Patent Publication Number: US-8541038-B2

Title: Food package for segregating ingredients of a multi-component food product

Description:
FIELD 
     The present disclosure relates generally to a food package, and more specifically to a food package for segregating ingredients of a multi-component food product, such as the multiple components of a sandwich. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Multi-component food products, such as sandwich products, are often prepared and eaten the same day or within a few days to avoid storage issues and loss of organoleptic properties of a freshly-made sandwich upon storage. When a sandwich product is prepared and stored for an extended period of time, e.g., more than a few days, there is typically undesirable moisture and flavor migration between the bread of the sandwich and the inner sandwich components, or garnish/toppings, of the sandwich. The inner sandwich components that have higher water activities than adjacent components or the bread components can have moisture that tends to migrate towards the lower water activity food component. During an extended period of storage time, this moisture migration can result in a sandwich that is not as organoleptically pleasing due to issues such as bread becoming soggy, sandwich components losing their texture or crispness, sandwich components losing their flavor, and the like. 
     As a result, sandwich products that are meant to be stored for an extended period of time have been packaged in ways to try and minimize such moisture and flavor migration between the various components of the sandwich. One such example is to individually and separately package each component of the sandwich, such that the cheese is packaged or wrapped individually and separately from the meat which is also separately packaged, while the bread or bun component is also packaged separately from all of the inner sandwich components. While this may result in preventing the moisture and flavor migration between the components during the extended storage period, it can require the consumer to have to unwrap each component individually and to assemble the sandwich themselves before eating. This can require multiple, time-consuming preparation steps on the part of the consumer, e.g., opening all of the individually wrapped packages and then assembling all of the sandwich components into a sandwich. 
     Another aspect is described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,012,971 and 5,213,256, which consist of a preassembled sandwich or burger that is packaged in a container, such as a Styrofoam hinged container having a top half and a bottom half, where the top half of the bun or top bread component is contained inside the top part of the container, and the bottom bun or bottom bread component is contained inside the bottom part of the container. A card or insert is placed between the top and bottom bread components, such that it separates the top and bottom half of the container, and is positioned such that it can separate two inner sandwich components, such as separating a cheese and a meat component. When the container is in a closed position, the sandwich or burger is in a pre-assembled state therein with the insert or card placed between the two inner sandwich components essentially creating two separate compartments within the container. 
     Thus, the insert card creates a separately packaged top half of the sandwich, and a separately packaged bottom half of the sandwich. When the consumer is ready to consume the sandwich, they simply grasp the insert or card, preferably it will have a tab for grasping, and pull the insert in a horizontal direction to remove it from the container and from between the sandwich halves. However, the insert only divides the sandwich into two halves, without segregating the inner sandwich components completely. Only one surface or side of an inner sandwich component is segregated from an adjacent surface or side of another sandwich component; the other side of the inner sandwich component is still in contact with the remainder of the sandwich on its half of the container, such that moisture and flavor migration issues can still be prevalent on that half or side of the sandwich. Furthermore, certain food components like cheese, for example, are sticky, i.e., can have a high static coefficient of friction, thus preventing removal of the divider by a simple sliding motion, or causing the food ingredient, such as cheese, to stick to the divider and to be pulled with it. 
     Still another variation is disclosed in International Publication Number WO 2004/086886, for a package used for retaining the filling of a roll, where the filling can be in a semi-solid state and it can be runny and difficult to maintain in a bread roll. A cavity can be made in the roll into which the packaged filling is placed, where the package can be shaped to compliment the cavity in the roll. Once the consumer is ready to consume the product, pressure is applied to one end of the package (i.e., the end that is visible and extends out from the opening in the roll), such as by squeezing the package, in order to push the filling out through an exit opening or hole in the opposite end. Once the filling has been pushed into the cavity of the roll, then the consumer must pull the remaining package out from the roll. Despite this food product being relatively pre-assembled, the method of removing the package and squeezing the filling into the cavity of the roll as the package is being removed creates an additional step for the consumer in assembling the sandwich, can be difficult to properly execute, and can be messy. Furthermore, the filling is essentially being pushed or squeezed out of the package. 
     SUMMARY 
     A package for segregating two or more component parts that are combined to make a product, the components being separated by a barrier material, and in particular, a food package for segregating ingredients of a multi-component food product, such as components of a sandwich, is provided that allows for the sandwich to be relatively pre-assembled yet substantially segregating the inner sandwich components from each other and from the bread components during storage of the sandwich. The inner sandwich components are segregated by a flexible envelope which substantially encloses the sandwich component during storage, while the overall sandwich, including the outer bread components, are stored in a rigid outer container. The flexible envelope encloses the inner sandwich component, which is placed inside of the bread component, where together these components are then packaged in the rigid outer container. Prior to consumption, a consumer can pull on or apply a force to a protruding end portion of the flexible envelope, or pull tab, which peels apart a rupturable seal of the envelope and exposes the sandwich component to the bread component, and any other sandwich components that may be present and removed from their respective envelopes, thus assembling the sandwich due to the force of gravity acting upon it without requiring the consumer to de-assemble or re-assemble the sandwich. 
     The inner sandwich components are each segregated from each other by their respective flexible envelopes, as well as being segregated from the bread components. As a result, moisture migration and flavor migration can be restricted during storage of the assembled sandwich and the organoleptic properties of the sandwich can be maintained. Additionally, since the overall sandwich is packaged in a rigid outer container, the bread component can be stored without significantly compromising its organoleptic properties, while also packaging the inner sandwich components in their own individual envelopes placed between the bread components. Such packaging technique extends the period of time that the assembled, yet segregated, sandwich can be maintained and stored prior to consumption. Furthermore, a simple, one-step action is required to “open” multiple envelopes, thus exposing the inner sandwich components and creating a sandwich that is ready to be eaten once the rigid outer container is opened. The sandwich is thus fully assembled with minimal preparation steps by the consumer without having significantly compromised organoleptic properties of the sandwich upon storage. 
     The envelope provided to enclose the sandwich components can be sealed on all or substantially all sides with a rupturable seal. The envelope can conform in shape to the food component and/or to the bread component or can have any other shape. The protruding end portion can be a continuation of the envelope or can be affixed to it, such that the protruding end portion extends from the sandwich and rigid outer container. Upon opening the envelope, the pull tab can be pulled such that the trailing edge of the envelope can begin to separate by partially rolling back upon itself. 
     Other envelope embodiments are also possible. In one aspect, the envelope can comprise two pull tabs, one on each opposing end, such that the envelope can be pulled away from the food product. In another aspect, the envelope can comprise a middle, or intermediate layer, to which an upper and lower layer of the envelope are attached. In still another aspect, the pull tab can be laminated to a layer of the envelope and defined by a weakened area that can separate the pull tab from the layer of the envelope upon applying a force to its protruding end. 
     Additionally, the bread component can also have a layer of film that encloses and separates the bread from the other sandwich components. This bread film layer can be attached to flanges of the container. As a result, the envelope layers can either be sealed to the bread film layer itself or at least one layer of the envelope can also be sealed to the flanges. Moreover, the pull tab can be an extension of a film layer attached to the envelope layers and bread layers at a trailing end thereof, such that the pull tab comprises multiple film layers that can be combined to form the pull tab. 
     In another aspect, the protruding end portion of the envelope can be wound around a roller or spool housing with its end free for grasping, such that as the end of the protruding end portion is pulled the spool is rotated thus activating the protruding end portion and applying a force to the layers of the flexible envelope, which initiates the peeling of the seals of the envelope. The discarded layers of the envelope are subsequently wound around the spool as the protruding end portion is continually pulled, such that the discarded layers can be hidden from view and wrapped around the spool. 
     In still another aspect, the protruding end portion of the envelope is wrapped around a spool that has a knob for turning, such that the protruding end portion is not visible to the consumer. In order to apply force to the envelope to peel apart the seals, the knob is rotated axially, such that as the knob is turned the seals of the envelope are also pulled apart and peel to expose the inner sandwich components, and the discarded layers of the envelope are wound around the spool and are hidden from view. 
     In yet another aspect, the protruding end portion of the envelope passes through a secondary compartment within the rigid outer container and an end segment of the protruding end portion extends through an opening in the secondary compartment, where the end segment is to be accessed by the consumer. The end segment of the protruding end portion can be grasped by the consumer and pulled to peel apart the seals of the envelope and expose the inner sandwich components to each other and to the bread. As the envelopes peel, the discarded envelope layers are pulled into the secondary compartment of the outer container and are contained therein and hidden from view. 
     In another aspect, the food package can comprise a unitary compartment of the container that houses a bread component with the sandwich components suspended inside above the bread component on a barrier film layer. The barrier layer can be configured to rupture upon heating such that the segregated sandwich component can then be combined with the bread component. 
     A method of opening the package is provided that allows a one-step action for opening the packaged sandwich components and to obtain a completely assembled sandwich. To open the envelope which encloses the sandwich component to result in a completely assembled sandwich, the consumer can apply a force to the protruding end portion either by pulling on the protruding end portion or by rotating a knob axially that has a portion of the protruding end portion thereon. This pulling or rotating action applies a force to the envelopes, thus peeling apart the seals and separating the layers of the envelope from each other and exposing the sandwich components to the inner components of the sandwich. As the protruding end portion is pulled and the layers of the envelopes are separated, the ruptured layers of the envelope are pulled from between layers of the sandwich and rigid container, allowing all of the inner sandwich components to fall into place, thus resulting in the fully assembled sandwich. The rigid container can then be opened to access the sandwich. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a food package for segregating inner sandwich components of a sandwich within envelopes that are in an unopened state; 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of the food package of  FIG. 1  where the packaged sandwich components are in a partially open state; 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of the food package of  FIG. 1  where the packaged sandwich components are in an open state; 
         FIG. 4  is a cross-sectional side view of the food package of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 5  is a cross-sectional view of the food package of  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 6  is cross-sectional view of the food package of  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 7  is a detailed cross-sectional view of one side of the food package of  FIG. 4  as indicated by the expanded area; 
         FIG. 8  is a detailed cross-sectional view of another side of the food package of  FIG. 4  as indicated by the expanded area; 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of an envelope for enclosing a sandwich component; 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of the envelope of  FIG. 9  as it is being opened; 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view of a second embodiment of an envelope for enclosing a sandwich component; 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of the envelope of  FIG. 11  as it is being opened; 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view of a third embodiment of an envelope for enclosing a sandwich component; 
         FIG. 14  is a cross-sectional view of the envelope of  FIG. 13  taken along line  13 - 13 ; 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of an envelope for enclosing a sandwich component; 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective view of the envelope of  FIG. 15  as it is being opened; 
         FIG. 17A  is a top plan view of a food package including a fifth embodiment of an envelope for enclosing a sandwich component; 
         FIG. 17B  is a cross-sectional view of the fifth embodiment of the envelope of  FIG. 17A  taken along the line  17 B- 17 B, and showing only the top half of the food package; 
         FIG. 17C  is a cross-sectional view of the fifth embodiment of the envelope of  FIG. 17A  taken along the line  17 C- 17 C, and showing only the top half of the food package; 
         FIG. 17D  is a cross-sectional view of the fifth embodiment of the envelope of  FIG. 17A  taken along the line  17 D- 17 D, and showing only the top half of the food package; 
         FIG. 18  is a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of a food package for segregating inner sandwich components of a sandwich within envelopes that are in an unopened state; 
         FIG. 19  is a top elevational view of the food package of  FIG. 18  where the packaged sandwich components are in a partially open state; 
         FIG. 20  is a top elevational view of a third embodiment of a food package for segregating inner sandwich components of a sandwich within envelopes that are in an unopened state; 
         FIG. 21  is a cross-sectional view of the food package of  FIG. 20 ; 
         FIG. 22  is a top elevational view of a fourth embodiment of a food package for segregating inner sandwich components of a sandwich within envelopes that are in an unopened state; 
         FIG. 23  is a cross-sectional view of the food package of  FIG. 22 ; 
         FIG. 24  is a portion of a process line depicting the process of enclosing sandwich components within an envelope; 
         FIG. 25  is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of a food package for segregating inner sandwich components of a sandwich; 
         FIG. 26A  is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of a food package for segregating inner sandwich components of a sandwich before assembling; 
         FIG. 26B  is a perspective view of the package of  FIG. 26A  partially assembled; 
         FIG. 26C  is a perspective view of the package of  FIG. 26A  completely assembled; 
         FIG. 27A  is a cross-sectional view of the food package of  FIG. 26C  taken along the line  27 A- 27 A; and 
         FIG. 27B  is an exploded cross-sectional view of the food package of  FIG. 27A . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     A package for segregating ingredients of a multi-component food product, such as multiple components of a food sandwich, the package having an outer container, that can be rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible, for storing a pair of bread components and one or more flexible envelopes for enclosing a food or sandwich component therebetween, and methods for opening, are disclosed herein and illustrated in  FIGS. 1-25 . In particular, the outer container has at least one compartment and can have a top compartment and a bottom compartment, where one compartment receives one of the pair of bread components of the sandwich and the other compartment receives the other bread component. At least one flexible envelope can be positioned between the bread components to enclose a sandwich component, where one envelope may be used for each sandwich component contained therebetween. Alternatively, more than one sandwich component can be enclosed within the envelope where migration between the components is not an issue. The flexible envelope substantially completely encloses the sandwich component and can be sealed along a rupturable seal. Aspects of the container and its flexible envelopes will be discussed in terms of a sandwich and sandwich components. However, it will be understood that any multi-component food product can be packaged in this way, or any multi-component non-food product. For instance, the outer container of the package can store a first food component and a second food component having one or more flexible envelopes for enclosing an intermediate food component therebetween. 
       FIGS. 1-8  show a first embodiment of a food package having a rigid outer container for storing food components therebetween and having one or more flexible envelopes for enclosing sandwich components.  FIGS. 4-8  show a cross-sectional view of the first embodiment, with  FIGS. 7-8  showing an expanded and more detailed view of the envelope layers.  FIGS. 9-10  show a first embodiment of a flexible envelope having a tapered end and a protruding end portion or pull tab attached to the envelope at the tapered end. The tapered end, or trailing edge, is pulled against when a force is applied to the pull tab and separation of the envelope layers begins at this point.  FIGS. 11-12  show a second embodiment of the envelope where the envelope can have a cut out area with a flap attached to cover the cut out area. The envelope can be pulled on two ends, via a pull tab and a pull strip, such that the pull tab removes the flap from the envelope and the pull strip pulls the remaining envelope away from around the sandwich component. 
       FIGS. 13-14  depict a third embodiment where the envelope comprises three layers, the upper and lower layer with an intermediate layer there between. The upper and lower layers seal directly to the intermediate layer. Each end of the envelope can have a pull tab or strip.  FIGS. 15-16  depict a fourth embodiment of the envelope where the pull tab is laminated to the envelope layers and can be later removed to assist in pulling the layers apart.  FIGS. 17A-D  depict a fifth embodiment of the envelope layers in relation to a compartment layer. 
       FIGS. 18-19  show a second embodiment of the food package where the pull tab is attached to a roller that assists in removing the envelope layers.  FIGS. 20-21  show a third embodiment of the food package where the pull tab is wound about a knob, such that the turning of the knob initiates the peeling of the envelope layers.  FIGS. 22-23  show a fourth embodiment of the food package where the food package has a secondary compartment for retaining the ruptured envelope layers.  FIG. 24  depicts a process line for manufacturing multiple envelopes and enclosing multiple sandwich components in a continuous fashion.  FIG. 25  depicts a fifth embodiment of a food package where the food package comprises a single compartment container that is separated into additional compartments by a barrier layer of film.  FIGS. 26A-C  and  27 A-B depict a sixth embodiment of a food package where the food package comprises multiple compartments separated by film dividers and assembled by folding. The barrier layer of film supports the sandwich component thereon above the bread component, separating the sandwich component and bread component, and the barrier layer can further be configured to rupture upon heating such that the sandwich component can then be combined with the bread component. 
     Turning to  FIGS. 1-3 , a package  10  for segregating food components  22  of a sandwich  20  is shown having a sleeve  24 , a generally rigid outer container  15  and at least one generally flexible envelope  16  therein, and as shown in these figures, at least two generally flexible envelopes  16  therein. The sandwich  20  can comprise a pair of bread components  20   a  and  20   b  having at least one sandwich component  22  substantially enclosed in the envelope  16  and between the bread components  20   a  and  20   b , where the sandwich component  22  can comprise any topping, garnish or filling that is typically found in a sandwich. The rigid outer container  15  can have a top compartment  12  for receiving one of the pair of bread components  20   a  and a bottom compartment  14  for receiving the other of the pair of bread components  20   b . Alternatively, where the sandwich only has one bread component, such as with a pizza or flatbread sandwich, the outer container can have a compartment for receiving the one bread component therein. The term “rigid” is used herein to indicate that the compartments  12  and  14  have the ability to retain their respective shapes during normal handling, and preferably, can comprise a rigid plastic material. The term “flexible” is used herein to indicate a pliable and workable material, such as a polymer material. The term “sandwich” is used herein to indicate any assembled multi-component food product such as a sandwich, a flatbread sandwich (i.e., a one-bread sandwich), a burger, a wrap, a pizza, and the like, in which a farinaceous outer food component encloses or contains an inner food component, where the inner food component can include a food used as a topping. The term “bread component” is used herein to indicate any farinaceous food component. Alternatively, a non-food component may also be packaged in such a container where it is desirable to separate the components from each other. 
     In  FIGS. 1 and 4 , the package  10  is depicted during storage of the sandwich  20  prior to opening. The sandwich can comprise a bun crown or upper bread component  20   a  placed in the top compartment  12  of the rigid outer container  15  and a bun heel or lower bread component  20   b  placed in the bottom compartment  14 . As shown in the figures herein, there are at least two sandwich components  22  between the pair of bread components  20   a  and  20   b , such as a meat and cheese component, or any other desired sandwich garnishment; alternatively, there can be more or less sandwich components. 
     The flexible envelope  16  is positioned between the pair of bread components  20   a  and  20   b  and can completely enclose or partially enclose at least one sandwich component  22  effectively providing a barrier layer between the inner components. Preferably, a single flexible envelope  16  is used per single sandwich component  22 . Therefore, if there are multiple sandwich components  22  then there will equally be a multiple number of flexible envelopes  16 , one for each component  22 . Alternatively, it may also be possible for a single flexible envelope  16  to enclose multiple sandwich components  22  where the sandwich components are the same or where moisture migration is not an issue, and several such combination envelopes can be provided or may be combined within the sandwich together with one or more single-component envelopes. 
     The flexible envelope  16  may be any shape and size such that it adequately conforms to the shape of the sandwich component  22 , and/or conforms to the shape of the bread components  20   a  and  20   b , and adequately encloses the sandwich component  22 . The envelope  16  can be rectangular and sized as long and as wide as the bread components  20   a  and  20   b . Preferably, the envelope  16  will have a point or taper at one end to which a pull tab film layer can be integral or adhered to, as will be discussed herein. The flexible envelope  16  may be sealed, or closed, on all four sides or peripheral edge portions  30  of the envelope  16 , as shown in  FIG. 9 , such that it completely encloses the sandwich component  22 . In the envelope  16  shown in  FIGS. 9-10 , one side portion or peripheral edge portion  30  can be folded while the remaining sides can be sealed at their respective peripheral edge portions  30  by a rupturable seal  28 . Alternatively, the envelope  16  can be sealed on all four edge portions  30 , or can be sealed on at least one edge portion  30  but less than all side edge portions  30 . 
     The rupturable seal  28  is formed along the edge portions  30  such that upon applying a force to the envelope  16 , the seals  28  separate or peel apart, effectively pulling the layers of the envelope  16  apart initially at the point or edge  31  furthest from the pull force such that the layers  16   a  and  16   b  begin to peel and roll back onto themselves, exposing the sandwich component  22  to the rest of the sandwich  20 , as shown in  FIG. 10 . As the pull tab  18  is pulled in the direction of arrows A, the upper layer  16   a  and lower layer  16   b  begin to separate along the trailing edge  31  at its rupturable seal  28  thereat. Although the free end of the pull tab  18  is located adjacent the leading edge  32 , as the pull tab  18  is pulled it begins to separate the layers at the trailing edge  31  first rather than at the leading edge  32 , as depicted by arrows C. A peeling rather than a sliding motion may take place upon opening the envelope  16 , i.e., rupturing the seals  28 , or a combination of a peeling and a sliding motion, which can reduce the forces needed for removal of the layers to a practical level as compared to solely sliding the envelope layers apart from one another. It is believed that the peeling action imparts a force across a line rather than an area, and the separation of the layers is accomplished by tensile failure of the adhesive bond between the sandwich components  22  (i.e., cheese, meat, etc.) and the packaging film. 
     The rupturable seal  28  can be strong enough such that the edges of the envelope  16  remain sealed while the sandwich is unopened yet the seals  28  peel apart upon applying a force to the envelope when pulling on a protruding end portion  18 , or pull tab feature. A protruding end portion  18  can be positioned at any edge portion  30  of the envelope  16 , such that it is anchored and affixed to one end  31  of the envelope  16  while its end can extend across the envelope  16  to extend past an opposite edge  32  of the envelope  16  from the anchor point to provide the pull tab end  18  for pulling. The end  31  of the envelope  16  to which the pull tab  18  is affixed can become the initiating point for the peel or where the seals initially peel. The protruding edge portion  18 , or tab that extends beyond the edge of the envelope  16 , can be pulled to apply the force needed to peel apart the envelopes  16  and peel the respective layers apart in a “rolling” peel motion. Furthermore, the protruding end portion  18  may be made up of multiple layers that can combine to form a common pull tab, or protruding end portion  18 . 
     The flexible envelope  16  substantially completely encloses the sandwich component  22 , such that it envelops the sandwich component  22  on substantially all sides, as shown in  FIGS. 9-12 . The flexible envelope  16  can have an upper layer  16   a  and a lower layer  16   b  that are sealed to each other along their respective peripheral edge portions  30  by a rupturable seal  28 , e.g., a heat seal, or have at least one folded edge thereat. The flexible envelope  16  may comprise a single sheet, or single layer, folded to create an upper layer  16   a  and a lower layer  16   b , such that the single sheet can be sealed to itself along at least one edge portion  30  of the upper layer  16   a  and lower layer  16   b , and preferably along all edge portions  30  except the folded edge portion  32 . Alternatively, the flexible envelope  16  may comprise two individual sheets or layers that are sealed to each other along substantially all peripheral edge portions  30 , and does not contain a folded edge portion. 
     In another aspect of the envelope, an upper and lower film layer  16   a ′ and  16   b ′ can be provided with a cutout area  34  in both layers, as shown in  FIGS. 11-12 . The cutout area  34  allows for extracting the sandwich component  22  therein from the envelope  16 ′ by pulling upon a pull strip  64  to remove the envelope  16 ′ from around the sandwich component  22 . The opening  34  can be formed a number of different ways such as utilizing two separate layers or sheets and leaving one edge portion  30  substantially unsealed, or by providing a single sheet that is folded and either the folded edge  32  has a portion cut out of it to create an opening  34  or the opposite edge from the fold is not sealed, or any other similar embodiment. Additionally, an upper flap  36   a  and lower flap  36   b  can be attached over the cutout area  34 , as shown in  FIG. 11 , and can further comprise narrow peelable seal areas along where the flaps  36   a  and  36   b  intersect the envelope layers  16   a ′ and  16   b ′. A protruding end portion  18 ′, or pull tab, can be affixed to a portion of the flaps  36   a  and  36   b  or can be an extension of the flap  36 , such that a protruding end portion  18  can extend from each flap  36   a  and  36   b , allowing the flaps  36   a  and  36   b  to be peeled off of the envelope  16 ′ using a rolling peel action, when the pull tabs  18   a ′ and  18   b ′ are pulled. 
     Substantially simultaneously to the pulling of the pull tabs  18   a  and  18   b  to remove the flaps  36   a  and  36   b , the opposite end  31  of the envelope  16 ′ can also be pulled. Preferably, the opposite trailing end  31  can also have a protruding strip  64  for grasping or a pull strip  64 . As both ends are pulled, relatively simultaneously, the upper and lower flaps  36   a  and  36   b  can roll and slide upon themselves to peel off to expose the cutout area  34  and the sandwich component  22  therein, while the pull strip  64  is also pulled to remove the remaining envelope layers  16 ′ from around the sandwich component  22 , which is extracted through the opening  34  relatively simultaneously. Where there are multiple sandwich components  22 , there can also be multiple envelopes  16 ′ used. When multiple envelopes  16 ′ are included, the pull tabs  18 ′ from each flap  36  can all be grouped together on one side; likewise the pull strips  64  from the opposite end  31  of each envelope  16 ′ can also all be grouped together on one-side to be grasped and pulled relatively simultaneously. In yet another aspect, the protruding end portions  18 ′ may be of varying lengths to initiate a substantially sequential peel action, which can minimize the peel force. Once the flaps  36  are removed from the envelope  16 ′, the envelope  16 ′ can be withdrawn from around the sandwich component  22  and the sandwich component  22  can be removed through the opening  34 . 
     The protruding end portion  18  can be an extension of the flexible envelope  16 , such as an extension of one of the sheets  16   a  or  16   b  of the envelope  16 , or it can be a separate piece that can be affixed to an edge portion  30  of the envelope  16 . The protruding end portion  18  can further comprise a single layer attached to the end portion  30  of the envelope  16  or it can comprise an extension of the multiple layers of the envelopes  16  sealed together to form a single unit, or any other similar variation of a single or multiple layered end portion  18 . When there are multiple envelopes  16  placed in between the sandwich components  22 , each of the multiple envelopes  16  can be connected to a single common protruding end portion  18 , thus applying a pulling force to the protruding end portion  18  applies a force to all of the envelope seals  28 , peeling apart the envelopes  16  substantially simultaneously. 
     In one aspect, a separate layer of film  62  that can extend into the protruding end portion  18  can be attached to at least a layer of the envelope  16   a  or  16   b , such that a first pull tab film layer  62   a  can be attached to the upper layer  16   a  and a second pull tab film layer  62   b  can be attached to a lower layer  16   b . Alternatively, as shown in  FIGS. 7 and 8 , the pull tab film layers  62   a  and  62   b  can be extensions of their respective envelope layer. For example, each envelope  16  that comprises an upper  16   a  and a lower layer  16   b  can also have two pull tab film layers  62   a  and  62   b , a first layer  62   a  and a second layer  62   b , where the first pull tab film layer  62   a  is an extension of the film of the upper layer  16   a  and the second pull tab film layer  62   b  is an extension of the film of the lower layer  16   b , thus the pull tab film layers  62   a  and  62   b  can loop back across their respective envelope layer  16   a  or  16   b  at the trailing edge of the envelope  16 . The free end of the pull tab film layers  62   a  and  62   b  can protrude out from the sandwich  20  and container  15 , and form a part of the protruding end portion  18 , where the protruding end portion  18  can essentially be made up of multiple film layers that extend into the pull tab  18 . Furthermore, it is preferable that the first pull tab film layer  62   a  and second pull tab film layer  62   b  originate at least at the trailing end  31  of the envelope  16  that is farthest, e.g., opposite, from the protruding end portion  18 , such that when the protruding end portion  18  is grasped and pulled the rupturable seal  28  of the envelope  16  begins to separate and break at the trailing end  31  opposite the protruding end portion  18 , where the pull tab film layers  62   a  and  62   b  are affixed to the envelope layer, or originate therefrom. This can create a rolling peel motion, where the envelope  16  is separated along its seals  28  in a sequential motion starting at the farthest end  31  of the envelope  16  (e.g., where the first pull tab layer  62   a  and second pull tab layer  62   b  of the protruding end  18  are attached or originate from) and continuing along its side edges  30  to its end  32  closest to the protruding end portion  18 . 
     In another aspect, the end  31  of the envelope  16  furthest from the protruding end portion  18  can be tapered or pointed, as shown in  FIG. 9 , such that the area of rupture or peeling for that seal has a small surface area. This aspect allows for a smaller area of resistance when pulling, thus the seal at the tapered end  31  can peel apart with less force. It is preferable that the seal area at the farthest edge  31  is not wider than the width of the pull tab layer of film of the protruding end  18 , to allow for an easier initial peeling of the envelope  16 . This method of a rolling peel essentially rolls the envelope layers  16   a  and  16   b  away from the sandwich component  22  inside, rolling the layers of film  16   a  and  16   b  back upon itself. That is, the layers  16   a  and  16   b  are not being pulled out as much as they are being “rolled” away, such that the layers  16   a  and  16   b  are not sliding over the sandwich component  22 . 
     When the envelope  16  is placed in the sandwich  20  between the bread components  20   a  and  20   b , the protruding end portion  18  can extend outwardly from between the bread components  20   a  and  20   b  such that the protruding end portion  18  is external to the sandwich  20 . As the sandwich  20  is placed in the rigid container  15 , where the upper bread component  20   a  is contained in the top compartment  12  and the lower bread component  20   b  is contained in the bottom compartment  14 , and the top and bottom compartments  12  and  14  are assembled in a closed configuration around the sandwich  20 , the protruding end portion  18  can further extend through an opening in the rigid outer container  15  generally positioned between the top compartment  12  and the bottom compartment  14 . The protruding end portion  18  can be grasped and pulled in an effort to apply a force to the flexible envelopes  16  to separate the envelopes  16  along their rupturable seals  28  about a peripheral edge portion  30  of the envelopes  16 . Where the flexible envelope  16  is sealed on substantially all sides of the envelope  16  along its peripheral edge portion  30 , it peels along substantially all peripheral edge portions  30 . Where the envelope  16  is of the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 11 and 12 , upon opening the envelope  16 ′ the sandwich component  22  can pass through the opening created by the cutout area  34  upon relatively simultaneously pulling the protruding end portion  18 ′ and the pull strip  64  extending from the opposite side  31 , thus extracting the envelope  16 ′ from the sandwich  20 , rather than requiring separation of the envelope  16 ′ rupturable layers; although the envelope  16 ′ can also peel along its seals  28 . 
     Furthermore, as the envelope  16  peels apart and separates into its layers, e.g., its upper layer  16   a  and lower layer  16   b , these ruptured layers  16   a  and  16   b  can be extracted from between the bread components  20   a  and  20   b , and can further be extracted through the opening between the top compartment  12  and the bottom compartment  14  through which a portion of the protruding end portion  18  already extends. As the ruptured layers  16   a  and  16   b  are separated and removed from around their respective sandwich component  22 , the sandwich component  22  therein remains inside the sandwich  20  between the bread components  20   a  and  20   b , due to the force of gravity acting upon it. As the ruptured layers  16   a  and  16   b  are rolled away from the sandwich component  22 , the sandwich component  22  “drops” into place between the adjacent bread component(s)  20   a  and  20   b  and/or adjacent sandwich component  22 . Due to the rolling and peeling action of the ruptured layers  16   a  and  16   b , sticking of the layers  16   a  and  16   b  to the sandwich component  22  and pulling on the sandwich component  22  can be minimized. This can advantageously reduce buckling or bulging of the sandwich component  22  during removal of the envelope  16 , as well as sliding, but rather can remain positioned essentially between the two bread components  20   a  and  20   b.    
     In yet another aspect, as shown in  FIGS. 7 and 8 , an additional film layer  60  can be positioned adjacent the envelopes  16  to enclose one or both of the bread components  20   a  and  20   b  in their respective compartment  12  or  14 . For instance, a compartment film layer  60   a , or a bread film layer  60   a , that encloses the top bread component  20   a  within the top compartment  12  can extend across the opening of the top compartment  12  and can be sealed to the outer flanges  121  of the top compartment  12 . In order for the bread film layer  60  to be removed by peeling the seals between the film layer  60  and the outer flanges  121  or  141 , a protruding end portion film layer or pull tab film layer  62   c  can also be attached. In this aspect, the pull tab film layer  62   c  can be an extension of the bread film layer  60 , such that it loops back across the bread film layer  60  at an end opposite the protruding end portion  18  or pull tab, i.e., the trailing end. This arrangement of the pull tab film layer  62   c  similarly provides for a rolling peel action of the bread film layer  60  upon opening, i.e., upon applying a force to the protruding end portion pull tab  18 , such that the bread film layer  60  rolls or peels away from the bread  20   a  or  20   b  leaving the bread  20   a  or  20   b  and adjacent components  22  relatively undisturbed. Alternatively, the pull tab film layer  62   c  can be a separate layer attached to the trailing end of the bread film layer  60 . A bread film layer  60   b  can similarly be provided to the opposite bread component  20   b  and opposite compartment  14 , such that both bread components  20   a  and  20   b  can be sealed within their respective compartments  12  and  14 . 
     In still another aspect where at least one envelope  16  is provided, one of the layers  16   a  or  16   b  of the envelope  16  can be attached to the flange  121  or  141  of one of the compartments  12  or  14  as shown in  FIG. 7 . In one aspect, at least two envelopes  16  can be provided, where one of the envelopes  16  can be attached to the flange  121  of the top compartment  12 , just beyond the film  60  that seals to the flange  121  for enclosing the bread  20   a , by heat-sealing on the leading edge and sides of that envelope  16 . Additionally, the other envelope  16  can be attached to the bottom compartment  14  in a similar manner. One of the two layers  16   a  and  16   b  of the envelope can extend beyond the perimeter of the other and this longer envelope layer can seal to the flange  121  or  141  of the compartment  12  or  14  while the other layer seals to the longer layer. For example, where the upper layer  16   a  is adjacent the top compartment  12  and the lower layer  16   b  is adjacent the inside of the sandwich  20 , or the bottom compartment  14 , the lower layer  16   b  can extend beyond the edges of the upper layer  16   a  and can seal to the flange  121  of the top compartment  12  just beyond the sealed edges of the bread film layer  60 , if used. The upper layer  16   a  would then seal along its edges to the lower layer  16   b  but within the perimeter of the top compartment  12 . Similarly, a layer of the second envelope  16  can be sealed to the flange  141  of the bottom compartment  14 , i.e., the upper layer  16   a  of the second envelope  16  would be sealed to the flange  141 , with the lower layer  16   b  of the second envelope  16  being sealed to the upper layer  16   a.    
     The attachment of the envelopes  16  can be in such a way that the envelopes  16  can be peeled open using a pull tab  18  that also relatively simultaneously or relatively sequentially peels the bread film layer  60  from its compartment  12  or  14  to expose the bread  20   a  and  20   b . The envelopes  16  can also be peeled away from the flanges  121  or  141  of the compartments  12  and  14  using the pull tabs  18 , however, the peeling of the film layer from the flanges  121  or  141  can lag the other layers slightly. For example, each envelope  16  or bread film layer  60  can have its own pull tab film layer  62  which can be attached to its respective film, or an extension thereof at least at one end, thus extending across the envelope  16  or bread film layer  60  to the opposite end to a common protruding tab  18 , formed of the multiple film layers  62 . The lower layer  16   b , which is sealed to the flange  121  can have a pull tab film layer  62   b  affixed to the lower layer  16   b  or an extension of the lower layer  16   b  as shown in  FIG. 7 , at least at one end, such as the trailing end, and can extend between the lower layer  16   b  and the second envelope, if present. Similarly, the bread film layer  60  can also have a pull tab film layer  62   c  extending from the bread film layer  60  at its trailing end and extending across the bread film layer  60 , between the pull tab film layer  62   a  of the upper layer  16   a  and the bread film layer  60 . The upper layer  16   a  can have a pull tab film layer  62   a  as in previous embodiments. 
     The pull tab film layers  62   a - 62   c  can be grouped together on the same side, opposite their attachment point, and can be combined into a common protruding end tab  18 . The lengths of the pull tab film layers  62   a - 62   c  and their position are such that the initiation of peeling each layer can be slightly staggered. For example, where the lower layer  16   b  is attached to the flange  121 , upon pulling the pull tab  18  the upper layer  16   a  and the bread film layer  60  can begin to peel relatively simultaneously while the lower layer  16   b  can begin to peel last. This is so the upper layer  16   a  has a surface against which it can be pulled, in this instance it is the lower layer  16   b . Therefore, the lower layer  16   b  can remain intact at least initially to allow the upper layer  16   a  to begin separating from the lower layer  16   b . Likewise, it can be desirable to also begin peeling away the bread film layer  60  before the last envelope layer, in this case the lower layer  16   b , so that the sandwich component  22  inside the envelope  16  does not catch or get stuck to the bread film layer  60 , such that it would peel away with the bread film layer  60 . Additionally, a portion of the lower layer  16   b  may not be sealed completely to the flange  121  at the leading edge, (i.e., edge near protruding ends  18 ) such that the pull tab film layers  62   a  and  62   c  of the upper layer  16   a  and bread film layer  60 , respectively can pass through an opening in the film layers, such as between the lower layer  16   b  and the bread film layer  60 , to allow the pull tab film layers  62   a  and  62   c  to extend into the common pull tab  18 , as seen in  FIG. 8 . 
     Delaying the peeling of the envelope films from its respective compartment flange  121  or  141  can allow the envelopes  16  to be peeled open without the need of support frames, thus simplifying the design and reducing packaging material. The pull tab  18  can comprise multiple layers of pull tabs from each layer of film that can be bonded together at their ends to form one common pull tab  18  to allow opening all component compartments and envelopes  16  substantially simultaneously or such that the initial peel can be slightly staggered with a simple, single pulling action. Since the film layers are peeled using a rolling action, all the food components  22  can remain relatively undisturbed from their original position, thus resulting in a neatly stacked assembly within the container  15 . 
     In yet another aspect, the envelope  16  can be sealed to the bread film layer  60  itself, or rather at least one of the envelope layers  16   a  or  16   b  can be sealed to a portion of the bread film layer  60 , as shown in  FIGS. 17A-D . For example, an envelope  16  having its upper layer  16   a  adjacent the bread film layer  60 , can be sealed to the lower layer  16   b  along its edges to form the envelope  16  with rupturable seals  28  therebetween, as in previous embodiments. However, the lower layer  16   b  can then be sealed to a portion of the bread film layer  60  at least along a portion of its edges thereof, as shown in  FIG. 17A . All layers  16   a ,  16   b  and  60  can have a common protruding end portion  18  or pull tab formed from multiple pull tab film layers  62   a - 62   c , respectively, that originate from a trailing edge  131  that is opposite the pull direction E, however, each envelope film layer  16   a  or  16   b  or bread layer  60  in this aspect can peel at different times. This is because of the way the pull tab film layers  62   a - 62   c  are positioned, such that pulling on their common pull tab  18  will begin a sequential peel. 
     As shown in  FIG. 17A , the bread film layer  60  is sealed to the flange  121  of the rigid container  15 . In this aspect, the top compartment  12  is illustrated, however, a similar arrangement can be shown with the bottom compartment  14  and its bottom flange  141 . The flange  121  is defined as the area between the outer edge  64  of the container  15  and the intersection of an upper extension of the top compartment  12  with the beginning of a horizontal section of the container  15 , as designated by a circular edge  66 . 
     The lower layer  16   b  is sealed to the bread film layer  60  at a peripheral edge of the bread film layer  60  such that a peripheral edge of the lower layer  16   b  extends into the area of the flange  121 , just beyond the circular edge  66 . Furthermore, the lower layer  16   b  may not be completely sealed to the bread film layer  60  about its perimeter. For instance, as illustrated in  FIG. 17B , the lower layer  16   b  can contain portions along its perimeter that are unsealed to the bread film layer  60 . In one aspect, a section of an edge  68  of the lower layer  16   b  that is adjacent the pull tab film layer  62   c  of the bread film layer  60  can remain unsealed to the bread film layer  60  to allow the pull tab film layer  62   c  to loop away from the bread film layer  60  and extend between the bread film layer  60  and the upper layer  16   a  of the envelope  16  through an opening created by the unsealed area  68 . The unsealed section  68  can be as wide as the pull tab film layer  62   c  such that the pull tab film layer  62   c  can loop through the opening created by the unsealed area  68 , as shown in  FIG. 17B , however, the unsealed area  68  may also be wider. In another aspect, the lower layer  16   b  can also remain unsealed to the bread film layer  60  at the leading edge  32  of the container  15 , to allow for the pull tab film layers  62   a  and  62   c  to extend into the space  140  between the lower layer  16   b  and the bread film layer  60  and past the leading edge  32  and into the common pull tab  18 . The remaining perimeter edge portion of the lower layer  16   b  can be sealed to the periphery of the bread film layer  60 , as shown in  FIGS. 17C and 17D , including a portion of the perimeter of the lower layer  16   b  at the trailing end  131  that is not immediately adjacent the pull tab film layer  62   c .  FIGS. 17A-D  illustrate only the top half (i.e., top compartment  12 ) of the food package, however a similar arrangement can also be provided on the bottom half (i.e., bottom compartment  14 ) of the food package. 
     The sequential peel of the film layers  16   a ,  16   b  and  60  can be initiated by pulling on the common pull tab  18  which can begin peeling the film layers  16   a ,  16   b  and  60  at different times. For example, in the aspect shown in  FIGS. 17A-D , the first seal to peel and to begin the rolling peel process can be the upper layer  16   a . The upper layer  16   a  can begin to peel first, such that it can use the lower layer  16   b  to peel against and away from. This is followed by the lower layer  16   b  beginning to peel after the upper layer  16   a  has started to peel. Similarly, this layer  16   b  can use the bread film layer  60  as an anchor against which to begin peeling. Lastly the bread film layer  60  can peel away from the flange  121 . The bread film layer  60  can also use the flange  121  as an anchor against which it can peel away from. 
     The pull tab film layers  62   a - 62   c  can each be attached to their respective layer  16   a ,  16   b  or  60 , as previously discussed, either as a separate film layer or as an extension of the envelope  16  or bread layer  60  that loops away from and across its layer. The pull tab film layers  62   a ,  62   b  and  62   c  can all loop back away from their respective layers and extend adjacent and across their respective layers  16   a ,  16   b  and  60  and into the common pull tab  18 . Therefore, in one aspect, the pull tab film layer  62   c  of the bread film layer  60  can also loop away from its respective layer  60  to extend adjacent and across the bread film layer  60 , and further extending between the upper layer  16   a  and the bread film layer  60  to exit at the leading edge  32  and into the common pull tab  18 . Likewise, the pull tab film layer  62   a  can also loop away from its respective layer  16   a  to extend adjacent and across the upper layer  16   a , extending between the upper layer  16   a  and the bread film layer  60  to exit at the leading edge  32  of the package and into the common pull tab  18 . Similarly, the pull tab film layer  62   b  of the lower layer  16   b  can also loop away from its respective layer  16   b  to extend adjacent to and across the lower layer  16   b  and into the common pull tab  18 . 
     In still another aspect, a pull tab  181  can be built into an outer surface of one of the envelope layers  1116   a  or  1116   b , as shown in  FIGS. 15 and 16 , such that substantially one contiguous piece can be manufactured having a stub portion  66  extending past one edge  32  of the envelope  1116 . This stub portion  66  can be a short pull tab or can be a long protruding pull tab. The outline of the pull tab  181  can be pre-cut into an upper surface of one of the layers  1116   a  or  1116   b  of the envelope  1116 , such as by pre-scoring the pull tab  181  into the outer surface of the envelope layer  1116   a  or  1116   b  with the stub portion  66  at the end of it. For example, the outer surface of the upper layer  1116   a  can be pre-scored with the shape of the pull tab  181 , having the stub portion  66  extend past the edge  32  of the envelope  1116  at one end of the pull tab  181 . The outer surface of the upper layer  1116   a , or lower layer  1116   b , can be laminated onto another single layer or another multiple layered film, such that the layer of film with the pre-scored pull tab  181  can be adhered to the single or multi-layered film using a permanent adhesive along its back surface in all areas except for where the pre-scored pull tab  181  is located. 
     The stub portion  66  can comprise an extension of the layer of film  1116   a  with the pre-scored pull tab  181  adhered to the single or multi-layered film, and further can also be adhered to the additional layer or layers of film via a permanent adhesive so that when it is pulled it stays together. For example, where the pre-scored pull tab  181  is on the upper layer  1116   a , then the upper layer  1116   a  can be adhered with the permanent adhesive along its back surface to another layer, except where the pre-scored pull tab  181  is located, to collectively make up the final upper layer  1116   a ; the lower layer  1116   b  may or may not also comprise a multi-layer with a pre-scored pull tab  181 . Therefore, when the stub portion  66  is grasped and pulled it peels together all the way to point “X”, which is slightly before the edge  32  of the envelope  1116 , at which point only the top layer of film without permanent adhesive, e.g., the pre-scored pull tab  181 , continues to tear off the upper layer  1116   a , until it reaches the trailing edge  31 , where it remains attached, thus forming a longer pull tab portion for pulling apart the envelope  1116  at its rupturable seals  28 . Alternatively, the stub portion  66  can be combined with a common pull tab  18  such that the pull tab  18  is pulled to remove the pre-scored pull tab  181  from its respective film layer as well as peel apart the seals  28  between the envelope layers. Utilizing the pull tab  18  in this manner can be effective since it is believed that the pre-scored pull tab  181  is held in place against its respective film layer by static energy rather than a strong physical bond. If the other layer, e.g., the lower layer  1116   b  in this aspect, does not contain a pre-scored pull tab  181 , then it would be advantageous for it to at least comprise a pull tab film layer  62  as previously discussed. 
     In order to activate the opening of the envelope  1116  by peeling its seals  28 , the pre-scored pull tab  181  needs to be separated from the upper layer  1116   a  first, as shown in  FIG. 16 . To remove the pull tab  181  from the upper layer  1116   a , its stub portion  66  can be grasped or its pull tab  18  attached to the stub portion  66  pulled. Once the stub portion  66  or pull tab  18  is pulled to where it intersects the edge  32  of the envelope  1116 , e.g., at point X, the pre-scored pull tab  181  can begin to tear and to remove the pull tab  181  from the upper layer  1116   a , since the pre-scored pull tab  181  does not contain any permanent adhesive along its backside. Once the pull tab  181  is pulled across the upper layer  1116   a , it terminates at an edge  31  opposite the starting point of the stub portion  66 , where the pull tab  181  remains connected to the upper layer  1116   a . Once the pre-scored pull tab  181  is freed from its layer  1116   a , then it can be pulled in direction of arrow A to initiate the peeling of the seals  28  of the envelope  1116  along arrows C, as depicted in  FIG. 16 . The pull tab layer  181  can comprise an O-polyester (OPET) layer or any other single or multilayer film. The pull tab layer can be adhered to a coextruded ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH)/ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) layer or another polyester layer laminated to a coextruded EVOH/EVA, or any other coextruded or laminated plastic. Alternatively, the lower layer  1116   b  can include the pre-scored pull tab  181  of the envelope  1116 , or still alternatively, both the upper layer  1116   a  and the lower layer  1116   b  can include the pre-scored pull tab  181 . 
     In another aspect of the envelope  16 , where a large number of envelopes need to be manufactured it may be easier to manufacture multiple, connected envelopes  16 , rather than individual envelopes  16 , as shown in  FIG. 24 . For example, a common web of film can be used for the lower layer  166   b  that can receive thereon multiple sandwich components  22  that are then sealed with multiple, narrow upper layers  16   a  while being advanced in a machine direction, M. For instance, the narrow upper layer  16   a  can be only as wide as the food or other components  22  that are to be stored therein plus the width of the rupturable seals  28 . The lower layer  166   b  can be wide enough to seal a desired number of upper layers  16   a  thereto, thus where, for example, it is desired to manufacture three envelopes  16  at a time, at least three adjacent rows of upper layer films  16   a  can be required, which can be supported by the lower layer  166   b . The upper layers  16   a  can be sealed to the lower layer  166   b  along rupturable seals  28  and can then be cut out, or separated, to form a single envelope  16  enclosing the sandwich component  22 . When the multiple envelopes  16  are cut or separated they can be cut such that the lower layer  166   b  is larger or wider than the upper layer  16   a , at least along side edges thereof. For example, the lower layer  166   b  can be cut around the sealed upper layer  16   a  such that the lower layer  166   b  extends beyond the perimeter of the side edges of the upper layer  16   a . This is so that the larger lower layer  166   b  can be sealed to the bread film layer  60  when placed in the sandwich  20  and container  15 , or alternatively can be sealed to the flanges of the container  15 . Protruding end portion layers  18  similar to earlier aspects can be employed for opening the envelopes  16 . For instance, the sealed envelopes  16  can have a pull tab film layer  62  attached to both the upper layer  16   a  and lower layer  16   b . Alternatively, a knob or flap can be cut into the film to later attach a pull tab film layer  62  thereto. Still alternatively, a pre-scored pull tab  181  could be incorporated. 
     In another similar aspect, the upper layer  166   a  (not shown) may also comprise a single common layer of film wide enough to cover all of the components  22  and to cover the lower layer  166   b . For instance, three separate sandwich components  22  can be sealed separately using a common upper layer  166   a  as well as a common lower layer  166   b , where the upper layer  166   a  is a strip long enough to cover and seal all sandwich components  22  into individual envelopes  16 , and subsequently multiple sealed pouches or envelopes  16  can result, which can then be separated into individual envelopes  16 . Alternatively, the upper layer  166   a  comprises the wide common layer of film to which multiple lower layers  16   b  seal to form multiple envelopes along the upper layer  16   a.    
     In another aspect, the upper and lower layers  116   a  and  116   b  can be laminated, employing narrow seal areas, to an intermediate  70 , or middle, layer to fully enclose the sandwich component  22  in a readily peelable envelope  116 . This three layer envelope  116  can be referred to as a “framed” envelope, and can be seen in  FIGS. 13 and 14 . The intermediate layer  70  can comprise a thin and narrow edge portion, such that the film only partially extends around the perimeter of the sandwich component  22  having a hole or hollow center therein, such as a U-shape. Having the intermediate layer extend only partially around the sandwich component  22  allows for at least a portion of the sandwich component  22  to be unbound by the intermediate layer  70 , thus making extraction of the sandwich component  22  easier through this open end in the intermediate layer  70 . Alternatively, the intermediate layer  70  can extend all the way around the perimeter of the sandwich component  22 . At least a portion of the upper and lower layers  116   a  and  116   b  thus can be sealed at their respective edges to the edges of the intermediate layer  70 , thus forming an envelope  116  with the intermediate layer  70  therebetween. Where there is a break in the intermediate layer  70 , the upper layer  16   a  and lower layer  16   b  can seal to each other. The upper and lower layers  116   a  and  116   b  can have pull tabs  18  (or pull tab film layers  62 ) that are folded over in such a way that those layers  116   a  and  116   b  can be peeled off of the intermediate layer  70 , and each other where necessary, by grasping the common pull tab  18  in one hand and an intermediate pull strip  72  attached to the intermediate layer  70  in the other and pulling in opposing directions. The upper and lower layers  116   a  and  116   b  roll and slide upon themselves and can peel off to fully expose the sandwich component  22  contained therein, as the intermediate layer  70  can be slid away from around the sandwich component  22 . Where multiple framed envelopes  116  are used, all pull strips  72  can be grouped together on one side, and all pull tabs  18  can be grouped together on the other side into their respective common pull tab  18  and pull strip  72 . When the strips  72  and tabs  18  are pulled substantially simultaneously all the sandwich components  22  can be released and stacked neatly upon each other. 
     Where the container  15  is additionally packaged inside a sleeve  24 , as in  FIGS. 1-6 , the sleeve  24  can also have a slot or opening to allow passage of a tail or end segment  38  of the protruding end portion  18 . Preferably, the slot in the sleeve  24  would be sized such that only the protruding end portion  18  can pass through it, while preventing the ruptured layers  16   a  and  16   b  of the envelope  16  to also pass through. This can be due to the fact that the ruptured layers  16   a  and  16   b  of the envelope  16  are sized wider than the slot in the sleeve  24 , while the protruding end portion  18  is sized narrow enough to pass through the slot. In this aspect, the sleeve  24  can retain the ruptured layers  16   a  and  16   b  inside of the sleeve  24  and relatively out of view. 
     In another embodiment of the package  100 , as shown in  FIGS. 18 and 19 , the protruding end portion  118  can be provided with a tab or ring  128  at an end segment  138  thereof, that can be grasped by the consumer and pulled in order to apply a force to the protruding end portion  118  and, resultantly, to the flexible envelopes  16  attached thereto. The protruding end portion  118  can be positioned similarly to the previous embodiment, such that a portion of the protruding end portion  118  passes through an opening in the rigid container  115 , or preferably between the top compartment  12  and the bottom compartment  14 . The protruding end portion  118  can be a polyester film or string. However, the remaining portion of the protruding end portion  118  that is external to the rigid container  115  can be wrapped around a spool or roller  130  that can be mounted to the container  115 , and an end segment  138  of the protruding end portion  118  can extend from the roller  130 , unwrapped, and containing the tab  128 . As the protruding end portion  118  is pulled in the direction of arrow A, the roller  130  is activated and rotated, such that the protruding end portion  118  that is wrapped around the roller  130  unwinds and extends along the package  100 , as in  FIG. 19 . 
     As the protruding end portion  118  is pulled, the flexible envelopes  16  inside the sandwich are separated and peeled along their respective rupturable seals  28 , thus separating into the layers  16   a  and  16   b  of the envelope  16 . The flexible envelope layers  16   a  and  16   b  can then be pulled through the same opening that the protruding end portion  118  extends through and can further be pulled towards and around the roller  130 , as the protruding end portion  118  is continually being pulled. The layers  16   a  and  16   b  can also be wrapped around the roller  130  after being pulled through the opening in the rigid container  115 . As a result, the layers  16   a  and  16   b  of the envelopes  16  are not left loosely outside of the rigid container  115 , but rather are collected neatly about the roller  130 . After the ruptured envelopes  16  have been separated and removed from the sandwich  20  and container  115 , the container  115  can be opened to remove the ready-to-eat sandwich  20 . To open the container  115 , the top compartment  12  can be separated from the bottom compartment  14  and preferably the two will be integrally connected along a portion of a side edge, such as by a hinged portion  132 . 
     In still another alternate embodiment of the package  200 , as shown in  FIGS. 20 and 21 , the protruding end portion  218  can be substantially completely wrapped around a rotating spool or knob  230  that is mounted to the container  215 , such that it does not contain an end segment of the protruding end portion  218  that extends loosely and visibly from the knob  230 , e.g., there is no pull tab arrangement. To remove the flexible envelopes  16 , the consumer only needs to rotate the knob  230  axially, such that as the knob  230  rotates, it pulls on the envelopes  16  applying a force that can peel apart the seals  28  and separate the layers  16   a  and  16   b  of the envelope  16 . Thus, the consumer does not need to apply a force directly to the protruding end portion  218  to separate the envelopes  16 . As the envelopes  16  are separated and removed from around the sandwich component  22  and from the container  215 , the remainder of the layers  16   a  and  16   b  can also be wrapped around the knob  230 , thus being relatively hidden from view. Again, optionally, the rigid container  215  may contain a hinged portion  232  along one side edge of the container  215 , along which the top compartment  12  and bottom compartment  14  can be attached. 
     In yet another alternate embodiment of the package  300 , as shown in  FIGS. 22 and 23 , the rigid container  315  can have a secondary compartment  334  in either the top or bottom compartment  12  or  14 , e.g.,  FIG. 23  shows a secondary compartment  334  positioned in the bottom compartment  14 , which receives a portion of the protruding end portion  318  during storage and prior to use/opening the package  300 . The protruding end portion  318  can extend into the secondary compartment  334  with an end segment  338  of the protruding end portion  318  extending through a slot or opening  336  in the secondary compartment  334 , and where the end segment  338  can be used as a pull tab and can be grasped and pulled by the consumer. The slot  336  can be provided in the secondary compartment  334  and/or in one of the top or bottom compartment  12  or  14 . 
     In addition, the secondary compartment  334  can also house a rotating spool or roller  330 , about which a portion of the protruding end portion  318  is wrapped around. The roller  330  is activated upon pulling the end segment  338  of the protruding end portion  318 , and further peels the seals  28  of the envelopes  16  as the roller  330  is continually turned. The ruptured envelope layers  16  can be rolled up along the roller  330  as they are removed from the sandwich and container  315  and pulled into the secondary compartment  334  as the protruding end portion  318  is continually pulled, and where the layers  16   a  and  16   b  can be hidden from view. 
     In a variation of the envelopes and food package discussed herein, another embodiment of a food package can be provided where the inner sandwich components  22  are each separated by a barrier layer of heat-shrink film, as shown in  FIG. 25 . The barrier layer  156  can be configured to rupture as a result of microwave heating to at least partially combine the sandwich components with each other and with a bread component to form a common food product or sandwich. Once the sandwich is ready to be consumed, the entire package  1000  can be placed into a microwave and heated such that the heat-shrink film layers  156  can shrink and at least partially retract toward the point of attachment, thus allowing for the sandwich components  22   a  and  22   b  to combine with the bread component  154  due to the force of gravity. 
     A first sandwich component  22   a  can be supported upon a heat-shrink film layer  156   a  that can be affixed relative to the upstanding sidewall of the container  151  such that the first sandwich component  22   a  can be positioned above the bread component  154 . The heat-shrink film layer  156   a  can also separate a bottom-facing side of the sandwich component  22   a  from the bread component  154 , such that each is housed in a separate compartment  152  and  164 . On the opposite side of the sandwich component  22   a , i.e., the top facing side, the sandwich component  22   a  can be enclosed by either the lid  158  or another film layer  156   b  forming a separate compartment  164  for the first sandwich component  22   a . If a second sandwich component  22   b  is provided, then it too can have a heat-shrink film layer  156   b  positioned at a bottom-facing side of the sandwich component  22   b , thus forming a separate compartment  166  for the second sandwich component  22   b , where the second sandwich component  22   b  is positioned above the first sandwich component  22   a . The layers  156  of the heat-shrink film can provide multiple compartments  164  and  166  that support the sandwich components  22   a  and  22   b  thereon and separate the sandwich components  22   a  and  22   b  from the bread component  154  until ready to be heated and combined. 
     The outer container  151  can comprise a main inner compartment  152  that houses the bread component  154 . The bread component  154  can comprise a top bun and a bottom bun or a cylinder-shaped bread component that is cut down the middle forming two connected halves, or any other type of bread shape or orientation. The bread component  154  can be positioned such that it will receive the sandwich component  22  in an interior section of the bread  154 , if it is a sandwich, or on an outer surface of the bread  154  if the final product is a pizza or flatbread type sandwich. Regardless of how the bread component  154  is shaped or positioned, the entire bread component  154  can be housed in the same compartment i.e., the main inner compartment  152 . The outer container  151  can comprise a base  162  with an upstanding sidewall  168  to define an opening  160  opposite the base  162 . The food package  1000  can also include a lid  158  or other type of closure that covers the opening  160 . Inside of the container  151  in an interior section, the sandwich components  22  can be positioned supported on the layer of film  156  above the bread component  154 . 
     In one aspect upon heating the container  1000 , the center or middle area of the film layers  156  can be pre-scored to form a weak spot such that upon heating the film can rupture at this weak spot and can continue to retract toward the sidewall. Alternatively, the film  156  can be configured to retract from the sidewall first, or some other location than from the center of the film  156 . Furthermore, the film  156  can be attached to the sidewall all the way around the perimeter of the film and container interior or only partially attached thereto. Upon heating the container  151 , the film  156  can shrink from the area of the pre-score i.e., the center in this aspect, and as the film  156  shrinks from the center it can continue to retract towards the sidewall, thus releasing the sandwich components  22   a  and  22   b . Alternatively, a susceptor may be attached or applied to the film  156  and can be made of sputtered aluminum instead of or in addition to scoring, to aid in creating a break in the film  156  upon heating. The heat-shrink film layer  156  can be comprised of a biaxially oriented olefin layer such that it can advantageously partially control the direction of retraction of the film upon heating, although other thermoplastic film materials may also be used, such as polyester. 
     Yet another embodiment of a food package can be provided where the inner sandwich components  22  and the bread components  20  are each separated in individual compartments, as shown in  FIGS. 26A-C  and  27 A-B. The food package  400  is shown in a pre-assembled state in  FIG. 26A , where the package  400  contains multiple compartments to store the food components. Preferably, each food component will have its own individual food compartment. Where there are four food components, as shown in  FIGS. 26A-C , there can also be four compartments, one for each food component. For instance, there can be a top bread component  20   a  and a bottom bread component  20   b  stored in a top bread compartment  412  and a bottom bread compartment  414 , respectively. Similarly, there can be two sandwich components  22   a  and  22   b  stored in a first sandwich compartment  422  and a second sandwich compartment  424 , however more or less can be provided. In one aspect, the first sandwich component  22   a  can be a cheese product and the second sandwich component  22   b  can be a meat product, or vice versa. The two bread compartments  412  and  414  can be adjacent one another prior to assembly and can be connected via a hinge  438 . The sandwich component compartments  422  and  424  can also be positioned adjacent one another when in the pre-assembled state shown in  FIG. 26A , and can contact the bread compartments  412  and  414  along a common edge containing a connecting feature, such as a hinge  420 . Further, the two sandwich compartments  422  and  424  can remain unconnected along their common edge. 
     The bread components  20   a  and  20   b  can each be stored in their own compartment  412  and  414 , respectively, that can also generally conform to the shape of the bread components  20   a  and  20   b . The bread compartments  412  and  414  can each have an open end  413  and  415 , respectively, such that the compartments have one end wall with four sidewalls extending therefrom. The sandwich components can likewise each have their own individual compartments. A first sandwich component  22   a  can be stored in the first sandwich compartment  422  and a second sandwich component  22   b  can be stored in the second sandwich compartment  424 . Each sandwich compartment  422  and  424  can be open on both ends, such that the compartments  422  and  424  comprise only four sidewalls around the sandwich components  22   a  and  22   b . For instance, the first sandwich compartment  422  can have a first opening  426  opposite a second opening  432 , and similarly the second sandwich compartment  424  can have a first opening  428  opposite a second opening  430 . The openings  426  and  428  can each be defined by a flange or peripheral edge portion that connects all of the side wall portions. 
     Once the compartments are filled with their respective food components, their openings can be sealed with a peelable film layer or divider. Prior to filling, the sandwich compartments  422  and  424  can first have their second end openings  432  and  430 , respectively, sealed with peelable film layers  434  and  436 , respectively, to form a bottom surface onto which the sandwich components  22   a  and  22   b  can be filled. After filling the sandwich compartments  422  and  424 , the first openings  426  and  428 , respectively, can be sealed with a peelable film layer to close the compartments  422  and  424 . This peelable film layer can comprise a single, common film layer that covers both openings  426  and  428  or, alternatively, it can comprise separate film layers  416   a  and  416   b  that each covers its respective compartment opening  426  and  428 , as shown in  FIG. 26A . Similarly, the bread compartments  412  and  414  can also be sealed with a peelable film layer  460   a  and  460   b , respectively, which covers the openings  413  and  415 , respectively. As shown in  FIG. 26A , the bread film layer comprises two separate film layers  460   a  and  460   b , but can also comprise a single, common layer covering each opening  413  and  415  simultaneously. 
     Additionally, the peelable film layers  416   a ,  416   b ,  434 ,  436 ,  460   a , and  460   b  can all contain an extension of film which forms a pull tab that can be pulled to remove its respective film layer. For example, the bread film layer  460   a  can have an extension of film  418   a  which is positioned at approximately a right angle to the placement of the bread film layer  460   a  placed over the top bread compartment  412  before assembling the package  400 . Likewise for the bottom bread compartment  414  and its associated film layers. Similarly, the first sandwich compartment film layer  416   a  can have an extension  417   a  that extends at approximately a right angle to its respective film layer  416   a  and further is adjacent the bread film extension  418   a  when folded. Likewise for the second sandwich compartment  424  and its associated film layers. Similarly, the second end opening film layers  434  and  436  of the sandwich compartments  422  and  424 , respectively, can also contain an extension of film  419   a  and  419   b , respectively, which can also be positioned at approximately a right angle to its respective film layers  434  and  436  before assembling the package  400 . In the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 26A-B , the second end opening film layers  434  and  436  each have their own individual pull tab extensions  419   a  and  419   b , respectively, adjacent one another. Alternatively, they may also share a common pull tab extension. As will be explained herein, upon folding the package  400  into its assembled form the pull tab extensions can also be folded with the package compartments (i.e., can be folded onto or adjacent its respective film layer upper surface) to align and provide a common pull tab or protruding end portion  418 . 
     To assemble the food package  400 , the different compartments can be folded over and onto one another along their hinges to provide the assembled form shown in  FIG. 27A . As shown in  FIG. 26B , the sandwich compartments  422  and  424  can first be folded along hinge  420  positioned between the sandwich compartments  422  and  424  and the bread compartments  412  and  414 , as indicated by arrows G so that the sandwich compartments  422  and  424  rest above and contact the bread compartments  412  and  414 , respectively. For instance, the first sandwich compartment  422  can fold over and onto the first bread compartment  412  and the second sandwich compartment  424  can fold over and onto the second bread compartment  414 . 
     Then, as shown in  FIG. 26C , after the initial folding step, the two bread compartments  412  and  414  can be folded along the hinge  438  in the direction of arrow H such that the two bread compartments  412  and  414  are now located above one another with the sandwich compartments  422  and  424  therebetween, and further forming an outer container portion. Upon folding, the film extensions  417 ,  418 , and  419  can all line up with one another on the same side of the folded food package  400  and can be secured together such as by heat-sealing to form a common pull tab  440 , or protruding end portion, which provides for generally simultaneous opening of all of the film layers. Optionally, a handhold or grasping point can be added at the end of the tab  440  extending from the package  400 . Additionally, the remaining free end of the pull tab  440  can also be folded back towards the underside of the package  400  (i.e., a bottom surface of the bottom bread compartment  414 ) for attachment to the underside of the package  400  during storage. As shown in  FIG. 27A , once the package  400  is assembled the four food compartments are stacked on top of each other. The two bread compartments  412  and  414  are positioned on the outside with the two sandwich compartments  422  and  424  therebetween. Alternatively, there can be more or less sandwich compartments in the package  400 . 
     Between adjacent food layers there can be at least one film layer separating the adjacent layers, and as further detailed in  FIG. 27B , there are at least four film layers. For instance, a first bread component  20   a  that is positioned in the first bread compartment  412  can be adjacent a first sandwich compartment  422  including the first sandwich component  22   a  when folded into the assembled configuration. Separating the bread component  20   a  from the first sandwich component  22   a  are two film layers  460   a  and  416   a , and two extension/pull tab layers  418   a  and  417   a . The bread film layer  460   a  is closest to the bread component  20   a , and the sandwich compartment film layer  416   a  is closest to the first sandwich component  22   a , separated by pull tab extensions  417   a  and  418  located therebetween. Similarly, the second sandwich component  22   b  located in the second sandwich compartment  424  is adjacent the second bread compartment  414  with four film layers therebetween. The sandwich compartment film layer  416   b  is closest to the sandwich compartment  424  and the bread film layer  460   b  is closest to the bread compartment  414 , with these two film layers being separated by two pull tab extension layers  417   b  and  418   b , one for each layer. 
     Between the two sandwich compartments  422  and  424  the second opening film layers  434  and  436  are also separated by their associated pull tab film layers  419   a  and  419   b , such that the first sandwich compartment film layer  434  is adjacent the second opening  432  of the first sandwich compartment  422  and the second sandwich compartment film layer  436  is adjacent the second opening  430  of the second sandwich compartment  424 . Furthermore, the pull tab film extension can be an extension of its associated film layer forming a continuous layer, such that the film layer covering the opening of the compartment is folded back upon itself and extends across its surface to form the pull-tab or, alternatively, the pull-tab may be attached to the film layer as a separate film. 
     To open the food package  400 , the common pull tab  440  can be pulled in the direction of arrow I which begins removal of each film layer. Upon opening, the film layers utilize a rolling peel motion to separate the layers, as described in previous embodiments, thus allowing for release of the film layers from the sandwich components in a peeling motion rather than a sliding motion. 
     Although the above embodiment was described in terms of bread components and sandwich components, it may be used with any type of food product that contains component parts that need to be segregated inside of packaging. For instance, a first food component and a second food component can be provided, which may comprise bread components or any other food, with at least one intermediate food component therebetween, where the intermediate food component can comprise a sandwich component or any other food. At least three compartments can be provided where there is one intermediate food component. 
     The material of construction of the outer container  15 ,  115 ,  215  or  315  can be any rigid plastic material typically used to package food items and can be a multilayer system to provide a moisture and gas resistant polymer film, such as polyester (PET), EVOH, EVA, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene, polystyrene, high impact polystyrene, or any combination thereof, but can also be a flexible film material as well which can be opened using a rolling peel action but can also be opened using other techniques. Preferably, PET can be used. The material of construction of the flexible envelopes  16  can be any flexible plastic or paper material typically used to package food items and can be a single layer or multilayer system to provide a moisture and gas resistant polymer film, such as nylon, EVOH, polyethylene (PE), OPET, EVA, polypropylene, polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), an ionomer layer, or any combination thereof. Preferably, a multilayer system comprising OPET/PE/EVOH/EVA can be used. Where an outer sleeve  24  is used to wrap around the outer surface of the rigid container it may comprise paperboard, plastic or other similar package components. 
     The rupturable seals  28  of the envelope  16  can be formed in a variety of manners, such as by applying a food-grade adhesive between or to the layers and/or by heat sealing the layers together. The dimensions of the envelope may range from about 1 inch by about 2 inches to about 8 inches by about 20 inches, and preferably are about 3 inches by about 5.5 inches. The shape of the envelopes  16  may be any shape that compliments the food and/or the sandwich  20  such as circular, oval, rectangular, square, and the like. For instance, where the bread component is a round bun, it may be preferable to have a circular envelope. Similarly, where the bread component is a rectangular “sub-style” sandwich it may be preferable to have rectangular-shaped envelopes  16 . The protruding end portion  18 ,  18 ′,  118 ,  218 ,  318 , or  181  can have any thickness that is amenable to withstanding a pulling force necessary to peel the seals  28  of the envelope  16  apart. The length of the protruding end portion similarly needs to be long enough to adequately provide the necessary pulling force to peel the envelopes  16  apart and long enough to pull the ruptured envelopes  16  out of the sandwich  20  and out of the container. Typically, the protruding end portion will be at least as long as the length (or diameter, where circular) of the side of the rigid container that contains the opening for the protruding end portion and ruptured layers to pass through. 
     The dimensions of the outer container can vary due to the many different sized and shaped sandwiches that are possible. Preferably, a rigid outer container will compliment the shape of the bread component. Therefore, dimensions can range from about 2 inches by about 5 inches to about 9 inches by about 21 inches, and preferably may be about 4.5 inches by about 7.5 inches. The bread component of the sandwich may comprise a bread, a roll, a wrap, or any other farinaceous product typically used to make a sandwich. The inner sandwich component, or garnish, may comprise cheese, meat, bacon, lettuce, tomatoes, peppers, pickles, other vegetables, or any other substantially solid food component used as a garnish or topping for a sandwich. 
     A method is disclosed herein for opening a pre-assembled sandwich, as shown in  FIGS. 1-6 .  FIGS. 1 and 4  depict the sandwich  20  in its packaged state, prior to opening and consuming the sandwich  20 . The rigid container  15  can be contained within a sleeve  24 , as shown in  FIGS. 1 and 4 , or it may not be contained within a sleeve. The rigid container  15  can be closed such that the top compartment  12  is placed in contact with the bottom compartment  14 , creating an enclosure about the sandwich  20 . The top compartment  12  and the bottom compartment  14  can contact each other at outer peripheral flange portions  121  and  141 , respectively. Inside of the closed rigid container  15  is the sandwich  20  having the sandwich components  22 , e.g., garnish or toppings, enveloped inside its respective envelope  16 . Protruding through an opening or slot between the top compartment  12  and the bottom compartment  14  is a portion of the protruding end portion  18 . 
     In  FIGS. 2 and 5 , an end segment  38  of the protruding end portion  18  can be grasped and pulled in the direction of arrow A. As the protruding end portion  18  is being pulled in direction A, the flexible envelope  16  can begin to separate into two separate layers  16   a  and  16   b  by peeling along its rupturable seals  28 . As the seals  28  peel apart, the sandwich component  22  becomes exposed to the inner surfaces of the sandwich  20 . Once all of the layers of the flexible envelope  16  have been removed from the sandwich  20  and the container  15 , as in  FIGS. 3 and 6 , the sandwich components  22  are exposed to the adjacent component or components, whether it be an adjacent sandwich  22  or bread component  20   a  and/or  20   b , or both. As the envelopes  16  are pulled away and separated, they pull away from their respective sandwich components  22  and the sandwich components  22  are relatively automatically assembled into a sandwich  20  due to the force of gravity acting upon the sandwich components  22 . 
     As the sandwich components  22  are being removed from their respective envelopes  16 , the rigid container  15  can be removed relatively simultaneously from the sleeve  24  by grasping a grip tab  26 , if one is present, and pulling in the direction of arrow B. The grip tab  26  can be grasped and pulled at relatively the same time as the protruding end portion  18  is grasped and pulled, to provide for substantially a “one-step” opening method. Optionally, the grip tab  26  may also include a finger hole (not shown), for additional support upon pulling. The container  15  can then be opened and the sandwich eaten. The opened layers  16   a  and  16   b  of the envelope  16  can remain in the inside of the sleeve  24 , where they are relatively unseen by the consumer, and do not require any further action by the consumer to collect and/or discard the layers  16   a  and  16   b  of the envelope  16 . 
     In the additional embodiments that do not contain a pull tab or visible end segment of the protruding end portion  218 , such as in  FIGS. 20 and 21 , the knob or spool  230  can be rotated to activate the protruding end portion  218  in order to peel the seals  28  of the envelope  16  apart. The knob  230  can contain the protruding end portion  218  wrapped around the spool of the knob  230  such that as the knob  230  is rotated in an axial direction, the protruding end portion  218  is further wrapped around the knob  230 , thus applying a pulling force to the envelope  16  within the sandwich. The envelope  16  can be peelable in a similar manner as above, however, the ruptured layers will also wrap about the spool or knob  230  as the protruding end portion  218  does once pulled from the sandwich and container  215 . 
     From the foregoing, it will be appreciated a food package for segregating ingredients of a multi-component food product is provided such that numerous modifications and variations could be made thereto by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the package set forth in the claims. Therefore, the disclosure is not limited to the aspects and embodiments described hereinabove, or to any particular embodiments. Various modifications to the segregating food package can result in substantially the same container and various other modifications to the method of opening the package could be made.