Abstract: A splatter guard device is adapted for use inside a cooking chamber of a conventional microwave oven to inhibit splattering of cooking foodstuffs about the cooking chamber. The splatter guard device comprises a cover and a support structure. The cover is sized to extend longitudinally and laterally within the cooking chamber of the microwave oven to at least cover the cooking foodstuffs. The support structure is adapted to be secured in a manner within the cooking chamber of the microwave oven so that the support structure is operative to releasably retain the cover above and proximate to the cooking foodstuffs to inhibit splattering of the cooking foodstuffs about the cooking chamber.

Abstract: Microwave cookware of flexible, transparent material displaying an expandable bottom and two opposing walls, one wall containing an aperture, the other opposing wall displaying an extension, the objective being to manually pull the extension through the aperture rendering the bag closed and, vented, leaving the extension as a handling vehicle.

Abstract: An illuminated bread box for holding bread therein and inhibiting its spoilage comprising a hollow container having an opening for allowing bread to be placed therein; a lamp disposed within the container for emitting illumination when electrically energized to inhibit the growth of organisms in and on bread that leads to its spoilage; a power supply mechanism for providing electrical energy for illuminating the lamp; a lid extended over the opening and pivotally coupled to the container, thereby allowing the container to be opened and closed; and a switch mechanism coupled between the lamp and the power supply mechanism and having one orientation for energizing the lamp when the lid is closed and another orientation for de-energizing the lamp when the lid is opened.

Abstract: A microwave cooking system for releasing moisture comprised of a microwave plate and spherical shaped container. The microwave plate includes a planar circular bottom section with upper and lower surfaces. The periphery of the upper surface of the bottom section includes coupling means for attachment thereupon. It further includes an annular top section formed as a hollow rim, with the hollow interior including a contiguous space extending the entire length of the rim. The rim extends upward from the bottom section, and has interior and exterior side walls shaped to follow the contour of the perimeter of the bottom section. The rim also includes an upper surface and open lower surface adapted to couple to the upper surface of the bottom section. A plurality of apertures in the upper surface of the rim extend into the hollow interior. The system further includes a generally spherical shaped container formed as a hollow sphere.

Abstract: A thermal storage mixture activated by exposure to microwave energy is provided. The thermal storage mixture comprises a liquid phase of a microwave active fluid; and, a solid phase suspended within the microwave active fluid. The solid phase is preferably selected from material having a melting point at or below a temperature to which the liquid phase is heated, during use. The thermal storage mixture may be utilized in a container, to provide a thermal storage unit in a variety of applications. Herein, a thermal storage construction (heating construction) comprising a seat cushion having a thermal storage unit therein, to advantage, is described. Further, a process of storing thermal energy for release over an extended period of time is described.

Abstract: A container constituted of a microwave transparent material for the heating or cooking of foods or comestibles through the intermediary of microwaves at a high degree of efficiency and with an enhanced temperature uniformity.

Abstract: A food package including a package body forming a food receiving cavity for storing and heating a food item in a microwave oven. Specifically, the package body includes a bottom panel and a top panel with side panels joining the bottom and top panel. An impedance matching element is provided on at least one of the panels for impedance matching microwave energy entering the package. The impedance matching element is preferably a contiguous film of thinly flaked material embedded in a dielectric binder which is sized and shaped with respect to the food to cause impedance matching to elevate the temperature of the food in predetermined areas dependent upon the size and spacing of the film without interacting with the microwave energy to produce heat. The film may also be shaped in the form of a convex lens to direct impedance matched microwave energy toward the food to elevate the temperature of the food in a predetermined area.

Abstract: A package for microwave heating of a sandwich product which normally contains a bread component and non bread components which are either inserted into the bread or deposited on the bread. The non bread components, such as meats, chicken, fish, cheese, vegetables, sauces and the like are placed into a separate container and this non bread component container and the naked bread component are simultaneously contained within a microwave heating package. Microwave suseptor material surrounds at least portions of the bread component for crisping the bread to give it a good baked quality. The non bread component container may first be removed from the package so that the bread component and non bread components may be microwaved separately.

Abstract: A microwave-reflective device and method for enhancing microwave heating of food items. The microwave-reflective device comprises an upstanding, microwave-reflective wall. During cooking, the microwave-reflective device is maintained about the periphery of the food item, while the space inward and above the wall may be maintained free of obstructions to microwave radiation. A susceptor film may be employed beneath the food item during heating.

Abstract: A novel insert useful in a microwavable food container comprising a metallized layer of heat susceptor thickness or a plastic layer, having openings which are in a position to be adjacent to food in said container, a layer of absorbent material comprising fibers, and a substrate layer which is stable to microwave heating conditions. The invention also is directed towards other inserts useful in microwavable food containers comprising fibers which are capable of spontaneously transporting water or n-decane on the surface thereof.

Abstract: A susceptor for use in the microwave cooking of food, includes a first plastic film, a second plastic film, and a semi-liquid lossy material disposed intermediate the first and second films. The lossy material includes glycerine, sucrose ester, and chloride salt, 25 grams of the lossy material in a 50 ml. glass beaker being heatable to at least 200.degree. C. within 40 seconds by 900 watts of microwave energy in a 1.1 cu. ft. oven. Preferably a layer of paper is sandwiched between the first and second films, the lossy material being absorbed on the paper layer. The susceptor is preferably biodegradable and edible. A method of microwave cooking includes the steps of providing an assembly of such a susceptor and the food to be microwave cooked, cooking the food in intimate contact with the susceptor in a microwave oven, and separating the microwave cooked food from the susceptor.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for cooking a tortilla for use, e.g. as a taco shell, produces an edible wrapper, preferably having a narrow partially cooked flexible strip across the central diameter and a fully cooked firm and crispy texture adjacent the flexible area, that can be folded into the typical taco shell U-shape. Preferably, the tortilla is cooked in a microwave oven using two perforated rigid and reusable microwave energy transparent frame members between which a flat fresh uncooked tortilla is positioned. Selective microwave attenuation by a conductive screen strip means, and controlled expansion and distortion of the tortilla by the frame members provide the double textured food end product with desirable surface bubbling, blistering and delamination.

Abstract: A composite material suitable for use as a microwave heating wrapper, comprising a base and an electroconductive layer formed on at least one side of the base, the electroconductive layer being a mixed layer of at least one metal and at least one metal oxide.

Abstract: A microwave corn popper device is provided including a rigid bowl having a bottom portion and an inclined side extending upward from the bottom portion and terminating at a top portion. A microwave susceptor is separate from the bowl and disposed within the bowl adjacent the bottom portion to receive kernels of corn. The susceptor becomes hot in the presence of microwave energy. A saucer-shaped metal plate is disposed beneath the susceptor at a predetermined spaced apart distance. The metal plate is part of a support assembly which is separately mountable to the bowl.

Abstract: A utensil for use in preparing foods in a microwave oven comprises a microwave transparent, nonconductive, ceramic, opentop food receiving vessel, a microwave transparent, nonconductive, ceramic cover for closing the open top of the vessel, special glaze or coating sintered onto at least the interior surfaces of the vessel and cover or onto both the interior and exterior surfaces thereof; the glaze or coating being comprised of a dielectric matrix and semiconductive particles dispersed throughout the matrix; the percent loading of the conductive particles in the matrix being such that the food contained in the vessel is partially shielded from microwave energy and the glaze absorbs microwave energy and the glaze absorbs microwave energy and converts it to thermal energy concentrated at the utensil so that the outside surface of the food is browned and crisped and the food is cooked from the outside to the inside by the heat transferred to the food from the utensil, as well as being cooked in part from the ins

Abstract: Microorganisms are killed in a food product using an electrode placed into electrical contact with the food product, a charge supply circuit, a switch that selectively couples the charge supply circuit to the electrode, and a controller. The switch first configures the charge supply circuit so as to deliver a charge to the electrode when the switch assumes a first state, and next configures the charge supply circuit so as to absorb the charge from the electrode when the switch assumes a second state. As a result, a net charge delivered to the electrode is substantially zero. The controller controls the switch to sequentially assume the first and second states. The delivery of the zero net charge prevents the fouling of the electrode.

Abstract: Device for the transport and distribution of meal trays including built-in microwave oven for reheating the latter. The device consists of an isothermic unequipped trolley for transporting food trays between kitchens and hospital wards, a central equipped unit permanently installed in hospitals, capable of having one or two transport trolleys coupled to it to form mobile distribution units, and one or two microwave ovens built into the central unit, comprising a metallic shield located between the hot and cold areas, which enables meal trays without a shield to be used. For use in the distribution of individual meal trays in establishments such as hospitals.

Abstract: A novel microwavable susceptor used for cooking expandable dough in a microwave oven is disclosed. Specifically, the susceptor comprises an inner region and an outer region, the inner region having a pattern of metalized and/or non-metalized portions wherein the intensity of the inner region is about from about 25% to about 75% and the outer region has an intensity arbitrarily set at about 100%. A cookie dough composition having desirable spreadable characteristics useful for baking in a microwave is also disclosed. The susceptor is reusable.

Abstract: A circular microwaveable chip maker integrally molded of a microwave oven resistant plastic material, having a row of spacers defining slots between each adjacent pair of spacers. Thin food items are held in the slots in a spaced array to facilitate their cooking in a microwave oven. The chip maker has a handle for transporting it into and out of a microwave oven.

Abstract: A container for use in a microwave oven formed from a microwave transparent material and having coated on at least part of at least one inner surface thereof a browning agent for transfer of a brown coloration to a surface of a food item.

Abstract: Foods can be cooked, baked or roasted in a microwave oven by enclosing a food-containment dish in a hood. Vent openings in the end wall of the hood permit a controlled escape of steam from the space enclosed by the hood; air heated within the hood provides an updraft condition that induces a flow of steam through the vent openings. Air holes in the hood side wall permit replacement air to flow into the hood to replace air that escapes with the steam. The apparatus achieves a relatively even heating of the food, and a controlled venting of steam from the food throughout the food-cooking process.

Abstract: According to the invention an apparatus for uniformly distributing a powdered or granular food material for application to a solid food product is provided. A dry ingredient distributor is provided which includes an auger surrounded by a distribution tube having a plurality of openings. Mounted to the distribution tube and vertically spaced therefrom at a preselected distance, is an electrostatic field generation means for generation of a substantially uniform electrostatic field horizontally along substantially the entire length of the distribution tube to generate an electrostatic field in the path of the food material exiting the outlets of the distribution tube.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a specially designed container for cooking foods. In a preferred embodiment, the container has a centrally located segregated receptacle for containing a liquid. Upon heating, steam is formed from the liquid in the receptacle and circulates throughout a chamber wherein the food is contained. The combination of circulating steam and microwave energy yields reduced cooking times for many foods and preserves the aesthetic qualities of food cooked in the container disclosed herein.

Abstract: A unit is suitable for storing and carrying food, and includes a microwave unit therein. The microwave unit is used to heat food and includes a power cord that can be attached to a source of utility power or to a battery. The unit can also include batteries.

Abstract: A packaging container for use in connection with microwave cooking of foodstuffs is provided. The container can be opened up so as to define an extended base area, allowing foodstuffs comprising individual items to be spread out during cooking. The extension is achieved by utilization of container portions not originally part of the base. The extended base area preferably is covered with microwave susceptible material.

Abstract: A microwave radiation source is introduced into a fry basket within the fry tank of a deep fat fryer to reduce the cooking time of food products within the fry basket. Microwave energy is generated outside the fry tank and coupled into the fry basket by a microwave tuned transition, waveguide and antenna. Microwave chokes seal the basket top cover and microwave antenna to basket interface to confine the microwave energy to the fry basket. An electrical safety interlock prevents generation of microwave energy unless the fry basket is sealed.

Abstract: A microwave coffee maker includes a microwave generator for heating water. The heated water is discharged to a filtering vessel and then to a coffee container. The coffee container is mounted on a support plate on the underside of which is disposed a microwave absorbing material. That material is exposed to the microwaves and is heated thereby. The heat is conducted to the coffee container through the support plate to keep the coffee warm.

Abstract: A collapsed flexible, e.g., paper, bag is provided which contains a charge of unpopped popcorn. Popping of the corn can be carried out in a microwave oven with the bag supported upon a pre-erected or collapsible stand, usually about 2 cm high, attached to the bag. The bag includes upper and lower opposing face panels connected together by longitudinally extending, centrally projecting gussets that are integral with the face panels. Prior to popping, the gussets are folded between the under and lower face panels of the bag and the bag is sealed at each end. A microwave heating susceptor is provided in the lower panel of the bag or elsewhere in the bag if desired. During popping of the popcorn kernels, the bag increases in size and the gussets expand outwardly as the bag becomes filled with popped kernels, hot vapor and steam.

Abstract: A novel structure for use in the microwave cooking of foodstuffs for consumption is described. The structure includes an array of individual shapes of flexible electroconductive material normally opaque to microwave radiation supported on a microwave transparent substrate. Each of the individual discrete shapes of flexible electroconductive material has a thickness normally opaque to microwave radiation and is formed in an H-, I- or elongate strip shape. The individual discrete shapes are arranged on the substrate to define a space surrounding the periphery of each individual shape with the spaces defining a continuous aperture extending throughout the array and effective to generate thermal energy in the continuous aperture when the article is exposed to microwave energy and the foodstuff is in contact with or proximate to the aperture. The multiple layer article of manufacture is adapted to be formed into a packaging structure in which a foodstuff may be heated by microwave energy to an edible condition.

Abstract: Microwaveable packing compositions exhibiting improved temperature control are provided. These compositions comprise a dielectric substrate having at least a portion of at least one of its surfaces coated with a matrix composition containing susceptor particles as well as particles of a blocking agent selected from the group consisting of calcium salts, zinc salts, zinc oxide, lithopone, silica and titanium dioxide. Also disclosed is a microwaveable ink composition useful for the preparation of such packaging compositions as well as a process for manufacturing such packaging compositions.

Abstract: A gas-flushed microwavable easy-to-open food package is provided which is resistant to impact under temperatures at or below freezing and which is comprised of a flexible lidding film having oxygen-barrier properties hermetically and peelably sealed to a food compartment formed from a polypropylene copolymer material. The lidding film is preferably comprised of oriented polyester, and the food product compartment further comprises a peelable oxygen, barrier film, preferably formed of ethylene vinyl acetate, PVDC and a peelable polyethylene layer. The package is designed to contain a perishable food product, such as a wiener in a bun or other proteinaceous-farinaceous food combinations, and is preferably entirely or partially transparent so as to allow the consumer to readily observe the condition of the food product before purchase.

Abstract: A microwave susceptor which includes a dielectric substrate and a dry layer of microwave active coating material overlaying at least a portion of the substrate is provided. The coating material includes a silicate binder and an active constituent and the weight ratio of the silicate to active is about 98:2 or less (i.e. less silicate). The dry layer is electrically continuous and has a surface concentration of active constituent of about 1 gram per square meter or greater. Sodium silicate is preferred as the binder and graphite is preferred as the active constituent. In addition additives such as saccharides, glycerine and plasticizers can be added to inhibit thermal shut down and to increase the flexibility of the dry layer. The susceptor can exhibit moderate heat performance or even high heating performance if desired.

Abstract: An improved technique for uniformly distributing crisping or browning heat supplementation in disposable paper food carton or containers and the like used for microwave cooking, in which a metallized susceptor film is employed mounted to but intermediately spaced from the adjacent inner wall of the container to define and seal an air pocket which, in heating, improves the uniformity of the browning result through convection into air pocket and responsive flexing of the film.

Abstract: A microwave radiation source is introduced into a fry basket within the fry tank of a deep fat fryer to reduce the cooking time of food products within the fry basket. Microwave energy is generated outside the fry tank and coupled into the fry basket by a microwave tuned transition, waveguide and antenna. Microwave chokes seal the basket top cover and microwave antenna to basket interface to confine the microwave energy to the fry basket. An electrical safety interlock prevents generation of microwave energy unless the fry basket is sealed.

Abstract: A microwave food heating package for food pieces such as french fried potatoes or fish sticks is described. The package includes one or more susceptor sheets folded in alternately opposite directions to provide accordion folds therein which define V-shaped pockets that serve as heating chambers for individual pieces of food. The susceptor sheet is formed from a microwave energy-absorbing material adapted to heat, brown or crispen the surfaces of the food sticks. The heating chambers preferably enclose the food sticks on all major surfaces and can be made by layering, i.e. stacking, segments of the accordion-pleated susceptor sheet material one above another to form individual heating chambers for the food pieces to crispen, toast or brown their surfaces during heating.

Abstract: An improved baking pan (10) for short-time combination baking is provided which allows baking of bread or other comestible products using both conventional heating and microwave or rf energy. The pan (10) preferably includes a bottom wall (12) and upstanding sidewall structure (14) which are provided with apertures (26, 28) sized to permit passage of microwave or rf energy therethrough. A liner (34) is positioned within the pan (10) in covering relationship to the apertures (26, 28), so as to prevent passage of uncooked dough or the like through the pan apertures (26, 28), while being sufficiently thin to not appreciably decrease thermal conductivity through the pan walls (12, 14). Combination bread baking using the pan (10) typically involves conventional heating to a temperature of from about 430.degree.-625.degree. F., with simultaneous application of microwave energy.

Abstract: A microwave responsive heating device useful in microwave packaging for capturing microwave energy in a microwave oven and transmitting the energy to a surface of a food item in a concentrated form to grill, crisp, or brown the surface thereof. The heating device includes an antenna for collecting the microwave energy and a transmission device for transferring the collected energy from the antenna to a surface of a food item. Preferably, the heating device forms an integral portion of the interior of a food package to allow a food item to be stored and cooked therein. The antenna and the transmission device are made from electrically conductive materials and are shaped to, not only, capture and transmit microwave energy efficiently, but also to enhance the intensity of the microwave energy in a concentrated form.

Abstract: The present invention provides an insulating microwave heating package with a multiplicity of latent, uninflated or potential insulation chambers capable of inflating when exposed to microwave energy. The package includes at least two superimposed inner and outer pieces of flexible sheet material bonded together at selected points, patches or along seal lines separated by unsealed areas which define side-by-side unfilled, i.e., potential, inflation chambers between the lines, patches or points. Upon exposure to microwave energy, the package and its contents become heated. As a result of this heating process, the unfilled chambers also become heated, causing them to become filled with hot expanding air or moisture vapor. These chambers serve as insulation for the package and enhance heating of the food by reducing heat loss from the package.

Abstract: The invention is an apparatus for heat processing of food. The invention includes a frame which supports the subcomponents of the apparatus. The apparatus' subcomponents include a rack having a plurality of hook-like projections for holding the food. A rack displacement assembly reciprocally moves the rack between a food loading position and a heat processing position. The rack displacement assembly includes both a lever and a cable and pulley-actuated linkage. The rack is moved into a heating cavity when that rack is in its heat processing position. Heating means are provided on at least one side of the heating cavity.

Abstract: A disposable food container formed of sand and a decomposable binder. The disposable food containers are suitable for holding, storing and exposing food to heat in both conventional and microwave ovens. The decomposable binders contain 20 to 40% by weight of a binder selected from the group consisting of starch, grain flours and mixtures thereof, 20 to 30% by weight salt, 1 to 3% by weight oil and water. The containers are covered with a coating to prevent the transmission or absorption of liquids.

Abstract: A single use combined shipping display and cooking microwave package is provided for heating a plurality of food pieces in a microwave oven. The packaging includes a microwave transparent enclosure which has a top panel and a bottom panel. Located adjacent to and generally coextensive with the bottom panel is a microwave susceptor. Preferably this microwave susceptor is a thin film susceptor. A spacer overlays the thin film susceptor and is also generally coextensive with the bottom panel. The spacer is adapted to hold the food pieces a predetermined distance away from this susceptor. In addition, the spacer has a plurality of apertures therein which allows the heat from the microwave susceptor to pass through to the food pieces. A similar arrangement is applicable to the top panel. A top panel microwave susceptor is located adjacent to and generally coextensive with the top panel and a top panel spacer is located adjacent to the top panel susceptor and generally coextensive with the top panel.

Abstract: A microwave utensil for heating two different foods having different microwave absorbing properties allows the foods to be heated simultaneously without overheating one of the foods. The utensil includes a lower vessel to receive a first food and a second vessel which is nested within the first vessel to displace a portion of the first food item. A second food item is placed in the second vessel such that the first food item shields the sides of the second food.

Abstract: Microwave oven apparatus includes provisions for adding moisture to foods being cooked in a microwave oven to reduce drying of the food during the cooking procedure. Different embodiments of a microwave oven include a microwave oven with mister elements, one mister element providing a cold mist and another mister embodiment providing a hot or steam mist derived from the heating of water in a reservoir of the microwave oven. A microwave oven may also include a water tray at the bottom of the oven, with water in the tray comprising the source of moisture for food being cooked in a dish within the oven. At the top of the oven, or above the mister elements, is a filter, preferably made of paper, or the like, through which moisture may permeate, but which prevents moisture condensing on the top of the microwave from falling onto the food in the form of droplets.

Abstract: A microwave energy intensifier is described comprising an array of dots of electroconductive material of microwave-reflecting thickness, particularly aluminum of foil thickness, supported on a dielectric substrate, particularly a flexible polymeric film substrate.

Abstract: A microwave cooker capable of cooking an assortment of foods by a variety of methods while maintaining constant pressure. The cooker of the present invention boils and steams foods continuously without pressure build up and without the need to shut off the microwave oven. Food spattering and spillage are prevented by a unique internal baffle rib design and a mechanism that releaseably locks the top cover.

Abstract: A tray useful for the microwave cooking of prepared foodstuffs, particularly frozen foodstuffs, for consumption is structured to provide a more uniform heating of the foodstuff than has heretofore been possible. The tray comprises an outer layer formed of paperboard or molded plastic to which is laminated an inner polymeric film layer. A layer of microwave-reflective material, usually aluminum foil, is positioned between the outer and inner layers in the location of the peripheral wall of the tray and in a pattern in a portion of the bottom wall.

Abstract: A microwave susceptor having projections such as linear ridges which define circulation channels such as linear grooves. The susceptor may include apertures at the ridge apexes and the groove nadirs for allowing food secretions such as grease and steam, to pass through the susceptor. A strut may be releasably coupled to the susceptor for increasing the structural integrity of the susceptor.

Abstract: A microwave susceptor package such as a food package is disclosed which contains a microwave reactive material comprising a support material and a microwave interactive coating on the support material. The support material is selected from microwave transparent and thermally stable substrates whereas the microwave interactive coating comprises metal particles in an ink-like substance that may be printed onto the substrate such as a portion of the substrate.

Abstract: For popping popcorn in a microwave oven, a flexible bag is provided which contains popcorn and includes a collapsible stand. The bag has upper and lower opposing face panels connected together by longitudinally extending, centrally projecting gussets that are integral with the face panels. Prior to popping, the gussets are folded between the upper and lower face panels of the bag. The panels and gussets are preferably formed from a pair of superimposed sheets of paper that are laminated together with adhesive. Popcorn is placed in the bag and the bag ends are sealed. A microwave heating susceptor of any suitable type is provided in the lower panel of the bag or elsewhere in the bag if desired. During popping of the popcorn kernels, the bag increases in size and the gussets expand outwardly as the bag becomes filled with popped kernels, hot vapor and steam.

Abstract: A food package is provided wherein the accommodated food product, while remaining in the package, may be heated or cooked in a microwave oven. The food product has at least one predetermined portion thereof which requires enhanced heat while the product is being heated or cooked in the oven. The food package includes a container formed of heat resistant material which is pervious to the microwaves. A surface of the container is provided with an area which is in proximity to the predetermined portion of the food product requiring the enhanced heat. A metallized ink, consisting of metal particles suspended in an ink-like substance, is deposited on the surface area of the container. Thus, when the metallized ink is exposed to the generated microwaves, the required enhanced heat is produced in the vicinity of the surface area.