Product package having multi-layer labeling cover assembly

#The invention relates to vacuum sealed packaging using film layers of differing gas permeabilities to control the internal gas composition of the package. The invention includes both a new product package and a new packaging method. This invention is applicable in all packaging situations, but is most applicable to packaging perishable items, such as meat.

#Vacuum sealed packaging is known in the industry as a superior method for preserving items during shipping and display. Vacuum sealed packaging allows a supplier to control the internal gas composition of the package and stabilize the item during shipping. These advantages protect and preserve an item, increasing the items' shelf life and eye-appeal to consumers.

#There are various forms of vacuum sealed packaging, and vacuum sealing is particularly popular for packaging perishable items. Previous packages used a rigid, preformed base for holding meat, fish or produce, with a plastic layer closing the top of the container base. While the layer was heat sealed onto the container, gas could be evacuated from the container around the perishable item. In some instances, the evacuated gas would be replaced with a more preferable inert gas, for example Nitrogen, which helped preserve the perishable item.

#FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a product package according to the present invention;

#FIG. 2 is an exploded, perspective view of the product package of FIG. 1 with a cover assembly exploded from a container base;

#FIG. 3 is a top view of an alternative product package according to the present invention and utilizing a labeling laminate cover;

#There is, therefore, provided in the practice of the invention a novel labeling cover assembly, which reduces re-labeling by retailers while protecting a packaged product from decay and other damage. The cover assembly includes a bottom film layer and a top film layer positioned over the bottom film layer. A label is positioned between the top and bottom film layers.

#In one embodiment, the bottom film layer is gas permeable, and the top film layer is gas impermeable. Thus, the packaged item is protected during shipment from decay by the top film layer, but during display and after removal of the top film layer, the label is exposed to the consumer. Further, the packaged item is exposed to desirable gases transmitted through the bottom layer to enhance the packaged item's color for display. To further protect the packaged item during shipment by removing any oxygen left after packaging, an oxygen absorber is adhered to the inner side of the top layer and rests on the display layer.

#The labeling cover assembly is used to complete a package according to the present invention. The cover assembly is used to cover and close the open top of a container base containing a packaged item.