Abstract: An improved opening system for use with flexible containers includes a lower layer which features a weakened line, and an upper layer, between which is included a tear string positioned in close proximity to the weakened line, the tear string being designed to tear through the upper unweakened layer, and thereby exposing the weakened lower layer. The lower layer is then opened through a bursting action along the weakened line, thereby fully opening the container.

Abstract: A bag for storing and dispensing a food product (e.g., a microwavable popcorn bag, potato chip bag, etc.) includes an improved product access opening. In particular, the bag comprises at least a first gusset on some surface of the bag, the gusset comprising at least two gusset panels and a product access opening ("gusset opening") between the two panels. The gusset opening may be sealed by a number of different methods and mechanisms, e.g., an adhesive, a pull-tab, a perforation, or any other suitable seal which keeps the bag sealed and, further, allows a user easily to unseal the opening to access the food product inside the bag. The gusset opening may be incorporated into many types of food bags, including both microwavable and non-microwavable food bags. If the gusset opening is incorporated into a microwavable food bag (e.g., a popcorn bag), the bag expands in a microwave during cooking and causes the gusset to unfold.