Abstract: A preferred storage container includes a base that defines an interior, and a lid that defines a reservoir. The lid is configured to engage the base so that food products placed within the interior may be retained therein. An absorbent material is arranged within the reservoir of the lid and is retained therein by a cover formed of liquid permeable material. The cover permits liquid exuded from the food products to enter the reservoir so that the absorbent material may absorb the liquid, such as when the storage container is inverted. Methods also are provided.

Abstract: A storage container (12) includes, in some embodiments, a tray insert (10) having a base (14) and side walls (16) which define a reservoir (18) for retaining fluids exuded from stored food. The base (14) of the tray insert (10) substantially conforms to the bottom of the storage container (12) into which the tray insert (10) is placed and the upper edge (28) of the side walls (16) substantially conforms to the interior side wall of the storage container (12). A series of ribs (20) and optional rib segments (25) extend upwardly from the base (14) of the tray insert (10), with the ribs (20 and 25) and the upper edge (28) of the side walls (16) supporting a cover (26) formed of liquid permeable sheet material so that the cover (26) supports food which has been placed into the storage container (12).