Abstract: Dual, sealed compartments for food packaging may be provided by a container having an upstanding wall or walls defining a first intermediate seal region. A cover may be heat sealed to the first intermediate seal region to form a first compartment with a first food item therein. Over the first cover may be a second compartment which may be closed by a second cover applied at the top of the package. The first cover may include a tab which extends upwardly through the second compartment so as to be grasped from above the second compartment. As a result, the second compartment may be opened and then the first compartment may be opened while the food item is still contained within the second compartment.

Abstract: A heat sealing device includes an insulated platen that protects heat sensitive lidding materials from sustaining heat damage. Generally, the platen is encased in an insulative material and houses an insulation plate within its perimeter. The insulative material and plate protect that portion of the lidding material that is external and internal to the seal area respectively. Thus, only that portion of the lidding material to be sealed to a tray is exposed to high temperatures.

Abstract: A packaging machine may package irregularly shaped food products such that a heat-sensitive lidding material is thermoformed to generally conform to the configuration of the food product.