US 2012/024.1336A1 Finley Et Al

US 2012O241336A1 (19) United States (12) Patent Application Publication (10) Pub. No.: US 2012/024.1336A1 Finley et al. (43) Pub. Date: Sep. 27, 2012

(54) ON-DEMAND MARINATION PACKAGE Publication Classification (51) Int. Cl. (75) Inventors: David M. Finley, Simpsonville, SC B65D 25/08 (2006.01) (US); Andrew B. Carrouth, JR. B65B 5/00 (2006.01) Woodruff, SC (US); Terry O. (52) U.S. Cl...... 206/219; 53/474 Millwood, Spartanburg, SC (US); (57) ABSTRACT Hubert J. Cook, Si ille, SC EMEC F. ENE s SC Theage comprisingpresently disclosed a lower subjectfilm that matter contains is directed at least to first a pack and (US);JS); Brian PP. RKivers, second9. compartmentspr1S1ng separated by a partition. The first com Simpsonville, SC (US) partment can Substantially contain a food product and the second compartment can Substantially contain a pouch. Spe cifically,ificallv, theth p pouch h comprises attleast least one rupturableturabl sealland an (73) Assignee: SRyovac, INC., Duncan, SC houses one or more food additives. An upper film is sealed to (US) the lower film about the perimeter of the package via outer 21) Appl. No.: 13A052,217 perimeter1nner perimeter t In seal i. unal cooperates the PigSE,at w1un une pouch ruplurable S. E. (21) Appl. No 9 seals and functions to isolate the first and second compart ments until it is desired to intermix the food additive and the (22) Filed: Mar. 21, 2011 food product.

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ON-DEMAND MARINATION PACKAGE eter of the package to the lower film and to at least a portion of the partition of the lower film in the area overlapping the at BACKGROUND least one rupturable seal to separate the first and second compartments, thereby forming a hermetically sealed pack 0001. Of the several sensory characteristics of meat, ten derness is perhaps the trait most highly desired by consumers. age having an outer perimeter seal and an inner perimeter Consequently, meat tenderness is a factor of major economic seal. In some embodiments, the pouch is in fluid communi importance to the livestock and meat industries. Accordingly, cation with the first compartment upon rupture of the at least consumer acceptance of meat, e.g., beef, pork, and poultry, one rupturable seal to allow the food additive to mix with the depends to a large measure on the tenderness of the meat after food product. In some embodiments, the at least one ruptur cooking. When the meat is tough and fibrous, consumer able seal has a lower rupture pressure compared to the outer acceptance is quite low. Meat prepared for home consump perimeter seal and the inner perimeter seal. In some embodi tion and sold in local groceries and butcheries is normally of ments, the food item can be marinated directly in the package. the more tender grades. For example, in the case of beef, lot 0005. In some embodiments, the presently disclosed sub feeding can be required to develop the desired amount of ject matter is directed to a package comprising a food product tenderness in the muscle tissue, including increases in fat and a pouch comprising a food additive, wherein the pouch content. However, such efforts can considerably increase the comprises at least one rupturable seal configured to rupture cost of the meat. For this reason, significant effort has been when exposed to a predetermined pressure. In some embodi expended in the art to provide methods for tenderizing less ments, the package comprises a lower film comprising at least tendergrades of meat. first and second compartments separated by a partition, Such 0002 Commonly, food additives (such as, for example, that the first compartment is adapted to Substantially contain marinades) can be used to improve the qualities of meats by the food product and the second compartment is adapted to providing enhanced visual appearance and tenderness from Substantially contain the pouch, and wherein the at least one spices and flavorings. For example, some techniques utilize rupturable seal is positioned at least partially overlapping the injection of flavorings into the muscle to impart flavor and partition. The package further comprises an upper film juiciness prior to packaging the meat. Other techniques peripherally sealed about the perimeter of the package to the include a means of tumbling a meat product in a marinade lower film and at least partially to the partition of the lower prior to packaging. In the case of the injected or tumbled film in the area overlapping the at least one rupturable seal to marinade techniques, the use of a tenderizer is often omitted separate the first and second compartments, thereby forming because the proteolytic enzyme associated with tenderizing a hermetically sealed package having an outer perimeter seal agents can overly soften the meat, resulting in an unsatisfac and an inner perimeter seal. In some embodiments, the pouch tory texture. The over-tenderizing results from prolonged is in fluid communication with the first compartment upon contact time between the meat and the tenderizing agent as a rupturable of the at least one rupturable seal to allow the food consequence of the poor ability to control the exposure time additive to mix with the food product. In some embodiments, during distribution. Additionally, even without considering the at least one rupturable seal has a lower rupture pressure the role of a proteolytic enzyme, the quality of a pre-mari compared to the outer perimeter seal and the inner perimeter nated package is necessarily inconsistent as the meat gener seal. In some embodiments, the food item can be marinated ally is exposed for too long to the flavorants. directly in the package. 0003. Alternatively, restaurants or consumers can pur 0006. In some embodiments, the presently disclosed sub chase a vacuum packaged meat package, cut open the pack ject matter is directed to a method of controlling a level of age, and transfer the meat to a second bag where a marinade food additive imparted to a food product. Particularly, the is added, or to a tray or vat that is loaded with a marinade. With method comprises forming a Support member of a package the tray, vat, or second bag method, a consumer removes the that includes a first compartment configured to Substantially meat from its shipment package and necessarily exposes the contain a food product and a second compartment configured meat to outside conditions that can introduce contamination to Substantially contain a pouch, wherein the first and second during marinating. In addition, the method can introduce the compartments are separated by a partition. The method fur undesirable step of cleaning the tray or vat to prevent cross ther comprises forming the pouch configured to contain the contamination. food additive and loading food additive into the pouch. The method also comprises sealing food additive in the pouch SUMMARY with at least one rupturable seal configured to rupture and allow the food additive to escape the pouch. The method 0004. In some embodiments, the presently disclosed sub further comprises loading the food product into the first com ject matter is directed to a package for marinating a food partment of the Support member and loading the pouch into product. In some embodiments, the package comprises a the second compartment of the Support member Such that the lower film comprising at least first and second compartments at least one rupturable seal is positioned at least partially separated by a partition, such that the first compartment is overlapping the partition, and Such that the pouch is in fluid adapted to Substantially contain a food product and the sec communication with the first compartment upon rupturing of ond compartment is adapted to Substantially contain a pouch. the rupturable seal to allow the food additive to mix with the The package further comprises a pouch substantially con food product. The method further comprises sealing the Sup tained within the second compartment and configured to con port member with a film about the perimeter of the package tain a food additive. The pouch comprises at least one ruptur with an outer perimeter seal and at least partially to said able seal configured to rupture when exposed to a partition in the area overlapping the at least one rupturable predetermined pressure. The rupturable seal is positioned at seal with an inner perimeter seal to separate the first and least partially overlapping the partition. The package also second compartments, such that the first package is config comprises an upper film peripherally sealed about the perim ured to withstand the predetermined pressure and prevent US 2012/024.1336 A1 Sep. 27, 2012 leaking of the food additive and food product from the first 10 about the perimeter of the package via outer perimeter seal package during the mixing of the food additive and the food 45. In addition, as set forth in more detail herein below, product. package 5 comprises at least one inner perimeter seal 50 that cooperates with at least one of rupturable seals 35, 36 and BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS functions to isolate first and second compartments 15, 20 until 0007 FIG.1a is a perspective view of a package according it is desired to intermix additive 31 and food product 25. to Some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject mat 0025. In use, applying pressure to at least second compart ter. ment 20 of package 5 can break at least one of the rupturable 0008 FIG. 1b is a sectional view taken along lines 1b-1b seals of pouch 30 to effectively distribute additive 31 to food of FIG. 1a. product 25. As a result, the presently disclosed subject matter 0009 FIG.2a is a perspective view of one embodiment of achieves, among other things, controlled application of a food a package lower film in accordance with some embodiments additive to a food product within package 5, while also main of the presently disclosed subject matter. taining the separation offirst and second compartments 15, 20 0010 FIG.2b is a sectional view taken along lines 2b-2b prior to mixing. After Sufficient intermixing time, the mari of FIG. 2a. nated food product can be removed from package 5 and 0011 FIG. 3a is a top plan view of one embodiment of a heated and/or cooked in an oven or microwave. pouch that can be used in accordance with the presently 0026. Although discussion of the presently disclosed disclosed Subject matter. package herein is limited to food applications, it should be 0012 FIG.3b is a sectional view taken along lines 3b-3b in understood that the disclosed subject matter is not limited and FIG.3a. can be used with a wide variety of applications, including (but 0013 FIG. 4 is a top plan view of one embodiment of an not limited to) medical applications. upper film that can be used in accordance with some embodi ments of the presently disclosed Subject matter. II. Definitions 0014 FIG. 5a is a top plan view of one embodiment of a (0027. While the following terms are believed to be well package that can be used in accordance with the presently understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, the following disclosed Subject matter. definitions are set forth to facilitate explanation of the pres 0015 FIG.5b is a fragmentary sectional view of the pack ently disclosed Subject matter. age of FIG.5a. 0028. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scien 0016 FIG.5c is a perspective view of one embodiment of tific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly a folded pouch that can be used in accordance with some understood to one of ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter. presently disclosed subject matter belongs. Although any 0017 FIG. 5d is a top plan view of one embodiment of a methods, devices, and materials similar or equivalent to those package that can be used in accordance with the presently described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the disclosed Subject matter. presently disclosed Subject matter, representative methods, 0018 FIG.5e is a fragmentary sectional view of the pack devices, and materials are now described. age of FIG. 5d. 0029. Following long-standing patent law convention, the 0019 FIGS. 6a and 6b are top plan views of packages that terms “a”, “an', and “the refer to “one or more' when used can be used in accordance with some embodiments of the in the Subject specification, including the claims. Thus, for presently disclosed subject matter. example, reference to 'a package” (e.g., “a marinade pack 0020 FIG. 7a is a top sectional view of a package that can age') includes a plurality of Such packages, and so forth. be used in accordance with some embodiments of the pres 0030 Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing ently disclosed Subject matter. quantities of components, reaction conditions, and so forth 0021 FIG.7b is a top plan view of one embodiment of a used in the specification and claims are to be understood as pouch that can be used in accordance with some embodi being modified in all instances by the term “about'. Accord ments of the presently disclosed Subject matter. ingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical param 0022 FIG. 7c is a top sectional view of a package that can eters set forth in the instant specification and attached claims be used in accordance with some embodiments of the pres are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired ently disclosed Subject matter. properties sought to be obtained by the presently disclosed 0023 FIG. 8 is a top sectional view of a package that can Subject matter. be used in accordance with some embodiments of the pres 0031. As used herein, the term “about', when referring to ently disclosed Subject matter. a value or to an amount of mass, weight, time, Volume, con centration, percentage, and the like can encompass variations DETAILED DESCRIPTION of, in some embodiments +20%, in some embodiments I. General Considerations +10%, in some embodiments +5%, in some embodiments +1%, in some embodiments +0.5%, and in some embodi 0024 FIGS. 1a and 1b illustrate one embodiment of pack ments iO.1%, from the specified amount, as Such variations age 5 in accordance with the presently disclosed subject mat are appropriate in the disclosed package and methods. ter. Particularly, package 5 comprises lower film 10 that con 0032. As used herein, the phrase “abuse layer refers to an tains at least first and second compartments 15 and 20 outer film layer and/or an inner film layer, so long as the film separated by partition 17. First compartment 15 can substan layer serves to resist abrasion, puncture, and other potential tially contain food product 25 and second compartment 20 causes of reduction of package integrity, as well as potential can substantially contain pouch 30. Specifically, pouch 30 causes of reduction of package appearance quality. Abuse comprises first and second rupturable seals 35, 36 and houses layers can comprise any polymer, so long as the polymer one or more additives 31. Upper film 40 is sealed to lower film contributes to achieving an integrity goal and/or an appear US 2012/024.1336 A1 Sep. 27, 2012

ance goal. In some embodiments, an abuse layer can comprise minerals, color additives, herbal additives (e.g., echinacea or polymers having a modulus of at least 107 Pascals, at room St. John's Wort), antimicrobials, preservatives, and the like temperature. In some embodiments, an abuse layer can com can be considered food additives. prise, but is not limited to, polyamide and/or ethylene/propy 0038. As used herein, the term “food product” refers to lene copolymer; in some embodiments, nylon 6, nylon 6/6. any nourishing Substance that is eaten or otherwise taken into and/or amorphous nylon. the body to Sustain life, provide energy, promote growth, 0033. As used herein, the term “barrier, and the phrase and/or the like. For example, in some embodiments, food “barrier layer', as applied to films and/or layers, can be used products can include, but are not limited to, meats, Veg with reference to the ability of a film or layer to serve as a etables, fruits, starches, and combinations thereof. In some barrier to one or more gases. In the packaging art, oxygen embodiments, food products can include individual food (i.e., gaseous O.) barrier layers have included, for example, ethylene/vinyl alcohol copolymer (polymerized ethylene components or mixtures thereof. 0039. As used herein, the term “heat seal' refers to any vinyl alcohol), polyvinyl chloride, polyvinylidene chloride seal of a first region of a film Surface to a second region of a (PVDC), polyalkylene carbonate, polyamide, polyethylene film Surface, wherein the seal is formed by heating the regions naphthalate, polyester, polyacrylonitrile, and the like, as to at least their respective seal initiation temperatures. Heat known to those of ordinary skill in the art. In some embodi sealing is the process of joining two or more thermoplastic ments, the barrier layer can comprise ethylene/vinyl alcohol films or sheets by heating areas in contact with each other to copolymer, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinylidene chloride, and/ the temperature at which fusion occurs, usually aided by or polyamide. pressure. In some embodiments, heat-sealing can be inclusive 0034. The term “comprising as used herein is used syn of thermal sealing, melt-bead sealing, impulse sealing, onymously with the term “including and is intended as an dielectric Sealing, and/or ultrasonic Sealing. The heating can open, non-limiting term. be performed by any one or more of a wide variety of means, 0035. As used herein, the term “easy open sealant” refers such as (but not limited to) a heated bar, hot wire, hot air, to any suitable polymer or polymer blend that comprises at infrared radiation, ultrasonic sealing, and the like. least a majority of the film layer in which the easy-open sealant is disposed. In some embodiments, the easy-open 0040. The term “hermetically sealed as used herein refers sealant exhibits a seal strength (in accordance with ASTM to a package that is Substantially sealed against, e.g., the F88-05) that is less than the seal strength of the regular sealant escape or entry of air and/or liquid in accordance with stan as defined herein. Typical seal strengths can range in some dard usage. embodiments from about 1 pound/inch to 20 pounds/inch; in 0041. As used herein, the term “lamination, the term some embodiments, from about 1 pound/inch to 10 pounds/ “laminate', and the phrase “laminated film, can refer to the inch; and in some embodiments, from about 1 pound/inch to process and resulting product made by bonding together two 3 pounds/inch. However, the easy open sealant can have any or more layers of film and/or other materials. Lamination can seal strength so long as it is stronger than the tensil strength of be accomplished by joining film layers with adhesives, join the film near the seal area (i.e., the film will fail before the ing with heat and pressure, spread coating, and/or extrusion regular seal will). Examples of easy-open sealants that can be coating. In some embodiments, the term “laminate' can be used in accordance with the presently disclosed subject mat inclusive of coextruded multilayer films comprising one or ter include (without limitation) the following: (1) DuPont more tie layers. APPEELTM resins; (2) polyethylene, such as low density 0042. As used herein, the term “layer” refers to the thick polyethylene (LDPE) and/or EVA copolymers blended with ness of material formed over a Surface and extending gener polypropylene or other non-compatible resin; (3) polyolefin ally parallel to the surface, with one side toward the surface blended with polybutene-1; (4) polyolefin blended with and another side away from the Surface. polypropylene or other non-compatible resin; (5) VersifyTM 0043. As used herein, the term “marinade' refers to an 5050 or SealutionTM; (6) SPS-70 or SPS-33C-3; (7) Surlyn R. edible Substance that can impart one or more flavors and/or or Surlyn R. blend blended with incompatible resin, such as textures to a food item. In some embodiments, the marinade polypropylene or polybutylene. Suitable easy-open sealants can comprise acidic ingredients, such as vinegar, lemon juice, for use in embodiments of the presently disclosed subject and/or wine. In some embodiments, the marinade can com matter are disclosed in U.S. Patent/Publication Nos. 4,875, prise savory ingredients, such as soy sauce, brine, or other 587; 5,023,1215,024,044; 6,395,321; 6,476,137; 7,055,683 prepared sauces. In some embodiments, the marinade can and 2003/0152669, each of which is incorporated herein by comprise oils, herbs, and spices to further flavor a food item. reference in its entirety. In some embodiments, the marinade can comprise one or 0036. As used herein, the term “film can be used in a more proteolytic enzymes to flavor the food and/or to tender generic sense to include plastic web, regardless of whether it ize a food item. is film or sheet. 0044 As used herein, the term “meat' comprises both 0037. As used herein, the term “food additive' refers to cooked and uncooked meat and includes, but is not limited to, any liquid or solid material that results or can reasonably be beef birds such as poultry (including chicken, duck, goose, expected to result, directly or indirectly, in its becoming a turkey, and the like), buffalo, camel, crustacean (including component or otherwise affecting the characteristics of any shellfish, clams, Scallops, mussels, oysters, lobster, crayfish, food product. In some embodiments, the food additive can, crab, shrimp, prawns, and the like), dog, fish (including for example, be an agent having a distinct taste and/or flavor, salmon, trout, eel, cod, herring, plaice, whiting, halibut, tur Such as a salt or any other taste or flavor potentiator or modi bot, ling, squid, tuna, Sardines, Swordfish, dogfish, shark, and fier. Examples of food additives include, but are not limited the like), game (including deer, eland, antelope, and the like), to, marinades and proteolytic enzymes. In addition, compo game birds (such as pigeon, quail, doves, and the like), goat, nents that by themselves are not additives, such as vitamins, hare, horse, kangaroo, lamb, marine mammals (including US 2012/024.1336 A1 Sep. 27, 2012 whales and the like), amphibians (including frogs and the papain, pepsin, plasmin, prolidase, pronase E, prostate spe like), monkey, pig, rabbit, reptiles (including turtles, Snakes, cific antigen, protease (alkalophilic form), Streptomyces gri alligators, and the like), and/or sheep. Seus, protease from Aspergillus, protease from Aspergillus 0045 “Medical product” and the like herein refers to any Saitoi, protease from Aspergillus sojae, protease (B. licheni product that is used in health care, whether for medical, formis) (Alkaline), protease (B. licheniformis) (Alcalase), dental, or veterinary applications, such as those used during protease from Bacillus polymyxa, protease from Bacillus sp. medical intervention. Such products can include (but are not protease from Bacillus sp (Esperase), protease from Rhizopus limited to) needles, Syringes, Sutures, wound dressings Such sp., protease S, proteasomes, proteinase from Aspergillus as bandages, general wound dressings, non-adherent dress Oryzae, proteinase 3, proteinase A, proteinase K, protein C, ings, burn dressings, Surgical tools such as Scalpels, gloves, pyroglutamate amiopeptidase, renin, rennin, Streptokinase, drapes, and other disposal items, solutions, ointments, anti biotics, antiviral agents, blood components such as plasma, Subtilisin, thermolysin, thrombin, tissue plasminogen activa drugs, biological agents, intravenous solutions, saline solu tor, trypsin, tryptase, urokinase, and combinations thereof. tions, Surgical implants, Surgical Sutures, stents, catheters, 0051. As used herein, the term “regular sealant” refers to vascular grafts, artificial organs, cannulas, wound care any suitable polymer or polymer blend that comprises at least devices, dialysis shunts, wound drain tubes, skin Sutures, a majority of the film layer in which the regular sealant is vascular grafts, implantable meshes, intraocular devices, disposed. The regular sealant exhibits a seal strength (as heart valves, biological graft materials, tape closures and measured by ASTM F 904-98) that is greater than the seal dressings, head coverings, shoe coverings, sterilization strength of the easy-open sealant of the same film. In some wraps, and the like. embodiments, the outer film layer in which the regular sealant 0046. As used herein, the term “package” refers to pack is disposed exhibits a seal strength of at least 3.5 pounds per aging materials configured around a product being packaged, inch, Such as at least 4.0, 4.5, 5.0, and at least 6 pounds per and can include (but are not limited to) bags, pouches, trays, inch, or 3.5, 4.0, 4.5, 5.0, or 6 pounds per inch. In another and the like. embodiment, the film layer in which the regular sealant is 0047. As used herein, the term “partition” refers to a struc disposed exhibits a seal strength of from 3.0 to 6.0 pounds per ture that spatially separates or divides a whole into sections or inch, such as 3.5 to 5.5, and 4.0 to 5.0 pounds per inch. The parts. For example, in Some embodiments, a partition can seal strength of the regular sealant can in Some embodiments separate a Support member into two compartments. be greater than the seal strength of the easy-open sealant by a 0048. As used herein, the term “polymer” refers to the difference of at least about 75 pounds per inch, e.g. at least product of a polymerization reaction, and can be inclusive of about 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 5, 10, 15, 20, or 25 pounds per inch, homopolymers, copolymers, terpolymers, etc. In some e.g. from 0.5 to 20 pounds, such as from 1 to 15, or 5 to 10 embodiments, the layers of a film can consist essentially of a pounds per inch. Examples of regular sealants include with single polymer, or can have still additional polymers together out limitation the following: (1) Ziegler-Natta catalyzed lin therewith, i.e., blended therewith. ear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) such as DOWLEXTM 0049. The term “pouch as used herein refers to a hollow 2045.03, DOWLEXTM 2045.04, and DOWLEXTM 2247G: receptacle defining a Volume. In some embodiments, the (2) metallocene-catalyzed LLDPE (m-LLDPE), such as pouch can be deemed “closed in the sense that the pouch Exxon EXCEEDTM 4518PA and Exxon EXCEEDTM contents are substantially retained within the pouch and the 3518CB; (3) polyolefin “plastomer grade polyethylenes pouch volume is substantially sealed about its perimeter. The (VLDPE) with high comonomer incorporation, comonomers term pouch also includes bags, Satchels, and the like. selected from octene or hexene and/or butene, such as Dow 0050. As used herein, the term “proteolytic enzyme’ AFFINITYTM PL 1888G, Dow AFFINITYTM PL 1850G, refers to an enzyme that can be added to a marinade fluid to Dow AFFINITYTM PL 1850, ExxonMobil EXACTTM 4151, sever peptide bonds in proteins, and therefore tenderize a and ExxonMobil EXACTTM3024; (4) polyolefin"elastomer” meat. Proteolytic enzymes suitable for use with the presently grade polyethylenes such as Dow AFFINITYTMEG 8100 and disclosed Subject matter can include, but are not limited to, DuPont-Dow ENGAGETM resins; (5) propylene-ethylene bromelain from pineapple and papain from papaya, achro copolymer, including "plastomer grades; (6) other mopeptidase, aminopeptidase, ancrod, angiotensin convert "enhanced copolymer grades, such as Dow ELITETM ing enzyme, bromelain, calpain, calpain I, calpain II, carbox 5400G; (7) LDPE, such as Huntsman PE 1042cs15TM and ypeptidase A, carboxypeptidase B, carboxypeptidase G. ExxonMobil ESCORENETMLD-200.48 0.915/7.5; (8) iono carboxypeptidase P. carboxypeptidase W. carboxypeptidase mer resin, such as SURLYNTM 1650 from DuPont; (9) ethyl Y, caspase, caspase 1, caspase 2, caspase 3, caspase 4, caspase ene/vinyl acetate copolymers (EVA); (10) ethylene/methyl 5, caspase 6, caspase 7, caspase 8, caspase 9, caspase 10, (meth)acrylate (EMA) copolymers; and (11) ethylene/butyl caspase 11, caspase 12, caspase 13, cathepsin B, cathepsin C, acrylate (EBA) copolymers. cathepsin D. cathepsin G, cathepsin H. cathepsin L, chymo 0052. As used herein, the term “rupturable' with regard to papain, chymase, chymotrypsin a-, clostripain, collagenase, a seal can indicate the susceptibility of being broken without complement Clr, complement Cls, complement Factor D, implying weakness. Thus, in referring to a rupturable seal complement Factor I, cucumisin, dipeptidyl peptidase IV. between the films of a package, it can be meant that when So elastase (leukocyte), elastase (pancreatic), endoproteinase sealed the films are united together in a fluid impervious Arg-C, endoproteinase Asp-N, endoproteinase Glu-C, manner, and when the seal is broken or severed by delamina endoproteinase Lys-C, enterokinase, factor Xa, ficin, furin, tion of the films from one another in the area of the seal, the granzyme A, granzyme B, HIV protease, IGase, kallikrein films are separated apart from one another severing the seal tissue, leucine aminopeptidase (general), leucine aminopep while still maintaining the integrity of the individual films tidase (cytosol), leucine aminopeptidase (microsomal), themselves. Thus, the rupturable seal in an intact state serves matrix metalloprotease, methionine amiopeptidase, neutrase, to maintain the integrity of the product chamber reservoir for US 2012/024.1336 A1 Sep. 27, 2012 maintaining fluid, semi-fluid, and/or solid products therein anhydride grafted low density polyethylene, homogeneous but in a broken or severed State allows for passage of these ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer, and/or anhydride grafted products between the films along a delaminated Seal area. ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer. 0059. As used herein, terminology employing a “7” with 0053 As used herein, the term "seal' refers to any seal of respect to the chemical identity of a copolymer (e.g., “an a first region of an outer film Surface to a second region of an ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer), identifies the comono outer film Surface, including heat or any type of adhesive mers that are copolymerized to produce the copolymer. Such material, thermal or otherwise. In some embodiments, the phrases as “ethylene alpha-olefin copolymer are the respec seal can be formed by heating the regions to at least their tive equivalent of "ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer.” respective seal initiation temperatures. The sealing can be performed by any one or more of a wide variety of means, III. Package 5 including, but not limited to, using a heat seal technique (e.g., melt-bead sealing, thermal sealing, impulse sealing, dielec 0060 III.A. Generally tric Sealing, radio frequency sealing, ultrasonic Sealing, hot 0061. As discussed herein above inaccordance with FIGS. air, hot wire, infrared radiation, etc.). 1a and 1b, package 5 comprises lower film 10 that comprises 0054 As used herein, the phrases “seal layer”, “sealing first and second compartments 15 and 20. First compartment layer”, “heat seal layer, and “sealant layer, refer to an outer 15 can house food product 25 and second compartment 20 can film layer, or layers, involved in the sealing of the film to house pouch 30. Specifically, pouch 30 comprises first and itself, another film layer of the same or another film, and/or second rupturable seals 35, 36 and contains one or more another article that is not a film. It should also be recognized additives 31. Upper film 40 is sealed to lower film 10 about the that in general, up to the outer 3 mils of a film can be involved perimeter of the package via outer perimeter seal 45. In addi in the sealing of the film to itselfor another layer. With respect tion, package 5 comprises at least one inner perimeter seal 50 to packages having only fin-type seals, as opposed to lap-type that cooperates with rupturable seals 35, 36 of pouch 30 and seals, the phrase “sealant layer generally refers to the inside functions to separate first and second compartments 15, 20 film layer of a package, as well as Supporting layers adjacent until it is desired to intermix additive 31 and food product 25. this sealant layer often being sealed to itself, and frequently 0062 III.B. Lower Film 10 serving as a food contact layer in the packaging of foods. In 0063 FIGS. 2a and 2b are illustrative views of package general, a sealant layer sealed by heat-sealing layer comprises lower film 10 in some embodiments. Particularly, lower film any thermoplastic polymer. In some embodiments, the heat 10 can be formed through an extrusion molding and thermo sealing layer can comprise, for example, thermoplastic poly forming process to produce first and second compartments 15 olefin, thermoplastic polyamide, thermoplastic polyester, and and 20 separated by partition 17. Although two compartments thermoplastic polyvinyl chloride. In some embodiments, the are illustrated in the Figures, one of ordinary skill in the art heat-sealing layer can comprise thermoplastic polyolefin. would recognize that the presently disclosed subject matter 0055. The term “substantially' as used herein is defined as can include configurations wherein lower film 10 comprises largely (but not necessarily wholly) that which is specified. more than two compartments. For example, in some embodiments, the term “substantially' 0064 Extrusion molding is a well known plastic shaping can encompass a margin of +/-ten percent. process in which thermoplastic materials are fed from a hop per or other device into an extruder configured to heat the 0056. As used herein, the phrase “thermoforming layer thermoplastic material and force it through a die to form a refers to a film layer that can be heated and drawn into a cavity particular profile, such as a plastic film or sheet. Thermoform while maintaining uniform thinning, as opposed to films or ing is also well known in the packaging art, and is the process film layers that lose integrity during the thermoforming pro whereby a thermoplastic web is heat softened and reshaped to cess (e.g., polyethylene homopolymers do not undergo ther conform to the shape of a cavity in a mold. Suitable thermo moforming with uniform thinning). In some embodiments, forming methods, for example, include a vacuum forming or thermoforming layers can comprise, but are not limited to, plug-assist vacuum forming method. In a vacuum forming polyamide, ethylene/propylene copolymer, and/or propylene method, the first web is heated, for instance, by a contact homopolymer, in some embodiments, nylon 6, nylon 6/6. heater, and a vacuum is applied beneath the web causing the amorphous nylon, ethylene/propylene copolymer, and/or web to be pushed by atmospheric pressure down into a pre propylene homopolymer. formed mold. In a plug-assist vacuum forming method, after 0057. As used herein, the term “thermoplastic” refers to the first or forming web has been heated and sealed across a uncrosslinked polymers of a thermally sensitive material that mold cavity, a plug shape similar to the mold shape impinges flow under the application of heat or pressure. on the forming web and, upon the application of vacuum, the 0058 As used herein, the term “tie layer” refers to any forming web transfers to the mold surface. internal layer having the primary purpose of adhering two 0065. The films used to form lower film 10 can be pro layers to one another. In some embodiments, tie layers can vided in sheet or film form and can be any of the films comprise any nonpolar polymer having a polar group grafted commonly used for the disclosed type of packaging. To this thereon, Such that the polymer is capable of covalent bonding end, in some embodiments, lower film 10 can be a monolayer to polar polymers such as polyamide and ethylene/vinyl alco or multilayer structure produced by any Suitable process, hol copolymer. In some embodiments, tie layers can comprise including coextrusion, lamination, extrusion coating, and at least one member selected from the group including, but combinations thereof. Typically, the films employed will not limited to, modified polyolefin, modified ethylene/vinyl have two or more layers to incorporate a variety of properties, acetate copolymer, and/or homogeneous ethylene/alpha-ole Such as sealability, gas impermeability and toughness, into a fin copolymer. In some embodiments, tie layers can comprise single film. For example, lower film 10 can comprise one or at least one member selected from the group consisting of more barrier layers, abuse layers, tie layers, seal layers, and/or anhydride modified grafted linear low density polyethylene, bulk layers, as would be knownto those of ordinary skill in the US 2012/024.1336 A1 Sep. 27, 2012

art. The polymer components used to fabricate lower film 10 of the following values: 20%, 25%, 30%, 40%, 50%. 65%, can also comprise appropriate amounts of other additives 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, and 95%, as measured in accordance normally included in Such compositions. For example, slip with ASTM D1746. agents (such as talc), antioxidants, fillers, dyes, pigments, (0071 III.C. Pouch 30 radiation stabilizers, antistatic agents, elastomers, and the like (0072 FIGS.3a and3b illustrate one embodiment of pouch can be added. 30 that can be used in accordance with the presently disclosed 0066. Thus, various combinations of layers can be used in subject matter. Particularly, pouch 30 includes first and sec the formation of lower film 10 in accordance with the pres ond walls 55, 60 each having an inner surface and an outer ently disclosed subject matter. The following are several non surface. Pouch30 also includes first and second side edges 65, limiting examples of combinations wherein letters are used to 66 and top and bottom edges 70, 71. In addition, the pouch represent film layers: NB, A/B/A A/B/C. A/B/D, A/B/E, comprises first and second rupturable seals 35.36 and lap seal A/B/C/D, A/B/C/E, A/B/E/E', A/B/D/E, A/B/D/C, A/B/C/B/ 37. A, A/B/C/D/A A/B/E/B/A A/B/C/D/E, A/B/C/E/D, A/B/D/ 0073. As would be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the C/D, A/B/D/C/E, A/B/D/E/C, A/B/D/E/E', A/B/E/C/E, A/B/ art, pouch 30 can be constructed using a wide variety of E/C/D, A/B/E/D/D', A/B/E/D/E, wherein A represents a polymeric materials. To this end, in some embodiments, sealant layer; B represents a bulk layer or a sealant layer pouch30 is constructed from a polymeric film comprising an (depending on whether it is present as an inner or outer layer inside (innermost) easy open sealant layer and an outside of the film); C represents a barrier layer; D and D' represent (outermost) regular sealant layer. Alternatively, in some bulk and/or abuse layers (depending on whether they are embodiments, the layer adjacent to the inside layer can com present as an inner or outer layer of the film); and E and E' prise the easy open sealant, such as in embodiments wherein represent abuse layers. Of course, one or more tie layers (“T”) “easy open tear out” is employed. “Easy open tear out” refers can be used between any one or more layers of in any of the to situations wherein an easy open sealant layer is positioned above multilayer film structures. adjacent to a relatively thin inner or outer layer. When the 0067. In some embodiments, lower film 10 comprises a resultant easy open seal is ruptured, it tears through the adja total of from about 4 to about 20 layers; in some embodi cent thin layer. ments, from about 4 to about 12 layers; and in Some embodi 0074 The disclosed film structure enables rupturable seals ments, from about 5 to about 9 layers. Thus, in some embodi 35, 36 to be formed as a result of the inside layer-to-inside ments, the disclosed film can comprise 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9. layer bond of the film (i.e., easy open sealant-to-easy open 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 layers. One of sealant bond). In addition, lap seal 37 can be formed as a ordinary skill in the art would also recognize that the dis result of an outer layer-to-inside layer bond of the film (i.e., closed film can comprise more than 20 layers, such as in regular sealant-to-easy open sealant bond). Thus, lap seal 37 embodiments wherein the film components comprise micro is a regular (hard) seal as a result of the outside sealant being layering technology. sealed to the inside sealant. The strength of lap seal 37 can 0068 Lower film 10 can have any total thickness desired, also be increased by the pressures applied during opening. So long as it provides the desired properties for the particular Specifically, during opening pressure is applied in a direction packaging operation in which the film is used. Final web Such that a shirring action is created, rather than pulling the thicknesses can vary, depending on process, end use applica seal directly apart at a right angle. tion, and the like. Typical thicknesses can range between 0075. In addition to the inside and outside sealant layers about 0.1 to 20 mills; in some embodiments, between about described above, the film used to construct pouch 30 can 0.3 and 15 mills; in some embodiments, between about 0.5 to optionally comprise one or more additional layers. Examples 10 mills; in some embodiments, between about 1 to 8 mills; in of such layers include (but are not limited to) barrier layers, some embodiments, between about 3 to 6 mills; and in some abuse layers, core layers, tie layers, bulk layers, and the like. embodiments, between about 4 to 5 mils. Those of ordinary skill in the art are aware of the plethora of 0069. It should be noted that lower film 10 can be consid polymers and polymer blends that can be included in each of ered a “bottom' web, e.g., in normal usage, package 5 can rest the foregoing layers. Regardless of the particular structure of on the lower film. Likewise, in Some embodiments, upper film a given multilayer film, it can be used to form pouch 30 so 40 can be considered a “top” web, e.g., in normal usage, long as the inside layer comprises an easy open sealant and package 5 can be positioned such that the web of the upper the outside layer comprises a regular sealant. In addition, one film comprises the top of the package. Nevertheless, those or more conventional packaging film additives can be skilled in the art will understand after a review of the presently included in the film. Examples of additives that can be incor disclosed subject matter that package 5 can be manufactured, porated include (but are not limited to): antiblocking agents, stored, shipped, and/or displayed in any Suitable orientation. antifogging agents, slip agents, colorants, flavorants, meat For example, package 5 can be placed on a Supporting Surface preservatives, stabilizers, antioxidants, UV absorbers, cross such that lower film 10 functions as the top of the package and linking enhancers, cross-linking inhibitors, and the like, as upper film 40 functions as the bottom of the package. would be well understood to those of ordinary skill in the art. 0070. In some embodiments, lower film 10 can be trans 0076. Thus, various combinations of layers can be used in parent (at least in the non-printed regions) so that the pack the formation of pouch 30 in accordance with the presently aged items are visible through the films. “Transparent as disclosed subject matter. The following are several non-lim used herein means that the material transmits incident light iting examples of combinations wherein letters are used to with negligible scattering and little absorption, enabling represent film layers: A/B, A/B/A A/B/C. A/B/D, A/B/E, objects (e.g., packaged food or print) to be seen clearly A/B/C/D, A/B/C/E, A/B/E/E', A/B/D/E, A/B/D/C, A/B/C/B/ through the material under typical unaided viewing condi A, A/B/C/D/A A/B/E/B/A A/B/C/D/E, A/B/C/E/D, A/B/D/ tions (i.e., the expected use conditions of the material). The C/D, A/B/D/C/E, A/B/D/E/C, A/B/D/E/E', A/B/E/C/E, A/B/ transparency (i.e., clarity) of the film can be at least about any E/C/D, A/B/E/D/D', A/B/E/D/E, wherein A represents a US 2012/024.1336 A1 Sep. 27, 2012 sealant layer; B represents a bulk layer or a sealant layer maintaining the integrity of the rupturable seals. In addition, (depending on whether it is present as an inner or outer layer such slack filling of the pouch reduces the number of ruptur of the film); C represents a barrier layer; D and D' represent able seal failures during normal use conditions, such as ship bulk and/or abuse layers (depending on whether they are ping and the like. Accordingly, in Some embodiments, the present as an inner or outer layer of the film); and E and E' pouch contents can occupy less than about 95% of the total represent abuse layers. Of course, one or more tie layers (“T”) Volume of the closed pouch; in some embodiments, from can be used between any one or more layers of in any of the about 20% to about 80% of the total volume of the pouch; and above multilayer film structures. in some embodiments, from about 30% to about 70% of the 0077. The film used to construct pouch 30 can comprise 2 total volume of the pouch. to 20 layers; in some embodiments, from 2 to 12 layers; in I0083. One of ordinary skill in the art would recognize that Some embodiments, from 2 to 9 layers; and in some embodi the presently disclosed subject matter is not limited to ments, from 3 to 8 layers. Thus, in some embodiments, the pouches formed using the VFFS technology disclosed above. disclosed film can have 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, Rather, pouch 30 can be constructed using any of a variety of 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 layers. One of ordinary skill in the art methods known in the packaging art, including (but not lim would also recognize that the disclosed film can comprise ited to) horizontal form/fill/seal technology. more than 20 layers, such as in embodiments wherein the film I0084. To this end, one of ordinary skill in the art would components comprise microlayering technology. recognize that the formation of rupturable seals 35.36 are not 0078. The film can have any total thickness as long as the limited to the VFFS methods set forth above. Rather, the film provides the desired properties for the particular pack presently disclosed Subject matter includes embodiments aging operation in which it is to be used. Nevertheless, in wherein the pouch rupturable seals are formed using any of a Some embodiments the disclosed film has a total thickness wide variety of methods known in the art. For example, rup ranging from about 0.1 mill to about 15 mils; in some embodi turable seals 35, 36 can be constructed using one or more of ments, from about 0.2 mill to about 10 mills; and in some the following: incompatible materials, Zone patterning, adhe embodiments, from about 0.3 mils to about 5.0 mils. sive, ultrasonic welding, thermal bonding, crimping, cohe 007.9 The film used to construct pouch 30 can be manu Sives, compression, nipping, needle punching, sewing, factured by thermoplastic film-forming processes known in hydro-entangling, and the like. A combination of these meth the art (e.g., tubular or blown-film extrusion, coextrusion, ods can also be used. In general, rupturable seals 35, 36 are extrusion coating, flat or cast film extrusion, and the like). A configured to have a lower strength than outer perimeter seal combination of these processes can also be employed. 45 and/or inner perimeter seal 50. 0080. Although pouch 30 can be constructed using any of I0085 III.D. Upper Film 40 a variety of methods known to those of ordinary skill in the I0086 FIG. 4 is an illustrative view of package upper film art, in Some embodiments, the pouch can be constructed using 40. Particularly, upper film 40 comprises first and second side vertical form/fill/seal (“VFFS) technology. One example of edges 75, 76 and top and bottom edges 80, 81. Upper film 40 Sucha system is the OnpackTM packaging system marketed by can be provided in sheet or film form and can be any of the Cryovac/Sealed Air Corporation (Saddle Brook, N.J., United films commonly used for the disclosed type of packaging. States of America). The VFFS process is known to those of I0087 To this end, in some embodiments, upper film 40 can ordinary skill in the art, and is described in U.S. Pat. No. be a monolayer or multilayer structure produced by any Suit 4,589,247 to Tsuruta et al., U.S. Pat. No. 4,656,818 to Shi able process, including coextrusion, lamination, extrusion movama et al., U.S. Pat. No. 4,768,411 to Su, and U.S. Pat. coating, and combinations thereof. However, the films No. 4,808.010 to Vogan, interalia, all incorporated herein in employed will typically have two or more layers to incorpo their entireties by reference thereto. rate a variety of properties, such as sealability, gas imperme 0081. In such a VFFS process, lay-flat thermoplastic film ability and toughness, into a single film. For example, upper is first advanced over a forming device to form a tube. Next, film 40 can comprise one or more barrier layers, abuse layers, a longitudinal (vertical) fin or lap seal is made, and a bottom tie layers, seal layers, and/or bulk layers, as would be known end seal is formed by transversely sealing across the tube with to those of ordinary skill in the art. The polymer components heated seal bars. A pumpable product (Such as a marinade) is used to fabricate upper film 40 can also comprise appropriate introduced through a central, vertical fill tube to the formed amounts of other additives normally included in Such com tubular film. The pouch is then completed by sealing the positions. For example, slip agents (such as talc), antioxi upper end of the tubular segment, and severing the pouch dants, fillers, dyes, pigments and dyes, radiation stabilizers, from the tubular film above it. The process can be a two-stage antistatic agents, elastomers, and the like can be added. process wherein the creation of a transverse heat seal occurs I0088 Accordingly, various combinations of layers can be at one stage of the process, and downstream of the first stage, used in the formation of upper film 40 in accordance with the a separate pair of cooling/clamping means contact the newly presently disclosed subject matter. The following are several formed transverse heat seal to cool and thus strengthen the non-limiting examples of combinations wherein letters are seal. In some VFFS processes, an upper transverse seal of a used to represent film layers: A/B, A/B/A A/B/C. A/B/D. first pouch and the lower transverse seal of a following pouch A/B/E, A/B/C/D, A/B/C/E, A/B/E/E, A/B/D/E, A/B/D/C, are made. The pouches are then cut and thereby separated A/B/C/B/A A/B/C/D/A A/B/E/B/A A/B/C/D/E, A/B/C/E/ between two portions of the transverse seals without the need D, A/B/D/C/D, A/B/D/C/E, A/B/D/E/C, A/B/D/E/E', A/B/E/ for a separate step to clamp, cool, clamp, cool, and cut the C/E, A/B/E/C/D, A/B/E/D/D', A/B/E/D/E, wherein A repre seals. sents a sealant layer; B represents a bulk layer or a sealant 0082 In some embodiments, pouch 30 can be "slack layer (depending on whether it is present as an inner or outer filled with additive. That is, the pouch contents can occupy layer of the film); C represents a barrier layer; D and D' less than the full volume of the pouch. In these embodiments, represent bulk and/or abuse layers (depending on whether the pouch can be easily moved or shaped as desired, while still they are present as an inner or outer layer of the film); and E US 2012/024.1336 A1 Sep. 27, 2012

and E' represent abuse layers. Of course, one or more tie flour, and/or pressed tofu to make the meat substitute look layers (“T”) can be used between any one or more layers of in and/or taste like chicken, beef, lamb, ham, sausage, seafood, any of the above multilayer film structures. and the like. 0089. Thus, in some embodiments, upper film 40 com 0095. In some embodiments, the food product can com prises a total of from about 2 to about 20 layers; in some prise one or more vegetables. Vegetables that are particularly embodiments, from about 4 to about 12 layers; and in some suited for use with the presently disclosed subject matter can include, but are not limited to, artichokes, asparagus, beans, embodiments, from about 5 to about 9 layers. Thus, in some bean sprouts, beets, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, carrots, embodiments, the disclosed film can comprise 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, celery, corn, collards, eggplant, green peppers, kale, leeks, 7,8,9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 layers. One mushrooms, mustard greens, onions, peas, potatoes, radishes, of ordinary skill in the art would also recognize that the red peppers, rhubarb, spinach, squash, Sweet potatoes, tur disclosed film can comprise more than 20 layers, such as in nips, water chestnuts, watercress, yams, yellow peppers, and/ embodiments wherein the film components comprise micro or Zucchini. In some embodiments, the vegetable can be layering technology. diced, minced, shaved, and/or cut into strips. 0090. To this end, upper film 40 can have any total thick 0096. Accordingly, the food product suitable for use with ness desired, so long as it provides the desired properties for the presently disclosed subject matter is not particularly lim the particular packaging operation in which the film is used. ited. The presently disclosed methods and package can be Final web thicknesses can vary, depending on process, end applied to raw (i.e., uncooked) food products, partially use application, and the like. Typical thicknesses can range cooked food products, and/or pre-cooked products, where the between about 0.1 to 20 mills; in some embodiments, between cooking process is intended to cook, completely cook, and/or about 0.3 and 15 mills; in some embodiments, between about re-heat the food product. Thus, the food product selected can 0.5 to 10 mills; in some embodiments, between about 1 to 8 be any type that is suitable for consumption. The food product mils; in some embodiments, between about 3 to 6 mils, and in can be non-rendered, non-dried, raw, and can comprise mix some embodiments, between about 4 to 5 mils. tures of whole muscle meat formulations. Whole meat pieces can be fresh, although frozen or semi-frozen forms can also 0091. In some embodiments, upper film 40 can be trans be used. Since freezing affects the tenderness of meat by parent (at least in the non-printed regions) so that the pack rupturing intrafibrillar tissue as a result of ice crystal forma aged items are visible through the films. “Transparent as tion, the increased tenderness resulting from freezing can be used herein means that the material transmits incident light taken into account when using such products in the package with negligible scattering and little absorption, enabling and methods described herein. objects (e.g., packaged food or print) to be seen clearly 0097 III.F. Additive 31 through the material under typical unaided viewing condi 0098. As set forth in detail herein above, in some embodi tions (i.e., the expected use conditions of the material). The ments, second compartment 20 of package 5 can comprise an transparency (i.e., clarity) of the film can be at least about any additive, such as a marinade. The amount of additive used in of the following values: 20%, 25%, 30%, 40%, 50%. 65%, the presently disclosed subject matter depends on the type 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, and 95%, as measured in accordance and added amount of food additive. The food additive can be with ASTM D1746. in any form including, but not limited to, liquid, paste, pow 0092. III.E. Food Product 25 der, and/or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the 0093. As set forth in detail herein above, in some embodi food additive can be in the form of liquid or powder from the ments first compartment 15 of package 5 can comprise a food standpoint of handleability, preservability, and the like. If the product, Such as a cut of meat. Examples of food products that food additive of the presently disclosed subject matter is used are suitable for use with the presently disclosed subject matter in liquid form, it can be in the form of Solution or dispersion can include, but are not limited to, beef, birds such as poultry in water or an aqueous liquid or in the form of Solution or (including chicken, duck, goose, turkey, and the like), buffalo, dispersion in fatty oil. camel, crustacean (including shellfish, clams, Scallops, mus 0099. In some embodiments, the food additive can com sels, oysters, lobster, crayfish, crab, shrimp, prawns, and the prise one or more enzymatic tenderizers to form a tenderized like), dog, fish (including salmon, trout, eel, cod, herring, meat product. Particularly, one or more proteolytic enzymes plaice, whiting, halibut, turbot, ling, squid, tuna, Sardines, can be added to the food additive to sever peptide bonds in Swordfish, dogfish, shark, and the like), game (including deer, proteins, and therefore tenderize the meat. Proteolytic eland, antelope, and the like), game birds (such as pigeon, enzymes suitable for use with the presently disclosed subject quail, doves, and the like), goat, hare, horse, kangaroo, lamb, matter can include, but are not limited to, bromelain from marine mammals (including whales and the like), amphibians pineapple and papain from papaya, achromopeptidase, ami (including frogs and the like), monkey, pig, rabbit, reptiles nopeptidase, ancrod, angiotensin converting enzyme, brome (including turtles, Snakes, alligators, and the like), and/or lain, calpain, calpain I, calpain II, carboxypeptidase A, car sheep. In some embodiments, the food product can be whole, boxypeptidase B, carboxypeptidase G. carboxypeptidase P. diced, minced, shaved, cut into strips, and/or formed into carboxypeptidase W. carboxypeptidase Y, caspase, caspase 1, meatballs. caspase 2, caspase 3, caspase 4, caspase 5, caspase 6, caspase 0094. In some embodiments, meat substitutes can be used 7, caspase 8, caspase 9, caspase 10, caspase 11, caspase 12, and are included under the term “meat’. Such meat substi caspase 13, cathepsin B, cathepsin C, cathepsin D, cathepsin tutes can approximate the aesthetic qualities and/or chemical G. cathepsin H. cathepsin L, chymopapain, chymase, chy characteristics of certain types of meat. The meat Substitutes motrypsin a-, clostripain, collagenase, complement Clr, can include, but are not limited to, Seitan, rice, mushrooms, complement Cls, complement Factor D, complement Factor legumes, tempeh, textured vegetable protein, soy concen I, cucumisin, dipeptidyl peptidase IV, elastase (leukocyte), trate, mycoprotein-based Quorn, modified defatted peanut elastase (pancreatic), endoproteinase Arg-C, endoproteinase US 2012/024.1336 A1 Sep. 27, 2012

Asp-N, endoproteinase Glu-C, endoproteinase Lys-C, enter 0104. The resulting perimeter seal can extend continu okinase, factor Xa, ficin, furin, granzyme A, granzyme B. ously around the outside edge of package 5 to hermetically HIV protease, IGase, kallikrein tissue, leucine aminopepti seal or enclose the food product and pouch therein. In this dase (general), leucine aminopeptidase (cytosol), leucine manner, upper and lower films 40, 10 can form a substantially aminopeptidase (microsomal), matrix metalloprotease, gas impermeable enclosure to protect the pouch and food methionine amiopeptidase, neutrase, papain, pepsin, plas product from contact with the Surrounding environment, min, prolidase, pronase E, prostate specific antigen, protease including atmospheric oxygen, dirt, dust, moisture, liquid, (alkalophilic form), Streptomyces griseus, protease from microbial contaminates, and the like. In some embodiments, Aspergillus, protease from Aspergillus Saitoi, protease from food product 25 and additive 31 can be packaged in a modi Aspergillus sojae, protease (B. licheniformis) (Alkaline), pro fied atmosphere package to extend the shelf life or bloom tease (B. licheniformis) (Alcalase), protease from Bacillus color life. An example of Such a package is disclosed in, e.g., polymyxa, protease from Bacillus sp. protease from Bacillus U.S. Pat. No. 5,686,126 to Noel et al., the entire disclosure of sp (Esperase), protease from Rhizopus sp., protease S, pro which is hereby incorporated by reference. teasomes, proteinase from Aspergillus Oryzae, proteinase 3. 0105. Although upper and lower films 40, 10 can be heat proteinase A, proteinase K, protein C, pyroglutamate amio sealed to form outer perimeter seal 45, the use of other adhe peptidase, renin, rennin, Streptokinase, Subtilisin, thermol sives or mechanical closures (e.g., clips) as desired or neces ysin, thrombin, tissue plasminogen activator, trypsin, sary is within the scope of the presently disclosed subject tryptase, urokinase, and combinations thereof. matter. Particularly, adhesives can be applied in a desired 0100. In some embodiments, the food additive can com pattern, or sealed at a certain temperature (such as with a layer prise additional components, including but not limited to, of ionomer) to define seal strength in a directly proportional bactericides, fungicides or other preservatives, wetting agents (e.g., a Tween), antioxidants, viscosity control agents (e.g. fashion; i.e., more adhesive or higher temperature can create gums), brine (e.g., sodium chloride, phosphates, dextrose), a stronger seal, while less adhesive or lower temperature can curing agents (e.g., nitrites, Sugars, erythorbate), flavoring produce a weaker seal. agents (e.g., herbs, spices, and liquid Smoke), and the like. 0106 FIGS.5a-5e depict several embodiments of package 5 comprising inner perimeter seal 50. Particularly, as illus trated in FIGS. 5a and 5b, an inner perimeter seal can be IV. Methods of Constructing Package 5 formed between upper film 40 and lower film 10 in an area 0101 FIGS. 1a and 1b illustrate that package 5 can be bordering second compartment 20 on at least one side. Thus, closed on all four edges. In some embodiments, one or more in some embodiments, inner perimeter seal 50 can be formed of the edges can comprise sealed edges. For example, if at least partially in partition 17. In some embodiments, inner package 5 is originally formed from two separate sheets of perimeter seal 50 can be formed with a heat sealing machine plastic film material, the four edges can all be sealed edges. that includes a heated seal bar that contacts and compresses Thus, package 5 can be formed by heat sealing upper and upper film 40 and lower film 10 to form the seal. Although lower films 40, 10 to form a package containing food product upper and lower films 40, 10 can be heat-sealed to form inner 25 and pouch30 in first and second compartments 15 and 20, perimeter seal 50, the use of other adhesives or mechanical respectively. Particularly, upper film 40 can be positioned to closures (e.g., clips) as desired or necessary is also within the contact lower film 10 along the perimeter of the package. A scope of the presently disclosed subject matter. Particularly, vacuum can then be applied to the compartments and upper adhesives can be applied in a desired pattern, or sealed at a film 40 sealed around the perimeter of the compartmented certain temperature to define seal strength in a directly pro lower film to form outer perimeter seal 45. portional fashion. In some embodiments, the inner perimeter 0102. In some embodiments, the heat sealing operation seal can be constructed using a total seal head if the ends of can occur at the food packaging plant using a heat sealing pouch 30 are extended into compartment 15 and covered by machine designed for high speed operation. Heat sealing can product. occur by any of a number of techniques well known in the art, 0107 Outer perimeter seal 45 and inner perimeter seal 50 Such as but not limited to, thermal conductance heat sealing, can be sufficiently strong to withstand the expected use con impulse sealing, ultrasonic sealing, dielectric Sealing, and/or ditions. For example, the bond strength of seals 45, 50 can be combinations thereof. at least about any of the following values: 7.0, 8.0, 9.0, and 10 0103) In some embodiments, the heat sealing machine pounds/inch or greater. The term “heat seal bond strength” as includes aheated seal bar that contacts and compresses upper used herein can refer to the amount of force required to and lower films 40, 10 together to form outer perimeter seal separate upper and lower films 40, 10, as measured in accor 45. Generally, three variables can be considered in forming a dance with ASTM F88-94 where the Instron tensile tester heat seal: the seal bar temperature, the dwell time, and the crosshead speed is 5 inches per second, using five, 1-inch sealing pressure. The seal bar temperature can refer to the wide representative samples. In some embodiments, the surface temperature of the seal bar. The dwell time can refer strength of the perimeter seals can be equal to or greater than to the length of time that the heated seal bar contacts the film the strength of the films themselves or can otherwise be to transfer heat from the seal bar to soften at least a portion of considered permanent or hard seals. the films (e.g., the sealing layers of the films) so that they can 0.108 Inner perimeter seal 50 can be configured to overlap be melded together. The sealing pressure can refer to the with at least one of rupturable seals 35, 36 of pouch 30. For amount of force that Squeezes the films together during this example, FIG. 5a illustrates one embodiment wherein one heat transfer. All of these variables can be modified accord rupturable seal of pouch 30 is positioned adjacent to second ingly to prepare a package Suitable for use with the presently compartment 20 Such that it can be contacted during the disclosed Subject matter. preparation of inner perimeter seal 50. In such embodiments, US 2012/024.1336 A1 Sep. 27, 2012 the upper pouch wall in the area of at least one of the ruptur included within second compartment 20. For example, in able seals is sealed to upper film 40 and the lower pouch wall Some embodiments, it can be desired to use than one mari in the area of at least one of the rupturable seals is sealed to nade to flavor a cut of meat. lower film 10, as illustrated in FIG.5b. 0115 FIG. 8 illustrates one such embodiment. It should be 0109 As illustrated in FIG. 5c, in some embodiments, understood that all descriptions of packages that include a pouch 30 can be folded over on itself at crease 51 prior to single pouch herein can equally be applied to packages com insertion into package 5. FIGS. 5d and 5e illustrate the pouch prising more than one pouch. of FIG. 5c positioned in second compartment 20 such that both rupturable seals 35, 36 are adjacent to the second com partment. In these embodiments, both rupturable seals of the V. Methods of Using Package 5 pouch can be contacted during the construction of inner 0116. As set forth in detail herein above, the presently perimeter seal 50. Accordingly, two portions of the upper disclosed subject matter is directed to a package for marinat pouch wall (as a result of the folding of the pouch) will be ing and/or heating a food product. Particularly, package 5 sealed to the upper film and lower film. comprises a lower film that contains at least two compart 0110. In the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 5a-5e, the ments. The first compartment can Substantially contain a food position of inner perimeter seal 50 creates channel 85 through product and the second compartment can Substantially con which additive can ultimately travel, as set forth in more detail tain a pouch. Specifically, the pouch comprises first and sec herein below. In these embodiments, a large volume of addi ond rupturable seals and houses one or more additives (such tive can be incorporated into pouch 30. In addition, the addi as a marinade). The upper film is sealed to the lower film tive can only travel in one direction (into channel 85) and exit about the perimeter of the package through an outer perimeter pouch 30 at rupturable seal 35 and/or 36. seal. In addition, the package comprises at least one inner 0111. As would be appreciated by those having ordinary perimeter seal that cooperates with at least one of the pouch skill in the art, the L-shaped inner perimeter seal depicted in rupturable seals and functions to isolate the first and second FIGS.5a-5e is merely one example of a configuration that can compartments until it is desired to intermix the additive and be used. It should be appreciated that the inner perimeter seal food product. can be in any of a wide variety of configurations so long as at 0117 Thus, at a desired time, a user can grippackage 5 and least a portion of the inner perimeter seal overlaps with at least using his thumbs or a hard object, emit pressure on second one pouch rupturable seal. compartment 20 and thus onto pouch 30 contained substan 0112 To this end, in some embodiments, inner perimeter tially therein. Upon the increased pressure, at least one of seal 50 can extend the full length across the package (i.e., no pouch rupturable seals 35, 36 will fail, allowing additive 31 channel is created). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 6a, in some embodiments, one rupturable seal of pouch 30 is posi contained within the pouch to flow into first compartment 15 tioned adjacent to second compartment 20 Such that it can be freely mix with food product 25. In embodiments wherein contacted during the preparation of inner perimeter seal 50. In inner perimeter seal 50 is configured with channel 85 (such as Such embodiments, the upper pouch wall in the area of at least in the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 5a-5d), additive will one of the rupturable seals is sealed to upper film 40 and the flow from pouch 30 and follow channel 85 to first compart lower pouch wall in the area of at least one of the rupturable ment 15 to contact food product 15. In embodiments wherein seals is sealed to lower film 10. Similarly, as illustrated in the inner perimeter seal is configured without channel 85 FIG. 6b, in some embodiments, pouch 30 can be folded over (such as those embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 6a and 6b). on itself and positioned in second compartment 20 Such that additive will flow directly from pouch 30 to first compartment both rupturable seals 35, 36 are adjacent to the second com 15 and contact food product 25. partment. In these embodiments, both rupturable seals of the 0118 Outer perimeter seal 45 is configured to be strong pouch are contacted during the construction of inner perim enough to minimize the likelihood that it will rupture or eter seal 50. Accordingly, two portions of the upper pouch otherwise leak during the intermixing process. As a result, wall (as a result of the folding of the pouch) will be sealed to additive 31 and food product 25 are contained within package the upper film and lower film. 5 even when the pressure is applied from the user. In some 0113. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand embodiments, to facilitate mixing, the user can shake or rotate that instead of folding pouch 30 on itself exactly as illustrated package 5 to fully mix the food product and the additive. in FIGS. 5c and 6b, the pouch can be folded at an angle such 0119 Package 5 can then be marinated for a desired that both rupturable seals are separately included in inner amount of time. In some embodiments, the package can be perimeter seal 50, as illustrated in FIG. 7a. In these embodi incubated for a sufficient time to allow food product 25 to ments, the inner perimeter seal can take any shape (such as a tenderize to a desired amount. Thus, in Some embodiments, V-shape) so long as it follows the line of at least one of the the presently disclosed subject matter is directed to a method rupturable seals. It should also be appreciated that the con of controlling the level of additive imparted to a food product. verse is also true. That is, in Some embodiments, pouch 30 can be constructed Such that the rupturable seals are at an angle. In VI. Advantages of Package 5 these embodiments, when the pouch is folded, a straight line is created, as illustrated in FIGS. 7b and 7c. In embodiments I0120 In addition to the advantages that would be evident wherein pouch 30 is folded, the pouch can be tacked at the to one skilled in the art, the use of a pouch to contain additive proper folding angle using adhesive or a heat seal, as would be 31 can have one or more advantages. For example, loading the known to those of ordinary skill in the packaging art. food additive into pouch 30 prior to insertion into second 0114. As would also be appreciated by those of ordinary compartment 20 can minimize the likelihood of premature skill in the art, the presently disclosed subject matter can also cross-contamination between additive 31 and food product include embodiments wherein more than one pouch is 25. US 2012/024.1336 A1 Sep. 27, 2012

0121 Moreover, prior art methods for loading an additive are intended to be included within the scope of the appended and a food product directly into package compartments at the claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are same time can require that the food additive be frozen to allow used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for the machinery to advance rapidly as well as to prevent flash purposes of limitation. ing of a liquid as the vacuum is applied to the food product. What is claimed is: Such freezing can prove costly and require time and the 1. A package for marinating a food product, said package maintenance of an environment below 0° F. In addition, the comprising: thawing of the food additive after the packaging operations a. a lower film comprising at least first and second com can create condensation on the Surface of the package, result partments separated by a partition, such that said first ing in aesthetic and functional issues. In the presently dis compartment is adapted to Substantially contain a food closed subject matter, the additive can be handled as a liquid, product and said second compartment is adapted to Sub thereby allowing for more options for handling. stantially contain a pouch; 0122. In addition, the use of a pouch to house the food b. a pouch Substantially contained within said second com additive allows for the lower film to be specifically configured partment and configured to contain a food additive, the to hold the food product and the pouch to be specifically pouch comprising at least one rupturable seal configured configured to hold the additive. For example, in some to rupture when exposed to a predetermined pressure, embodiments, the materials of the lower film can be “breath and wherein said at least one rupturable seal is posi able' which can be preferred for food products such as fish or tioned at least partially overlapping said partition; chicken. Similarly, the materials of the pouch can include c. an upper film peripherally sealed about the perimeter of barrier layers that can be preferred for the additive. the package to said lower film and to at least a portion of 0123. In some embodiments, the pouch can be labeled or said partition of said lower film in the area overlapping printed individually and then placed in a first package so a said at least one rupturable seal to separate said first and customer can change from one type to another type of addi second compartments, thereby forming a hermetically tive without changing the top web of film used for the pack sealed package having an outer perimeter seal and an age, even if it is printed for a particular food product. inner perimeter seal; 0.124. The use of a pouch also allows for the seals to be wherein said pouch is in fluid communication with the first specifically configured for particular functions. For example compartment upon rupture of the at least one rupturable and as discussed above, the outer perimeter seal of package 5 seal to allow the food additive to mix with the food is a hard seal that reduces the likelihood of the package product, and rupturing or otherwise leaking, even as the user applies pres wherein said at least one rupturable seal has a lower rupture Sure or shakes the package to mix the additive and food pressure compared to said outer perimeter seal and said product. The rupturable seal of the pouch, however, is spe inner perimeter seal, and wherein said food item can be cifically configured to rupture and allow the additive and the marinated directly in said package. food product to mix. 2. The package of claim 1, wherein said lower film is a 0.125 Continuing, as set forth herein above, package 5 thermoformed film formed into a compartmented Support comprises inner perimeter seal 50 that separates the compo member having first and second compartments. nents of the first and second compartments prior to intermix 3. The package of claim 1, wherein said pouch is formed ing. As a result, any purge seepage generated from food using a vertical form, fill, and seal machine. product 25 is confined to first compartment 15 and is pre 4. The package of claim 3, wherein said pouch is con vented from flowing into the second compartment housing structed from a film comprising an innermost layer compris pouch 30. Thus, package 5 maintains an appealing look to ing an easy open sealant and an outermost layer comprising a customers and cross-contamination between the two package regular sealant. compartments is prevented. 5. The package of claim 3, wherein said pouch is con 0126. In addition, the tooling required to construct pack structed from a film comprising an easy open sealant layer age 5 can be fitted relatively inexpensively into existing hori positioned adjacent to the innermost layer and an outermost Zontal form, fill, and seal machines. Particularly, forms that fit layer comprising a regular sealant. into existing forming and sealing boxes and trays can be 6. The package of claim 1, wherein said pouch is folded simply constructed by those having ordinary skill in the art. prior to insertion into said first compartment. Thus, package 5 requires less cost for tooling and less time to 7. The package of claim 1, wherein said additive occupies change the tooling sizes compared to other packages known from about 20% to about 80% of the total volume of the in the art. pouch. 0127. In embodiments wherein pouch30 is folded prior to 8. The package of claim 1, wherein said inner perimeter insertion into second compartment 20, a larger Volume of seal forms a channel. marinade can be inserted into the pouch. In addition, shipping 9. The package of claim 8, wherein said channel optionally and handling between the marinade packager and the final has depth added during the forming process. package manufacturer is improved. Particularly, the ruptur 10. A package comprising: able seals in the flat marinade pouches are less Susceptible to a.a food product; hydraulic forces created during shipping and/or handling. b. a pouch comprising a food additive, wherein said pouch 0128 Many modifications and other embodiments of comprises at least one rupturable seal configured to rup package and methods set forth herein can be included within ture when exposed to a predetermined pressure; the scope of the presently disclosed subject matter. Therefore, c. a lower film comprising at least first and second com it is to be understood that the disclosed subject matter is not to partments separated by a partition, such that said first be limited to the specific embodiments and drawings dis compartment is adapted to Substantially contain said closed herein, and that modifications and other embodiments food product and said second compartment is adapted to US 2012/024.1336 A1 Sep. 27, 2012 12

Substantially contain said pouch, and wherein said at Substantially contain a pouch, wherein the first and sec least one rupturable seal is positioned at least partially ond compartments are separated by a partition; overlapping said partition; ... forming said pouch configured to contain said food ... an upper film peripherally sealed about the perimeter of additive; the package to said lower film and at least partially to ... loading said food additive into said pouch; said partition of said lower film in the area overlapping said at least one rupturable seal to separate said first and . Sealing said food additive in said pouch with at least one second compartments, thereby forming a hermetically rupturable seal configured to rupture and allow the food sealed package having an outer perimeter seal and an additive to escape said pouch; inner perimeter seal; e. loading said food product into said first compartment of wherein said pouch is in fluid communication with the first the Support member, compartment upon rupturable of the at least one ruptur floading said pouch into the second compartment of said able seal to allow the food additive to mix with the food Support member Such that said at least one rupturable product; and seal is positioned at least partially overlapping said par wherein said at least one rupturable seal has a lower rupture tition, and Such that the pouch is in fluid communication pressure compared to said outer perimeter seal and said with the first compartment upon rupturing of the ruptur inner perimeter seal, and wherein said food item can be able seal to allow the food additive to mix with the food marinated directly in said package. product; and 11. The package of claim 10, wherein said lower film is a . Sealing the Support member with a film about the perim thermoformed film formed into a compartmented Support eter of the package with an outer perimeter seal and at member having first and second compartments. least partially to said partition in the area overlapping 12. The package of claim 10, wherein said pouch is formed said at least one rupturable seal with an inner perimeter using a vertical form, fill, and seal machine. seal to separate said first and second compartments, such 13. The package of claim 12, wherein said pouch is con that the first package is configured to withstand the pre structed from a film comprising an innermost layer compris determined pressure and prevent leaking of the food ing an easy open sealant and an outermost layer comprising a additive and food product from the first package during regular sealant. the mixing of the food additive and the food product. 14. The package of claim 12, wherein said pouch is con 19. The method of claim 18, wherein said lower film is a structed from a film comprising an easy open sealant layer thermoformed film formed into a compartmented support positioned adjacent to the innermost layer and an outermost member having first and second compartments. layer comprising a regular sealant. 15. The package of claim 10, wherein said pouch is folded 20. The method of claim 18, wherein said pouch is con prior to insertion into said first compartment. structed using a vertical form, fill, and seal machine. 16. The package of claim 10, wherein said additive occu 21. The method of claim 20, wherein said pouch is con pies from about 20% to about 80% of the total volume of the structed from a film comprising an innermost layer compris pouch. ing an easy open sealant and an outermost layer comprising a 17. The package of claim 10, wherein said inner perimeter regular sealant. seal forms a channel. 22. The method of claim 18, wherein said pouch is folded 18. A method of controlling a level of food additive prior to insertion into said first compartment. imparted to a food product, said method comprising: 23. The method of claim 18, wherein said inner perimeter a. forming a Support member of a package that includes a seal forms a channel. first compartment configured to Substantially contain a food product and a second compartment configured to