Abstract: A metal container which can be utilized in a microwave oven has an interior and an exterior defined by a bottom and at least one side wall. Each side wall has a height which does not exceed 40 percent of the wavelength of the microwave radiation. The container is adapted to receive an object into its interior through an open top. Microwave-transparent electrical insulation is disposed on each side wall and on that part of the bottom which would, in the absence of insulation, contact the floor of the oven. This microwave transparent electrical insulation may be a coating on the metal, a label, or a sleeve placed around the container. A microwave transparent, electrically-insulating cap is removably disposed at the top of the container. The top of the container also may have a removable seal disposed thereon. Also, a method for storing an object, then subjecting the object to microwave radiation comprising first placing the object in the removably sealed metal container.

Abstract: A composite material for efficient use in a microwave heating container and a container formed therefrom are described. The composite material includes a thermoplastic resin and a particulate dielectric material oriented therein so the container exhibits a dielectric constant within the range from about 5 to about 8 which is particularly useful for heating high moisture foods in microwave ovens. The particulate dielectric material includes particles having a dielectric constant within a range from about 5 to about 8 and a particle size within the range from about 1 .mu.m to about 10 .mu.m.

Abstract: A package for cooking a waffle in a microwave oven is provided, comprising a microwave transparent tray about 28 to 38 mm deep, a lossy susceptor film lid having defined reflectance and absorbance, placed about 3 to about 10 mm over the waffle, providing means for moisture to escape. The waffle is coated with an edible food conditioner, to provide improved microwave susceptibility to the surfaces of the waffle. The waffle may be cooked alone or in the presence of a sausage side dish.

Abstract: The present invention provides a food package useful for heating a food product in a microwave oven. The package has a tray with an opening for introducing the food product therein. Once the food has been introduced into the tray, the opening is sealed using a microwave releasable adhesive. The microwave releasable adhesive seal includes a microwave interactive material in close proximity to a heat-releasable resin containing a blowing agent. The microwave interactive material preferably is composed of metallic flakes which become hot when exposed to microwave energy. Consequently, when the package is heated in a microwave oven, the microwave interactive material becomes hot, causing the blowing agent to decompose and form a gas. The gas formation destroys the integrity of the seal between the tray and the closure, permitting the seal to be opened easily after heating in a microwave oven.

Abstract: A package with a preferentially releasable seal is provided, suitable for use in microwaveable food cooking. The seal includes a heat-releasable polymer in contact with a microwave susceptor material. Upon heating in a microwave oven, the seal releases in response to force generated by the cooking of the food.