Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to recyclable, composite container assemblies with improved characteristics resulting from a combination of raw materials, structural design, systems, and methods for sealing a paper-based closure to a paper-based container body. The container assemblies demonstrate superior performance and seal properties, such as very low oxygen transmission rates and high resistance to bulging and/or damage due to high pressure differentials. The disclosed container assemblies, manufactured at high speeds, have been optimized by increasing the shelf-life of food products stored therein, while minimizing any non-paper materials such that the container assemblies qualify as recyclable mono-material.

Abstract: In insert is provided for use with a container and for positioning in the container opening. The insert includes a body having an outer periphery dimensioned for receipt within container opening. A utensil is frangibly secured to the insert body within an internal open area. A receiving tab is provided that projects from the body into the open area. An engagement structure is formed on the utensil and on the receiving tab. The engagement portions cooperate with one another for removably securing the utensil to the receiving tab after the frangible connection to the body is removed.

Abstract: A refrigerated dough container that has less than 5% non-paper material by weight such that the container qualifies as being a recyclable paper article. The container includes a paperboard body ply and a liner ply adhered to the inner surface of the body ply. The liner ply consists of a paper layer having an outer surface adhered to the inner surface of the container body, and at least one non-paper layer imparting moisture/gas barrier and sealing characteristics to the liner. The total weight of the non-paper layer(s) does not exceed 5% of the combined body ply and liner ply weight. The non-paper layers can include a metallized film or thin foil as a barrier layer and a polyolefin or sealing varnish as a sealant layer. Alternatively, a single non-paper layer, namely a PVDC layer, can be extrusion-coated onto the paper layer.

Abstract: A seaming apparatus and method wherein a composite container with a metal end loosely placed thereon is supported on a lifting plate in a vacuum chamber, air is evacuated from the chamber, the lifting plate is raised to engage the metal end with a magnetic seaming chuck, the lifting plate is then lowered to lower the container (optionally aided by one or more magnets in the lifting plate) so as to produce a gap between the metal end and the container, an inert gas is introduced into the chamber, the lifting plate is then raised to engage the container with the metal end, and the metal end is seamed onto the container.

Abstract: A seaming apparatus and method wherein a composite container with a metal end loosely placed thereon is supported on a lifting plate in a vacuum chamber, air is evacuated from the chamber, the lifting plate is raised to engage the metal end with a magnetic seaming chuck, the lifting plate is then lowered to lower the container (optionally aided by one or more magnets in the lifting plate) so as to produce a gap between the metal end and the container, an inert gas is introduced into the chamber, the lifting plate is then raised to engage the container with the metal end, and the metal end is seamed onto the container.

Abstract: A tubular container for fragile products is provided according to the present invention that includes a flexible end closure that moves inwardly against the products when vacuum is applied during packaging for providing cushioning support to the products. The flexible end closure is secured to an end of a tubular body wall having opposed ends and inner and outer surfaces and comprises a wound strip of material. A flexible liner having opposed end portions is secured to respective ends of the tubular body by way of an adhesive band between the liner and the inner surface of the tubular body wall. The flexible liner thus has a free medial portion between the end portions which moves inwardly against the products when vacuum is applied. A vent hole may be formed through the body ply and an outer label by way of a laser for allowing the passage of air therethrough.

Abstract: A composite container is provided for vacuum packaging of products is disclosed having a generally tubular body portion having opposite ends and an inner surface. A liner is attached to the body portion for receiving the products inside the liner and the body portion of the container. The liner has a memory and is able to move between a position adjacent the body portion to a position about the products placed therein when a vacuum is applied to the products. When the vacuum is removed from the products, the liner automatically returns from the position about the products to the position adjacent the body portion so that the products can be easily removed.