CLAMSHELL CONTAINER

Abstract

A clamshell container for herbs and produce includes a base and front cover connected by a hinge, forming an enclosure. The base has first and second male grooves, with the first male grooves configured as ramps to slide a recyclable sleeve into position, and the second male grooves positioned to secure the sleeve in a snug fit around the clamshell container. The sleeve provides a surfaces for branding and labeling. The front cover includes first and second female grooves that align with the male grooves. A stack of containers aligns through male grooves on one container engaging female grooves on another, maintaining stability and preventing displacement. A method includes filling the container, sliding on the sleeve, and stacking containers via the grooves, ensuring secure and sustainable packaging for herbs and produce during transport and storage.

Description

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/744,670, filed January 13, 2025, titled “Clamshell Container,” the entirety of the disclosure is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure generally relates to packaging systems, and more particularly to packaging containers used for herbs and produce to reduce waste and improve recycling compatibility.

BACKGROUND

The packaging industry has faced ongoing challenges in developing sustainable solutions that meet environmental, regulatory, and practical requirements. For herb and produce packaging, traditional methods often rely on adhesive labels affixed to plastic containers. These labels frequently present issues such as poor recyclability and contamination of recycling streams.

Additionally, adhesive-backed labels contribute to packaging waste because the adhesives themselves are not recyclable and often require additional processing to remove, further complicating waste management systems. Plastic clamshell containers, while effective for maintaining freshness, are typically paired with non-recyclable labels, creating a combined waste product that does not fully align with curbside recycling standards.

Consumer and regulatory demand for sustainable packaging continues to grow, pressuring the industry to adopt solutions that minimize the environmental footprint of packaging materials. However, many existing solutions fall short, either by failing to eliminate the need for adhesives, or introducing complexities in recycling. This has created a significant need for packaging systems that offer secure labeling, enhanced stability, and full compatibility with existing recycling infrastructure while maintaining the practicality required for commercial use.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a clamshell container, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the clamshell container of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a side perspective view of the clamshell container of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a top view of the clamshell container of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a stack of clamshell containers of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a sleeve of the clamshell container of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a method of packaging herbs or produce, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to the drawings, and with particular reference to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1, a clamshell container 100 is illustrated and described herein for use in packaging herbs and produce. The clamshell container 100 includes a front cover 102 and a base 104, which are hingedly connected via a hinge 111 to form an enclosure for perishable items. The clamshell container 100 is further enclosed by a sleeve 112, configured to provide labeling and branding functionality without adhesives. Packaging systems of this type are commonly used in agricultural, grocery, food service, and retail distribution environments to maintain freshness and facilitate handling. While the present description emphasizes use in herb packaging, the structural and functional features of the clamshell container 100 are likewise applicable to packaging for produce, flowers, prepared food, or other perishable consumer goods. As described below, the clamshell container 100 and sleeve 112 cooperate to provide an adhesive-free labeling system that meets recycling requirements, ventilation standards, and commercial durability demands.

FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a clamshell container 100 configured for the packaging of herbs and produce. The clamshell container 100 includes a front cover 102, a base 104, a plurality of first female grooves 106, a plurality of second female grooves 108, a lid 110 for opening the front cover 102 connected to the base 104 by a hinge 111. The base 104 forms the lower structural support of the clamshell container 100.

The clamshell container 100 may be integrally formed from a recyclable polymer material, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The clamshell container 100 is constructed from recyclable materials such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), or biodegradable polymers like polylactic acid (PLA).

 A plurality of perforations 103 is distributed across the clamshell container 100, the front cover 102, and portions of the base 104, the plurality of perforations 103 configured to allow airflow through the clamshell container 100. Additionally, the plurality of perforations 103 promotes airflow throughout the clamshell container 100, extending the freshness of the packaged herbs and meeting fumigation compliance requirements.

The plurality of first female grooves 106 may be debossed or recessed on the front cover 102 and includes two grooves positioned symmetrically along the sidewalls of the front cover 102. Spaced apart from the first female grooves 106, the plurality of second female grooves 108 are also debossed or recessed on the front cover 102, comprising two grooves at opposite ends of the front cover 102. The second female grooves 108 are configured to be shaped as debossed or recessed ramps, as generally known in the arts. The debossing of the first female grooves 106 and the second female grooves 108 on the front cover 102 permits the labeling in emergency situations as well as applying secondary branding options.

A sleeve 112, illustrated as a 100% recyclable paperboard sleeve is secured around the clamshell container 100. The sleeve 112 includes a first side 114, a second side 116, a bottom edge 117, a top edge 118, and a sleeve surface 120 on the exterior of the sleeve 112. The sleeve 112 also has an interior surface (not shown). The sleeve 112 encircles the clamshell container 100 situated between the first female grooves 106 and the second female grooves 108. The sleeve surface 120 provides a planar exterior and interior surface for branding, product identification, and consumer information.

The clamshell container 100 further includes a plurality of first air channels 122 and a plurality of second air channels 124 to allow for ventilation pursuant to various local, commercial, and national regulations for herbs and produce. The plurality of first air channels 122 and plurality of second air channels 124 may be formed along top, bottom, and sides of the clamshell container 100 when the front cover 102 is closed and engaged with the base 104. The plurality of first air channels 122 and plurality of second air channels 124 provide a minimum ventilation threshold, such as 0.9% ventilation, of the clamshell container 100’s surface area, meeting fumigation standards for fresh cut herbs.

A supporting ridge 126 may be provided for maintaining structural integrity of the clamshell container 100 during packaging and shipping. Additionally, a hanging tag 128 may be provided at a top of the clamshell container 100.

Now referring to FIGS. 2-3. FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the clamshell container 100 of FIG. 1, illustrating the base 104. FIG. 3 is a side perspective view of the clamshell container 100 of FIG. 1, illustrating the base 104 and sleeve 112. A backside 200 of the sleeve 112 is illustrated engaged around the clamshell container 100. The backside 200 also provides additional surface to include additional labeling, nutrition information, and other product information.

The backside 200 secures the clamshell container 100 by situating between and engaging a plurality of first male grooves 202 and a plurality of second male groove 204. The first male grooves 202 and the second male grooves 204 are bossed features that are configured to be inserted in the debossed plurality of first female grooves 106 and the debossed plurality of second female grooves 108. The backside 200 forms the portion of the sleeve 112 that aligns against the rearward-facing portion of the base 104.

The sleeve 112 may slide on the clamshell container 100 by sliding over one of the pluralities of the first male grooves 202. The plurality of first male groove 202 is configured as a ramp to permit the sleeve 112 to slide on and around the clamshell container 100 until the bottom edge 117 engages the plurality of second male grooves 204, ultimately securing the sleeve 112 around the clamshell container 100.

As shown in FIG. 3, the sleeve 112 may slide on from either a top or bottom side of the clamshell container 100 by sliding over the plurality of first male grooves 108. The sleeve 112 may be squeezed at the first side 114 and the second side 116 to permit the sleeve 112 to slide over the clamshell container 100 and/or the first male grooves 202 and the second male grooves 204.

The plurality of first male grooves 202 on the base 104 includes two embossed grooves symmetrically positioned along the top and bottom of the base 104. The plurality of second male grooves 204 on the base 104 includes two embossed grooves symmetrically positioned along the sidewalls of the base 104. The embossed plurality of male grooves 202, 204, on the base 104 correspond to and align with the debossed plurality of female grooves 106, 108 on the front cover 102. The sleeve 112 is secured by the embossed plurality of first male grooves 202 and the plurality of second male grooves 204, further securing the clamshell container 100.

The plurality of first male grooves 202 and the plurality of second male grooves 204 are formed as raised channels extending longitudinally at the top, bottom, and along the sidewalls of the base 104. These grooves are dimensioned to retain the bottom edge 117 and the top edge 118 in a snug and stable configuration. The plurality of first male grooves 202, configured as embossed ramp grooves are positioned and spaced apart from the plurality of second male grooves 204 and extend parallel to the sidewalls of the base 104. The top edge 118 facilitates proper alignment and interaction of the sleeve 112 with the plurality of first male grooves 202 and the plurality of second male grooves 204 during installation.

The clamshell container 100 and sleeve 112 address several challenges associated with conventional herb packaging. The plurality of first male grooves 202 and the plurality of second male grooves 204, located on base 104 provide a secure engagement for the sleeve 112 by engaging the first side 114 and second side 116, eliminating the need for adhesives, which are non-recyclable. By securing the sleeve 112 without adhesives, the container supports sustainable curbside recycling practices, aligning with environmental goals.

FIG. 4 illustrates a top cross-section view of the front cover 102 of the clamshell container 100, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The plurality of first male grooves 202 and the plurality of second male grooves 204 and configured to be interlocking with the plurality of first female grooves 106 and the plurality of second female grooves 108 (hereinafter, also collectively referred to as “interlocking grooves 106, 108, 202, 204”). As shown in FIG. 4, the plurality of first female grooves 106 are positioned in the middle and proximate the sides of the front cover 102, and configured to receive the plurality of second male grooves 204. Additionally, the plurality of second female grooves 108 are positioned at the top and bottom of the front cover 102 and configured to receive the plurality of first male grooves 202.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating a stack of clamshell containers 500 of the clamshell container 100 of FIG. 1 stacked in an aligned configuration. The interlocking grooves 106, 108, 202, 204 formed as debossed or embossed grooves along the front cover 102 and base 104, enable secure stacking by engaging with corresponding interlocking grooves 106, 108, 202, 204 on a second clamshell container 100, thereby preventing lateral displacement and ensuring stability during transport and storage.

The interlocking grooves 106, 108, 202, 204 are located on both the front cover 102 and the base 104 of each clamshell container 100 in the stack illustrated in FIG. 5. The interlocking grooves 106, 108, 202, 204 align precisely with matching grooves or ridges on adjacent containers, maintaining uniform spacing and vertical alignment within the stack of clamshell containers 500. The interlocking grooves 106, 108, 202, 204, while primarily designed to secure the sleeve 112 around the clamshell container 100, also contribute to the structural integrity of the stack of clamshell containers 500 by supporting storage and transportation by interlocking a plurality of the clamshell container 100 together via the interlocking grooves 106, 108, 202, 204 forming the stack of clamshell containers 500.

The interlocking grooves 106, 108, 202, 204 allow the stack of clamshell containers 500 to form a stable stack, minimizing the risk of tipping or shifting during packaging, handling or transport. This is particularly advantageous for applications in herb and produce packaging, where secure stacking reduces damage and spillage to the packaged herbs and produce. The plurality of perforations 103, the plurality of first air channels 122, and the plurality of second air channels 124 of the clamshell containers 100 ensure continued airflow, which is critical for preserving the freshness of herbs and produce, even when containers are stacked.

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of the sleeve 112. The sleeve 112 includes the first side 114, the second side 116, the bottom edge 117, the top edge 118, the sleeve surface 120 and backside 200 on the exterior of the sleeve 112, which encircles the clamshell container 100. The sleeve 112 firmly seals the clamshell container 100 when provided between the first female grooves 106 and the second female grooves 108 on the front cover 102 and between the first male grooves 202 and the second male grooves 204. The sleeve 112 may be made from alternative materials such as include craft paper, coated paperboard, or recycled fibers, depending on desired durability or printability as well as recyclable materials such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), or biodegradable polymers like polylactic acid (PLA).

A method of packaging herbs and produce is disclosed, comprising the use of a clamshell container 100 designed to preserve freshness, enhance transport efficiency, and align with sustainable practices. The method begins with placing herbs or produce into the clamshell container 100, which is integrally formed from recyclable or biodegradable materials such as polyethylene terephthalate PET, polypropylene PP, high-density polyethylene HDPE, or polylactic acid PLA. The container is constructed with a base 104 and a front cover 102 connected by a hinge 111, forming a secure and durable enclosure. A plurality of perforations 103 is distributed across the base 104 and front cover 102 to promote airflow throughout the container, preserving the freshness of the contents while ensuring compliance with fumigation requirements.

Once the clamshell container 100 is filled, a sleeve 112, formed from recyclable paperboard or similar material, is slid into place over the clamshell container 100. The sleeve 112 is guided into place by ramps formed by the first male grooves 202 and stopped by the second male grooves 204 on the base 104. The ramped grooves allow the sleeve 112 to smoothly slide into position over the clamshell container 100, requiring minimal force while ensuring proper alignment. During this step, the sleeve 112 may be squeezed along its sides to facilitate an even and controlled movement over the container until its bottom edge 117 engages with the second male grooves 204. This engagement creates a snug and firm fit that prevents the sleeve 112 from slipping or dislodging during handling, storage, or transportation.

Once the sleeve 112 is secured, the clamshell container 100 is stacked with other similarly designed containers by aligning their interlocking grooves 106, 108, 202, 204. These grooves, positioned on both the base 104 and the front cover 102, interlock precisely with adjacent containers, enhancing structural stability during stacking. This feature minimizes lateral movement, reduces spillage risks, and improves space efficiency during transport and storage. The clamshell container 100 and sleeve 112 can be recycled and separated as needed, reducing landfill contributions, and promoting resource conservation.

In some embodiments, the sleeve 112 is retained on the clamshell container 100 exclusively by mechanical interaction with the plurality of first male grooves 202 and the plurality of second male grooves 204, without the use of adhesives, films, shrink wrap, elastic bands, or separate fasteners. The sleeve 112 is slid over the clamshell container 100 along ramped surfaces formed by the plurality of first male grooves 202 until the sleeve 112 reaches a retained axial position defined by engagement with the plurality of second male grooves 204. This mechanical retention permits secure sleeve placement while maintaining full recyclability of both the sleeve 112 and the clamshell container 100.

In certain embodiments, the interaction between the bottom edge 117, the top edge 118 of the sleeve 112, and the plurality of first male grooves 202 and second male grooves 204 establishes a fixed axial position of the sleeve 112 relative to the base 104 and the front cover 102. Once installed, the sleeve 112 resists unintended axial movement during handling, transport, and stacking while remaining removable by intentional manual force.

In some embodiments, the plurality of first male grooves 202 and the plurality of second male grooves 204 perform a dual structural function. The same groove structures that mechanically retain the sleeve 112 on the clamshell container 100 are also configured to interlock with corresponding plurality of first female grooves 106 and plurality of second female grooves 108 of an adjacent clamshell container 100 during stacking. This dual-use geometry reduces part count, eliminates the need for separate stacking features, and provides enhanced stability during vertical stacking.

In stacked configurations, the sleeve 112 remains secured on each clamshell container 100 during stacking due to continued engagement with the plurality of first male grooves 202 and plurality of second male grooves 204. Interlocking engagement between adjacent clamshell containers 100 does not displace the sleeve 112, thereby maintaining consistent branding, labeling alignment, and container stability throughout transport and storage.

In method embodiments, sliding the sleeve 112 onto the clamshell container 100 and stacking the clamshell container 100 with additional containers utilize the same groove geometry. This shared structural configuration simplifies manufacturing, reduces assembly steps, and ensures that sleeve retention and stack stability are achieved through cooperative mechanical features rather than adhesive bonding or auxiliary components.

During shipping, handling, and transfer operations, clamshell containers are frequently subjected to drops, impacts, and repetitive manual handling, which can contribute to product spoilage and shrink. In conventional containers, such handling events may result in unintended partial opening of the container, displacement of contents, or increased exposure of herbs or produce to ambient conditions. The clamshell container 100 of the present disclosure is configured to reduce spoilage rates associated with such handling by maintaining secure enclosure of the front cover 102 relative to the base 104, even when subjected to drops or abrupt movement.

In particular, the sleeve 112 cooperates with the plurality of first male grooves 202 and plurality of second male grooves 204 to resist unintended opening of the front cover 102 during handling. By mechanically retaining the sleeve 112 in a fixed axial position relative to the base 104 and front cover 102, the sleeve 112 provides an additional stabilizing constraint that helps prevent separation or flexing of the clamshell container 100. This preventative configuration reduces product disturbance and minimizes spoilage caused by impact-related handling events during shipping and transfer.

Reducing unintended opening of the clamshell container 100 further contributes to decreased product shrink by limiting unnecessary exposure of the herbs or produce to temperature fluctuations and ambient air. By maintaining closure integrity during handling, the clamshell container 100 reduces tempering events that can negatively impact freshness and food safety. This additional containment stability provides an added food-safety benefit by maintaining more consistent internal conditions throughout transport and storage.

The sleeve 112, formed as a paperboard band or similar recyclable material, further provides the ability to display branding, regulatory information, and product identification around a full perimeter of the clamshell container 100. The sleeve surface 120 extends around the clamshell container 100 to provide substantially 360-degree branding visibility without the use of adhesive labels, while remaining removable for recycling. This configuration allows enhanced merchandising and product differentiation while maintaining sustainability objectives.

In some embodiments, the plurality of perforations 103, plurality of first air channels 122, and plurality of second air channels 124 may be arranged in different vent patterns depending on product requirements, shipping duration, or regulatory standards. Ventilation patterns may be modified in size, distribution, or density while remaining within the scope of the present disclosure, allowing the clamshell container 100 to balance airflow, moisture retention, and product protection. These ventilation features continue to function effectively even when the sleeve 112 is installed and when multiple clamshell containers 100 are stacked together.

In stacked configurations, such as the stack of clamshell containers 500 illustrated in FIG. 5, the interlocking grooves 106, 108, 202, 204 cooperate to maintain consistent alignment and closure of each clamshell container 100 within the stack. By limiting relative movement between adjacent clamshell containers 100, the interlocking engagement reduces impact forces transmitted to the front cover 102 and base 104 during handling, palletizing, and transport. This structural stability further reduces the likelihood of inadvertent opening or deformation that could otherwise contribute to product spoilage.

The retention of the sleeve 112 during stacking provides an additional protective function. Because the sleeve 112 remains mechanically secured by the plurality of first male grooves 202 and plurality of second male grooves 204 while containers are stacked, the sleeve 112 resists displacement caused by compressive forces, vibration, or drops encountered during shipping. This configuration maintains enclosure integrity across the stack of clamshell containers 500 and reduces spoilage events associated with handling-related disturbances.

By maintaining closure integrity during handling and stacking, the clamshell container 100 reduces shrink attributable to unnecessary container opening. Limiting container opening during transfer operations minimizes exposure of the herbs or produce to ambient air, temperature fluctuations, and handling environments. This reduction in unintended exposure decreases tempering events and supports improved food safety by maintaining more consistent internal conditions from packaging through retail display.

The sleeve 112, formed as a paperboard band or similar recyclable structure, provides a continuous sleeve surface 120 extending around the clamshell container 100. This configuration enables branding, regulatory information, and consumer-facing content to be displayed around substantially the entire perimeter of the clamshell container 100, providing enhanced visibility from multiple viewing angles. The 360-degree branding capability is achieved without adhesives, allowing the sleeve 112 to be removed independently of the clamshell container 100 for recycling or replacement.

The ability to pre-print information on the sleeve surface 120 allows branding and product identification to remain aligned and intact throughout transport, stacking, and retail handling. Because the sleeve 112 is mechanically retained rather than adhesively bonded, branding remains consistent even when clamshell containers 100 are stacked, handled, or repositioned during distribution.

Accordingly, the clamshell container 100 and sleeve 112 provide multiple functional advantages across the packaging lifecycle, including reduced spoilage, reduced shrink, improved handling stability, enhanced food safety, and increased branding capability. These advantages arise from the cooperative mechanical interaction of the interlocking grooves 106, 108, 202, 204 and the sleeve 112, rather than from separate components or added materials.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The present invention has broad industrial applicability, particularly in industries requiring sustainable and efficient packaging solutions for perishable goods such as fresh produce and herbs. The clamshell container 100 and sleeve 112, as described and illustrated in FIGS. 1-6, offer a recyclable and environmentally compatible packaging system that aligns with curbside recycling programs. The clamshell container 100 addresses modern sustainability challenges by reducing waste, improving recyclability, and eliminating the need for non-recyclable adhesives typically associated with conventional labeling for herbs and produce.

The methods disclosed herein, including adhesive-free labeling and efficient packaging techniques, enhance the practical and environmental value of the packaging system. The interlocking grooves 106, 108, 202, 204 on the clamshell container 100 and sleeve 112 facilitate secure stacking of containers, ensuring stability during transport and storage while optimizing space efficiency. This stacking feature reduces the risk of spillage and product damage, which is particularly advantageous in commercial distribution settings. Additionally, the use of recyclable materials, such as PET, PP, HDPE, or PLA, for the clamshell container 100 and paperboard or similar materials for the sleeve 112, aligns with environmental goals and regulatory compliance.

Referring now to FIG. 7, a flowchart illustrates a method 700 of packaging herbs or produce using the clamshell container 100 and sleeve 112 described with respect to FIGS. 1-6. The method 700 includes a plurality of sequential steps configured to facilitate adhesive-free labeling, secure sleeve retention, and stable stacking of the clamshell container 100. The method provides the added benefit of consumer convenience, allowing customers to easily rip the sleeve 112 off for access or recycling.

The method 700 of adhesive-free labeling in herb packaging eliminates the need for non-recyclable adhesives and supporting environmentally sustainable practices. The method 700 involves sliding the sleeve 112 over the clamshell container 100 by engaging the embossed first male grooves 202 and second male grooves 204 on the base 104 with the debossed first female grooves 106 and second female grooves 108 on the front cover 102. The ramps in the grooves allow the sleeve 112 to slide seamlessly into position, ensuring alignment and ease of installation. Once positioned, the snug fit provided by the interlocking grooves 106, 108, 202, 204 secures the sleeve 112 in place without the need for adhesives, enabling easy replacement or rebranding while maintaining a clean appearance.

Following installation of the sleeve 112 around the clamshell container 100, the clamshell container 100 is stacked with additional containers by aligning the interlocking grooves 106, 108, 202, 204 on the base 104 and front cover 102. This stacking arrangement enhances packaging stability, allowing the containers to remain firmly aligned during transport and storage while minimizing space requirements. The interlocking grooves 106, 108, 202, 204 prevent lateral displacement and ensure the stack remains secure. Additionally, the sleeve 112 fits snugly and contributes to the clamshell container 100’s structural integrity, maintaining stability throughout the stacking process, as well as freshness of the herbs and produce during transport and in storage.

In a first step 702, the method includes providing the clamshell container 100, the clamshell container 100 comprising the base 104, the front cover 102 connected by the hinge 111, the plurality of first female grooves 106 and second female grooves 108 on the front cover 102, and the plurality of first male grooves 202 and second male grooves 204 on the base 104. The clamshell container 100 may further include the plurality of perforations 103, air channels 122, 124, and optional supporting ridge 126.

In a next step 704, the method includes placing herbs or produce into the clamshell container 100 and closing the front cover 102 to form an enclosure around the herbs or produce.

In step 706, the method includes aligning the sleeve 112 with the first male grooves 202, the first male grooves 202 configured as ramped grooves to initially receive the sleeve 112. In some embodiments, the sleeve 112 may be squeezed at the first side 114 and the second side 116 to facilitate positioning and alignment during installation.

In step 708, the method includes sliding the sleeve 112 over the clamshell container 100, wherein the first male grooves 202 guide the sleeve 112 toward the second male grooves 204. The sleeve 112 progresses along the clamshell container 100 until the bottom edge 117 and the top edge 118 approach the plurality of second male grooves 204.

In step 710, the method includes retaining the sleeve 112 between the first male grooves 202 and the second male grooves 204, thereby securing the sleeve 112 in a fixed position without adhesive. Engagement between the sleeve 112 and the interlocking grooves 106, 108, 202, 204 prevents undesired movement or displacement during handling, storage, or display.

In step 712, the method includes stacking the clamshell container 100 with a second clamshell container 100 by aligning the first male grooves 202 and the second male grooves 204 of the base 104 of the first clamshell container 100 with the first female grooves 106 and second female grooves 108 of the second clamshell container 100. This interlocking engagement maintains vertical alignment, increases stack stability, and reduces lateral shifting during transport.

In step 714, the flowchart 700 ends with transporting or storing the stacked clamshell containers 500, wherein the sleeves 112 remain secured during stacking due to the interlocking grooves 106, 108, 202, 204 and the snug retention of the sleeve 112 on each clamshell container 100.

The ability to pre-print branding, product information, and regulatory details directly onto the sleeve surface 120 further eliminates the need for adhesive labels, simplifying recycling processes and reducing production costs. The snug fit of the sleeve 112, enabled by the interaction of ramps and interlocking grooves 106, 108, 202, 204, ensures that the sleeve 112 remains firmly in place during handling and transit. Furthermore, the sleeve 112 can be easily removed by consumers for recycling, adding a layer of user convenience to the packaging design.

From the foregoing, the technology provides a sustainable, functional, and consumer-friendly packaging solution with significant applicability in agricultural, retail, and consumer markets. By combining innovative design features with environmental considerations, this invention supports the growing demand for eco-friendly and efficient packaging systems.

Claims

1. A clamshell container for herbs and produce, comprising:

a base and a front cover connected by a hinge, the base providing structural support and the front cover forming an enclosure;

a plurality of first female grooves and a plurality of second female grooves debossed on the front cover;

a plurality of first male grooves and a plurality of second male grooves embossed on the base, configured to align with the female grooves on the front cover and retain the sleeve in position; and

a sleeve made from recyclable material, including a first side, a second side, a bottom edge, and a top edge, the first male grooves configured as ramps to allow the sleeve to slide over the base and be secured by the second male grooves, the sleeve configured to fit securely around the clamshell container engaging one of the plurality of first male grooves and the plurality of second male grooves.

2. The clamshell container assembly of claim 1, wherein the sleeve comprises recyclable paperboard and is retained in a fixed axial position relative to the base and the front cover solely by mechanical engagement with the plurality of first male grooves and the plurality of second male grooves, without adhesive, film, shrink wrap, elastic bands, or fasteners.

3. The clamshell container assembly of claim 2, wherein the sleeve comprises fibers selected from the group consisting of: kraft paper, coated paperboard, recycled paperboard, polylactic acid, polypropylene, and high-density polyethylene, the sleeve being dimensioned to slide over the plurality of first male grooves configured as ramps and to be stopped by the plurality of second male grooves to establish a mechanically retained sleeve position.

4. The clamshell container assembly of claim 1, wherein the first female grooves are positioned proximate opposite sidewalls of the front cover.

5. The clamshell container assembly of claim 1, wherein the second female grooves are positioned proximate a top end and a bottom end of the front cover.

6. The clamshell container assembly of claim 1, wherein the first male grooves comprise ramped embossments extending longitudinally along the base.

7. The clamshell container assembly of claim 1, wherein the second male grooves comprise embossed retention channels configured to receive the bottom edge of the sleeve.

8. The clamshell container assembly of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of perforations formed across the base and the front cover to promote airflow through the clamshell container.

9. The clamshell container assembly of claim 1, wherein the sleeve is configured to be squeezed along the first side and the second side during installation to facilitate sliding the sleeve over the clamshell container.

10. The clamshell container assembly of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of air channels formed along the base to maintain ventilation during storage and transport.

11. The clamshell container assembly of claim 1, further comprising a supporting ridge disposed along the base to improve structural rigidity.

12. The clamshell container assembly of claim 1, further comprising a hanging tag formed at an end of the front cover.

13. A stack of clamshell containers for herbs:

a plurality of clamshell containers, each including a base and a front cover connected by a hinge;

a plurality of first male grooves and a plurality of second male grooves formed on the base of each container;

a plurality of first female grooves and a plurality of second female grooves formed on the front cover of each container, the female grooves configured to receive the corresponding male grooves of an adjacent container;

a sleeve on each container, the sleeve including a first side, a second side, a bottom edge, and a top edge, the plurality of first male grooves are configured as ramps to allow the sleeve to slide around the clamshell container and be secured by the second male grooves, the sleeve is configured to fit securely around the clamshell container between one of the plurality of first male grooves and the plurality of second male grooves;

a plurality of perforations distributed across each base and front cover to maintain airflow within the stack;

wherein the male and female grooves interlock and maintain alignment of the stack and prevent lateral displacement during transport and storage.

14. The stacked system of claim 13, wherein the interlocked male grooves and female grooves maintain vertical alignment of the plurality of clamshell container assemblies.

15. The stacked system of claim 13, wherein the plurality of clamshell container assemblies resist lateral displacement during transport due to interlocking engagement between the male grooves and the female grooves.

16. The stacked system of claim 13, wherein the sleeves remain secured around the clamshell container assemblies during stacking by the same plurality of first male grooves and plurality of second male grooves that interlock with the plurality of first female grooves and plurality of second female grooves of an adjacent clamshell container, without adhesives.

17. A method for packaging herbs and produce, comprising:

providing a clamshell container including a base, a front cover connected by a hinge, a plurality of perforations distributed across the base and the front cover, a plurality of first female grooves and second female grooves formed on the front cover, and a plurality of first male grooves and second male grooves formed on the base;

placing herbs or produce into the clamshell container and closing the front cover to form an enclosure;

sliding a sleeve over the clamshell container, the sleeve configured to engage the first male grooves and second female grooves on the front cover and be retained by the first male grooves and second male grooves on the base, wherein the plurality of first male grooves are formed as ramps to facilitate sliding the sleeve into position; and

stacking the clamshell container with a second clamshell container by engaging the first male grooves and second male grooves on the base of one container with the plurality of first female grooves and plurality of second female grooves on the front cover of the second clamshell container, wherein the sleeves on each clamshell container are secured in place to prevent misalignment or displacement during stacking and transport.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising squeezing the sleeve along the first side and the second side during sliding of the sleeve over the clamshell container.

19. The method of claim 17, further comprising aligning the first male grooves with the first female grooves prior to sliding the sleeve into a secured position.

20. The method of claim 17, wherein stacking comprises interlocking the male grooves of the first clamshell container with the female grooves of the second clamshell container using the same groove structures that retain the sleeve on each clamshell container, thereby producing a stable stack resistant to tipping.