US20180222609A1 - Packaging of food - Google Patents
Packaging of food Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20180222609A1 US20180222609A1 US15/944,604 US201815944604A US2018222609A1 US 20180222609 A1 US20180222609 A1 US 20180222609A1 US 201815944604 A US201815944604 A US 201815944604A US 2018222609 A1 US2018222609 A1 US 2018222609A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- tray
- food
- plastic film
- floor
- absorbent pad
- 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.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
- B65B9/00—Enclosing successive articles, or quantities of material, e.g. liquids or semiliquids, in flat, folded, or tubular webs of flexible sheet material; Subdividing filled flexible tubes to form packages
- B65B9/02—Enclosing successive articles, or quantities of material between opposed webs
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
- B65B11/00—Wrapping, e.g. partially or wholly enclosing, articles or quantities of material, in strips, sheets or blanks, of flexible material
- B65B11/50—Enclosing articles, or quantities of material, by disposing contents between two sheets, e.g. pocketed sheets, and securing their opposed free margins
- B65B11/52—Enclosing articles, or quantities of material, by disposing contents between two sheets, e.g. pocketed sheets, and securing their opposed free margins one sheet being rendered plastic, e.g. by heating, and forced by fluid pressure, e.g. vacuum, into engagement with the other sheet and contents, e.g. skin-, blister-, or bubble- packaging
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
- B65B25/00—Packaging other articles presenting special problems
- B65B25/001—Packaging other articles presenting special problems of foodstuffs, combined with their conservation
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
- B65B25/00—Packaging other articles presenting special problems
- B65B25/06—Packaging slices or specially-shaped pieces of meat, cheese, or other plastic or tacky products
- B65B25/061—Packaging slices or specially-shaped pieces of meat, cheese, or other plastic or tacky products of fish
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
- B65B31/00—Packaging articles or materials under special atmospheric or gaseous conditions; Adding propellants to aerosol containers
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
- B65B31/00—Packaging articles or materials under special atmospheric or gaseous conditions; Adding propellants to aerosol containers
- B65B31/02—Filling, closing, or filling and closing, containers or wrappers in chambers maintained under vacuum or superatmospheric pressure or containing a special atmosphere, e.g. of inert gas
- B65B31/021—Filling, closing, or filling and closing, containers or wrappers in chambers maintained under vacuum or superatmospheric pressure or containing a special atmosphere, e.g. of inert gas the containers or wrappers being interconnected
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
- B65B5/00—Packaging individual articles in containers or receptacles, e.g. bags, sacks, boxes, cartons, cans, jars
- B65B5/02—Machines characterised by incorporation of means for making the containers or receptacles
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
- B65B61/00—Auxiliary devices, not otherwise provided for, for operating on sheets, blanks, webs, binding material, containers or packages
- B65B61/02—Auxiliary devices, not otherwise provided for, for operating on sheets, blanks, webs, binding material, containers or packages for perforating, scoring, slitting, or applying code or date marks on material prior to packaging
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
- B65B61/00—Auxiliary devices, not otherwise provided for, for operating on sheets, blanks, webs, binding material, containers or packages
- B65B61/04—Auxiliary devices, not otherwise provided for, for operating on sheets, blanks, webs, binding material, containers or packages for severing webs, or for separating joined packages
- B65B61/06—Auxiliary devices, not otherwise provided for, for operating on sheets, blanks, webs, binding material, containers or packages for severing webs, or for separating joined packages by cutting
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
- B65B9/00—Enclosing successive articles, or quantities of material, e.g. liquids or semiliquids, in flat, folded, or tubular webs of flexible sheet material; Subdividing filled flexible tubes to form packages
- B65B9/02—Enclosing successive articles, or quantities of material between opposed webs
- B65B9/04—Enclosing successive articles, or quantities of material between opposed webs one or both webs being formed with pockets for the reception of the articles, or of the quantities of material
- B65B9/045—Enclosing successive articles, or quantities of material between opposed webs one or both webs being formed with pockets for the reception of the articles, or of the quantities of material for single articles, e.g. tablets
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- 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
- B65D1/00—Containers having bodies formed in one piece, e.g. by casting metallic material, by moulding plastics, by blowing vitreous material, by throwing ceramic material, by moulding pulped fibrous material, by deep-drawing operations performed on sheet material
- B65D1/34—Trays or like shallow containers
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- 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
- B65D75/002—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 in shrink films
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- 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
- B65D81/24—Adaptations for preventing deterioration or decay of contents; Applications to the container or packaging material of food preservatives, fungicides, pesticides or animal repellants
- B65D81/26—Adaptations for preventing deterioration or decay of contents; Applications to the container or packaging material of food preservatives, fungicides, pesticides or animal repellants with provision for draining away, or absorbing, or removing by ventilation, fluids, e.g. exuded by contents; Applications of corrosion inhibitors or desiccators
- B65D81/264—Adaptations for preventing deterioration or decay of contents; Applications to the container or packaging material of food preservatives, fungicides, pesticides or animal repellants with provision for draining away, or absorbing, or removing by ventilation, fluids, e.g. exuded by contents; Applications of corrosion inhibitors or desiccators for absorbing liquids
Definitions
- the invention relates to improvements in or relating to the packaging of food.
- the two plastic films have an adhesive coating which is heat-activated.
- a first lower film is fed from a first roll onto a mould and formed into a series of trays having flat bases.
- a portion of fresh fish is then placed onto each flat base.
- a second upper film is fed from a second roll over the trays and the portions of fish.
- a partial vacuum is applied below the tray and above and the second upper film together with the application of heat to the second upper film.
- the region above the top film is then vented to atmosphere to bond and seal the two films together so that the portions of fish are hermetically sealed between the two films.
- the two films having the fish sealed between them are then repeatedly cut so that separate packages containing the fish are produced.
- the lower film is an opaque material
- the upper film is a clear material so that the portion of fish is visible.
- Overall the packages have the effect of keeping the fish fresher for a longer period of time and thereby increasing the shelf life.
- the packages are suitable for transporting to a supermarket in bulk and for stacking on shelves ready for sale.
- the packages also present the fish to the consumer in an appealing manner because it has a three-dimensional appearance.
- Such a way of packaging may be termed skin packaging which is characterised by the use of adhesive between the two films, and whereby the upper film is a shrink wrap film.
- the skin packaging method is distinct from conventional vacuum packaging which merely applies a partial vacuum and then creates a seal around a perimeter of the food.
- the package may keep the portion of fish fresh, for example, up to seven days, a problem may be encountered towards the end of this shelf life because water and juices may be lost from the fish.
- the water collects on the top and on the side of the portion of fish within the pack itself.
- the water may contribute to reducing the shelf life of the fish within the package, or at least contribute to a reduction in the colour, flavour or integrity of the fish.
- the water looks unsightly and may be unappealing to the consumer.
- Water collecting within the package may be a particular problem when the package containing the fish is frozen prior to transportation and delivery to the supermarket.
- Such freezing is typically required when the fish is being transported of a long distance such as exporting to another country.
- the package typically undergoes a controlled defrosting process before it is placed on the supermarket shelves for sale.
- Such freezing increases the volume of the portion of fish because water expands when frozen. This in turn causes the upper plastic film to stretch and become loose.
- the upper plastic film may also become loose when the fish has moved or slipped on the tray whether the fish has not been frozen or not. If the package is displayed in an upright position the water may collect in a pouch of the upper plastic film. Overall the collection of water in the pouch between the fish and the top plastic film provides a poor presentation of the package to the customer.
- Another problem of the known tray is that the portion of fish may slide on the flat base during the packing process or during transport of the finished package. During the packing process such sliding may be occur when the operator places the portion of fish on the tray, or it may be due to changes in speed or direction of the tray imparted by the packaging apparatus prior to the formation of the upper film on the tray. Sliding of the fish on the tray may leave a residue from the food which may interfere with the bond and seal between the two films of plastic and reduce its effectiveness. Such a reduction in the integrity of the seal may affect the shelf life of the fish.
- a further problem with the known tray is that it is relatively flimsy, which may bend excessively when the top film is peeled away from it. The water between the two films of plastic may then spill out of the package which is undesirable for the end user.
- a method of packaging food between a first plastic film and a second plastic film using a packaging apparatus including; forming a tray from the first plastic film, the tray having a floor with at least one channel; providing an absorbent pad on the floor of the tray; placing a portion of food on the floor of the tray; placing the second plastic film on the tray to sandwich the absorbent pad and the portion of food between the plastic films; and using the packaging apparatus to urge the two plastic films together and to create a seal therebetween, wherein at least one duct is formed between said at least one channel and at least one of the second plastic film, the absorbent pad, and the portion of food.
- Such a method has the advantage that the portion of food may be kept fresher for a longer period of time, which may increase the shelf life, or at least contributes to an improved colour, flavour or integrity of the food over a given period of time.
- This advantage is provided by the ability of the water and other juices from the portion of food to pass to the absorbent pad via said at least one duct.
- the Applicant has discovered that water is not good for the food, and in particular for the shelf life of fish, which has a tendency to deteriorate more quickly. Since the use of an absorbent pad when packaging fish is expressly not be recommended by packaging suppliers this represents a prejudice away from using absorbent pads in the technical field.
- said at least one channel which may assist with gripping of the food to inhibit it from sliding on the tray. This may provide the advantage of improving the integrity of the seal between the two films.
- said at least one channel may stiffen the tray. This may provide the advantage of making the second plastic film easier to remove from the tray or avoiding the tray flexing excessively. Such a stiffer tray may also allow a lighter weight tray to be used, which may provide a cost and environmental advantage. It will be appreciated that the tray may be formed by the packaging apparatus or it may be pre-formed separately and then subsequently fed into the packaging apparatus.
- the method further includes cutting the two films to create a separate package containing the portion of food and the absorbent pad.
- the method further includes providing the absorbent pad on the floor of the tray so that it at least partially covers at least a part of said at least one channel.
- the method further includes placing the portion of food on the floor of the tray so that it at least partially covers a part of said at least one channel.
- the method further includes placing the portion of food on the floor of the tray so that it is at least partially on the absorbent pad, and preferably so that it wholly covers the absorbent pad.
- Such arrangements permits the water or juices to pass more easily to the absorbent pad.
- the method further includes forming the tray with a continuous lip around the portion of food, said at least one channel and the absorbent pad, the lip for providing a continuous seal between the plastic films.
- the method includes forming the lip on the floor of the tray.
- the method further includes forming the floor of the tray with a plurality of channels for providing a plurality of ducts between the plurality of channels and at least one of the second plastic film, the absorbent pad, and the portion of food.
- the method further includes forming the plurality of channels so that the ducts are in communication with one another.
- Such arrangements permits the water or juices to pass more easily to the absorbent pad, and may also assist with stiffening the tray, and allow a lighter weight tray to be used, which may provide a cost and environmental advantage.
- the method further includes forming said at least one channel using a row or a grid of raised portions of the floor of the tray.
- a row or a grid of raised portions of the floor of the tray Such arrangements permit the water or juices to pass more easily to the absorbent pad, and may also assist with stiffening the tray.
- the raised portions may help the tray to grip the food and to inhibit it from moving on the tray.
- the method is provided as a continuous process.
- the first plastic film and/or the second plastic film are provided on respective feed reels.
- the portion of food is fish.
- the method further includes using the packaging apparatus to urge the two plastic films together by applying a partial vacuum above the second plastic film and below the first plastic film, and then venting a region above the second plastic film to atmospheric pressure.
- the method further includes using the packaging apparatus to apply heat to at least partially bond the two plastic films together. The heat may activate an adhesive of one or both of the plastic films.
- the method further includes forming a well in the floor of the tray, wherein the well is in communication with the at least one channel.
- a package containing a portion of food comprising a tray, a plastic film and an absorbent pad, the tray having a floor with at least one channel, the absorbent pad and the portion of food being provided on the floor of the tray, the plastic film being formed onto the tray to sandwich the absorbent pad and the portion of food between the plastic film and the tray to create a seal therebetween, wherein at least one duct is formed between said at least one channel and at least one of the plastic film, the absorbent pad, and the portion of food.
- Such a package has the advantage that the portion of food may be kept fresher for a longer period of time, which may increase the shelf life, or at least contributes to an improved colour, flavour or integrity of the food.
- This advantage is provided by the ability of the water and other juices from the portion of food to pass to the absorbent pad via said at least one duct.
- said at least on channel may assist with gripping of the food to inhibit it from sliding on the tray. This may provide the advantage of improving the integrity of the seal between the two films.
- said at least one channel may stiffen the tray. This may provide the advantage of making the second plastic film easier to remove from the tray or avoiding the tray flexing excessively. Such a stiffer tray may also allow a lighter weight tray to be used, which may provide a cost and environmental advantage.
- the absorbent pad at least partially covers at least a part of said at least one channel.
- the portion of food on the floor of the tray at least partially covers a part of said at least one channel.
- the portion of food on the floor of the tray is at least partially on the absorbent pad, and preferably the portion of food on the floor of the tray wholly covers the absorbent pad.
- the absorbent pad may be provided on a part or the whole of the floor of the tray. Such arrangements permits the water or juices to pass more easily to the absorbent pad.
- the tray has a continuous lip around the portion of food, said at least one channel and the absorbent pad, the lip for providing a continuous seal between the plastic films.
- the lip is formed on the floor of the tray.
- the floor of the tray has a plurality of channels for providing a plurality of ducts between the plurality of channels and at least one of the second plastic film, the absorbent pad, and the portion of food.
- the plurality of channels run along the length of the floor of the tray.
- the plurality of channels run along the width of the floor of the tray.
- the plurality of channels are provided so that the ducts are in communication with one another.
- a spacing between adjacent channels may be between 0.5 cm and 2.0 cm, and preferably 1.0 cm. Such arrangements permits the water or juices to pass more easily to the absorbent pad, and may also assist with stiffening the tray.
- said at least one channel is provided by a row or a grid of raised portions of the floor of the tray.
- the raised portions are discrete projections from the floor of the tray.
- each raised portion has an apex.
- each apex has an area of between 0.75 to 4 mm 2 , and preferably 2.5 mm 2 .
- each raised portion has at least one face which is concave.
- each raised portion has a height of between 1.0 mm and 7.0 mm, and preferably 3.6 mm. Such arrangements may provide the advantage or promoting a separation between the tray and the film to create said at least one duct.
- the portion of food is fish.
- One or both of the plastic film and the tray may be a thermoforming material.
- the tray has a sidewall extending from the floor.
- the tray is an opaque plastic.
- at least a part of the plastic film is a see-through plastic film.
- the plastic film is formed onto the tray by applying a partial vacuum above the plastic film and below the tray, and then venting a region above the plastic film to atmospheric pressure to urge the plastic film and the tray together.
- the plastic film is at least partially bonded to the tray with the application of heat. The heat may activate an adhesive of the plastic film or the tray.
- the floor of the tray has a well in communication with the at least one channel.
- the plastic film is a breathable film.
- a packaging apparatus for packaging a portion of food and an absorbent pad between a tray and a plastic film, the tray having a floor with at least one channel, the absorbent pad being located on the floor of the tray, the portion of food being located on the floor of the tray, the plastic film being located on the tray to sandwich the absorbent pad and the portion of food between the tray and the plastic film, the packaging apparatus operable to urge the tray and the plastic film together and to create a seal therebetween, wherein at least one duct is formed between said at least one channel and at least one of the second plastic film, the absorbent pad, and the portion of food.
- Such an apparatus has the advantage that the portion of food may be kept fresher for a longer period of time, which may increase the shelf life, or at least contributes to an improved colour, flavour or integrity of the food.
- This advantage is provided by the ability of the water and other juices from the portion of food to pass to the absorbent pad via said at least one duct.
- said at least on channel may assist with gripping of the food to inhibit it from sliding on the tray. This may provide the advantage of improving the integrity of the seal between the two films.
- said at least one channel may stiffen the tray. This may provide the advantage of making the second plastic film easier to remove from the tray or avoiding the tray flexing excessively. Such a stiffer tray may also allow a lighter weight tray to be used, which may provide a cost and environmental advantage.
- the tray is formed by a mould of the apparatus from a first plastic film.
- the first and second films are provided on respective feed reels.
- the apparatus has a blade to cut the tray and the plastic film to create a separate package containing the portion of food and the absorbent pad.
- the apparatus is arranged to provide the absorbent pad on the floor of the tray so that it at least partially covers at least a part of said at least one channel.
- the apparatus is arranged to place the portion of food on the floor of the tray so that it is at least partially covers a part of said at least one channel.
- the apparatus is arranged to place the portion of food on the floor of the tray so that it is at least partially on the absorbent pad, and preferably so that the portion of food on the floor of the tray wholly covers the absorbent pad.
- Such arrangements permits the water or juices to pass more easily to the absorbent pad.
- the tray is formed with a continuous lip around the portion of food, said at least one channel and the absorbent pad, the apparatus being arranged to form a continuous seal between the lip and the plastic film.
- the lip is formed on the floor of the tray.
- the apparatus is arranged to form said at least one channel using a row or a grid of raised portions of the floor of the tray.
- Such arrangements may provide the advantage of helping the tray to grip the food and to inhibit it from moving on the tray.
- the apparatus is arranged to form the floor of the tray with a plurality of channels for providing a plurality of ducts between the plurality of channels and at least one of the plastic film, the absorbent pad, and the portion of food.
- the apparatus is arranged to form the plurality of channels so that the ducts are in communication with one another. Such arrangements permits the water or juices to pass more easily to the absorbent pad, and may also assist with stiffening the tray.
- the apparatus is arranged for packaging successive portions of food as a continuous process.
- the apparatus is operable to urge the plastic film onto the tray by applying a partial vacuum above the plastic film and below the tray, and then venting a region above the plastic film to atmospheric pressure.
- the apparatus is operable to bond the plastic at least partially bonded to the tray with the application of heat. The heat may activate an adhesive of the plastic film or the tray.
- the floor of the tray has a well in communication with the at least one channel.
- the plastic film is a breathable film.
- an apparatus for performing the method according to the first aspect of the invention, or for making the package according to the second aspect of the invention.
- a sixth aspect of the invention there is provided method of packaging food between a tray and a plastic film using a packaging apparatus, the method including; providing a floor of the tray with at least one channel; providing an absorbent pad on the floor of the tray; placing a portion of food on the floor of the tray; placing the plastic film on the tray to sandwich the absorbent pad and the portion of food between the plastic film and the tray; and using the packaging apparatus to urge the two plastic films together and to create a seal therebetween, wherein at least one duct is formed between said at least one channel and the plastic film, or the absorbent pad, or the portion of food.
- a seventh aspect of the invention there is provided an apparatus for performing the method according to the sixth aspect of the invention, or for making the package according to the sixth aspect of the invention.
- a method of vacuum packaging food between a first plastic film and a second plastic film using a vacuum packaging apparatus including; forming a tray from the first plastic film, the tray having a floor with at least one channel running in a transverse direction along the tray, and at least one channel running in a longitudinal direction along the tray, said channels intersecting each other so that they are in communication with each other, said channels formed by a plurality of raised portions of the floor; providing an absorbent pad on the floor of the tray so that it covers at least one of said channels; placing a portion of food on the absorbent pad, wherein the absorbent pad has a smaller area than the portion of food so that it is concealed by the portion of food and so that the portion of food is in contact with the raised portions of the tray around a perimeter of the absorbent pad; placing the second plastic film on the tray to sandwich the absorbent pad and the portion of food between the plastic films; and using the vacuum packaging apparatus to urge the two plastic films together to create a seal therebetween, wherein
- a vacuum package containing a portion of food comprising a tray, a plastic film and an absorbent pad, the tray having a floor with at least one channel running in a transverse direction along the tray, and at least one channel running in a longitudinal direction along the tray, said channels intersecting each other so that they are in communication with each other, said channels formed by a plurality of raised portions of the floor, the absorbent pad and the portion of food being provided on the floor of the tray so that they cover at least one of said channels, the absorbent pad having a smaller area than the portion of food so that it is concealed by the portion of food and so that the portion of food is in contact with the raised portions of the tray around a perimeter of the absorbent pad, the plastic film being vacuum formed onto the tray to sandwich the absorbent pad and the portion of food between the plastic film and the tray to create a seal therebetween, wherein a plurality of intersecting ducts are formed between said channels and each of the plastic film, the absorbent pad, and the
- a vacuum packaging apparatus for vacuum packaging a portion of food and an absorbent pad between a tray and a plastic film, the tray having a floor with at least one channel running in a transverse direction along the tray, and at least one channel running in a longitudinal direction along the tray, said channels intersecting each other so that they are in communication with each other, said channels formed by a plurality of raised portions of the floor, the absorbent pad being located on the floor of the tray so that it covers at least one of said channels, the portion of food being located on the absorbent pad, wherein the absorbent pad has a smaller area than the portion of food so that it is concealed by the portion of food and so that the portion of food is in contact with the raised portions of the tray around a perimeter of the absorbent pad, the plastic film being located on the tray to sandwich the absorbent pad and the portion of food between the tray and the plastic film, the vacuum packaging apparatus operable to urge the tray and the plastic film together to create a seal therebetween, wherein a plurality of intersecting
- FIG. 1 shows a schematic side view of an apparatus for packaging food according to an embodiment of the invention
- FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the tray shown in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3 shows a close-up perspective view of a tray floor shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 ;
- FIG. 4 shows a cross sectional view of the tray shown in FIGS. 1-3 ;
- FIG. 5 shows a cross sectional view of the package shown in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 6 shows steps of a method according to embodiment of the invention
- FIG. 7 shows a plan view and a cross section of a mould according to an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of a tray according to another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 9 shows experimental results relating to embodiments of the invention.
- FIG. 1 shows a schematic side view of an apparatus for packaging food according to an embodiment of the invention, generally designated 10 .
- the apparatus 10 has two feed reels 12 , 14 of sheet or film plastics material.
- the first feed reel 12 has a stock of opaque plastic film 16 which is a thermoforming material.
- the second feed reel 14 has a stock of see-through or clear plastic film 18 which is also a thermoforming material.
- the opaque plastic film 16 is arranged to travel in a direction from left to right as shown by the arrow 20 , which is the direction of travel of a production line of the apparatus 10 .
- the opaque plastic film 16 and the clear plastic film 18 are comprised of a mixture of food grade plastics including poly styrenic resins.
- One or both of the two plastic films 16 , 18 have a known adhesive coating which is, for example heat-activated or activated by the application of light having a particular wavelength.
- the plastic film 16 is a gas permeable plastic film.
- the opaque plastic film 16 is fed from the first feed reel 12 onto a mould 22 or forming tool where it is formed into a series of trays 24 , which are attached to each other.
- heat is applied to the opaque plastic film 16 from above as shown by arrow 25 , and the mould 22 is moved upwards as shown by arrow 26 to form the trays 24 .
- a partial vacuum or air pressure may be applied to the opaque plastic film 16 during the moulding stage to form the trays 24 .
- the mould 22 has a mould floor 28 with a series of channels 30 which have been machined into it.
- the channels 30 of the mould 22 produce corresponding channels 32 in a tray floor 33 of the trays 24 when formed.
- the channels 32 are described in greater detail below with reference to FIGS. 2-5 .
- tray 24 is a container or a receptacle having an open top, and which has a floor and a side wall which extends from the floor and is continuous. In an alternative arrangement the tray 24 does not have side walls and is substantially planar and includes the channels 32 .
- the apparatus 10 is arranged to place an absorbent sheet or pad 34 onto the base 28 of each formed tray 24 .
- the absorbent sheet 34 may be placed manually onto each tray 24 .
- the apparatus 10 then places a portion of fresh fish 36 onto the absorbent sheet 34 of each tray 24 .
- the portion of fresh fish 36 may be placed manually onto each tray 24 .
- the absorbent sheet 34 is of a known kind, and acts to absorb water and other juices/liquid from the portion of fresh fish 36 as described in greater detail below.
- the absorbent sheet 34 has a smaller area than the portion of fish 36 when viewed from above so that it is concealed by the portion of fish 36 . It will be appreciated that the step of forming the tray 24 requires the application of heat 25 .
- the formed tray 24 is required to be sufficiently cool before the portion of fish 36 is placed on it to reduce the possibility of heating or partially cooking it.
- the absorbent sheet 34 has the advantage that it may provide an amount of heat insulation between the portion of fish 36 and the tray 24 to reduce or avoid unwanted heating or cooking of the fish 36 .
- the apparatus 10 then feeds the clear plastic film 18 from the second feed reel 14 over the trays 24 and the portions of fish 36 having the absorbent sheet 34 underneath them, as shown at 38 .
- a vacuum packaging device 40 , 42 then moves over each tray 24 as shown by arrows 44 , 46 to apply a partial vacuum below the tray 24 and above and the clear plastic film 18 together with the application of heat to the clear plastic film 18 .
- the clear plastic film 18 may reach a temperature of around 200-210° C. under the application of heat.
- the partial vacuum may be around 3 to 10 mbar.
- the region above the clear plastic film 18 film is then vented to atmosphere. This process removes sufficient air between the two plastic films 16 , 18 .
- the apparatus applies heat, for example using a heating element of the vacuum packaging device 40 , 42 , to activate the adhesive on the plastic films 16 , 18 to adhesively bond and seal them together at the points where they are in contact with each other. In this manner the portions of fish 36 and the absorbent sheet 34 are hermetically sealed between the two plastic films 16 , 18 .
- the two plastic films 16 , 18 and the vacuum packaging device 40 , 42 are of a known kind whereby the two plastic films 16 , 18 are arranged to bond or partially bond to each other during the venting of the region above the clear plastic film 18 to atmospheric pressure and/or heat.
- One or both of the films 16 , 18 may be provided with the adhesive to provide the required bonding therebetween.
- the apparatus 10 has cutters 48 , 50 which move as shown by arrows 52 , 54 to consecutively cut each tray 24 so that separate packages 56 containing the fish 36 are produced.
- the cutters 48 , 50 may partially melt the films 16 , 18 together to form the seal therebetween at the points where they are in contact with each other.
- the apparatus 10 produces packages 56 of fish 36 between the two plastic films 16 , 18 as a continuous process on the production line of the apparatus 10 .
- the apparatus 10 may be arranged to produce packages 56 of fish 36 in batches as a continuous process.
- the apparatus 10 may be constructed from a known apparatus such as a CRYOVACTM DARFRESHTM apparatus available from Sealed Air Corporation, which has been modified according to the embodiments of the invention.
- the opaque plastic film 16 may be a black film having the technical specification PFIL059
- the clear plastic film 18 may be a multi-layer clear plastic film having a thickness of 400 micrometres and comprised in the majority of styrenic resins.
- Packages 56 produced using the DARFRESHTM apparatus or the apparatus 10 may be described as skin packs or skin packages because they have a base tray 24 with a plastic film 18 or a skin which has been formed thereon.
- Such a way of packaging may be termed skin packaging which is characterised by the use of adhesive between the two films 16 , 18 , and whereby the upper film is a shrink wrap film so that it stretches around the fish 36 .
- the package 56 comprises a moulded tray 24 where the clear plastic film 18 envelops the fish 36 and cooperates with the tray 24 to bond to it.
- the clear plastic film 18 is a transparent protective film which adheres to the tray 24 while allowing sight of the fish 36 by the consumer.
- the tray 24 is formed by the apparatus 10
- the tray 24 may be pre-formed elsewhere and then fed into the apparatus 10 . If the tray 24 is pre-formed it may not necessarily be of a thermoforming plastic, and it may be for example expanded foam. The steps of placing the fish 36 and absorbent pad 34 onto the tray 24 and laying the clear plastic film 18 onto the tray 24 prior to applying the partial vacuum and venting to atmospheric pressure can then be performed by the apparatus 10 .
- FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the tray 24 shown in FIG. 1 .
- the channels 32 of the tray floor 33 are shown to run in a transverse direction along the tray 24 as indicated by an arrow 58 .
- the channels 32 also run in a longitudinal direction along the tray 24 as indicated by an arrow 60 .
- the arrows 58 , 60 are perpendicular to each other when the tray 24 is viewed from above.
- the transverse and longitudinal channels 32 may not be perpendicular or aligned with a width or length of the tray. As shown in FIG.
- the channels 32 there are sixteen channels 32 which run in the transverse direction 58 , and eight channels 32 which run in the longitudinal direction 60 .
- the transverse channels 58 and the longitudinal channels 60 intersect each other so that they are in communication with each other i.e. so that the lowest point or bottom of the channels are in communication with each other.
- the channels 32 are formed by a plurality of raised portions 62 of the tray floor 33 . In this manner the channels 32 are recessed in the tray floor 33 .
- the raised portions 62 are arranged in rows in a grid formation. In the embodiment shown the raised portions 62 are provided on substantially the entire tray floor 33 . With such an arrangement the area of the raised portions 62 is larger than the footprint of the portion of fish 36 .
- a raised rim or lip 64 of the tray floor 33 which runs around the channels 32 and the raised portions 62 .
- the lip 64 is between the tray floor 33 and sides 66 of the tray.
- FIG. 3 shows a close-up perspective view of the tray floor 33 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 .
- each raised portion 62 is shown to be a pyramid having a square base 68 and an apex 70 which is truncated to create a flat top or a curved top.
- Each apex 70 may have an area of between 0.75 to 4 mm 2 , and preferably 2.5 mm 2 .
- the apex 70 of each raised portion 62 promotes release of the tray 24 from the mould 22 .
- Each pyramid has four faces 72 which are concave, i.e. which bow inwards.
- each apex 70 reduces the possibility for the raised portions to pierce the portions of fish 36 or the clear plastic film 16 , and they provide a way of gripping the fish 36 to inhibit it from moving on the tray 24 during the packing process described above and during transportation to a supermarket.
- the apex 70 of each raised projection 62 bonds with the second film 18 when a partial vacuum and heat is applied followed venting to atmospheric as described above.
- the channels 32 are formed by the raised portions 62 , i.e. substantially entirely formed by the raised portions with the exception of the channel 32 formed adjacent to the lip 64 that is around the raised portions 32 .
- the raised portions 32 are not strips or elongate portions of the tray floor 33 , but are discrete portions (i.e. symmetrical discrete projections) arranged in a grid formation.
- the raised portions 32 may be termed castellations which each have the apex 70 .
- FIG. 4 shows a cross sectional view of the tray 24 shown in FIGS. 1-3 .
- the cross sectional view is along the length of the tray 24 and through the apexes 70 of the raised portions 62 .
- the height of each raised portion 62 between the lowest point of the channel 32 and the highest part of the apex 70 is indicated by the double arrows 74 .
- the dimension 74 is about 3.6 mm. It is envisaged that the dimension 74 could be between 1.0 mm and 7.0 mm whilst still providing the desired effect.
- the width between successive lowest points of the channel 32 is indicated by the double arrows 75 .
- the dimension 75 is about 1.0 cm. It is envisaged that the dimension 75 could be between 0.5 cm and 2.0 cm whilst still providing the desired effect.
- the spacing of the channels 32 is large it will be appreciated that any water from the fish 36 may not find its way to the absorbent sheet 34 .
- the apexes 70 of the raised portions 62 may not grip the fish 36 sufficiently well to reduce the chances of it slipping on the tray floor 33 during packing and transport.
- the lip 64 which runs around the channels 32 and the raised portions 62 . The lip 64 is between the tray floor 33 and sides 66 of the tray.
- FIG. 4 depicts a cross sectional view, it will be appreciated that the view is what would be seen if the tray 24 is cut along its length in the middle thereof, and viewed from a side thereof.
- FIG. 5 shows a cross sectional view of the package 56 shown in FIG. 1 .
- like features to the arrangements of FIGS. 1-4 are shown with like reference numerals.
- spaces or ducts 76 are shown to be created between the two plastic films 16 , 18 that have been bonded or partially bonded to each other.
- the ducts 76 are in the region adjacent to the lowest point of the channels 32 .
- the ducts 76 are also created between the absorbent sheet 34 and the opaque plastic film 18 , and between the portion of food 36 and the opaque plastic film 18 .
- the ducts 76 may be present in one or more of these three locations.
- the ducts 76 are interconnected to each other.
- the fish 36 is raised above the lowest part of the tray floor 33 by the raised portions 62 .
- the apexes 70 of the raised portions 62 touch and grip the portion of fish 36 , which inhibits movement of the fish 36 on the tray 24 .
- the lip 64 which is continuous around the channels 32 and the raised portions 62 . The lip 64 creates a part of the tray 24 onto which the clear plastic film 16 can bond which provides an improved seal between the two plastic films 16 , 18 that is continuous around the portion of fish 36 .
- the ducts 76 are in communication with each another. This is because the channels 32 are connected to each other, and because the clear plastic film 16 is above the floor of each channel 32 . If the package 56 is tipped from the horizontal position any water or juices from the fish 36 finds its way to the absorbent sheet 34 underneath the fish 36 . The raised portions 62 lift the portion of fish 36 above the floor of the channels 32 so that the fish 36 does not rest in the water or juices. It will be appreciated that the channels 32 and raised portions 62 are not mere surface decoration, and have been specifically designed to form ducts 76 with the clear plastic film 16 to perform the function of permitting water and other juices from the fish 36 to pass more easily to the absorbent sheet 34 . Furthermore the ducts 76 are typically not mere capillary ducts that operate under capillary action, but are ducts 76 through which water and other juices can flow under the action of gravity.
- FIG. 6 shows steps of a method according to embodiment of the invention, generally designated 80 . It will be appreciated that the steps may be performed in a different order, and may not necessarily be performed in the order shown in FIG. 6 .
- the method 60 is a method of packaging food 36 between a first plastic film 12 and a second plastic film 14 using a packaging apparatus 10 .
- the method includes forming a tray 24 from the first plastic film 12 , as shown at 82 , the tray 24 having a floor 33 with at least one channel 32 .
- the method includes providing an absorbent pad 34 on the floor 33 of the tray 24 , as shown at 84 .
- the method includes placing a portion of food 36 on the floor 33 of the tray 24 , as shown at 85 .
- the method includes placing the second plastic film 14 on the tray 24 to sandwich the absorbent pad 34 and the portion of food 36 between the plastic films 16 , 18 , as shown at 86 .
- the method includes using the packaging apparatus 10 to urge the two plastic films 16 , 18 together and to create a seal therebetween, as shown at 88 , wherein at least one duct 76 is formed between said at least one channel 32 and at least one of the second plastic film 16 , the absorbent pad 34 , and the portion of food 36 .
- the method further includes cutting the two films 16 , 18 to create a separate package 56 containing the portion of food 36 and the absorbent pad 34 , as shown at 90 .
- the method further includes providing the absorbent pad 34 on the floor 33 of the tray 24 so that it at least partially covers at least a part of said at least one channel 32 , as shown at 84 .
- the method further includes placing the portion of food 36 on the floor 33 of the tray 24 so that it is at least partially cover a part of said at least one channel 32 , as shown at 85 .
- the method further includes placing the portion of food 36 on the floor 33 of the tray 24 so that it is at least partially on the absorbent pad 34 , as shown at 85 .
- the method further includes placing the portion of food 36 on the floor 33 of the tray 24 so that it wholly covers the absorbent pad 85 .
- the method further includes forming the tray 24 with a continuous lip 64 around the portion of food 36 , said at least one channel 32 and the absorbent pad 34 , the lip 64 for providing a continuous seal between the plastic films 16 , 18 .
- the method further includes forming the floor 33 of the tray 24 with a plurality of channels 32 for providing a plurality of ducts 76 between the plurality of channels 32 and at least one of the second plastic film 18 , the absorbent pad 34 , and the portion of food 36 .
- the method further includes forming the plurality of channels 32 so that the ducts 76 are in communication with one another, as shown at 82 .
- the method further includes forming said at least one channel 32 using a row or a grid of raised portions 62 of the floor 33 of the tray 24 .
- the method further includes forming the tray 24 with a sidewall 66 extending from the floor 33 .
- the method further includes using the packaging apparatus 10 to urge the two plastic films 16 , 18 together by applying a partial vacuum above the clear plastic film 18 and below the opaque plastic film 16 , and then venting a region above the clear plastic film 18 to atmospheric pressure.
- the method further includes using the packaging apparatus 10 to apply heat to at least partially bond the two plastic films 16 , 18 together.
- FIG. 7 shows a plan view and a cross section of the mould 22 according to an embodiment of the invention.
- like features to the arrangements of FIGS. 1-6 are shown with like reference numerals.
- FIG. 7 shows dimensions in mm.
- raised portions 92 and apexes 94 of the mould 22 which form the raised portions 62 and the apexes 70 of the tray 24 .
- FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of a tray according to another embodiment of the invention, generally designated 95 .
- a trough 96 is shown in the centre of the tray floor 33 .
- the trough 96 is at the same level as the channels 32 and operates as a well or sink to collect water from the fish 36 so that it passes to the absorbent sheet 34 more efficiently.
- the tough 96 is recessed in the tray floor 33 in a similar manner to the channels 32 .
- the trough 96 operates to connect the channels 32 to the absorbent sheet 34 .
- the trough 96 is smaller than the footprint of the portion of fish 36 on the tray floor 33 .
- the trough 96 is rectangular and has a length of about 90 mm and a width of about 10 mm. It is envisaged that the length of the trough 96 may be between 80 to 100 mm. It is envisaged that the width of the trough 96 may be between 5 to 15 mm.
- the trough 96 has a floor 98 which is flat, and may be used for embossing text thereon.
- the trough 96 is relatively narrow and relatively long, which is advantageous because the spaces or ducts 76 are maintained and the apexes 70 still operate to grip the fish 36 .
- FIG. 9 shows experimental results relating to embodiments of the invention.
- the Applicant has conducted experiments to compare the shelf life of the fish 36 using the package 56 of the embodiments above, and with the package of the prior art.
- FIG. 9 shows a graph with quality grading scores on the y-axis, and time on the x-axis.
- the aim of the experiment was to assess and compare samples of fish 36 (skinless cod fillets) in the package 56 and a prior art package.
- the fish 36 in the package 56 and the prior art package was assessed at different time points during the product shelf life, commencing at day 1 (indicated D+1) and finishing at day 8 (indicated D+8).
- the packages were placed in chilled storage.
- the sensory quality assessment included raw appearance and odour, and cooked appearance, odour, flavour and texture/mouthfeel comments, and a quality grading score in accordance with the assessment scale shown in Table 1.
- FIG. 9 the left bar 100 for each day shows the prior art package, and the right bar 102 for each day shows the package 56 .
- D+1 there was little or no difference between the packages, both being rated as Very Good Quality for all attributes.
- FIG. 9 shows that after D+6 the left bar 100 is consistently lower than the right bar 102 .
- a significant result is shown for D+7 where the left bar 100 has a quality grading score of 3, and the right bar 102 has a quality grading score of 6.
- the experiment was ended after D+8.
- the package of the prior art may be able to keep the fish fresh, for example, up to seven days
- the package 56 of the above embodiments has been shown in the experiments to keep the fish fresh for up to one or two days longer.
- Extending the shelf life of the fish 36 by at least one or two days is a highly significant achievement because it may avoid the requirement to discard the fish 36 if it has not been sold by the supermarket, which reduces food waste.
- the advantage of keeping the fish 36 fresher for longer is due to the fact that the fish 36 rests in less water when in the package 56 .
- little or no water pools in the package 56 it provides an improved appearance to the consumer, particularly towards the end of the shelf life.
- the packages 56 are suitable for transporting to a supermarket in bulk and for stacking on shelves ready for sale.
- the packages 56 present the fish 36 to the consumer in an appealing manner because it is visible through the clear plastic film 16 and has a three-dimensional appearance.
- the packages 56 may also be frozen for transporting long distance. Such freezing may expand the volume of the portion of fish 36 . If the package 56 undergoes a controlled thawing process prior to stacking on a supermarket shelf additional water and juices may be released by the portion of fish 36 . With the embodiments of the invention the additional water and juices are able to pass more easily to the absorbent sheet 34 due to the ducts 76 . When the package 56 undergoes freezing and defrosting the fish 36 is kept fresher for a longer period of time because there is little or no water for the fish 36 to rest in which increases the shelf life.
- the tray 24 is relatively rigid due to the raised portions 62 which provide a structure to the tray 24 which stiffens it. This provides the advantage that it is much easier to peel away the clear plastic film 16 from the opaque plastic film 18 to open the package 56 . Furthermore, if a small amount of liquid is present in the package 56 it is less likely to spill or splash when the package 56 is opened because the tray 24 is relatively stiff. Furthermore, such a stiffer tray 24 may also allow a lighter weight tray 24 to be used, which may provide a cost and environmental advantage.
- the channels 32 are shown to have a curved floor between the raised portions 62 where the square bases 68 of each pyramid meet.
- the curved floor and the pyramid structure mean that the trays 24 can be formed easily by the mould 22 , and are readily releasable from the mould 22 .
- the raised portions 62 and channels 32 may have any suitable shape that permits the formation of a duct 76 with the clear plastic film 16 .
- the number of channels 32 and orientation relative to the tray 24 may also be varied.
- the channels 32 are comprised of recessed lettering or writing on the tray floor 33 . Such recessed lettering or writing may be used to display instructions or a Trade Mark into the tray 24 .
- the method, package and apparatus may also be used to package other food that may release water or juices such as chicken, pork, beef, seafood, other proteins etc.
- the embodiments may at least partially provide the desired effect with only one channel 32 , raised portion 62 and/or duct 76 , with the proviso that the water or other juices from the portion of fish 36 is able to pass to the absorbent sheet 34 .
- the absorbent sheet 34 is shown in the above embodiment to be wholly covered by the portion of fish 36
- the desired effect may at least partially be provided by having the portion of fish 36 covering only a part of the absorbent sheet 34 .
- the portion of fish 36 and the absorbent sheet 34 may be located away from each other on the tray floor 33 and connected to each other by the duct 76 between the clear plastic film 16 and the opaque plastic film 18 .
- the fish 36 is in contact with the absorbent pad 34
- the fish 36 is not in contact with the absorbent pad 34 .
- the fish 36 and the pad 34 are located on separate parts of the floor 33 , and are in communication with one another by said at least one duct 76 .
- the clear plastics film 18 is a breathable film, which may be a legal requirement for sale of the package 56 in certain countries, for example the US.
- a breathable film may be of polyethylene, which is porous to oxygen.
- the breathable film may have a water vapour transmission rate of 2.1 gms/100 sq. in./24 hrs, and may have an oxygen transmission rate of 12,000 cc/m 2 /24 hrs.
- a suitable breathable film is available from Sealed Air Corporation having the product code VF310K.
- the oxygen permeable film 18 guards against anaerobic conditions being generated within the package 56 that may cause anaerobic bacterial spores, such as Clostridium botulinum , to germinate and produce toxins.
- the Applicant has conducted microbiological experiments using such a breathable film to compare the package 56 and the prior art package.
- the experiments show that viable colony counts for aerobic bacterial colonies is greatly reduced using the package 56 .
- Table 3 shows results for Salmon using the prior art package.
- Table 4 shows results for Salmon using the package 56 .
- the package 56 with a breathable film 18 produces an additional benefit of reducing viable bacterial colonies, which is due to the ducts 76 allowing water and other juices from the fish 36 to pass to the absorbent pad 34 .
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Abstract
Description
- This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/312,588, filed on Nov. 18, 2016, which is a national stage of PCT International Application No. PCT/GB2015/000123, filed on May 1, 2015, and published in English on Nov. 26, 2015 as WO 2015/177492, which claims priority to Great Britain Patent Application No. 1409031 filed on May 21, 2014, the entire disclosures of each and all of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference.
- The invention relates to improvements in or relating to the packaging of food.
- It is known to provide a way of packaging food such as fresh fish between two plastic films as a continuous process using a packaging apparatus. The two plastic films have an adhesive coating which is heat-activated. A first lower film is fed from a first roll onto a mould and formed into a series of trays having flat bases. A portion of fresh fish is then placed onto each flat base. A second upper film is fed from a second roll over the trays and the portions of fish. A partial vacuum is applied below the tray and above and the second upper film together with the application of heat to the second upper film. The region above the top film is then vented to atmosphere to bond and seal the two films together so that the portions of fish are hermetically sealed between the two films. The two films having the fish sealed between them are then repeatedly cut so that separate packages containing the fish are produced. Typically the lower film is an opaque material, and the upper film is a clear material so that the portion of fish is visible. Overall the packages have the effect of keeping the fish fresher for a longer period of time and thereby increasing the shelf life. The packages are suitable for transporting to a supermarket in bulk and for stacking on shelves ready for sale. The packages also present the fish to the consumer in an appealing manner because it has a three-dimensional appearance. Such a way of packaging may be termed skin packaging which is characterised by the use of adhesive between the two films, and whereby the upper film is a shrink wrap film. The skin packaging method is distinct from conventional vacuum packaging which merely applies a partial vacuum and then creates a seal around a perimeter of the food.
- Whereas the package may keep the portion of fish fresh, for example, up to seven days, a problem may be encountered towards the end of this shelf life because water and juices may be lost from the fish. The water collects on the top and on the side of the portion of fish within the pack itself. The water may contribute to reducing the shelf life of the fish within the package, or at least contribute to a reduction in the colour, flavour or integrity of the fish. In addition the water looks unsightly and may be unappealing to the consumer.
- Water collecting within the package may be a particular problem when the package containing the fish is frozen prior to transportation and delivery to the supermarket. Such freezing is typically required when the fish is being transported of a long distance such as exporting to another country. At the supermarket the package typically undergoes a controlled defrosting process before it is placed on the supermarket shelves for sale. Such freezing increases the volume of the portion of fish because water expands when frozen. This in turn causes the upper plastic film to stretch and become loose. The upper plastic film may also become loose when the fish has moved or slipped on the tray whether the fish has not been frozen or not. If the package is displayed in an upright position the water may collect in a pouch of the upper plastic film. Overall the collection of water in the pouch between the fish and the top plastic film provides a poor presentation of the package to the customer.
- It is known in the packing of meats such as pork, chicken or beef to use an absorbent sheet between the meat and the tray. The absorbent sheet soaks up any unwanted water and juices from the meat. However, the use of such an absorbent sheet when packaging food using the skin packaging method described above is expressly not recommended within the industry because the absorbent sheet may interfere with the seal between the two films.
- Another problem of the known tray is that the portion of fish may slide on the flat base during the packing process or during transport of the finished package. During the packing process such sliding may be occur when the operator places the portion of fish on the tray, or it may be due to changes in speed or direction of the tray imparted by the packaging apparatus prior to the formation of the upper film on the tray. Sliding of the fish on the tray may leave a residue from the food which may interfere with the bond and seal between the two films of plastic and reduce its effectiveness. Such a reduction in the integrity of the seal may affect the shelf life of the fish.
- A further problem with the known tray is that it is relatively flimsy, which may bend excessively when the top film is peeled away from it. The water between the two films of plastic may then spill out of the package which is undesirable for the end user.
- It is broadly an object of the present invention to address one or more of the above mentioned disadvantages of the previously known ways of packaging food.
- What is required is a way of packaging food which may reduce or minimise at least some of the above-mentioned problems.
- According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of packaging food between a first plastic film and a second plastic film using a packaging apparatus, the method including; forming a tray from the first plastic film, the tray having a floor with at least one channel; providing an absorbent pad on the floor of the tray; placing a portion of food on the floor of the tray; placing the second plastic film on the tray to sandwich the absorbent pad and the portion of food between the plastic films; and using the packaging apparatus to urge the two plastic films together and to create a seal therebetween, wherein at least one duct is formed between said at least one channel and at least one of the second plastic film, the absorbent pad, and the portion of food.
- Such a method has the advantage that the portion of food may be kept fresher for a longer period of time, which may increase the shelf life, or at least contributes to an improved colour, flavour or integrity of the food over a given period of time. This advantage is provided by the ability of the water and other juices from the portion of food to pass to the absorbent pad via said at least one duct. The Applicant has discovered that water is not good for the food, and in particular for the shelf life of fish, which has a tendency to deteriorate more quickly. Since the use of an absorbent pad when packaging fish is expressly not be recommended by packaging suppliers this represents a prejudice away from using absorbent pads in the technical field. The Applicant has discovered that with the invention the risks associated with using an absorbent pad are avoided or at least significantly reduced or minimised to acceptable levels. The Applicants have also realised that when the fish is frozen there is an opportunity for ice crystals to develop and grow within the tissue of the food. The tissue of fish is thought to release more water when defrosted.
- In addition, a further advantage is provided by said at least one channel which may assist with gripping of the food to inhibit it from sliding on the tray. This may provide the advantage of improving the integrity of the seal between the two films. Furthermore, said at least one channel may stiffen the tray. This may provide the advantage of making the second plastic film easier to remove from the tray or avoiding the tray flexing excessively. Such a stiffer tray may also allow a lighter weight tray to be used, which may provide a cost and environmental advantage. It will be appreciated that the tray may be formed by the packaging apparatus or it may be pre-formed separately and then subsequently fed into the packaging apparatus.
- Preferably the method further includes cutting the two films to create a separate package containing the portion of food and the absorbent pad.
- Preferably the method further includes providing the absorbent pad on the floor of the tray so that it at least partially covers at least a part of said at least one channel. Preferably the method further includes placing the portion of food on the floor of the tray so that it at least partially covers a part of said at least one channel. Preferably the method further includes placing the portion of food on the floor of the tray so that it is at least partially on the absorbent pad, and preferably so that it wholly covers the absorbent pad. Such arrangements permits the water or juices to pass more easily to the absorbent pad.
- Preferably the method further includes forming the tray with a continuous lip around the portion of food, said at least one channel and the absorbent pad, the lip for providing a continuous seal between the plastic films. This has the advantage of providing an improved seal. Preferably the method includes forming the lip on the floor of the tray.
- Preferably the method further includes forming the floor of the tray with a plurality of channels for providing a plurality of ducts between the plurality of channels and at least one of the second plastic film, the absorbent pad, and the portion of food. Preferably the method further includes forming the plurality of channels so that the ducts are in communication with one another. Such arrangements permits the water or juices to pass more easily to the absorbent pad, and may also assist with stiffening the tray, and allow a lighter weight tray to be used, which may provide a cost and environmental advantage.
- Preferably the method further includes forming said at least one channel using a row or a grid of raised portions of the floor of the tray. Such arrangements permit the water or juices to pass more easily to the absorbent pad, and may also assist with stiffening the tray. Furthermore, the raised portions may help the tray to grip the food and to inhibit it from moving on the tray.
- Preferably the method is provided as a continuous process. Preferably the first plastic film and/or the second plastic film are provided on respective feed reels. Preferably the portion of food is fish.
- Preferably the method further includes using the packaging apparatus to urge the two plastic films together by applying a partial vacuum above the second plastic film and below the first plastic film, and then venting a region above the second plastic film to atmospheric pressure. Preferably the method further includes using the packaging apparatus to apply heat to at least partially bond the two plastic films together. The heat may activate an adhesive of one or both of the plastic films.
- Preferably the method further includes forming a well in the floor of the tray, wherein the well is in communication with the at least one channel.
- According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a package of food produced using the method according to the first aspect of the invention.
- According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided a package containing a portion of food, the package comprising a tray, a plastic film and an absorbent pad, the tray having a floor with at least one channel, the absorbent pad and the portion of food being provided on the floor of the tray, the plastic film being formed onto the tray to sandwich the absorbent pad and the portion of food between the plastic film and the tray to create a seal therebetween, wherein at least one duct is formed between said at least one channel and at least one of the plastic film, the absorbent pad, and the portion of food.
- Such a package has the advantage that the portion of food may be kept fresher for a longer period of time, which may increase the shelf life, or at least contributes to an improved colour, flavour or integrity of the food. This advantage is provided by the ability of the water and other juices from the portion of food to pass to the absorbent pad via said at least one duct. In addition, said at least on channel may assist with gripping of the food to inhibit it from sliding on the tray. This may provide the advantage of improving the integrity of the seal between the two films. Furthermore, said at least one channel may stiffen the tray. This may provide the advantage of making the second plastic film easier to remove from the tray or avoiding the tray flexing excessively. Such a stiffer tray may also allow a lighter weight tray to be used, which may provide a cost and environmental advantage.
- Preferably the absorbent pad at least partially covers at least a part of said at least one channel. Preferably the portion of food on the floor of the tray at least partially covers a part of said at least one channel. Preferably the portion of food on the floor of the tray is at least partially on the absorbent pad, and preferably the portion of food on the floor of the tray wholly covers the absorbent pad. The absorbent pad may be provided on a part or the whole of the floor of the tray. Such arrangements permits the water or juices to pass more easily to the absorbent pad.
- Preferably the tray has a continuous lip around the portion of food, said at least one channel and the absorbent pad, the lip for providing a continuous seal between the plastic films. This has the advantage of providing an improved seal. Preferably the lip is formed on the floor of the tray.
- Preferably the floor of the tray has a plurality of channels for providing a plurality of ducts between the plurality of channels and at least one of the second plastic film, the absorbent pad, and the portion of food. Preferably the plurality of channels run along the length of the floor of the tray. Preferably the plurality of channels run along the width of the floor of the tray. Preferably the plurality of channels are provided so that the ducts are in communication with one another. A spacing between adjacent channels may be between 0.5 cm and 2.0 cm, and preferably 1.0 cm. Such arrangements permits the water or juices to pass more easily to the absorbent pad, and may also assist with stiffening the tray.
- Preferably said at least one channel is provided by a row or a grid of raised portions of the floor of the tray. Preferably the raised portions are discrete projections from the floor of the tray. Preferably each raised portion has an apex. Preferably each apex has an area of between 0.75 to 4 mm2, and preferably 2.5 mm2. Such arrangements may provide the advantage of helping the tray to grip the food and to inhibit it from moving on the tray.
- Preferably each raised portion has at least one face which is concave. Preferably each raised portion has a height of between 1.0 mm and 7.0 mm, and preferably 3.6 mm. Such arrangements may provide the advantage or promoting a separation between the tray and the film to create said at least one duct.
- Preferably the portion of food is fish. One or both of the plastic film and the tray may be a thermoforming material.
- Preferably the tray has a sidewall extending from the floor. Preferably the tray is an opaque plastic. Preferably at least a part of the plastic film is a see-through plastic film.
- Preferably the plastic film is formed onto the tray by applying a partial vacuum above the plastic film and below the tray, and then venting a region above the plastic film to atmospheric pressure to urge the plastic film and the tray together. Preferably the plastic film is at least partially bonded to the tray with the application of heat. The heat may activate an adhesive of the plastic film or the tray.
- Preferably the floor of the tray has a well in communication with the at least one channel.
- Preferably the plastic film is a breathable film.
- According to a fourth aspect of the invention there is provided a packaging apparatus for packaging a portion of food and an absorbent pad between a tray and a plastic film, the tray having a floor with at least one channel, the absorbent pad being located on the floor of the tray, the portion of food being located on the floor of the tray, the plastic film being located on the tray to sandwich the absorbent pad and the portion of food between the tray and the plastic film, the packaging apparatus operable to urge the tray and the plastic film together and to create a seal therebetween, wherein at least one duct is formed between said at least one channel and at least one of the second plastic film, the absorbent pad, and the portion of food.
- Such an apparatus has the advantage that the portion of food may be kept fresher for a longer period of time, which may increase the shelf life, or at least contributes to an improved colour, flavour or integrity of the food. This advantage is provided by the ability of the water and other juices from the portion of food to pass to the absorbent pad via said at least one duct. In addition, said at least on channel may assist with gripping of the food to inhibit it from sliding on the tray. This may provide the advantage of improving the integrity of the seal between the two films. Furthermore, said at least one channel may stiffen the tray. This may provide the advantage of making the second plastic film easier to remove from the tray or avoiding the tray flexing excessively. Such a stiffer tray may also allow a lighter weight tray to be used, which may provide a cost and environmental advantage.
- Preferably the tray is formed by a mould of the apparatus from a first plastic film. Preferably one or both of the first and second films are provided on respective feed reels. Preferably the apparatus has a blade to cut the tray and the plastic film to create a separate package containing the portion of food and the absorbent pad. Such arrangement provide the advantage that the apparatus can be operated as a continuous process where successive portions of food are packaged.
- Preferably the apparatus is arranged to provide the absorbent pad on the floor of the tray so that it at least partially covers at least a part of said at least one channel. Preferably the apparatus is arranged to place the portion of food on the floor of the tray so that it is at least partially covers a part of said at least one channel. Preferably the apparatus is arranged to place the portion of food on the floor of the tray so that it is at least partially on the absorbent pad, and preferably so that the portion of food on the floor of the tray wholly covers the absorbent pad. Such arrangements permits the water or juices to pass more easily to the absorbent pad.
- Preferably the tray is formed with a continuous lip around the portion of food, said at least one channel and the absorbent pad, the apparatus being arranged to form a continuous seal between the lip and the plastic film. This has the advantage of providing an improved seal. Preferably the lip is formed on the floor of the tray.
- Preferably the apparatus is arranged to form said at least one channel using a row or a grid of raised portions of the floor of the tray. Such arrangements may provide the advantage of helping the tray to grip the food and to inhibit it from moving on the tray.
- Preferably the apparatus is arranged to form the floor of the tray with a plurality of channels for providing a plurality of ducts between the plurality of channels and at least one of the plastic film, the absorbent pad, and the portion of food. Preferably the apparatus is arranged to form the plurality of channels so that the ducts are in communication with one another. Such arrangements permits the water or juices to pass more easily to the absorbent pad, and may also assist with stiffening the tray.
- Preferably the apparatus is arranged for packaging successive portions of food as a continuous process.
- Preferably the apparatus is operable to urge the plastic film onto the tray by applying a partial vacuum above the plastic film and below the tray, and then venting a region above the plastic film to atmospheric pressure. Preferably the apparatus is operable to bond the plastic at least partially bonded to the tray with the application of heat. The heat may activate an adhesive of the plastic film or the tray.
- Preferably the floor of the tray has a well in communication with the at least one channel.
- Preferably the plastic film is a breathable film.
- According to a fifth aspect of the invention there is provided an apparatus for performing the method according to the first aspect of the invention, or for making the package according to the second aspect of the invention.
- According to a sixth aspect of the invention there is provided method of packaging food between a tray and a plastic film using a packaging apparatus, the method including; providing a floor of the tray with at least one channel; providing an absorbent pad on the floor of the tray; placing a portion of food on the floor of the tray; placing the plastic film on the tray to sandwich the absorbent pad and the portion of food between the plastic film and the tray; and using the packaging apparatus to urge the two plastic films together and to create a seal therebetween, wherein at least one duct is formed between said at least one channel and the plastic film, or the absorbent pad, or the portion of food.
- According to a seventh aspect of the invention there is provided an apparatus for performing the method according to the sixth aspect of the invention, or for making the package according to the sixth aspect of the invention.
- According to an alternative characterisation of the invention there is provided a method of vacuum packaging food between a first plastic film and a second plastic film using a vacuum packaging apparatus, the method including; forming a tray from the first plastic film, the tray having a floor with at least one channel running in a transverse direction along the tray, and at least one channel running in a longitudinal direction along the tray, said channels intersecting each other so that they are in communication with each other, said channels formed by a plurality of raised portions of the floor; providing an absorbent pad on the floor of the tray so that it covers at least one of said channels; placing a portion of food on the absorbent pad, wherein the absorbent pad has a smaller area than the portion of food so that it is concealed by the portion of food and so that the portion of food is in contact with the raised portions of the tray around a perimeter of the absorbent pad; placing the second plastic film on the tray to sandwich the absorbent pad and the portion of food between the plastic films; and using the vacuum packaging apparatus to urge the two plastic films together to create a seal therebetween, wherein a plurality of intersecting ducts are formed between said channels and each of the second plastic film, the absorbent pad, and the portion of food to permit liquid to pass to the absorbent pad.
- According to an alternative characterisation of the invention there is provided a vacuum package containing a portion of food, the package comprising a tray, a plastic film and an absorbent pad, the tray having a floor with at least one channel running in a transverse direction along the tray, and at least one channel running in a longitudinal direction along the tray, said channels intersecting each other so that they are in communication with each other, said channels formed by a plurality of raised portions of the floor, the absorbent pad and the portion of food being provided on the floor of the tray so that they cover at least one of said channels, the absorbent pad having a smaller area than the portion of food so that it is concealed by the portion of food and so that the portion of food is in contact with the raised portions of the tray around a perimeter of the absorbent pad, the plastic film being vacuum formed onto the tray to sandwich the absorbent pad and the portion of food between the plastic film and the tray to create a seal therebetween, wherein a plurality of intersecting ducts are formed between said channels and each of the plastic film, the absorbent pad, and the portion of food to permit liquid to pass to the absorbent pad.
- According to an alternative characterisation of the invention there is provided a vacuum packaging apparatus for vacuum packaging a portion of food and an absorbent pad between a tray and a plastic film, the tray having a floor with at least one channel running in a transverse direction along the tray, and at least one channel running in a longitudinal direction along the tray, said channels intersecting each other so that they are in communication with each other, said channels formed by a plurality of raised portions of the floor, the absorbent pad being located on the floor of the tray so that it covers at least one of said channels, the portion of food being located on the absorbent pad, wherein the absorbent pad has a smaller area than the portion of food so that it is concealed by the portion of food and so that the portion of food is in contact with the raised portions of the tray around a perimeter of the absorbent pad, the plastic film being located on the tray to sandwich the absorbent pad and the portion of food between the tray and the plastic film, the vacuum packaging apparatus operable to urge the tray and the plastic film together to create a seal therebetween, wherein a plurality of intersecting ducts are formed between said channels and each of the plastic film, the absorbent pad, and the portion of food to permit liquid to pass to the absorbent pad.
- Any preferred or optional features of one aspect or characterisation of the invention may be a preferred or optional feature of other aspects or characterisations of the invention.
- Other features of the invention will be apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments shown by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which;
-
FIG. 1 shows a schematic side view of an apparatus for packaging food according to an embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the tray shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 shows a close-up perspective view of a tray floor shown inFIGS. 1 and 2 ; -
FIG. 4 shows a cross sectional view of the tray shown inFIGS. 1-3 ; -
FIG. 5 shows a cross sectional view of the package shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 6 shows steps of a method according to embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 7 shows a plan view and a cross section of a mould according to an embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of a tray according to another embodiment of the invention; and -
FIG. 9 shows experimental results relating to embodiments of the invention. -
FIG. 1 shows a schematic side view of an apparatus for packaging food according to an embodiment of the invention, generally designated 10. Theapparatus 10 has twofeed reels first feed reel 12 has a stock ofopaque plastic film 16 which is a thermoforming material. Thesecond feed reel 14 has a stock of see-through orclear plastic film 18 which is also a thermoforming material. In theapparatus 10 theopaque plastic film 16 is arranged to travel in a direction from left to right as shown by thearrow 20, which is the direction of travel of a production line of theapparatus 10. - The
opaque plastic film 16 and theclear plastic film 18 are comprised of a mixture of food grade plastics including poly styrenic resins. One or both of the twoplastic films plastic film 16 is a gas permeable plastic film. - The
opaque plastic film 16 is fed from thefirst feed reel 12 onto amould 22 or forming tool where it is formed into a series oftrays 24, which are attached to each other. For example, heat is applied to theopaque plastic film 16 from above as shown byarrow 25, and themould 22 is moved upwards as shown byarrow 26 to form thetrays 24. A partial vacuum or air pressure may be applied to theopaque plastic film 16 during the moulding stage to form thetrays 24. Themould 22 has amould floor 28 with a series ofchannels 30 which have been machined into it. Thechannels 30 of themould 22produce corresponding channels 32 in atray floor 33 of thetrays 24 when formed. Thechannels 32 are described in greater detail below with reference toFIGS. 2-5 . - Whereas the
term tray 24 is used it will be understood that thetray 24 is a container or a receptacle having an open top, and which has a floor and a side wall which extends from the floor and is continuous. In an alternative arrangement thetray 24 does not have side walls and is substantially planar and includes thechannels 32. - The
apparatus 10 is arranged to place an absorbent sheet orpad 34 onto thebase 28 of each formedtray 24. Alternatively theabsorbent sheet 34 may be placed manually onto eachtray 24. Theapparatus 10 then places a portion offresh fish 36 onto theabsorbent sheet 34 of eachtray 24. Alternatively the portion offresh fish 36 may be placed manually onto eachtray 24. Theabsorbent sheet 34 is of a known kind, and acts to absorb water and other juices/liquid from the portion offresh fish 36 as described in greater detail below. Theabsorbent sheet 34 has a smaller area than the portion offish 36 when viewed from above so that it is concealed by the portion offish 36. It will be appreciated that the step of forming thetray 24 requires the application ofheat 25. The formedtray 24 is required to be sufficiently cool before the portion offish 36 is placed on it to reduce the possibility of heating or partially cooking it. In this respect theabsorbent sheet 34 has the advantage that it may provide an amount of heat insulation between the portion offish 36 and thetray 24 to reduce or avoid unwanted heating or cooking of thefish 36. - The
apparatus 10 then feeds theclear plastic film 18 from thesecond feed reel 14 over thetrays 24 and the portions offish 36 having theabsorbent sheet 34 underneath them, as shown at 38. Avacuum packaging device tray 24 as shown byarrows tray 24 and above and theclear plastic film 18 together with the application of heat to theclear plastic film 18. For example, theclear plastic film 18 may reach a temperature of around 200-210° C. under the application of heat. For example, the partial vacuum may be around 3 to 10 mbar. The region above theclear plastic film 18 film is then vented to atmosphere. This process removes sufficient air between the twoplastic films vacuum packaging device plastic films fish 36 and theabsorbent sheet 34 are hermetically sealed between the twoplastic films plastic films vacuum packaging device plastic films clear plastic film 18 to atmospheric pressure and/or heat. One or both of thefilms apparatus 10 hascutters arrows tray 24 so thatseparate packages 56 containing thefish 36 are produced. As an alternative to using the adhesive, thecutters films - The
apparatus 10 producespackages 56 offish 36 between the twoplastic films apparatus 10. Alternatively theapparatus 10 may be arranged to producepackages 56 offish 36 in batches as a continuous process. Whereas theapparatus 10 has been described above it will be appreciated that it may be constructed from a known apparatus such as a CRYOVAC™ DARFRESH™ apparatus available from Sealed Air Corporation, which has been modified according to the embodiments of the invention. With such an apparatus, or using theapparatus 10 described above, theopaque plastic film 16 may be a black film having the technical specification PFIL059, and theclear plastic film 18 may be a multi-layer clear plastic film having a thickness of 400 micrometres and comprised in the majority of styrenic resins.Packages 56 produced using the DARFRESH™ apparatus or theapparatus 10, may be described as skin packs or skin packages because they have abase tray 24 with aplastic film 18 or a skin which has been formed thereon. Such a way of packaging may be termed skin packaging which is characterised by the use of adhesive between the twofilms fish 36. - The
package 56 comprises a mouldedtray 24 where theclear plastic film 18 envelops thefish 36 and cooperates with thetray 24 to bond to it. Theclear plastic film 18 is a transparent protective film which adheres to thetray 24 while allowing sight of thefish 36 by the consumer. - Whereas the
apparatus 10 shows that thetray 24 is formed by theapparatus 10, it will be appreciated that alternatively thetray 24 may be pre-formed elsewhere and then fed into theapparatus 10. If thetray 24 is pre-formed it may not necessarily be of a thermoforming plastic, and it may be for example expanded foam. The steps of placing thefish 36 andabsorbent pad 34 onto thetray 24 and laying theclear plastic film 18 onto thetray 24 prior to applying the partial vacuum and venting to atmospheric pressure can then be performed by theapparatus 10. -
FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of thetray 24 shown inFIG. 1 . InFIG. 2 like features to the arrangements ofFIG. 1 are shown with like reference numerals. InFIG. 2 thechannels 32 of thetray floor 33 are shown to run in a transverse direction along thetray 24 as indicated by anarrow 58. Thechannels 32 also run in a longitudinal direction along thetray 24 as indicated by anarrow 60. It will be appreciated that thearrows tray 24 is viewed from above. In another embodiment the transverse andlongitudinal channels 32 may not be perpendicular or aligned with a width or length of the tray. As shown inFIG. 2 there are sixteenchannels 32 which run in thetransverse direction 58, and eightchannels 32 which run in thelongitudinal direction 60. Thetransverse channels 58 and thelongitudinal channels 60 intersect each other so that they are in communication with each other i.e. so that the lowest point or bottom of the channels are in communication with each other. Thechannels 32 are formed by a plurality of raisedportions 62 of thetray floor 33. In this manner thechannels 32 are recessed in thetray floor 33. The raisedportions 62 are arranged in rows in a grid formation. In the embodiment shown the raisedportions 62 are provided on substantially theentire tray floor 33. With such an arrangement the area of the raisedportions 62 is larger than the footprint of the portion offish 36. Also shown is a raised rim orlip 64 of thetray floor 33, which runs around thechannels 32 and the raisedportions 62. Thelip 64 is between thetray floor 33 andsides 66 of the tray. -
FIG. 3 shows a close-up perspective view of thetray floor 33 shown inFIGS. 1 and 2 . InFIG. 3 like features to the arrangements ofFIGS. 1 and 2 are shown with like reference numerals. InFIG. 3 each raisedportion 62 is shown to be a pyramid having asquare base 68 and an apex 70 which is truncated to create a flat top or a curved top. Each apex 70 may have an area of between 0.75 to 4 mm2, and preferably 2.5 mm2. The apex 70 of each raisedportion 62 promotes release of thetray 24 from themould 22. Each pyramid has four faces 72 which are concave, i.e. which bow inwards. Such an arrangement of the raised portions promotes the creation of a duct 76 (shown inFIG. 5 ) between the twofilms channels 32 when they are bonded together during the application of a partial vacuum and venting to atmospheric pressure as described above. The flat or curved top of each apex 70 reduces the possibility for the raised portions to pierce the portions offish 36 or theclear plastic film 16, and they provide a way of gripping thefish 36 to inhibit it from moving on thetray 24 during the packing process described above and during transportation to a supermarket. The apex 70 of each raisedprojection 62 bonds with thesecond film 18 when a partial vacuum and heat is applied followed venting to atmospheric as described above. It will be appreciated that thechannels 32 are formed by the raisedportions 62, i.e. substantially entirely formed by the raised portions with the exception of thechannel 32 formed adjacent to thelip 64 that is around the raisedportions 32. The raisedportions 32 are not strips or elongate portions of thetray floor 33, but are discrete portions (i.e. symmetrical discrete projections) arranged in a grid formation. Alternatively the raisedportions 32 may be termed castellations which each have the apex 70. -
FIG. 4 shows a cross sectional view of thetray 24 shown inFIGS. 1-3 . InFIG. 4 like features to the arrangements ofFIGS. 1-3 are shown with like reference numerals. InFIG. 4 the cross sectional view is along the length of thetray 24 and through theapexes 70 of the raisedportions 62. It will be appreciated that the cross sectional view along the width of thetray 24 is similar. The height of each raisedportion 62 between the lowest point of thechannel 32 and the highest part of the apex 70 is indicated by thedouble arrows 74. In the embodiment shown thedimension 74 is about 3.6 mm. It is envisaged that thedimension 74 could be between 1.0 mm and 7.0 mm whilst still providing the desired effect. The width between successive lowest points of thechannel 32 is indicated by thedouble arrows 75. In the embodiment shown thedimension 75 is about 1.0 cm. It is envisaged that thedimension 75 could be between 0.5 cm and 2.0 cm whilst still providing the desired effect. However, if the spacing of thechannels 32 is large it will be appreciated that any water from thefish 36 may not find its way to theabsorbent sheet 34. In addition theapexes 70 of the raisedportions 62 may not grip thefish 36 sufficiently well to reduce the chances of it slipping on thetray floor 33 during packing and transport. Also shown is thelip 64 which runs around thechannels 32 and the raisedportions 62. Thelip 64 is between thetray floor 33 andsides 66 of the tray. The skilled person will know the requirements to provide the required drainage of thefish 36 whilst also providing an appropriate spacing of the channels. WhereasFIG. 4 depicts a cross sectional view, it will be appreciated that the view is what would be seen if thetray 24 is cut along its length in the middle thereof, and viewed from a side thereof. -
FIG. 5 shows a cross sectional view of thepackage 56 shown inFIG. 1 . InFIG. 5 like features to the arrangements ofFIGS. 1-4 are shown with like reference numerals. InFIG. 5 spaces orducts 76 are shown to be created between the twoplastic films ducts 76 are in the region adjacent to the lowest point of thechannels 32. Theducts 76 are also created between theabsorbent sheet 34 and theopaque plastic film 18, and between the portion offood 36 and theopaque plastic film 18. Theducts 76 may be present in one or more of these three locations. It will be appreciated that due to the lattice ofchannels 32 of thetray 24 which are arranged as a grid theducts 76 are interconnected to each other. In this manner thefish 36 is raised above the lowest part of thetray floor 33 by the raisedportions 62. It can also be seen that theapexes 70 of the raisedportions 62 touch and grip the portion offish 36, which inhibits movement of thefish 36 on thetray 24. Also shown is thelip 64 which is continuous around thechannels 32 and the raisedportions 62. Thelip 64 creates a part of thetray 24 onto which theclear plastic film 16 can bond which provides an improved seal between the twoplastic films fish 36. - From the above
FIGS. 2-5 it can be seen that theducts 76 are in communication with each another. This is because thechannels 32 are connected to each other, and because theclear plastic film 16 is above the floor of eachchannel 32. If thepackage 56 is tipped from the horizontal position any water or juices from thefish 36 finds its way to theabsorbent sheet 34 underneath thefish 36. The raisedportions 62 lift the portion offish 36 above the floor of thechannels 32 so that thefish 36 does not rest in the water or juices. It will be appreciated that thechannels 32 and raisedportions 62 are not mere surface decoration, and have been specifically designed to formducts 76 with theclear plastic film 16 to perform the function of permitting water and other juices from thefish 36 to pass more easily to theabsorbent sheet 34. Furthermore theducts 76 are typically not mere capillary ducts that operate under capillary action, but areducts 76 through which water and other juices can flow under the action of gravity. -
FIG. 6 shows steps of a method according to embodiment of the invention, generally designated 80. It will be appreciated that the steps may be performed in a different order, and may not necessarily be performed in the order shown inFIG. 6 . Themethod 60 is a method of packagingfood 36 between afirst plastic film 12 and asecond plastic film 14 using apackaging apparatus 10. The method includes forming atray 24 from thefirst plastic film 12, as shown at 82, thetray 24 having afloor 33 with at least onechannel 32. The method includes providing anabsorbent pad 34 on thefloor 33 of thetray 24, as shown at 84. The method includes placing a portion offood 36 on thefloor 33 of thetray 24, as shown at 85. The method includes placing thesecond plastic film 14 on thetray 24 to sandwich theabsorbent pad 34 and the portion offood 36 between theplastic films packaging apparatus 10 to urge the twoplastic films duct 76 is formed between said at least onechannel 32 and at least one of thesecond plastic film 16, theabsorbent pad 34, and the portion offood 36. - The method further includes cutting the two
films separate package 56 containing the portion offood 36 and theabsorbent pad 34, as shown at 90. The method further includes providing theabsorbent pad 34 on thefloor 33 of thetray 24 so that it at least partially covers at least a part of said at least onechannel 32, as shown at 84. The method further includes placing the portion offood 36 on thefloor 33 of thetray 24 so that it is at least partially cover a part of said at least onechannel 32, as shown at 85. The method further includes placing the portion offood 36 on thefloor 33 of thetray 24 so that it is at least partially on theabsorbent pad 34, as shown at 85. The method further includes placing the portion offood 36 on thefloor 33 of thetray 24 so that it wholly covers theabsorbent pad 85. - The method further includes forming the
tray 24 with acontinuous lip 64 around the portion offood 36, said at least onechannel 32 and theabsorbent pad 34, thelip 64 for providing a continuous seal between theplastic films floor 33 of thetray 24 with a plurality ofchannels 32 for providing a plurality ofducts 76 between the plurality ofchannels 32 and at least one of thesecond plastic film 18, theabsorbent pad 34, and the portion offood 36. The method further includes forming the plurality ofchannels 32 so that theducts 76 are in communication with one another, as shown at 82. The method further includes forming said at least onechannel 32 using a row or a grid of raisedportions 62 of thefloor 33 of thetray 24. The method further includes forming thetray 24 with asidewall 66 extending from thefloor 33. The method further includes using thepackaging apparatus 10 to urge the twoplastic films clear plastic film 18 and below theopaque plastic film 16, and then venting a region above theclear plastic film 18 to atmospheric pressure. The method further includes using thepackaging apparatus 10 to apply heat to at least partially bond the twoplastic films -
FIG. 7 shows a plan view and a cross section of themould 22 according to an embodiment of the invention. InFIG. 7 like features to the arrangements ofFIGS. 1-6 are shown with like reference numerals.FIG. 7 shows dimensions in mm. Also shown are raisedportions 92 and apexes 94 of themould 22 which form the raisedportions 62 and theapexes 70 of thetray 24. -
FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of a tray according to another embodiment of the invention, generally designated 95. InFIG. 8 like features to the arrangements ofFIGS. 1 to 5 are shown with like reference numerals. InFIG. 8 atrough 96 is shown in the centre of thetray floor 33. Thetrough 96 is at the same level as thechannels 32 and operates as a well or sink to collect water from thefish 36 so that it passes to theabsorbent sheet 34 more efficiently. In other words, the tough 96 is recessed in thetray floor 33 in a similar manner to thechannels 32. Thetrough 96 operates to connect thechannels 32 to theabsorbent sheet 34. Thetrough 96 is smaller than the footprint of the portion offish 36 on thetray floor 33. Thetrough 96 is rectangular and has a length of about 90 mm and a width of about 10 mm. It is envisaged that the length of thetrough 96 may be between 80 to 100 mm. It is envisaged that the width of thetrough 96 may be between 5 to 15 mm. Thetrough 96 has afloor 98 which is flat, and may be used for embossing text thereon. Thetrough 96 is relatively narrow and relatively long, which is advantageous because the spaces orducts 76 are maintained and theapexes 70 still operate to grip thefish 36. -
FIG. 9 shows experimental results relating to embodiments of the invention. The Applicant has conducted experiments to compare the shelf life of thefish 36 using thepackage 56 of the embodiments above, and with the package of the prior art.FIG. 9 shows a graph with quality grading scores on the y-axis, and time on the x-axis. The aim of the experiment was to assess and compare samples of fish 36 (skinless cod fillets) in thepackage 56 and a prior art package. Thefish 36 in thepackage 56 and the prior art package was assessed at different time points during the product shelf life, commencing at day 1 (indicated D+1) and finishing at day 8 (indicated D+8). The packages were placed in chilled storage. The sensory quality assessment included raw appearance and odour, and cooked appearance, odour, flavour and texture/mouthfeel comments, and a quality grading score in accordance with the assessment scale shown in Table 1. -
TABLE 1 Quality Grading Score Sensory Quality 9 Excellent Quality 8 Very Good Quality 7 Good Quality 6 Fairly Good Quality 5 Satisfactory Quality 4 Just Acceptable Quality 3 Poor Quality 2 Very Poor Quality 1 Bad Quality - A summary of the quality grading score for each package is shown in Table 2 and in
FIG. 9 . -
TABLE 2 Quality Grading Score Product D + 1 D + 6 D + 7 D + 8 Prior art package 8 4 3 Not Assessed Package 56 8 7 6 3 - In
FIG. 9 theleft bar 100 for each day shows the prior art package, and theright bar 102 for each day shows thepackage 56. At the start of the trial D+1 there was little or no difference between the packages, both being rated as Very Good Quality for all attributes.FIG. 9 shows that after D+6 theleft bar 100 is consistently lower than theright bar 102. A significant result is shown for D+7 where theleft bar 100 has a quality grading score of 3, and theright bar 102 has a quality grading score of 6. The experiment was ended after D+8. - Whereas the package of the prior art may be able to keep the fish fresh, for example, up to seven days, the
package 56 of the above embodiments has been shown in the experiments to keep the fish fresh for up to one or two days longer. Extending the shelf life of thefish 36 by at least one or two days is a highly significant achievement because it may avoid the requirement to discard thefish 36 if it has not been sold by the supermarket, which reduces food waste. The advantage of keeping thefish 36 fresher for longer is due to the fact that thefish 36 rests in less water when in thepackage 56. In addition, since little or no water pools in thepackage 56 it provides an improved appearance to the consumer, particularly towards the end of the shelf life. - The use of an
absorbent sheet 34 when packagingfish 36 is expressly not be recommended by packaging suppliers because it may interfere with the seal between the twofilms absorbent sheet 34 represents a prejudice in the technical field. However, the Applicant has conducted experiments using the embodiments of the invention describe above to show that the problems associated with interfering of the seal between the twofilms package 56 are avoided or at least significantly reduced or minimised to acceptable levels because thetray 24 grips thefish 36 to inhibit it from moving on thetray 24 and because water is absorbed by theabsorbent pad 34. - The
packages 56 are suitable for transporting to a supermarket in bulk and for stacking on shelves ready for sale. Thepackages 56 present thefish 36 to the consumer in an appealing manner because it is visible through theclear plastic film 16 and has a three-dimensional appearance. Thepackages 56 may also be frozen for transporting long distance. Such freezing may expand the volume of the portion offish 36. If thepackage 56 undergoes a controlled thawing process prior to stacking on a supermarket shelf additional water and juices may be released by the portion offish 36. With the embodiments of the invention the additional water and juices are able to pass more easily to theabsorbent sheet 34 due to theducts 76. When thepackage 56 undergoes freezing and defrosting thefish 36 is kept fresher for a longer period of time because there is little or no water for thefish 36 to rest in which increases the shelf life. - Another advantage provided by the
tray 24 is that it is relatively rigid due to the raisedportions 62 which provide a structure to thetray 24 which stiffens it. This provides the advantage that it is much easier to peel away theclear plastic film 16 from theopaque plastic film 18 to open thepackage 56. Furthermore, if a small amount of liquid is present in thepackage 56 it is less likely to spill or splash when thepackage 56 is opened because thetray 24 is relatively stiff. Furthermore, such astiffer tray 24 may also allow alighter weight tray 24 to be used, which may provide a cost and environmental advantage. - In the above embodiments the
channels 32 are shown to have a curved floor between the raisedportions 62 where thesquare bases 68 of each pyramid meet. The curved floor and the pyramid structure mean that thetrays 24 can be formed easily by themould 22, and are readily releasable from themould 22. It will be appreciated that the raisedportions 62 andchannels 32 may have any suitable shape that permits the formation of aduct 76 with theclear plastic film 16. It will also be appreciated that the number ofchannels 32 and orientation relative to thetray 24 may also be varied. In one arrangement thechannels 32 are comprised of recessed lettering or writing on thetray floor 33. Such recessed lettering or writing may be used to display instructions or a Trade Mark into thetray 24. - Whereas the packaging of
fish 36 is mentioned above it will be appreciated that the method, package and apparatus may also be used to package other food that may release water or juices such as chicken, pork, beef, seafood, other proteins etc. - Whereas the above embodiments describe a plurality of
channels 32, raisedportions 62 and/orducts 76, it will be appreciated that the embodiments may at least partially provide the desired effect with only onechannel 32, raisedportion 62 and/orduct 76, with the proviso that the water or other juices from the portion offish 36 is able to pass to theabsorbent sheet 34. Furthermore, whereas theabsorbent sheet 34 is shown in the above embodiment to be wholly covered by the portion offish 36, the desired effect may at least partially be provided by having the portion offish 36 covering only a part of theabsorbent sheet 34. Alternatively the portion offish 36 and theabsorbent sheet 34 may be located away from each other on thetray floor 33 and connected to each other by theduct 76 between theclear plastic film 16 and theopaque plastic film 18. - Whereas in the above embodiments the
fish 36 is in contact with theabsorbent pad 34, in an alternative arrangement thefish 36 is not in contact with theabsorbent pad 34. With such an arrangement thefish 36 and thepad 34 are located on separate parts of thefloor 33, and are in communication with one another by said at least oneduct 76. - Whereas the above embodiments have been described as being able to extend the shelf life of food it will be appreciated that in general such an extension of time may be dependent on many factors including, for example, the particular supermarket or retailer, the manner in which the
packages 56 are handled or transported, or the final destination country. Whereas, in general the shelf life may be extended, it will be appreciated that the food may remain fresher for longer over a given shelf life period. - In one embodiment the
clear plastics film 18 is a breathable film, which may be a legal requirement for sale of thepackage 56 in certain countries, for example the US. Such a breathable film may be of polyethylene, which is porous to oxygen. For example, the breathable film may have a water vapour transmission rate of 2.1 gms/100 sq. in./24 hrs, and may have an oxygen transmission rate of 12,000 cc/m2/24 hrs. A suitable breathable film is available from Sealed Air Corporation having the product code VF310K. The oxygenpermeable film 18 guards against anaerobic conditions being generated within thepackage 56 that may cause anaerobic bacterial spores, such as Clostridium botulinum, to germinate and produce toxins. - The Applicant has conducted microbiological experiments using such a breathable film to compare the
package 56 and the prior art package. The experiments show that viable colony counts for aerobic bacterial colonies is greatly reduced using thepackage 56. Table 3 shows results for Salmon using the prior art package. Table 4 shows results for Salmon using thepackage 56. -
TABLE 3 Aerobic Presumptive Sulphite Listeria spp. Presumptive Coagulase Colony Coliforms Reducing Presumptive Detection Pseudomonas Salmonella spp. Positive Count cfu/g cfu/g Clostridia cfu/g E. coli cfu/g per 25 g spp. Count cfu/g Detection per 25 g Staphylococci P + Day FM0010GL FM0030GL FM0056 FM0160DGL FM0220EGY FM0280GL FM077GY cfu/g FM804GL P + 09 50,000 60 <10 <10 Not 600,000 Not <20 [100,000] [100] [10] [10] Detected: [1,000,000] Detected: [100] [ND] [ND] P + 08 33,000 220 <10 <10 Not 32,000 Not <20 [100,000] [100] [10] [10] Detected: [1,000,000] Detected: [100] [ND] [ND] P + 07 3,000 10 <10 <10 Not 12,000 Not <20 [100,000] [100] [10] [10] Detected: [1,000,000] Detected: [100] [ND] [ND] P + 06 38,000 630 <10 <10 Not 12,000 Not <20 [100,000] [100] [10] [10] Detected: [1,000,000] Detected: [100] [ND] [ND] P + 05 <1000 <10 <10 <10 Not 16,000 Not <20 [100,000] [100] [10] [10] Detected: [1,000,000] Detected: [100] [ND] [ND] -
TABLE 4 Aerobic Presumptive Sulphite Listeria spp. Presumptive Coagulase Colony Coliforms Reducing Presumptive Detection Pseudomonas Salmonella spp. Positive Count cfu/g cfu/g Clostridia cfu/g E. coli cfu/g per 25 g spp. Count cfu/g Detection per 25 g Staphylococci P + Day FM0010GL FM0030GL FM0056 FM0160DGL FM0220EGY FM0280GL FM077GY cfu/g FM804GL P + 09 <1000 <10 <10 <10 Not <20 Not <20 [100,000] [100] [10] [10] Detected: [1,000,000] Detected: [100] [ND] [ND] P + 08 <1000 10 <10 <10 Not <2000 Not <20 [100,000] [100] [10] [10] Detected: [1,000,000] Detected: [100] [ND] [ND] P + 07 1,000 <10 <10 <10 Not <2000 Not <20 [100,000] [100] [10] [10] Detected: [1,000,000] Detected: [100] [ND] [ND] P + 06 <1000 <10 <10 <10 Not <2000 Not <20 [100,000] [100] [10] [10] Detected: [1,000,000] Detected: [100] [ND] [ND] P + 05 <1000 110 <10 <10 Not <2000 Not <20 [100,000] [100] [10] [10] Detected: [1,000,000] Detected: [100] [ND] [ND] - Accordingly, the
package 56 with abreathable film 18 produces an additional benefit of reducing viable bacterial colonies, which is due to theducts 76 allowing water and other juices from thefish 36 to pass to theabsorbent pad 34.
Claims (12)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US15/944,604 US20180222609A1 (en) | 2014-05-21 | 2018-04-03 | Packaging of food |
Applications Claiming Priority (5)
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GB1409031.0 | 2014-05-21 | ||
GBGB1409031.0A GB201409031D0 (en) | 2014-05-21 | 2014-05-21 | Improvements in or relating to the packaging of food |
PCT/GB2015/000123 WO2015177492A1 (en) | 2014-05-21 | 2015-05-01 | Improvements in or relating to the packaging of food |
US201615312588A | 2016-11-18 | 2016-11-18 | |
US15/944,604 US20180222609A1 (en) | 2014-05-21 | 2018-04-03 | Packaging of food |
Related Parent Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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PCT/GB2015/000123 Division WO2015177492A1 (en) | 2014-05-21 | 2015-05-01 | Improvements in or relating to the packaging of food |
US15/312,588 Division US20170088297A1 (en) | 2014-05-21 | 2015-05-01 | Improvements in or relating to the packaging of food |
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US20180222609A1 true US20180222609A1 (en) | 2018-08-09 |
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US15/312,588 Abandoned US20170088297A1 (en) | 2014-05-21 | 2015-05-01 | Improvements in or relating to the packaging of food |
US15/944,604 Abandoned US20180222609A1 (en) | 2014-05-21 | 2018-04-03 | Packaging of food |
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US15/312,588 Abandoned US20170088297A1 (en) | 2014-05-21 | 2015-05-01 | Improvements in or relating to the packaging of food |
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US (2) | US20170088297A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP3145816B1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU2015263141B2 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2948990C (en) |
DK (1) | DK3145816T3 (en) |
ES (1) | ES2755182T3 (en) |
GB (2) | GB201409031D0 (en) |
PL (1) | PL3145816T3 (en) |
PT (1) | PT3145816T (en) |
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Families Citing this family (8)
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CN107640344B (en) * | 2017-10-31 | 2019-07-05 | 深圳拓新包装机械有限公司 | A kind of new type auto vacuum packaging mechanical device |
JP2020003366A (en) * | 2018-06-28 | 2020-01-09 | オリンパス株式会社 | Device and method for inspecting foreign substance |
EP3833603A1 (en) * | 2018-08-08 | 2021-06-16 | Cryovac, LLC | Apparatus and method for vacuum skin packaging of a product and a skin packaged product |
ES2956226T3 (en) | 2018-08-21 | 2023-12-15 | Intercontinental Great Brands Llc | Food Storage Tray |
USD964862S1 (en) | 2018-08-21 | 2022-09-27 | Intercontinental Great Brands Llc | Tray |
EP3853131A2 (en) * | 2018-09-17 | 2021-07-28 | GEA Food Solutions Germany GmbH | Packaging machine for producing skin packaging |
USD925987S1 (en) | 2019-10-01 | 2021-07-27 | Able High International Ltd | Tray base |
CN118047090B (en) * | 2024-04-16 | 2024-06-07 | 四川省机械研究设计院(集团)有限公司 | Automatic packaging machine and packaging method thereof |
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- 2015-05-01 US US15/312,588 patent/US20170088297A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2015-05-01 EP EP15723989.8A patent/EP3145816B1/en active Active
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- 2015-05-01 DK DK15723989T patent/DK3145816T3/en active
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US20170088297A1 (en) | 2017-03-30 |
AU2015263141B2 (en) | 2017-09-21 |
WO2015177492A1 (en) | 2015-11-26 |
DK3145816T3 (en) | 2019-11-18 |
ES2755182T3 (en) | 2020-04-21 |
GB201409031D0 (en) | 2014-07-02 |
PL3145816T3 (en) | 2020-01-31 |
GB2526691B (en) | 2017-07-26 |
CA2948990A1 (en) | 2015-11-26 |
AU2015263141A1 (en) | 2017-01-12 |
EP3145816A1 (en) | 2017-03-29 |
EP3145816B1 (en) | 2019-10-02 |
PT3145816T (en) | 2019-11-20 |
GB2526691A (en) | 2015-12-02 |
GB201507743D0 (en) | 2015-06-17 |
CA2948990C (en) | 2017-12-12 |
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