methods
US9056697B2 (en) 2008-12-15 2015-06-16 Exopack, Llc Multi-layered bags and methods of manufacturing the same
US8604399B2 (en) 2009-10-19 2013-12-10 Exopack, Llc Microwavable bags for use with liquid oil and related methods
US20110314640A1 (en) * 2010-06-26 2011-12-29 Reynolds Patrick M Attachable Gel Strap Wrap and Method
US10227172B2 (en) * 2012-08-07 2019-03-12 Quinn Foods, Llc Microwave popcorn bag
US20210086976A1 (en) * 2018-02-19 2021-03-25 Conagra Foods Rdm, Inc. Microwave popcorn bag

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US7858909B2 (en) * 2004-02-13 2010-12-28 Conagra Foods Rdm, Inc. Microwave popcorn bag construction with seal arrangement for containing oil/fat, microwave popcorn product, and methods

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JP2007528828A (ja) 2007-10-18
ATE382560T1 (de) 2008-01-15
WO2005090200A9 (fr) 2007-03-15
WO2005090200A1 (fr) 2005-09-29
AU2005223768A1 (en) 2005-09-29
CA2559257C (fr) 2013-01-29
US20080268106A1 (en) 2008-10-30
DE602005004137D1 (de) 2008-02-14
CA2559257A1 (fr) 2005-09-29
EP1737756A1 (fr) 2007-01-03

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