Abstract: This invention relates generally to lidded disposable pressed paperboard containers and more particularly to a disposable lid with an engagement profile particularly useful for paperboard containers comprising evert outer portions. The lid of the present invention provides a good fit for paperboard container bases having evert outer portions while still allowing the lid to be removed from the base without the need for excessive force. The lid profile is relatively insensitive to size variations of paperboard container bases having evert outer portions and allows for flexing of paperboard during application so as to provide an unexpectedly good seal so as to provide lidded, disposable paperboard containers.

Abstract: A domed lid 12 for a food container 10 is configured for ease of engagement and removal from a container base 14. The lid characteristically includes: (a) a dome portion 16 with a top wall 24 and a sidewall 26; (b) a flange portion 28 extending outwardly away from a lower portion of the sidewall; and (c) a tab portion 30 extending outwardly from the flange. The flange portion is provided with a rim 32 having a variable profile around the rim characterized in that: (i) the rim is provided with a securing undercut portion 36 extending around the majority of its periphery adapted to secure the lid to an outer border of base 14; and (ii) the rim has a pair of relatively passive engagement profile portions 42, 44 on either side of tab 30, extending to the securing undercut portion of the rim, the passive engagement profile portions are configured so that they are undercut less than the securing undercut portion of the lid, thereby facilitating engagement of the lid with, or removal of the lid from, base 14.