GB2562619A - Method and packaging for use in storage and reheating of potato crisps and other food products - Google Patents

Method and packaging for use in storage and reheating of potato crisps and other food products Download PDF

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Publication number
GB2562619A
GB2562619A GB1805762.0A GB201805762A GB2562619A GB 2562619 A GB2562619 A GB 2562619A GB 201805762 A GB201805762 A GB 201805762A GB 2562619 A GB2562619 A GB 2562619A
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GB
United Kingdom
Prior art keywords
layer
packaging
film
foodstuff
laminate
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.)
Withdrawn
Application number
GB1805762.0A
Other versions
GB201805762D0 (en
Inventor
Strathern Robert
Glennan Richard
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Fairfields Farm Produce Ltd
Original Assignee
Fairfields Farm Produce Ltd
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from GBGB1705567.4A external-priority patent/GB201705567D0/en
Priority claimed from GBGB1721742.3A external-priority patent/GB201721742D0/en
Application filed by Fairfields Farm Produce Ltd filed Critical Fairfields Farm Produce Ltd
Publication of GB201805762D0 publication Critical patent/GB201805762D0/en
Publication of GB2562619A publication Critical patent/GB2562619A/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B27/00—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin
    • B32B27/06—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin as the main or only constituent of a layer, which is next to another layer of the same or of a different material
    • B32B27/08—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin as the main or only constituent of a layer, which is next to another layer of the same or of a different material of synthetic resin
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B27/00—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin
    • B32B27/18—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin characterised by the use of special additives
    • B32B27/20—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin characterised by the use of special additives using fillers, pigments, thixotroping agents
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B27/00—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin
    • B32B27/32—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin comprising polyolefins
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B27/00—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin
    • B32B27/36—Layered products comprising a layer of synthetic resin comprising polyesters
    • 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
    • B65D75/00—Packages comprising articles or materials partially or wholly enclosed in strips, sheets, blanks, tubes, or webs of flexible sheet material, e.g. in folded wrappers
    • B65D75/008—Standing pouches, i.e. "Standbeutel"
    • 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
    • B65D75/00—Packages comprising articles or materials partially or wholly enclosed in strips, sheets, blanks, tubes, or webs of flexible sheet material, e.g. in folded wrappers
    • B65D75/52—Details
    • B65D75/58—Opening or contents-removing devices added or incorporated during package manufacture
    • B65D75/5805—Opening or contents-removing devices added or incorporated during package manufacture for tearing a side strip parallel and next to the edge, e.g. by means of a line of weakness
    • 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
    • B65D75/00—Packages comprising articles or materials partially or wholly enclosed in strips, sheets, blanks, tubes, or webs of flexible sheet material, e.g. in folded wrappers
    • B65D75/52—Details
    • B65D75/58—Opening or contents-removing devices added or incorporated during package manufacture
    • B65D75/5827—Tear-lines provided in a wall portion
    • 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
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2250/00—Layers arrangement
    • B32B2250/03—3 layers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2250/00—Layers arrangement
    • B32B2250/24—All layers being polymeric
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2250/00—Layers arrangement
    • B32B2250/40—Symmetrical or sandwich layers, e.g. ABA, ABCBA, ABCCBA
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2307/00—Properties of the layers or laminate
    • B32B2307/30—Properties of the layers or laminate having particular thermal properties
    • B32B2307/31—Heat sealable
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2307/00—Properties of the layers or laminate
    • B32B2307/40—Properties of the layers or laminate having particular optical properties
    • B32B2307/402—Coloured
    • B32B2307/4026—Coloured within the layer by addition of a colorant, e.g. pigments, dyes
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2307/00—Properties of the layers or laminate
    • B32B2307/40—Properties of the layers or laminate having particular optical properties
    • B32B2307/41—Opaque
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2307/00—Properties of the layers or laminate
    • B32B2307/50—Properties of the layers or laminate having particular mechanical properties
    • B32B2307/514—Oriented
    • B32B2307/518—Oriented bi-axially
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2307/00—Properties of the layers or laminate
    • B32B2307/70—Other properties
    • B32B2307/718—Weight, e.g. weight per square meter
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2307/00—Properties of the layers or laminate
    • B32B2307/70—Other properties
    • B32B2307/724—Permeability to gases, adsorption
    • B32B2307/7242—Non-permeable
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2307/00—Properties of the layers or laminate
    • B32B2307/70—Other properties
    • B32B2307/724—Permeability to gases, adsorption
    • B32B2307/7242—Non-permeable
    • B32B2307/7244—Oxygen barrier
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2307/00—Properties of the layers or laminate
    • B32B2307/70—Other properties
    • B32B2307/732—Dimensional properties
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2307/00—Properties of the layers or laminate
    • B32B2307/70—Other properties
    • B32B2307/732—Dimensional properties
    • B32B2307/734—Dimensional stability
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2307/00—Properties of the layers or laminate
    • B32B2307/70—Other properties
    • B32B2307/75—Printability
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2323/00—Polyalkenes
    • B32B2323/10—Polypropylene
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2439/00—Containers; Receptacles
    • B32B2439/40—Closed containers
    • B32B2439/46—Bags
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2439/00—Containers; Receptacles
    • B32B2439/70—Food packaging

Abstract

The packaging is formed of a laminate comprising at least three layers; a first (outer) layer 20 of a sealable polymeric film; a second layer 21 of a barrier film; and a third (inner or food-contacting) layer 22 of a sealable film. Preferably, the laminate is substantially metal-free. Typically, the first and third layers are formed of polymeric materials which are sealable by application of heat and pressure. Preferably, the first and third layers are polypropylene films, more preferably a cast polypropylene films. Preferably, the second layer is a polyethylene terephthalate film, preferably a biaxially oriented film. The preferred film is 60-100 (75-80) µm thick and has a basis weight = 60-100 (80) g/m2. The 1st layer 20 is preferably 10-50 (20) µm thick, the 2nd layer 21 is preferably 2-30 (12) µm thick and the 3rd layer 22 is preferably 10-60 (30-40) µm thick. A pouch is formed by forming a gusset along a peripheral seal (11, figure 1) of the film. The preferred pack has a frangible line or strip (15, figure 1). The package is used for storage and reheating of potato crisps and other food products, especially in a microwave oven.

Description

(56) Documents Cited:
EP 1518897 A2
WO 2014/099305 A1
US 4612221 A
B32B 27/32 (2006.01)
B65D 75/58 (2006.01)
EP 0673756 A1 WO 2013/019848 A1 (71) Applicant(s):
Fairfields Farm Produce Limited
Fairfields Farm, Fordham Road, Wormingford, Colchester, Essex, CO6 3AQ, United Kingdom (72) Inventor(s):
Robert Strathern
Richard Glennan (74) Agent and/or Address for Service:
HGF Limited
Document Handling - HGF - (Leeds), 1 City Walk, LEEDS, LS11 9DX, United Kingdom (58) Field of Search:
INT CL B32B, B65D
Other: EPODOC, WPI, RM25; RM26 (54) Title of the Invention: Method and packaging for use in storage and reheating of potato crisps and other food products Abstract Title: Packaging for pre-cooked food, comprises multilayer film with sealable layers (57) The packaging is formed of a laminate comprising at least three layers; a first (outer) layer 20 of a sealable polymeric film; a second layer 21 of a barrier film; and a third (inner or food-contacting) layer 22 of a sealable film. Preferably, the laminate is substantially metal-free. Typically, the first and third layers are formed of polymeric materials which are sealable by application of heat and pressure. Preferably, the first and third layers are polypropylene films, more preferably a cast polypropylene films. Preferably, the second layer is a polyethylene terephthalate film, preferably a biaxially oriented film. The preferred film is 60-100 (75-80) pm thick and has a basis weight = 60-100 (80) g/m2. The T* layer 20 is preferably 10-50 (20) pm thick, the 2nd layer 21 is preferably 2-30 (12) pm thick and the 3rd layer 22 is preferably 10-60 (30-40) pm thick. A pouch is formed by forming a gusset along a peripheral seal (11, figure 1) of the film. The preferred pack has a frangible line or strip (15, figure 1). The package is used for storage and reheating of potato crisps and other food products, especially in a microwave oven.
1/1
-1Method and Packaging for use in storage and reheating of potato crisps and other food products
The present invention relates to packaging methods and packaging for use in storage and reheating of potato crisps and other food products. In particular, the present invention relates to packaging for food products, such as snack foods, for example potato crisps, vegetable crisps, nuts, seeds, tortilla chips and other food products, and to methods of restoring the just-cooked taste and flavour to such products.
Many forms of packaging are available in which food is sold to consumers, many of which are suitable for allowing the heating or re-heating of food products in a microwave oven in the packaging in which the product is sold to the consumer. Hitherto, there has been no satisfactory packaging suitable for both storage and heating of potato or vegetable crisps (chips) and other starch-based snack products. The present invention seeks to provide a solution to this problem.
In its broadest sense, in one aspect, the present invention provides packaging providing a container for a pre-cooked foodstuff, wherein the container is formed of a laminate comprising at least three layers; a first layer of a sealable polymeric film; a second layer of a barrier film; and a third layer of a sealable film; wherein the first layer defines an outer layer to the packaging and the third layer defines an inner or foodstuff-contacting layer.
Preferably, the laminate is substantially metal-free.
Preferably, the barrier film is a barrier film additionally providing dimensional stability or stiffness to the packaging.
Typically, the first and third layers are formed of polymeric materials which are sealable by application of heat and pressure. The first and third layers may be the same or different.
-2Preferably, the first layer is a polypropylene film, more preferably a cast polypropylene film.
Preferably, the first layer has a thickness of 10-50 pm, preferably 10-30 pm, more preferably about 20 pm.
Preferably, the second layer is a polyethylene terephthalate film.
Preferably, the polyethylene terephthalate film is a biaxially oriented film.
Preferably, the second layer has a thickness of 2-30 pm, preferably 5-20 pm, more preferably 10-15 pm; most preferably about 12 pm.
Preferably, the third layer is a polypropylene film, more preferably a cast polypropylene film.
Preferably, the third layer has a thickness of 10-60 pm; more preferably 20-50 pm, most preferably 30-40 pm.
Preferably, the laminate has an overall thickness of 60-100 pm, more preferably 70-90 pm, even more preferably 75-80 pm.
Preferably, the laminate has a weight of 60-100 g/m2, more preferably 70-90 g/m2, most preferably about 80 g/m2.
Preferably, the packaging includes a gusset at a lower portion thereof to form a selfstanding pouch.
Preferably, the packaging includes a frangible portion, to aid opening of the packaging by tearing. Suitably, the frangible portion isformed at an upper portion of the packaging.
-3Preferably, the frangible portion is formed by laser cutting.
Suitably, the frangible portion is formed in the third layer.
Optionally, the packaging includes a tear tape applied to a face of the third layer of the laminate adjacent and along the frangible portion.
In a further aspect, the present invention provides the use as a packaging material for foodstuffs of a laminate comprising at least three layers; a first layer of a sealable polymeric film; a second layer of a barrier film; and a third layer of a sealable film.
Preferably, the laminate is substantially metal-free.
Preferably, the barrier film is a barrier film additionally providing dimensional stability or stiffness to the packaging.
Typically, the first and third layers are formed of polymeric materials which are sealable by application of heat and pressure.
Preferably, the first layer is a polypropylene film, more preferably a cast polypropylene film.
Preferably, the first layer has a thickness of 10-50 pm, preferably 10-30 pm, more preferably about 20 pm.
Preferably, the second layer is a polyethylene terephthalate film.
Preferably, the polyethylene terephthalate film is a biaxially oriented film.
-4Preferably, the second layer has a thickness of 2-30 pm, preferably 5-20 pm, more preferably 10-15 pm; most preferably about 12 pm.
Preferably, the third layer is a polypropylene film, more preferably a cast polypropylene film.
Preferably, the third layer has a thickness of 10-60 pm; more preferably 20-50 pm, most preferably 30-40 pm.
Preferably, the laminate has an overall thickness of 60-100 pm, more preferably 70-90 pm, even more preferably 75-80 pm.
Preferably, the laminate has a weight of 60-100 g/m2, more preferably 70-90 g/m2, most preferably about 80 g/m2.
In a yet further aspect, the present invention provides a foodstuff packaged in a packaging as defined above. Preferably, the foodstuff is a snack food, more preferably a starchy snack food such as vegetable crisps or chips, typically potato crisps or chips.
In a yet further aspect, the present invention also provides a method of preparing a heated foodstuff, the method comprising the steps of cooking a foodstuff, placing the cooked foodstuff in a container as defined above; sealing the foodstuff in the container; opening the container; placing the container in an oven and heating the container and foodstuff for a predetermined period of time.
Suitably, the oven is a microwave oven.
The above and other aspects of the present invention will now be described in further detail with reference, by way of example only, to the accompanying figures in which:
-5Figure 1 is a schematic view of an embodiment of packaging in accordance with the present invention in the form of a pouch; and
Figure 2 is a schematic cross-section of a laminate for use in the packaging of the present invention.
Figure 1 shows an embodiment of packaging in accordance with the present invention in a preferred form of a pouch 10. The pouch is formed in a conventional manner as is well known in the art. The pouch has a peripheral seam 11 sealing the two primary sheets of laminate 12, 13 from which the pouch is formed, the two sheets forming a front and a back to the packaging, and includes a secondary sheet of laminate 14 sealed between the primary sheets at a lower portion therefore to form a gusset, thereby forming a base upon which the packaging can stand when on display in a shop and when, in use, the product is used to heat a foodstuff within the packaging.
In the preferred embodiments, the packaging is provided with a frangible line or strip 15 adjacent an upper portion of the packaging to assist opening of the packaging. Conveniently, the frangible line is formed by laser cutting. Advantageously, the packaging is further provided with a tear tape positioned on the operatively inner surface of the packaging, with the tear tape running along the length of the frangible line, to enhance resilience of the packaging at the frangible line.
Figure 2 schematically shows the laminate of the packaging of the present invention. The laminate is formed of first, second and third layers 20,21,22. It will be appreciated that additional layers can be included where this is desirable for particular products forming the contents of the packaging.
First layer 20 forms the operatively outer layer of the packaging and is formed of a sealable and printable polymeric material. In preferred embodiments, the polymeric material is a polypropylene, preferably cast polypropylene.
-6It will be appreciated that the thickness of each layer will be determined having regard to the intended use of the laminate. For example, larger pouches may require slightly thicker laminate layers than smaller pouches. In one embodiment, the thickness of the first or outer layer is suitably about 20 pm, when formed of cast polypropylene.
Second layer 21 forms a barrier layer, as a barrier to air and preferably light, between the first and third layers, to protect the foodstuff sealed within the packaging. The second layer is also formed of a polymeric material, providing suitable barrier properties. Advantageously, the layer is formed of a polymeric material also providing dimensional stability or stiffness to the packaging. Suitably, the second layer 21 is formed of a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film, suitably about 10-15 pm in thickness. 12 pm PET has been found to provide a suitable balance of properties.
Third layer 22 forms the operatively inner layer and is formed of a sealable polymeric material. Conventionally, in a packaging for foodstuffs such as potato crisps, maize snack foods, peanuts and the like, the inner layer of the packaging is a metallised film. Our packaging avoids the need for a metallised film to provide the necessary protection to the product. Indeed, our invention avoids the need for substantially any metal content to the packaging, in any layer. With the present invention, a metallised film layer becomes optional.
Polypropylene has been found to be particularly suitable for the operatively inner layer, particularly cast polypropylene. Advantageously, a colourant or opacifier can be included in the third layer to enhance the appearance of the printing of the first layer
20. Suitably, the polymer includes T1O2 to provide an opaque, white appearance.
Thicknesses in the range of about 30 to 40 pm have been found to be suitable for the third layer.
A laminate as described above having a first layer of 20 pm cast polypropylene, a second layer of 12 pm polyethylene terephthalate and a third layer of 40 pm white cast
-7polypropylene has been found to be particularlysuitableforourpurposes. The laminate has an overall weight in the region of about 80 g/m2 (± about 7%) and a total thickness of about 75-80 pm (± about 7%).
In use, the packaging is particularly suitable for potato crisps (chips) and provides long storage times maintaining freshness of the product. The packaging is suitable for introduction and retention of inert atmospheres to prolong shelf life. The packaging is microwavable such that the consumer can simply remove a strip of the sealed, opposed, laminates from the top of the packaging, by virtue of the laser cut frangible strip, and 10 stand the packaging in their microwave oven for a suitable period of time and at a suitable power level (only about 30 seconds is necessary), to re-heat the crisps.
The packaging of the present invention gives the consumer the opportunity to revive the just-cooked taste of potato or vegetable crisps or chips, nuts, seeds, tortilla chips 15 and other food products, simply by reheating the product in the packaging in a microwave oven for about 30 seconds. The packaging also allows reheating of the product in a conventional oven at a temperature and for a time suitable for the product to be reheated.

Claims (24)

1. Packaging providing a container for a pre-cooked foodstuff, wherein the container is formed of a laminate comprising at least three layers; a first layer of a sealable polymeric film; a second layer of a barrier film; and a third layer of a sealable film; wherein the first layer defines an outer layer to the packaging and the third layer defines an inner or foodstuff-contacting layer.
2. Packaging as claimed in claim 1, wherein the laminate is substantially metal-free.
3. Packaging as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the barrier film is a barrier film additionally providing dimensional stability or stiffness to the packaging.
4. Packaging as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the first and third layers are formed of polymeric materials which are sealable by application of heat and pressure and which may be the same or different.
5. Packaging as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the first layer is a polypropylene film, preferably a cast polypropylene film.
6. Packaging as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the second layer is a polyethylene terephthalate film, preferably a biaxially oriented film.
7. Packaging as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the third layer is a nonmetallised or non-metallic film.
8. Packaging as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the third layer is a polypropylene film, preferably a cast polypropylene film.
9. Packaging as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein: i) the first layer has a thickness of 10-50 pm, preferably 10-30 pm, more preferably about 20 pm; and/or ii) the second layer has a thickness of 2-30 pm, preferably 5-20 pm, more preferably 10-15 pm; most preferably about 12 pm; and/or iii) the third layer has a thickness of 10-60 pm, preferably 20-50 pm, more preferably 30-40 pm.
10. Packaging as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the laminate has an overall thickness of 60-100 pm, preferably 70-90 pm, more preferably 75-80 pm.
11. Packaging as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the laminate has a weight of 60-100 g/m2, preferably 70-90 g/m2, more preferably about 80 g/m2.
12. Packaging as claimed in any preceding claim, including a gusset at a lower portion thereof to form a self-standing pouch.
13. Packaging as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein further comprising a frangible portion, to aid opening of the packaging by tearing, preferably wherein: i) the frangible portion is formed by laser cutting; and/or ii) the frangible portion is formed in the third layer; and/or iii) the packaging further comprises a tear tape applied to a face of the third layer of the laminate adjacent and along the frangible portion.
14. Use as a packaging material for foodstuffs of a laminate comprising at least three layers; a first layer of a sealable polymeric film; a second layer of a barrier film; and a third layer of a sealable film.
15. Use as claimed in claim 14, wherein the barrier film is a barrier film additionally providing dimensional stability or stiffness to the packaging.
16. Use as claimed in claim 14 or claim 15, wherein the first and third layers are formed of polymeric materials which are sealable by application of heat and pressure and which may be the same or different.
17. Use as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein: i) the first layer is a polypropylene film, preferably a cast polypropylene film; and/or ii) the second layer is a polyethylene terephthalate film, preferably a biaxially oriented film; and/or iii) the third layer is a polypropylene film, preferably a cast polypropylene film.
18. Use as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 17, wherein: i) the first layer has a thickness of 10-50 pm, preferably 10-30 pm, more preferably about 20 pm; and/or ii) the second layer has a thickness of 2-30 pm, preferably 5-20 pm, more preferably 10-15 pm, most preferably about 12 pm; and/or iii) the third layer has a thickness of 10-60 pm, preferably 20-50 pm, more preferably 30-40 pm.
19. Use as claimed in anyone of claims 14 to 18, wherein the laminate has an overall thickness of 60-100 pm, preferably 70-90 pm, more preferably 75-80 pm.
20. Use as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 19, wherein the laminate has a weight of 60-100 g/m2, preferably 70-90 g/m2, more preferably about 80 g/m2.
21. A method of preparing a heated foodstuff, the method comprising the steps of cooking a foodstuff, placing the cooked foodstuff in a container as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13; sealing the foodstuff in the container; opening the container; placing the container in an oven and heating the container and foodstuff for a predetermined period of time.
22. A method as claimed in claim 21, wherein the oven is a microwave oven.
23. A packaged foodstuff comprising a foodstuff packaged in a packaging as defined in any one of claims 1 to 13.
24. A packaged foodstuff as claimed in claim 23 or a method as claimed in claim 22 or claim 23, wherein the foodstuff is a snack food, preferably a starchy snack food such as vegetable crisps or chips, typically potato crisps or chips.
Intellectual
Property Office
Application No: GB1805762.0 Examiner: Mr Robert Black
GB1805762.0A 2017-04-06 2018-04-06 Method and packaging for use in storage and reheating of potato crisps and other food products Withdrawn GB2562619A (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GBGB1705567.4A GB201705567D0 (en) 2017-04-06 2017-04-06 Packaging
GBGB1721742.3A GB201721742D0 (en) 2017-12-22 2017-12-22 Method and packaging for use in storage and reheating of potato crisps and other food products

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
GB201805762D0 GB201805762D0 (en) 2018-05-23
GB2562619A true GB2562619A (en) 2018-11-21

Family

ID=62202758

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
GB1805762.0A Withdrawn GB2562619A (en) 2017-04-06 2018-04-06 Method and packaging for use in storage and reheating of potato crisps and other food products

Country Status (1)

Country Link
GB (1) GB2562619A (en)

Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4612221A (en) * 1983-11-16 1986-09-16 Union Carbide Corporation Multilayer food wrap with cling
EP0673756A1 (en) * 1994-03-25 1995-09-27 Seiji Kagawa Easily tearable laminated film and method for manufacturing the same
EP1518897A2 (en) * 2003-09-29 2005-03-30 Frito-Lay North America, Inc. Pucker resistant film and package
WO2013019848A1 (en) * 2011-08-01 2013-02-07 The Procter & Gamble Company A multilayer film, packages comprising the multilayer film, and processes for making
WO2014099305A1 (en) * 2012-12-19 2014-06-26 Dow Global Technologies Llc Flexible film composition forheat seals and container with same

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4612221A (en) * 1983-11-16 1986-09-16 Union Carbide Corporation Multilayer food wrap with cling
EP0673756A1 (en) * 1994-03-25 1995-09-27 Seiji Kagawa Easily tearable laminated film and method for manufacturing the same
EP1518897A2 (en) * 2003-09-29 2005-03-30 Frito-Lay North America, Inc. Pucker resistant film and package
WO2013019848A1 (en) * 2011-08-01 2013-02-07 The Procter & Gamble Company A multilayer film, packages comprising the multilayer film, and processes for making
WO2014099305A1 (en) * 2012-12-19 2014-06-26 Dow Global Technologies Llc Flexible film composition forheat seals and container with same

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