Patent ID: 7812292
Filing Date: 2010-10-12
Classification: B65D,H05B

Abstract:
1. A method for processing and storing a foodstuff in a metal container and subsequently heating the foodstuff in a microwave oven, comprising: providing a container comprising an end closure, a bottom portion and a metal sidewall positioned therebetween, said metal sidewall consisting of no microwave energy defusing coatings on an interior surface, said container having a height of at least about 2.0 inches, said bottom portion further comprising a microwave transparent portion with a cross-sectional area of at least about two square inches, filling said container with a foodstuff; sealing said end closure to said metal sidewall to create a substantially airtight seal; providing energy to said foodstuff to elevate the temperature of said foodstuff to a sufficient temperature for sterilization; storing the foodstuff in said container in a substantially hermetically sealed condition; removing said end closure of said container to create an open top to said container; and providing microwave energy to said foodstuff in the microwave oven prior to consumption by an end user, wherein the microwave energy travels through said microwave transparent material positioned on the bottom portion of the container and the open top of the container and reflects off of said interior surface of said non-coated metal sidewall, wherein the foodstuff positioned within an interior portion of the container heats faster than foodstuff positioned along the metal sidewall of the container.