Abstract: A steam sterilization indicator for indicating both exposure to steam and sterilization is provided. The steam sterilization indicator includes a backing member. A tablet formed of a compound having a first melting point and second melting point which is lower that the first melting point, the second melting point being the melting point of the compound exposed to steam is also provided. A wick is affixed to the backing member adjacent to the tablet. A steam permeable material covers the tablet and the wick. Upon melting, the tablet material is absorbed by the wick. A handle is affixed to the backing member. One end of the handle includes a steam exposure indicator formed of a color changing ink which changes color in the presence of steam.

Abstract: A carton for dispensing articles from the front thereof comprises a top wall, a bottom wall, and a laterally spaced apart pair of sidewalls connecting said top wall and said bottom wall. A shelf is disposed intermediate the top and bottom walls and extends substantially between the sidewalls, the shelf having a substantially horizontal front portion of appreciable length extending rearwardly from the front of the carton, and a rear portion of appreciable length inclined rearwardly and downwardly from the front portion.