TWI491537B - Multi-functional container - Google Patents

Description

Multi-purpose container

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to packaging for seasonings. More particularly, the invention relates to a seasoning package suitable for opening in at least two different ways.

This application is also named as the US application serial number of the same invention entity. 　　　　　　 (Party file number 1011525-000519) part of the application. Both the application for the simultaneous application and the part of the target application for the tender benefit from the provisional application No. 61/202,968 dated April 23, 2009.

Seasoning packages have evolved over the years and have begun to display and sell seasonings in basic glass bottles and cans, including but not limited to: ketchup, leek sauce, mayonnaise, sauces and the like. The basic packaging package includes larger capacity bottles and cans, and then includes containers made of synthetic plastic materials. Ultimately, the packaging concept becomes a package that provides a flavoring that is suitable for individual serving sizes.

The individual packages used for seasonings are also undergoing changes. The package was once only an empty cup, which may be filled with a seasoning from a large volume of flavoring dispenser, which may include, for example, a pump or other suitable dispensing device. For many years, seasonings have been sold in individual sachets or sachets that seal the seasoning between a pair of generally flat sheets of material. See, for example, U.S. Patent No. 3,315,801. One or more weakened regions may be provided to simplify the action of opening the packet to obtain the flavoring contained therein.

It has also been known to have a seasoning package that covers a generally rectangular reservoir portion of a generally flat sheet. See, for example, U.S. Patent 2,705,579. These seasonings have a tear angle and an exposed angle for the cover material at the end of the package, thus providing a different means of obtaining the seasoning encapsulated therein. See, for example, U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2003/0183637 and 2002/0100760.

Packages for various products are also known in which the reservoir portion has a generally frustoconical shape with one of the orifices on one side. See, for example, U.S. Patent Nos. 2,898,003, 3,660,960, and 4,863,036. Typically, reservoirs with this configuration have been used for relatively low viscosity products such as milk and cream.

Extrudable packages for products are also known, wherein the package has a spout at one end and weakens the forming material adjacent the spout to permit the acquisition of its contents. See, for example, U.S. Patent Nos. 5,529,224, 4,921,137, and WO 2007/126817.

Liquid containers that permit double acquisition mode have also been proposed. For example, one mode allows for squeezing to remove the product, and another mode allows for immersion to remove the product. See, for example, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2006/0278562, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. It has been proposed to use different opening methods when the products have different consistency. See, for example, Fr. Patent No. 2,801,570. Moreover, various container designs that permit different types of acquisitions have also been disclosed. See, for example, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0164045.

Despite this development of seasoning containers, there are still many difficulties with known containers. More specifically, such containers tend to be dirty during use, making them unsuitable for use by children and for use in vehicles when provided at a drive-thru food source. Additionally, given the environmental issues, certain retailers define the types of materials that can be used in products that are sold or otherwise provided through their retail stores. When it comes to individual serving sizes, the shelf life stability of the seasonings is important to maintain the hygiene and safety of the seasonings. The stability of the container can be caused by a variety of factors including, for example, the permeability of the container material to oxygen.

Other disadvantages include the difficulty encountered by a user attempting to peel the cover when attempting to insert a finger between a strippable cover and a flange of a container. The engagement between the cover and the flange makes it difficult to properly grasp the cover.

Moreover, it is desirable to package the flavoring containers in a tightly packed relationship for shipment, but the configuration of such containers often makes this difficult to achieve.

For the purposes of the present invention, the phrase "flavoring" should be interpreted broadly to include a substance that enhances the taste of a larger serving of food. Therefore, as used in this application, "seasoning" is not only intended to cover traditional seasonings such as ketchup, leek sauce, mayonnaise, tartar sauce and the like, but also includes, without limitation, such as sauces, gels, Other foods such as jam, honey and the like.

The improved seasoning container in accordance with the present invention includes a cover portion and a container portion. The container portion preferably includes a reservoir that is scaled to receive one of a predetermined volume of seasoning. Typically, the predetermined capacity corresponds to the amount of flavoring that a consumer can use during a meal consumption.

Preferably, the receptacle of the container portion includes a generally flat bottom surface having a nominal length and a nominal width. The bottom surface provides a stabilizing surface to support the flavoring container during certain aspects of the flavoring container being used by a consumer. The reservoir also has a nominal depth associated with the nominal width and the nominal length to provide a low, wide and stable storage against lateral tilting when a food item is inserted or poked into the receptacle. Device.

The container portion preferably includes a flange extending substantially continuously around the reservoir. Preferably, the flange is generally flat, spaced apart from and parallel with the generally flat bottom surface. At the side of one of the reservoirs and at the location of the flange, a spout is provided. The cross-sectional area of the spout is smaller than the cross-sectional area of the opening at the upper edge of the receptacle. In this way, the achievement of the seasoning via the spout is more limited than the access to the seasoning via the upper edge of the reservoir.

Preferably, the container portion is made of a material having a first bending stiffness sufficient to maintain the shape of the reservoir even in the absence of a cover portion. Moreover, the first bending stiffness is also sufficient to ensure that the flange will retain its shape and orientation relative to the receptacle even in the absence of a cover portion. For this purpose, the container portion may be made of a material selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), amorphous polyethylene terephthalate (APET), oriented poly. Ethylene terephthalate (OPET), metalized polyethylene terephthalate (MET-PET), polyethylene (PE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), Metallocene linear low density polyethylene (mLLDPE), high density polyethylene (HDPE), metallocene polyethylene (mPE), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polypropylene (PP), metallized oriented polypropylene (mOPP), Polystyrene (PS), Impact Resistant Polystyrene (HIPS), Foil, Ethylene Vinyl Alcohol (EVOH), Polyamide, Nylon, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Biaxial Oriented Material, 21 CFR Part Compliant 177 materials and combinations thereof. Although the container portion can comprise a single layer of material, the portion of the container can also be fabricated from a plurality of layers joined, coextruded or otherwise formed into a cohesive structure, wherein one of the layers Or more than one selected from the group of materials set forth above. Regardless of the particular composition used for the lid portion, it is desirable that the lid portion be food-safe for all surfaces of the reservoir.

The thickness of the portion of the container is preferably from about 3 mils to about 20 mils - 1 mil for 0.001 inches. Depending on the particular material and thickness selected, it may be desirable to further harden the bottom surface of the reservoir. This hardening can be achieved by embossing a three-dimensional pattern into the bottom surface thereby increasing the rigidity of the bottom surface. If desired, a logo can also be used to provide a three-dimensional pattern.

The cover portion is generally flat and preferably configured to have a perimeter that is substantially the same as the perimeter of the container portion. Moreover, the cover portion substantially covers the flange of the container portion. However, the cover portion is preferably made of a material having a second bending stiffness, wherein the cover portion has a bending stiffness that is lower than the bending stiffness of the container portion. This difference in rigidity renders the cover portion more flexible and easier to separate from the container portion along the flange.

The material from which the cover portion is made may be the same or different than the material used for the portion of the container. Therefore, the material of the cover portion can be selected from the group consisting of: PET, APET, OPET, MET-PET, PE, LDPE, LLDPE, mLLDPE, HDPE, mPE, EVA, PP, mOPP, PS, HIPS, foil Sheet, EVOH, polyamide, nylon, PVC, biaxially oriented materials, materials in accordance with 21 CFR Part 177, and combinations thereof. Typically, the thickness of the cover portion will range from about 1 mil to about 5 mils. Although the cover portion may comprise a single layer of material, the cover portion may also be joined, coextruded or otherwise formed into a plurality of layers of a cohesive structure, wherein one of the layers Or more than one selected from the group of materials set forth above. Regardless of the particular composition used for the lid portion, it is desirable that the lid portion be food-safe for all surfaces of the reservoir.

To position the cover portion with the container portion in a flavor package, preferably between the cover portion and the container portion (in the flange region and surrounding the top edge of the receptacle) Adhesive. The binder is preferably a food grade binder and may be cured in a conventional manner (for example, thermally, electromagnetically) or cured over time. Preferably, the adhesive is integral with the cover portion and/or the container portion. Applying heat and pressure can be used to cause the adhesive to engage the cover portion and/or the container portion. Alternatively, the adhesive can be applied around the reservoir of the container portion in a separate step. Preferably, the adhesive is applied such that the adhesive defines a non-engagement region aligned with the spout, but the adhesive otherwise surrounds the spout. If desired, pressure can be applied to ensure that the adhesive engages the cover portion and the container portion to define a seal defined by the reservoir and the cover portion. Moreover, the adhesive is applied such that there is a non-joining region generally aligned with the spout between the lid portion and the flange of the container portion.

Preferably, the non-engagement region is positioned opposite the spout and at the periphery of the container assembly. The non-engagement region is operable to define a lift tab at an edge of the cover portion. The lifting tab is graspable such that it can be pulled away from the flange of the container portion to expose the reservoir and its contents. Moreover, the adhesive is applied such that a stripping initiation region, such as a generally angular region, partially defines an edge of the non-engagement region. The stripping initiation region is engaged by pulling the lid portion from the container portion by the sheet before the lid portion is engaged with the full linear range of the adhesive extending from one side of the reservoir to the other side, and The separation between the lid portion of the assembled package and the container portion provides reduced resistance. For example, the required opening force can be in the range of 1 to 5 pounds. Depending on the desired opening scheme, the non-engagement region and the stripping initiator can be positioned to align with the spout or on the opposite side of the reservoir. Regardless of the position, the lid is exposed when the lid portion is partially peeled from the container to make it available for immersing a food item in the seasoning.

Preferably, wherein at least one of the flanges in the non-engagement region is bent downward away from the cover portion to form a finger therebetween for facilitating manual access of the cover portion to approach the gap.

To access the spout, a weakened zone is preferably positioned to traverse the spout. The weakened zone can be provided by mechanically cutting or breaking the encapsulating material adjacent the spout. The weakened zone can be made by cutting the lid portion and the container portion such that a pair of aligned cracks span the spout. Alternatively, the weakened zone may be provided by laser scribing the lid portion or the container portion or both. The end of the assembled container can then be broken along the weakened zone to expose the spout. The seasoning is then released via the spout in a controlled manner by squeezing the assembled container.

In the assembled package, the adhesive preferably has sufficient strength to prevent cracking when the container is subjected to an external force of 50 pounds or more and preferably to an external force of 70 pounds or more. .

If desired, the container assembly can be adapted to be attached to a side wall of a cardboard container. For this purpose, a pair of slits can be provided in the container and the pair of slits extend through both the lid portion and the container portion, wherein the slits are symmetrically disposed and cooperate to define a pair of ears. The ears can be bent out of the plane of the flange to define an angled (when viewed from the side) hook. The elasticity of the material used to make the lid portion and the container portion cooperate to squeeze one of the edges of the cardboard container. To further enhance the grip between the ears and an associated cardboard container, the surface of each ear can be suitably treated. For example, a bonded coating or a roughened surface can be provided for this purpose.

If desired, either or both of the lid portion and the container portion can include an oxygen control barrier or an oxygen scavenging layer. This barrier layer can help reduce or eliminate degradation of the flavoring packaged in the container assembly. Either or both of the lid portion and the container portion may be opaque if desired. Opacity enhances the product when the encapsulated product is exposed to light that degrades over time.

When the flavoring packaged in the container is ketchup, the material for the lid portion and the container portion is preferably selected such that the packaged flavoring will have a shelf life of at least about 6 months. One technique for assessing shelf life involves using a colorimeter that operates in the L ^* a ^* b ^* color space. The shelf life can be assessed by monitoring the degradation of the color component of the packaged product based on measurements in the color space. For example, the shelf life can be determined by requiring that the ratio of L ^* and/or a ^* /b ^* during the specified period does not decrease by more than a specified amount (eg, less than 10% in a six month period). .

Preferably, at least one of the non-engagement regions of the flange between the cover and the flange is offset downwardly away from the cover portion to form one of the manual grips therebetween for facilitating the cover portion. Fingers approach the gap.

The side wall preferably includes a front portion disposed at a position below the spout that is offset from one of the discharge ends of the spout. An upper section of the front portion of the side wall extends downwardly relative to the spout and is configured to prevent the spout from being responsive to the upper section of the front side of the side wall by another container when the plurality of containers are assembled in a package The flange is partially contacted and displaced upward. It is preferably achieved by orienting the upper section of the front portion of the side wall substantially perpendicular to the plane of the flange. Thus, a plurality of containers may be disposed in a partially overlapping relationship in a package or shipping container wherein the nozzles are aligned and a rear end of one of the flanges of the container contacts an upper portion of the front portion of the side wall adjacent the container, It does not cause the spout of the adjacent container to be significantly displaced upward.

Turning now to Figure 1, a first embodiment of a seasoning container 20 in accordance with the present invention is suitable for sale as a single serving and delivered to a consumer. The seasoning container 20 is formed by a container or cup portion 22 (see Fig. 2) and a lid or a cover portion 24 (see Fig. 1) which is followed by an adhesive along the lid or lid portion A flange 26 is sealed together.

The cover portion 24 is preferably made of a material selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), amorphous polyethylene terephthalate (APET), oriented poly. Ethylene terephthalate (OPET), polyethylene (PE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), metallocene linear low density polyethylene (mLLDPE), high density polyethylene ( HDPE), metallocene polyethylene (mPE), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polypropylene (PP), impact polystyrene (HIPS), foil, ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), polyamide, resistant Polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and combinations thereof. In the case of a foil, the foil may be an aluminum foil or other metal foil. Typically, the thickness of the cover portion 24 will range from about 1 mil to about 5 mils. More preferably, the lid portion 24 can have a thickness in the range of from about 1 mil to about 3 mils. The thickness of the lid portion 24 is selected to be more flexible than the cup portion to have sufficient stretch integrity against the adhesion of the adhesive from the cup portion, and is grippable but less smooth. One of the surface features. The cover portion 24 preferably has a perimeter profile that generally corresponds to the perimeter of the flange 26.

While the cover portion 24 can comprise a single layer of selected materials, the cover portion 24 can also be fabricated by joining, coextruding, or otherwise forming together into a plurality of layers of a cohesive structure, wherein the layers are One or more are selected from the group of materials set forth above. Regardless of the particular composition used for the lid portion 24, it is desirable that the surface of the lid portion 24 facing the packaged seasoning be food safe. If the seasoning to be encapsulated undergoes oxygen degradation over time, the lid portion 24 may include an oxygen control layer or an oxygen scavenging layer in its structure. One suitable material for the oxygen control layer is EVOH, which can be used not only as an oxygen barrier but also as a moisture barrier. Depending on the seasoning, the material from which the lid portion 24 is made may be transparent, translucent or opaque. Moreover, the material can be colored if desired.

While the combination of acceptable material combinations for cover portion 24 is extensive, the following table identifies certain combinations known to be useful for cover substrates.

The cup portion 22 (see Fig. 2) includes a reservoir 30 that extends away from the flange 26 and includes a generally flat bottom surface 32 that can be generally rectangular. Additionally, the reservoir 30 includes a side wall 36 that extends between the bottom surface 32 and the flange 26. The flange 26 extends generally radially from the edge 40 (see Figure 2) and defines a substantial area that is exposed until the cover portion 24 is applied. Additionally, one side of the reservoir may include a generally rectangular or generally trapezoidal surface 34 that is inclined relative to the generally flat flange 26 and bottom surface 32. A spout 38 is provided at one side of the reservoir 30. Preferably, the cup portion 22 is designed to be symmetrical about a longitudinal plane extending perpendicular to the plane of Figure 5 and generally coincident with the lines 9-9.

When the cover portion 24 is in place, the symmetry of the cup portion 22 coupled to the inclined surface 34 and the cover portion 24 forms a funnel or tapered cross-sectional area at the side of the reservoir such that the funnel and spout 38 Connected. Thus, the spout 38 exhibits a cross-sectional area that is much smaller than the area exposed at the top edge of the reservoir 34 (see Figure 4).

The cup portion 22 (see Fig. 3) is preferably made of a material that is more rigid than the base material from which the lid portion is made. Therefore, the bending rigidity of the cup portion 22 exceeds the bending rigidity of the lid portion 24. This poor rigidity makes the cover portion more susceptible to deformation for removal and opening of the assembled container. Although the cup portion 22 is stiffer than the lid portion 24, the cup portion 22 is preferably sufficiently flexible to be scratched by the squeeze of hand pressure (i.e., the pressure exerted by the fingers of an unassisted person's hand). song. However, the cup portion 22 is sufficiently stiff that it does not deform or flex in the absence of external forces. Under their constraint and without the cover portion 24, the cup portion 22 can be supported by the bottom surface to provide a sufficiently rigid container to hold a seasoning without spilling. In this connection, a generally flat flange 26 extending outwardly from the perimeter 40 of the receptacle also serves to harden the reservoir region of the cup portion 22.

In some applications, it may be desirable to have a bottom surface 32 with increased rigidity (see Figure 4). This increased rigidity can be achieved by providing an embossed feature 44 in the bottom surface 32. This embossed feature 44 can also extend onto the inclined surface 34 if desired. In some applications, the embossed feature 44 can include a manufacturer logo. This increased stiffness is due to the depth of the embossed features 44 relative to the plane of the bottom surface 32.

In general, the material from which the cup portion 22 is made may be selected from the same group of materials that can be used for the lid portion 24, ie, a group consisting of: PET, APET, OPET, MET-PET, PE, LDPE, LLDPE, mLLDPE, HDPE, mPE, EVA, PP, mOPP, PS, HIPS, foil, EVOH, polyamide, nylon, PVC, biaxially oriented materials, materials in accordance with 21 CFR Part 177, and combinations thereof. In the case of a foil, the foil may be an aluminum foil or other metal foil. Typically, the thickness of the cup portion 22 will range from about 3 mils to about 20 mils. More preferably, the cup portion 22 can have a thickness in the range of from about 8 mils to about 12 mils. The thickness of the cup portion 22 is selected to be less flexible than the lid portion 24 so that the lid portion 24 can be pulled away from the cup portion 22 against the adhesion of the adhesive.

As with lid portion 24, combinations of certain materials for cup portion 22 have been found to be particularly suitable, as set forth in the table below.

The reservoir of the flavoring container 20 is preferably sized to hold a suitable individual portion of the flavoring, for example, one nominal volume of one ounce. While larger and smaller nominal volumes are also within the scope of the present invention, the nominal volume will generally correspond to the amount of particular flavor desired by a typical individual. As seen in Figure 3, the reservoir portion of the package has a nominal width corresponding to a maximum distance between opposing sidewalls extending at a location along the edge 40 and transverse to a plane of symmetry between opposing sidewalls. a nominal length of the maximum length between the side walls of the receptacle at the location of the edge 40 and measured along the plane of symmetry, also measured in the plane of symmetry but extending from the bottom surface 32 to the flange One of the nominal depths of 26 (see Figure 4). These nominal dimensions define the nominal volumetric capacity of the reservoir portion.

Another important feature of cup portion 22 is the prevention of lateral stability of tipping. In addition, these nominal dimensions can be used to establish rules that provide sufficient tipping stability. More specifically, the ratio of the nominal height to the nominal width is preferably less than about 0.5, and more preferably less than about 0.45. Additionally, the ratio of nominal height to nominal length is preferably less than about 0.3, and more preferably less than about 0.26. When the receptacle of cup portion 22 has a nominal size within these ranges, the reservoir is sufficiently stable that the reservoir does not tip over when a food item is immersed in the flavor contained therein.

The lid portion 24 and the cup portion 22 are sealed together using a food grade adhesive to define an encapsulated volume that is isolated from the environment. One technique for achieving this seal includes a heat sealable layer on the inside of the lid portion 24 and on the inside of the cup portion 22. After the application of heat and pressure to the flange 26, the adjacent surfaces are joined together to form a suitable seal around the perimeter of the edge 40 of the reservoir. Alternatively, a food grade adhesive suitable for use with the material of the container may be used. The adhesive is preferably applied to surround the edge 40 of the reservoir (see Figure 3), but not in contact with the edge 40 - i.e., there is a space between the adhesive and the edge 40. Moreover, the adhesive is applied such that it does not cover the spout 38. Preferably, the flavoring container is capable of withstanding an applied external force of at least about 50 pounds without bursting or breaking through the seal. More preferably, an applied external force of about 70 pounds will not cause the seal to swell.

The adhesive preferably extends to the peripheral edge 50 of the flange 26 but provides a non-engagement region 52 at one side of the reservoir. The non-engagement region 52 extends inwardly from the peripheral edge 50 of the flange along the flange 26 a distance sufficient to bond the cover portion 24 to the tab portion 54 of the flange 26 in an adhesive manner (see Figure 5). Large enough to be grasped between fingers. For the pull tab 54, one of the distances of about 0.5 inches or more is graspable. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that it is difficult to attempt to peel a cover portion (see Figure 3) from the flange 26 due to the width of the seal. However, it has been found that one of the generally angular features 56 including one of the portions aligned with the plane of symmetry and defining one of the non-joining regions 52 provides a stripping initiator that reduces stripping from the flange 26. External force is required for the cover part. The inclusion of a stripping initiator at the edge of the non-joining region enhances the ease with which the lid portion can be removed from the container in a tangible form.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing discussion that the graspable tab 54 is pulled away from the cover portion 24 from the flange 26 of the cup portion 22 to expose the reservoir and its contents. This step will prepare the container for immersion of a food item in the seasoning. However, a different opening scheme can also be used with the container of the present invention. More specifically, for the purpose of opening the spout 38 instead of removing the lid portion 24, the container may have a weakened area adjacent the spout 38. The weakened region may, for example, include a pair of aligned slits 60, 62 adjacent the spout 38. The cracks 60, 62 are aligned with each other and across the spout 38. The cracks 60, 62 can extend through the thickness of both the lid portion 24 and the cup portion 22. With this configuration, the distal end of the container 20 can be bent to break the material of the container and expose one of the passages through the spout 38 into the reservoir. At that time, application of pressure to the reservoir will cause the seasoning to be discharged via the spout 38 in a controlled and defined manner.

Aligned cracks 60, 62 can be applied to the container before, during or after assembly of the seasoning container 20. However, an effective mechanical means of forming alignment cracks 60, 62 is to form cracks 60, 62 while applying cover portion 24 to cup portion 22 and adhesively joining to cup portion 22. Alternatively, a laser scribing process can be employed to weaken the container around the spout 38 such that one end of the container can be broken or twisted to expose the end of the spout passage.

The materials selected for the lid portion 24, the cup portion 22 and the binder are preferably selected such that the seasoning has a desired shelf life. In the case of a seasoning such as ketchup, it is desirable to have a shelf life of at least six months. For seasonings such as ketchup, the shelf life can be assessed by a change in the color characteristics of the seasoning. Therefore, colorimetric analysis can be used to test the shelf life. The Hunter Lab color space and the L ^* a ^* b ^* color space use three coordinates to define a particular color. For example, in the L ^* a ^* b ^* color space, the coordinates L ^* , a ^*, and b ^* define a three-dimensional color space. The L ^* component measures brightness and is specifically related to human perception. The L ^* value is between 0 corresponding to pure black and 100 corresponding to pure white. The a ^* coordinate measures the color position between red/magenta and green, with a negative value indicating green and a positive value indicating magenta. The b ^* component measures the color position between yellow and blue, with a negative value indicating blue and a positive value indicating yellow. Therefore, the color change of the ketchup can be evaluated over time by the values of the L ^* , a ^* , and b ^* or L , a , b components and their values. For the purpose of shelf life analysis, it has been found that the luma component L ^* or L provides a reliable parameter for correlating with shelf life. More specifically, the storage life requirement is met as long as the value of the L ^* component remains within about 10% of its initial value during the shelf life. Additionally, the ratio a ^* /b ^* or a/b may also indicate product degradation. Thus, in some examples, a satisfactory storage can be determined when the L ^* (or L ) component and the a ^* /b ^* (or a/b ) ratio are maintained within about 10% of their initial values, respectively. life. Other flavorings whose color changes over time may also be evaluated colorimetrically using one or more of the L ^* a ^* b ^* color space components.

An alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. In this configuration, in contrast to the stepwise increasing resistance of the first embodiment, the stripping initiator 56' and the adjacent sealing portion are configured such that the stripping initiator is fused to a seal, providing a gradual increase resistance. This configuration is characterized by an angularly tapered portion of the seal that terminates at the stripping initiation member 56'.

Yet another embodiment of the present invention includes a pair of stripping initiator structures in the adhesive bond between the lid portion 24 and the cup portion (see Figure 8). In this configuration, a stripping initiator 64, 66 is provided at the corresponding corner of the bond seal. With this configuration, the cover portion 24 can be peeled from either corner by a corresponding one of the external forces required to initiate the peeling.

To assemble the flavoring container 20, the cup portion 22 can be exposed to a dispensing mechanism that places a measured volume of flavoring 70 (see Figure 9) in the reservoir. The measured volume supplied is less than the actual volume of the reservoir so that there is some headspace above the seasoning. After the adhesive is applied to the flange 26, the lid portion 24 is positioned in an overlying relationship with the cup portion 22 and sealed to the cup portion. The resulting structure includes an adhesive 72 that engages one of the lid portion 24 and the cup portion 22 (see Figure 10).

In another embodiment of the flavoring container 20 (see Figure 7), the non-joining region 54 can be enlarged in terms of the width of the non-joining region 54 in the direction of the plane of symmetry. The flavoring container 20 of this embodiment has the same features and characteristics as the embodiment set forth above in connection with Figures 1 through 6, except for the stripping of the starting member 56' and associated structure. Therefore, their common features will not be repeated here. The stripping initiator 56' of this second embodiment extends further into the region 54 than in the first embodiment, while the adhesive seal 70 has a substantially uniform width around the edge of the reservoir. Here, the stripping starter 56' is shaped as a substantially chevron, a caret, or a wave bracket. Moreover, the stripping initiation member 56' is positioned to be generally longitudinally aligned with the spout 38 but on the side of the reservoir opposite the spout 38. With this configuration, the alternative structures for opening the package are separated from one another such that the user or consumer makes a conscious decision to open the seasoning container for use by breaking or tearing the spout 38. The extrusion application, or stripping of the lid portion 24, allows the container 20 to be used in an impregnation application.

In a further embodiment (see Figure 8), the flavoring container 20 has a different position and configuration for the stripping initiator, but this is otherwise fully accomplished by the discussion above in connection with Figures 1 through 6. Explain that this discussion will not be repeated here. In this further embodiment, a pair of stripping initiators 64, 66 are provided and each stripping initiator 64, 66 is positioned to correspond to one of the adhesive seals 70 generally aligned with the corner of the reservoir. Corner. It is recognized that some consumers may consider it easier or more intuitive to peel off the cover portion 24 from a corner, and the angular position of the stripping of the starting members 64, 66 facilitates the peeling. As shown, since the stripping initiators 64, 66 are symmetric about the plane of symmetry of the flavoring container, the consumer or user can optionally select either corner to initiate the stripping process.

It is also within the scope of the invention to use only one stripping initiator and the stripping of the starting member at the corner of the plane of symmetry of the flavoring container. This container may look like the embodiment of Figure 8, but only one of the stripping initiators 64, 66 is present. For this embodiment, a direction can be provided on the outer surface of the cover portion 24 to focus the consumer's attention on the appropriate corner for stripping initiation. Alternatively, the cup portion 22 and the lid portion 24 can be trimmed closer to the bond line at one corner so that one piece protrudes from the other corner and the stripping starter so that the stripping starter is Stripping open must occur, regardless of whether the stripping initiator is centered or placed at the other corner of the container. Again, these features of this flavoring container are fully illustrated above in connection with Figure 6 of Figure 1, and will not be repeated here.

To use the flavoring container 20 (see Figure 11), the consumer initially decides to controllably dispense the flavoring or to fully take the receptacle. In the event that a controlled dispensing is desired, the end of the container is broken or twisted at the location of the weakened zone to expose the end of the spout 38. The seasoning is extruded from the spout by applying finger pressure to the reservoir region such that the flavoring is selectively, directionally, and applied to a food item in a controlled manner. In the case where a more complete preparation of the seasoning is desired (see Figure 12), the sheet 54 can be pulled away from the flange, through the stripping of the starting member, and away from the upper edge of the reservoir so that a large amount of exposure can be desired as desired (or all) of the receptacles.

Yet another embodiment of the flavoring container 20 (see Figure 13) has a different location for the stripping initiator 84. The features not specifically set forth in this seasoning container are fully illustrated in conjunction with Figures 1 through 6, and will not be repeated here. In this configuration, the stripping initiator 84 is aligned with the spout 38 and positioned such that the spout 38 is between the stripping initiator 84 and the receptacle of the cup portion 22 (see Figure 14). Here, the flange 26 of the cup portion 22 includes a tongue 80 that can be generally rectangular, symmetrically disposed about the spout 38, and extending beyond the spout. The stripping initiation member 84 can have features that are generally angular or generally pointed away from the spout 38 and outwardly of the reservoir but are generally aligned with the spout 38 and the reservoir. Preferably, the tongue 80 extends beyond the stripping initiator 84 by a distance of 0.5 inches or more. The lid portion 24 (see Fig. 13) also includes a tongue 82 that is adapted, sized, and configured with the tongue 80 of the cup portion above and conforms to the tongue 80 of the cup portion.

To open the seasoning container 20, the tongue 82 of the lid portion 22 is grasped (see Figure 14) and the tongue 82 is peeled from the tongue 80 of the cup portion 22, for example, in the direction of arrow 86. After the separation is initiated at the stripping initiation member 84, the tongue 82 of the lid portion 22 exposes the end of the spout 38. At this point, the user can squeeze the flavoring container 20 such that the flavoring is forced out through the spout 38 in a controlled and easily oriented manner. The lid portion 24 can be peeled further away from the tongue 80 of the cup portion 22 to expose some or all of the reservoir and the seasoning 70 therein, rather than stopping when the spout is exposed. Thus, container 20 can provide a dip container for a food item. Those skilled in the art should be aware that the lid portion is not required to open the spout or open the reservoir. If desired, the consumer can first open the spout and dispense some flavoring therethrough, and then open the lid portion to expose the reservoir to use some of the flavoring by dipping. Moreover, the lid portion can be partially opened or completely removed if desired.

Another embodiment of the flavoring container 20 (see Figure 16) can have a spout 38 at one end, wherein the graspable tongue extends beyond the spout 38 in a generally triangular configuration. The features not specifically set forth in this seasoning container are fully illustrated in conjunction with Figures 1 through 6, and will not be repeated here. This embodiment also includes a generally pentagonal receptacle 90 with the sides abutting at an obtuse angle. One end of the container has a generally straight edge 91 extending substantially perpendicular to the plane of symmetry of the container 20 and having a length corresponding to a maximum width of the container 20. The container also includes side edges 93, 95 that extend from corresponding ends of the linear edges 91 to corresponding corners of the container. A pair of symmetrically disposed slits 92, 94 extend from the corresponding side edges 93, 95 toward the straight edge 91 but do not intersect the straight edge 91. The slits 92, 94 may be straight or curved as desired, but the closed ends of each of the slits 92, 94 are spaced apart from the straight edge 91 and the two side edges 93, 95. With its configuration, the slits 92, 94 and side edges 93, 95 cooperate to define a pair of symmetrically disposed ears 96, 98. At the time of manufacture, the ears 96, 98 are located in the plane of the flange 26 (see Figure 17).

In use, the flavoring container 20 of this embodiment provides an additional convenient feature (see Figure 18). The ears 96, 98 can be pushed out of the plane of the flange 26 such that one of the upper edges of a package 100 can be received between the ears 96, 98 and the flange 26. In this form, the seasoning packet 20 can be dispensed with the package 100 as appropriate. In any of the other embodiments, the flavoring container 20 can be configured to open as described above. Moreover, when opened for impregnation use (see Figure 19), the cooperation between the ears 96, 98 and the sides of the package 100 will support the flavoring container 20 in a cantilevered position so that the seasoning can be readily obtained.

If desired, the surface of each of the ears 96, 98 can be treated to enhance frictional engagement with a package 100. For example, the surface of the ears 96, 98 can be rough relative to other surfaces of the container 20, or a low viscosity adhesive can be applied to at least a portion thereof.

The shape of the receptacle in the cup portion can be generally pentagonal as depicted in the embodiments set forth above, but can have other desirable shapes. For example, generally rectangular, generally square, generally triangular, generally polygonal, rectangular, generally elliptical, and other shapes for the receptacle are within the scope of the present invention. For example, another embodiment of the flavoring container 20 can include a generally cylindrical reservoir 110 (see Figure 21). The features not specifically set forth in this seasoning container are fully illustrated in conjunction with Figures 1 through 6, and will not be repeated here. As seen in the various embodiments illustrated and described herein, the flange 26 surrounding the reservoir may follow the shape of the upper edge of the reservoir or may have a larger area. In Fig. 21, for example, the flange 26 is generally rectangular in shape, thereby providing a plurality of locations from which the cover portion can be stripped, some locations being proximate to the spout, and some locations being proximate to the reservoir.

In order to make a container according to the invention, the material for the cup portion is usually provided in the form of a roll. The material roll is unwound as a substantially continuous sheet into a forming apparatus in which a plurality of reservoirs are formed. Typically, the receptacles may be in the form of a column having from two to about twelve or more reservoirs Thus, a sheet having a reservoir in the form of a transverse straight line and a longitudinally extending line extending in the longitudinal direction of the unwrapped sheet of the roll is formed.

The reservoir from which the sheet has been formed then travels to the filling device. In the filling apparatus, the desired seasonings are placed in the receptacles via a measuring device for controlling the amount and volume of the seasonings for each reservoir. Typically, there is a fill head for each longitudinal column of the sheet. Moreover, in each longitudinal column, such filling heads can supply the same seasoning. However, if desired, adjacent filling heads can deliver different flavorings such that the reservoirs in adjacent longitudinal columns of the sheet are filled with different flavorings, which is also within the scope of the present invention.

Next, the sheet having the filled reservoir is filled with a gas that is compatible with the product and that helps retard product degradation. At this point, a second sheet of material for the cover portion is unrolled and advanced into an overlying relationship with the reservoir sheet, wherein the second sheet of material is sealed in place with respect to each of the reservoirs.

The filled, covered reservoirs in the substantially continuous sheet then travel to a cutting machine in which individual containers are cut from the continuous sheet. The individual containers are then conventionally accumulated, packaged, palletized, stored, and shipped.

A seventh preferred embodiment of the container 20 is illustrated in Figures 28-40. In the embodiment, the flange 26 has at least one and preferably two (which are spaced apart along the non-engagement region 52) downwardly offset portions 26a, 26b (see Figure 34). Each of the offset portions 26a, 26b is offset downwardly from the cover portion to form a finger access gap 120 therebetween, the finger approaching the gap to make a user more The cover portion 24 is easily grasped and peeled off manually. Preferably, the finger access gaps 120 are disposed at opposite ends of the non-engagement region 52, but may also be located intermediate the ends if desired. The lower edge of each of the offset portions 26a, 26b is bent rearward by about a right angle to form a horizontal lip 27 to prevent the gap 120 from being closed in the case where the offset portion is pressed toward the bottom side of the flange 26.

An additional advantageous feature of one of the seventh embodiments shown in Figures 28 to 40 relates to the configuration of one of the container side walls 36 which facilitates the compaction of a plurality of containers in, for example, a carton or other packaging device. Package. In other aspects, it is desirable to densely package and transport the container 20 in such a manner that the flanges of adjacent containers overlap each other in close proximity to each other, as shown in Figures 37-40. As can be seen in these figures, the first and second containers 20a and 20b are configured such that their spouts are aligned in the longitudinal direction Z. The spout 38 of the first container overlies the rear portion of the second container 20b. The additional third and fourth containers 20c and 20d are also configured such that their nozzles are longitudinally aligned. The third and fourth containers are also disposed adjacent to the first and second containers 20a, 20b, respectively, in a transverse direction Z' with respect to the longitudinal direction Z, wherein the side portions 26a of the flanges of the third and fourth containers 20c, 20d are The side portions of the first and second containers are arranged in an overlapping relationship.

In order for the tops of the containers of all assembled containers (i.e., the cover portion 24 and the flanges 26) to lie in a substantially parallel plane for compact disposal, the front portion 36a of the container side walls 36 is configured to prevent the respective spouts 38 from responding to the front side of the side walls. The portion is partially displaced or longitudinally displaced adjacent to the container longitudinally adjacent to the container. Preferably, the upper portion of the sidewall front portion 36a is configured to extend downwardly relative to the respective flange 38 in a direction generally perpendicular to the plane of the flange, as specifically shown in FIG. As a result, when the containers are assembled together into a package When the second container 20b is partially in contact with the upper section, the spout 38 of the first container 20a will not otherwise move upward as the upper section is instead tilted in a downward/backward direction relative to the flange 26. Set.

Thus, by being disposed substantially perpendicular to the plane of the flange 26, the upper section of the sidewall front portion 36a will not respond to the subsequent partial contact by the other container such that the spout 38 is displaced upwardly to any significant extent. He ensures that the containers can be tightly assembled in an overlapping relationship wherein the tops of the containers are arranged in substantially parallel planes. An alternative to preventing the spout from being displaced upwards involves tilting the upper portion of the side wall front portion 36A in a downward/backward direction relative to the flange, but preferably by orienting the upper portion substantially perpendicular to the flange plane To achieve this result.

As can be seen, for example, in Figures 28-38, the seal between the container lid and the bottom portion of the container can be positioned inwardly from the peripheral edge of the flange. This configuration can be used to provide additional tolerances for cutting the finished container from the sheet material used to form the containers and the covers.

The lid portion 24 and container portion 22 according to the embodiment of Figures 28-40 can be made of the same materials as previously described herein, and each can be made of one material that is transparent, translucent, or opaque depending on the flavoring being stored. The material may also be colored if desired. The generally flat bottom portion 32 of the container portion 22 can include an embossed portion 122 to increase the bending stiffness of the flat bottom portion, as shown in FIG.

The eighth embodiment shown in Fig. 41 shows that the side wall front portion 36a can be inclined substantially in the longitudinal direction Z with respect to the flange plane such that an acute angle is defined between the plane of the front portion 36a and the flange plane. For example, this one The configuration may be desirable in applications where it is desirable to more securely lock or otherwise position the aligned adjacent ends of the container.

Turning briefly to Figure 29, a line 110 can be applied to the container lid or container bottom using a laser. For many materials, the scribe line can be applied mechanically by laser, and/or by any other suitable means. In some applications where APET is used as the material, mechanical wrinkling or scoring is not preferred because APET tends to be brittle and may unintentionally break, and because the APET material is not flat in the region of the spout. The laser scribe line 110 can be applied to the depth of the APET material from about 40% to about 60% of the thickness of the APET material in the nozzle region. Preferably, the depth of the scribe line 110 is about 50% of the depth of the APET material.

Suitable equipment for making the score line 110 includes a VideoJet 3320 laser scribing system that operates at a power set to range from about 80% to about 100%. The VideoJet 3320 is a 30 watt system. Preferably, the marking speed is in the range of from about 90 to about 225 mm/sec. VideoJet 3320 is available from Videojet Technologies Ltd. of Huntington, PE29 6XX, Cambridgeshire, England.

The seal 112 between the cover and the bottom of the container may be patterned as shown in Figures 1 through 33, or not patterned, as illustrated in Figures 37 through 38, for example, as shown in Figures 28 through 33, in the cover and The seal 112 between the bottoms of the container can be patterned to form a first sealing region 1121 and a second sealing region 1122, wherein the first sealing region 1121 is substantially along the circumference of the reservoir, and the second seal The region 1122 is constructed and configured to have a stripping resistance that is increased relative to the stripping resistance of the first sealing region 1121, the first sealing region 1121 and the second sealing region 1122 being first and second different Seal The mold pattern is formed such that the first sealing region 1121 has a first sealing pattern and the second sealing region 1122 has a second sealing pattern, wherein the first and second sealing patterns are different. Preferably, the second sealing region 1122 is constructed and disposed at a position where the stripping operation is terminated, disposed at the nozzle or disposed outside the circumference of the first sealing region 1121. Patterning can be intentionally applied. Patterning can be caused by pressing the surface of the container together by means of a patterned surface on the die casting mold. Alternatively, the die casting mold can be smoothed so that no patterning occurs.

In some applications, it has been observed that the separation resistance between the top of the container or the lid and the bottom of the container increases near the spout. The resistance is similar to the result of increasing the width of the seal across the spout in the region 114 of the container (see Figure 29). The increased resistance can be modified, reduced or even eliminated by modifying the characteristics of the sealed mold adjacent the spout. For example, the sealed mold can be shaped to provide a progressive seal pressure that extends laterally away from the longitudinal direction Z of the container. Preferably, the adhesion of the seal will become stronger adjacent to the spout area itself and will become less intense as the distance from the spout increases.

For certain uses of the container according to the present invention, it may be desirable to deploy a plurality of containers that are joined together to be separable, for example by perforation or some other frangible connection or attachment. For this purpose, the containers can be joined laterally to each other so as to be separable from each other without breaking the container. Such assemblies of a plurality of containers may include two, three, five or more containers in a strip configuration. In addition, two such strip configurations can be joined along the back or edge of the container to provide a plurality of generally parallel strips in a container assembly. If desired further, a hook, eye or other mounting device can be attached to the container assembly to Further enhance the product display.

While the containers described herein are suitable for use in packaging seasonings, it will also be apparent to those skilled in the art that the container has numerous other potential uses and/or applications. By way of example and not limitation, the container according to the invention may be used in seasonings, sauces, dairy products, soups, pharmaceuticals, coatings, powders, liquids, particulate matter, and any other products which may be desired to have both metered and unmeasured Or material. In other words, the container can be used with any edible material. A suitable edible product or material can be selected from the group consisting of a seasoning, a soup, a sauce, a dairy product, a liquid, and combinations thereof. The container may also be used in a product or material selected from the group consisting of a drug, a coating, a powder, a liquid, a particulate material, and combinations thereof. Similarly, those skilled in the art will further appreciate that the container can be scaled up or down as needed to provide a suitable volumetric capacity.

The container can be made using a variety of manufacturing techniques. For example, the container portion can be made using a deep drawing process, vacuum forming, or the like. Other useful manufacturing processes can provide container walls having features such as creping, wavy, corrugated, ribbed, and/or the like. Such wall features may extend in the longitudinal direction or extend transversely therewith, as may be desired.

Some applications may also include a recloseable end for the spout and/or a valve configuration for the spout. Also included is a group of materials selected for use in the container of the present invention, optionally of a recyclable material, and/or a group of optional free sustainable materials.

The word "about" used in conjunction with the numerical values throughout the specification is intended to avoid the mathematical precision of the numerical values. Therefore, when wording When "about" is used in conjunction with a numerical value or a range of values, it is intended to mean the word "about" as being included in the tolerance of ±10% of the stated numerical value. For similar purposes, the terms "substantial" and "substantial" are used throughout this specification in conjunction with various geometric terms, terms, and/or phrases. The terms "substantially" and "substantially" in this context are intended to avoid a rigorous geometric definition to encompass structures that are close to such geometric definitions and include features that do not accurately conform to related terms and/or phrases.

Moreover, the interpretation of the invention is expressly intended to be consistent with all parts of this specification. Therefore, the summary of the invention, the summary of the invention, the drawings, and the like are not intended to be limiting,

It will now be apparent to those skilled in the art that this specification sets forth a novel, useful, and non-obvious seasoning container. In addition, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications, variations, substitutions and equivalents of the various features of the invention described in the appended claims. All such modifications, changes, substitutions and equivalents are intended to be included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

20‧‧‧Seafood Container

20a‧‧‧First container

20b‧‧‧Second container

22‧‧‧ Container or cup section

24‧‧‧ Cover or cover part

26‧‧‧Flange

26a‧‧‧ offset part

26b‧‧‧ offset part

27‧‧‧Lip

30‧‧‧Reservoir

32‧‧‧ bottom surface

34‧‧‧ surface

36‧‧‧ side wall

The first part of 36a‧‧

38‧‧‧ spout

40‧‧‧ edge

44‧‧‧ embossing features

50‧‧‧ peripheral edge

52‧‧‧Unjoined area

54‧‧‧ Pull part

56‧‧‧ angular features

56'‧‧‧ Stripping starter

60‧‧‧ crack

62‧‧‧ crack

64‧‧‧ Stripping starter

66‧‧‧ Stripping starter

70‧‧‧Seasoning/Adhesive Seal

72‧‧‧Binder

80‧‧‧Feet

82‧‧‧Feet

84‧‧‧ Stripping starter

90‧‧‧ pentagonal receptacle

91‧‧‧Line edge

92‧‧‧ crack

93‧‧‧ side edge

94‧‧‧ crack

95‧‧‧ side edge

96‧‧‧ ear

98‧‧‧ ear

100‧‧‧Pack

110‧‧‧ cylindrical receptacle

112‧‧‧ Seal

1121‧‧‧First sealed area

1122‧‧‧Second sealing area

114‧‧‧Area

120‧‧‧ fingers approaching the gap

122‧‧‧ embossed part

A number of objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the <RTIgt;

Figure 1 is a perspective view of one of the seasoning containers; Figure 2 is one of the seasoning containers in which the bottom surface is located on the top Figure 3 is a bottom plan view of one of the seasoning containers; Figure 4 is a side elevational view of the seasoning container; Figure 5 is a top plan view of the seasoning container; Figure 6 is the seasoning container Figure 7 is a top plan view of a second embodiment of the seasoning container; Figure 8 is a top plan view of a third embodiment of the seasoning container; Figure 9 is along Figure 5 Line 9-9 is an enlarged sectional view; Fig. 10 is an enlarged detail view of one of the nozzle ends surrounded by Fig. 9; Fig. 11 is a seasoning container opened for extrusion application; Fig. 12 is Fig. A cross-sectional view of one of the seasoning containers, shown for impregnation; Figure 13 is a perspective view of one of the fourth embodiment of the seasoning container viewed from the top; Figure 14 is taken along line 14-14 of Figure 13 1 is a cross-sectional view of the fourth embodiment of the seasoning container; FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the fourth embodiment of the seasoning container; FIG. 16 is a view of a fifth embodiment of the seasoning container Figure 17 is a side elevational view of the fifth embodiment of the seasoning container; Figure 18 In conjunction with a fifth embodiment of the food container; a side elevational view of one of the 18 lines in FIG. 19 to FIG.

Figure 20 is a perspective view of the sixth embodiment of the seasoning container; Figure 21 is an inverted perspective view of a sixth embodiment of the seasoning container; Figure 22 is a top plan view of the sixth embodiment ; Figure 23 is a bottom plan view of the sixth embodiment; Figure 24 is a side elevational view of the sixth embodiment; Figure 25 is an end elevational view of the sixth embodiment; Figure 26 is the sixth A cross-sectional view of one embodiment showing opening and accessing the spout for extrusion; and Figure 27 is a cross-sectional view of the sixth embodiment showing opening and taking for impregnation.

Figure 28 is a rear perspective view of a seventh embodiment of the seasoning container; Figure 29 is a rear perspective view of the seventh embodiment of the seasoning container; Figure 30 is the first of the seasoning container A top perspective view of a seventh embodiment of the seasoning container; Fig. 31 is a top plan view of the seventh embodiment of the seasoning container; Fig. 32 is a top plan view of the seventh embodiment of the seasoning container; Figure 7 is a side elevational view of the seventh embodiment of the seasoning container; Figure 34 is a side elevational view of the seventh embodiment of the seasoning container; Figure 35 is the seventh embodiment of the seasoning container A front elevational view of the seventh embodiment of the seasoning container; and FIG. 37 is a perspective view of a plurality of containers of the seventh embodiment assembled together. Figure 38 is a top plan view of one of the assemblies of the seasoning containers shown in Figure 37; Figure 39 is a front elevational view of one of the seasoning container assemblies shown in Figure 37; Figure 40 is a side elevational view of one of the seasoning container assemblies shown in Figure 37; and Figure 41 is similar Figure 34 is a side elevational view of one of the eighth embodiments of the seasoning container of Figure 34.

twenty two. . . Cup part

26a. . . Offset part

27. . . Lip

36. . . Container side wall

36a. . . The front portion

Claims (23)

A container comprising: a container portion made of a container material having a first bending stiffness defining a reservoir having a nominal volume and a spout having a generally flat bottom having a nominal width and having a generally flat bottom a flange substantially parallel to the flat bottom, spaced apart from the base, and surrounding the receptacle, having a sidewall extending between the base and the flange; a removable cover portion having less than the first a second bending stiffness cover material of bending stiffness, the cover portion substantially covering the generally flat flange; an adhesive disposed between the container portion and the cover portion in the region of the generally flat flange, So that there is a non-engagement region between the cover portion and the flange portion to facilitate removal of the cover portion; wherein the sidewall includes a position disposed below the spout at a position offset from one of the discharge ends of the spout a front portion, the front portion of the side wall extending downwardly relative to the spout in a direction generally perpendicular to a plane of the flange; wherein the cover portion and the flange substantially follow the reservoir The perimeter forms a first sealing region, and the cover portion additionally forms a second sealing region with the flange, the second sealing region being constructed and configured to have an increase in stripping resistance relative to the first sealing region Stripping resistance; and wherein the first sealing region and the second sealing region are formed by first and second different sealing mold patterns such that the first sealing region There is a first sealing pattern and the second sealing region has a second sealing pattern, wherein the first and second sealing patterns are different. The container of claim 1 wherein the container portion and the cover portion comprise a pair of generally symmetrical slits extending from a side of the container toward the container end to define a pair of ears. A container according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the container portion and the cover portion is made of a material having an oxygen control barrier. The container of claim 1 wherein the binder provides a stripping resistance in the range of from about 2 to about 10 pounds of external force. The container of claim 1, wherein the reservoir has a width, a depth, and a length, and is scaled such that the depth is less than about 50% of the width, and the depth is less than about 35% of the length. The container of claim 1 wherein the container supports an applied weight of about 50 pounds. A container according to claim 1, wherein the receptacle contains a seasoning selected from the group consisting of ketchup, mayonnaise, and sauce. The container of claim 1, wherein the first material and the second material are selected such that the flavor has a shelf life of at least about six months, and wherein the shelf life is used in the L ^* a ^* b ^* color space The colorimeter operating in the process determines that the L ^* value does not degrade by more than about 10% over a period of six months. The container of claim 1 wherein the cover portion comprises a foil layer. The container of claim 1, wherein the cover portion and the container portion are opaque. The container of claim 1, wherein the cover portion and the container portion are at least One such material comprises at least one layer selected from the group consisting of: PET, APET, OPET, MET-PET, PE, LDPE, LLDPE, mLLDPE, HDPE, mPE, EVA, PP, mOPP, PS, HIPS, foil Sheet, EVOH, polyamide, nylon, PVC, biaxially oriented materials, materials in accordance with 21 CFR Part 177, and combinations thereof. The container of claim 1, wherein at least one of the flanges in the non-engagement region is offset downwardly away from the cover portion to form a finger therebetween for facilitating manual gripping of the cover portion. The container of claim 12, wherein the non-engagement region extends along one side of the reservoir opposite the nozzle and includes an opposite end at which a finger access gap exists. The container of claim 1, wherein the second sealed region is constructed and disposed at a location where the stripping operation is terminated. The container of claim 1, wherein the second sealing region is disposed at the spout. The container of claim 1, wherein the second sealing region is disposed outside a perimeter of the first sealing region. The container of claim 1 wherein the container encloses the product or material and provides for its metered and unmeasured acquisition. A container according to claim 17, wherein the product or material comprises a drug, a coating, a powder, a liquid, a particulate matter, a seasoning, a sauce, a dairy product, a soup, or a liquid. An assembly comprising a plurality of containers according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the plurality of containers comprises first and second adjacent to each other a container, wherein respective nozzles are aligned with each other and wherein the nozzle of the first container is configured to overlap with the rear portion of the flange of the second container, the upper portion of the front portion of the sidewall relative to the The spout extends downwardly and is configured to prevent the spout of the first container from being displaced upwardly in response to the upper section of the front portion of the side wall being contacted by the rear portion of the flange of the second container. The assembly of claim 19, wherein the upper section of the front portion of the side wall is disposed generally perpendicular to a plane of the flange. The container of claim 19, wherein the plurality of containers comprises additional containers disposed adjacent to the first and second containers in a lateral direction relative to the longitudinal direction, wherein the first and second containers are flanged and The respective flanges of the additional containers are disposed in overlapping relationship in the lateral direction. A package comprising a cartridge and an assembly of a plurality of containers of any one of claims 1 to 18 disposed in the cartridge. The container of claim 22, wherein the plurality of containers comprises additional containers disposed adjacent to the first and second containers in a lateral direction relative to the longitudinal direction, wherein the first and second containers are flanged and The respective flanges of the additional containers are disposed in overlapping relationship in the lateral direction.