Abstract: A self-supporting flexible film container is disclosed that includes a container base and a flexible film attached to the container base that forms a container wall and defines a packing region within the container. The container wall has at least one support column, such as a tubular support column, integrally formed therein. A method of conforming the container includes providing a web of flexible film, forming tubular support columns in the web of flexible film and forming a container from the web of flexible film containing the support columns. The support columns can be formed by ploughing and forming the web of flexible film.

Abstract: The present application discloses systems and methods for making confectionery products in which the product is formed in a cavity that forms part of the packaging for the product. In one embodiment the product is formed in film cavities (180) vacuum-formed into a carrier film (144) that is secured to a platen (124) from the forming step until the film cavities (180) are sealed. In another embodiment, the carrier film (144) is transported through the process via a continuous web.

Abstract: Microwave platforms for generating marks on microwavable food products are presented. In an embodiment, the microwave platform comprises a microwave susceptor and a corrugated tubular member having flutes for containing insulated air, the tubular member attached to the microwave susceptor to form the microwave platform, wherein the microwave platform defines a plurality of slits and wherein the microwave platform is capable of causing grill marks to be formed on a food product when the food product is microwaved.