Patent Publication Number: US-2011073593-A1

Title: Separable raised platform for microwave heating of a food product

Description:
FIELD 
     This disclosure relates to a platform for microwave heating of a food product, and in particular a raised platform for microwave heating of a food product. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Various containers, sheets, and platforms have been used for microwave heating of food products. Susceptors may be disposed on at least part of these structures to at least partially absorb microwaves during microwave cooking to heat a food product disposed in close proximity to the susceptors, and in particular food products having dough-based components. U.S. Pat. No. 5,688,427 details some of the desirable properties of utilizing an elevated platform with a susceptor during microwave heating. For example, elevating the susceptor from the floor of a microwave creates an insulating air layer resulting in more heat to the food product. Also, if vents are provided in the elevated platform, moisture can vent below the platform reducing the potential for a soggy food product. 
     Susceptors are often configured for one-time usage. Accordingly, a susceptor used to heat part of a food product or less than all of multiple food products may not be able to be used a second time to heat the remaining food product. Further, known elevated cooking platforms cannot simply be divided into smaller elevated platforms and still produce a high quality microwave-heated or cooked food product with the elevated platform sections. Two problems that can occur upon division of known elevated platforms are that an edge of the platform sections would undesirably rest on the floor of the microwave or a free edge adjacent the area of division would be without a sufficient brace to support the food product. A platform with one elevated edge and one edge resting on the microwave floor may not be able to retain the food product on the susceptor surface during heating. Even if the food product remained on at least part of the susceptor, the benefits of utilizing an elevated tray are reduced. For example, if the food product is at different elevations from the floor of a microwave oven, then the heating may be uneven and result in an undesirable food product. If the platform has an unsupported free edge, the platform can bow under the weight of the food product, either letting the food product slide from the susceptor surface or heating without the full susceptor surface in contact with the food product resulting in uneven heating and an undesirable food product. Additionally, adding more material to known elevated cooking platforms to increase rigidity can disadvantageously increase packaging costs and make such platforms uneconomical. 
     SUMMARY 
     A separable raised susceptor platform for microwave heating of a food product is disclosed. The platform can be separated into two or more components each having a susceptor surface. This can advantageously permit microwave heating of either part or all of a food product that may be provided with the platform. If a user would like to heat all of the food product provided with the platform, then the food product can be put on the platform and heated in a microwave oven. If a user would like to heat only some of the food product provided with the platform, then the platform can be separated, a portion of the food product provided therewith put on the separated component of the platform, and then heated in a microwave. The separated components of the platform are advantageously configured to sufficiently support the food product in an elevated position above the floor of a microwave oven, thereby promoting suitable heating of the food product during microwaving. 
     Further, the platform can provide a number of advantages. The platform can require less packaging than compared to two separately packaged platforms. The platform can lead to operational savings by facilitating packaging assembly of two or more at a time. Finally, the platform allows a user to choose the quantity of food items to be heated in the microwave, i.e., the user can use the full platform to heat all of the food products at once or separate the platform to heat the food items at separate times. 
     In one aspect, the separable raised platform includes a support with a susceptor disposed thereon for microwave heating of the food product. The separable raised platform also includes legs depending from the periphery of the support to elevate the support. The separable raised platform is divisible into first and second raised platform sections, which are joined by an area of weakness. Each of the first and second raised platform sections include a part of the support, the legs depending from the part of the support, and a support leg configured to support an edge portion of the part of the support adjacent the area of weakness. 
     In another aspect, a separable raised platform is convertible from a joined configuration to a separated configuration to permit microwave heating of separate food products at either the same time or different times. The separable raised platform includes an area of weakness joining first and second raised platform sections, where each of the first and second raised platform sections include a support with a susceptor disposed thereon to support and heat and/or cook a food product. The first and second raised platform sections also include legs that support edge portions adjacent sides of the support. The legs include support legs adjacent a side of the support adjacent to the support of the other of the first and second raised platform sections. The area of weakness further is divisible to separate the first and second raised platform sections and convert the separable raised platform from the joined configuration to the separated configuration. 
     In yet another aspect, a separable platform is convertible from a joined configuration to a separated configuration to permit microwave heating of separate food products at either the same time or different times. The separable platform includes first and second platform sections. Each platform section includes a support with a susceptor disposed thereon to support and heat and/or cook a food product. Each section also includes walls extending from the support, the walls having a top disposed thereon. The first and second platform sections are connected by an area of weakness divisible to separate the first and second platform sections and convert the separable platform from the joined configuration to the separated configuration. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a separable raised platform for microwave heating of a food product; 
         FIG. 2  is a top plan view of the separable raised platform of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of the separable raised platform of  FIG. 1  showing the raised platform supporting two food products; 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view of the separable raised platform of  FIG. 1  showing the raised platform partially within outer packaging and supporting two individually-wrapped food products; 
         FIG. 5  is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a separable raised platform for microwave heating of a food product; 
         FIG. 6  is a top plan view of the separable raised platform of  FIG. 5  in a separated configuration; 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view of the separable raised platform of  FIG. 5  in a separated and erected configuration; 
         FIG. 8  is another perspective view of the separable raised platform of  FIG. 5  in the separated and erected configuration; 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the separable raised platform for microwave heating of a food product; 
         FIG. 10  is a top plan view of the separable raised platform of  FIG. 9  in a separated configuration; 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view of the separable raised platform of  FIG. 9  in a separated and erected configuration; 
         FIG. 12  is another perspective view of the separable raised platform of  FIG. 9  in the separated and erected configuration; 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the separable raised platform for microwave heating of a food product; 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective view of the separable raised platform of  FIG. 13  in a partially separated configuration; 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective view of the separable raised platform of  FIG. 13  in a separated and erected configuration; 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the separable raised platform for microwave heating of a food product; 
         FIG. 17  is a perspective view of the separable raised platform of  FIG. 16  in a separated and erected configuration; 
         FIG. 18  is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of the separable platform for microwave heating of a food product; 
         FIG. 19  is a perspective view of the separable platform of  FIG. 18  in a partially opened configuration; 
         FIG. 20  is a perspective view of the separable platform of  FIG. 18  in an opened configuration; and 
         FIG. 21  is a perspective view of the separable platform of  FIG. 18  in an opened and separated configuration. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Exemplary embodiments of separable raised platforms for microwave heating in accordance with the above-discussed aspects are illustrated in  FIGS. 1-12  and discussed herein. The separable raised platforms are separable from a joined configuration to a separated configuration. In the separated configuration, the separable raised platforms are separated via an area of weakness into first and second raised platform sections, and thus a food product or food products can be cooked at different times with one raised platform, while also elevating the food product above a floor or tray of the microwave during the cooking cycle to promote more even microwave heating. The first and second raised platform sections further include first and second support legs, respectively, to support an edge portion of the support adjacent the area of weakness. 
     More particularly, the separable raised platform includes a support for the food product during microwave heating thereof. In use, the support of the raised platform supports the food product at least partially on a susceptor at a position elevated above a bottom floor or tray of a microwave. The susceptor provides for conductive heating of portions of the food product in contact therewith. As discussed herein, a susceptor can include a shield material, a susceptor material, or a combination of both. 
     The separable raised platform further includes the area of weakness to facilitate converting the separable raised platform from the joined configuration to the separated configuration. The area of weakness spans the separable raised platform, so that when divided, the area of weakness generally bisects the separable raised platform into the first tray section and the second tray section. In order to support the weight of the food product after being separated and the support in the elevated position, the first tray section includes the first support leg and the second tray section includes the second support leg, both of which are positioned to elevate and support the edge portion of the first and section tray sections adjacent the area of weakness, respectively, after the separable raised platform is divided into the separated configuration. 
     Legs, for example, depending from a periphery of the support, elevate the support and the food product during microwave heating. In the illustrated generally rectangular supports, there is a leg depending from each of the four sides of the support. As noted below, however, the support may take any suitable closed general shape, and accordingly the number, shape, position and size of the legs may vary between support shapes. Additionally, the legs may take any suitable height, as long as the support and the food product supported thereon are sufficiently elevated above the floor or tray of the microwave to allow for proper microwave heating and venting. 
     In the first exemplary embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 1-4 , the separable raised platform  100  is convertible from a joined configuration to a separated configuration having first and second raised platform sections  102 ,  104 . The separable raised platform  100  could alternatively be composed of three or more raised platform sections. The separable raised platform  100  includes a support  106  for a food product  108  during microwave heating having a susceptor  110  thereon. The food product  108  can include one or more products, which may be separable. The susceptor  110  may be disposed across all or part of the support  106 . The support  106  is generally rectangular having a pair of generally parallel side edges  112  and a pair of generally parallel end edges  114  to create the support periphery. Legs  116  depend from the support periphery to elevate the support  106  and the susceptor  110 , and thus the food product  108 , above the floor or tray of the microwave during microwave heating. 
     Turning now to more of the details of the legs  116 , opposing side walls  124  depend from the pair of side edges  112  and opposing end walls  126  depend from the pair of end edges  114 . Each of the side walls  124  and the end walls  126  is rectangular, having a top edge  128 , an opposite bottom edge  130 , and a pair of side edges  132 . Specifically, the top edges  128  of the side walls  124  connect to the side edges  112  of the support  106  and the top edges  128  of the end walls  126  connect to the end edges  114  of the support  106 . The end walls  126  join to the side walls  124  at four outside corners  134 , where they are secured together to hold the separable raised platform  100  in an elevated position. The side walls  124  each have a pair of tabs  136  depending off of the pair of side edges  132 . The tabs  136  are then adhered to the end walls  126 , such as to an inside of the end walls  126  to preserve the aesthetics of the separable raised platform  100  and prevent the tabs  136  from becoming snared and separated from the end walls  126 . In use, however, the side walls  124  could also secure to the end walls  126  by mechanical methods, such as a locking tab inserted into a slot or a tongue-and-groove mechanism. It will be understood that the end walls  126  could alternatively be secured to the side walls  124  by similar methods. 
     The end walls  126  are broken by the area of weakness  138  forming first end wall segments  140  of the first raised platform section  102  and second end wall segments  142  of the second raised platform section  104 . The area of weakness  138  further divides the support  106  into a first part  144  of the first raised platform section  102  and a second part  146  of the second raised platform section  104 . The first and second end wall segments  140 ,  142  connect to first and second support legs  148 ,  150  at four inside corners  152 . The first and second support legs  148 ,  150  are rectangular, each having a top edge  154 , an opposite bottom edge  156 , and a pair of side edges  158 . The top edges  154  of the first and second support legs  148 ,  150  connect to inner edges  160  of the first and second raised platform sections  102 ,  104 . 
     So configured, the first and second raised platform sections  102 ,  104  provide support for and elevate the inner edges  160  and portions of the first and second parts  144 ,  146  of the support  106  proximate thereto during microwave heating. The first and second support legs  148 ,  150  connect to the first and second end wall segments  140 ,  142 , respectively, by adhering tabs depending from the pair of side edges  158  to the inside of the first and second end wall segments  140 ,  142 . As discussed above, however, the first and second support legs  148 ,  150  and the first and second end wall segments  140 ,  142  can be secured together by any suitable method. 
     In an alternative form, the first and second raised platform sections  102 ,  104  can be raised to different elevations. In this form, the first support leg  148  and the legs  116  of the first raised platform section  102  would have a substantially equal height. Similarly, the height of the second support leg  150  and the legs  116  of the second raised platform section  104  would be substantially equal and different from the first raised platform section  102 . 
     Turning now to the details of the area of weakness  138 , as shown in  FIG. 2 . The area of weakness  138  generally bisects the separable raised platform  100  into the first raised platform section  102  and the second raised platform section  104 . In the illustrated form, the area of weakness  138  includes a connecting panel  162  having a pattern of perforations  164 . The connecting panel  162  is rectangular, having a pair of end walls  166  and a pair of side walls  168 . As shown, the connecting panel  162  spans the gap between the first and second raised platform sections  102 ,  104 , where the pair of side walls  168  connects to the bottom edges  156  of the first and second support legs  148 ,  150 . Specifically, two generally parallel lines of perforations  170  extend the entire length between the end walls  166  of the connecting panel  162  to form a pull strip  172 . The illustrated perforations  170  include a series of cuts with inwardly directed ends; however, other suitable perforation patterns can be utilized, such as straight lines, circular perforations, lines of unconnected angled lines, etc. A pull tab  174  protrudes beyond one of the end walls  166  of the connecting panel  162  to provide a gripping point for a user to pull on the pull strip  172 , separating the two lines of perforations  170  and converting the separable raised platform  100  into its separated configuration of the first and second raised platform sections  102 ,  104 . The area of weakness can also be a single or multiple perforations, scores, thinned die lines, offset partial cuts, or the like. 
     By one approach, the susceptor  110  does not extend over the area of weakness  138 . In this approach, the susceptor  110  would extend to an area adjacent the area of weakness  138 , such as spaced from the pattern of perforations  160 . This configuration prevents edges or corners of metallic materials in the susceptor  110  from being exposed as a result of separating the area of weakness  138 , also preventing the metallic edges or corners from arcing during microwave heating. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 4 , the separable raised platform  100  can be utilized as one part of a food product packaging  176 . The food product packaging  176  includes an outer carton  178 , the food product  108  or products sealed within inner film wrappers  180 , and the separable raised platform  100 . In the illustrated form, the first and second raised platform sections  102 ,  104  each form a cavity  182  defined by the side walls  124 , the first and second support legs  148 ,  150 , the first and second end wall segments  140 ,  142 , and the support  106 . By one approach, in order to minimize the packaging costs of the outer carton  178 , the cavities  182  can be utilized to store the food product or products  108  during storage and transportation within the food product packaging  176 . Preferably, the height of the end wall segments  140 ,  142 , the first and second support legs  148 ,  150 , and the side walls  124  of the separable raised platform  100  extend beyond the height of the food product  108  so that the food product  108  is confined within the limits of the cavity  182 . This configuration provides additional protection for the food product  108  against damage caused during storage, transportation, and handling. The food product or products  108  are wrapped within the inner film wrapper  180  as is known for preservation and protection. The food products  108  are then placed within the cavities  182  of the separable raised platform  100  and then the separable raised platform  100  storing the food products  108  therein is inserted into the outer carton  178 . In one form, the outer carton  178  is formed of a paperboard blank, having two ends  184  closed by folding over two pairs of opposing side flaps  186  and adhering two pairs of opposing end flaps  188 . It will be understood, however, that the outer carton  178  can be composed of other suitable materials, such as, cardboard, plastic, or metal, and that the carton can be closed by other suitable methods, such as, hot sealing, cold sealing, or mechanically, by a locking tab or a tongue-and-groove. 
     So configured, the separable raised platform  100  is convertible from the joined configuration to the separated configuration. The joined configuration can be utilized to cook a large or multiple food products at a single time and the separated configuration can be utilized to cook a portion of the large food product or single food products at different times. The separable raised platform  100  further provides support legs  148 ,  150  to support the inner edge  160  of the first and second raised platform sections  102 ,  104  adjacent the area of weakness  138  and the first and second parts  144 ,  146  of the support  106  proximate thereto when in the separated configuration. Thus, in the separated configuration the platform sections  102  and  104  can support the food product or products in the elevated positions, including adjacent where the sections  102  and  104  were previously joined by the area of weakness  138 . 
     To provide for the ventilation of the food product  108  during microwave heating, the support  106  and susceptor  110  have a plurality of vent slits  118  and holes  120  therethrough. The vent slits  118 , as illustrated, are aligned in a series of five generally parallel rows  122 , each row having a number of spaced slits  118 . The holes  120  are provided in the center of the first and second raised platform sections  102 ,  104 . Additional vent slits  118  are provided on the side edges  112  and the end edges  114  of the support  106 . It will be understood, however, that other combinations, quantities, and patterns of the slits  118  and/or holes  120  can be utilized to optimize the ventilation of the specific food product  108  for which the separable raised platform  100  is manufactured. 
     In accordance with one example of the first embodiment of the separable raised platform  100 , the support  106  may be about 7 inches long by about 8.75 inches wide, where the first and second parts  144 ,  146  of the support  106  are about 7 inches long by about 3.75 inches wide. The legs  116  and the first and second support legs  144 ,  146  may have a height of about 1 inch. The connecting panel  162  may be about 0.625 inches wide, wherein the pull strip  174  and the pull tab  174  are about 0.375 inches wide. These dimensions can be varied depending upon the size and type of food product. 
     In the second exemplary embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 5-8 , the separable raised platform  200  is convertible from a joined configuration to a separated configuration of first and second raised platform sections  202 ,  204 . The separable raised platform  200  includes a support  206  for the food product  108  during microwave heating having a susceptor  208  disposed thereon. In the illustrated form, the support  206  is generally rectangular having a pair of generally parallel side edges  210  and a pair of generally parallel end edges  212  forming a periphery. Legs  214  depend from the support periphery to elevate the support  206  and the susceptor  208 , and thus the food product  108 , above the floor or tray of the microwave during microwave heating. 
     Turning now to more of the details of the legs  214 , opposing side walls  224  depend from the pair of side edges  210  and opposing end walls  226  depend from the pair of end edges  212 . Each of the side walls  224  and the end walls  226  is rectangular, having a top edge  228 , an opposite bottom edge  230 , and a pair of side edges  232 . Specifically, the top edges  228  of the side walls  224  connect to the side edges  210  of the support and the top edges  128  of the end walls  226  connect to the end edges  212  of the support  206 . The end walls  226  join to the side walls  224  at four outside corners  234 , where they are secured together to hold the separable raised platform  200  in an elevated position. The side walls  224  each have a pair of tabs  136  depending off of the pair of side edges  232 . The tabs are then adhered to the end walls  226 , such as to an inside of the end walls  226  to preserve the aesthetics of the separable raised platform  200  and prevent the tabs from becoming snared and separated from the end walls  226 . In use, however, the side walls  224  could also secure to the end walls  226  by mechanical methods, such as a locking tab inserted into a slot or a tongue-and-groove mechanism. It will be understood that the end walls  226  could alternatively be secured to the side walls  224  by similar methods. 
     An area of weakness  238  is disposed across the end walls  226  and the support  206  of the separable raised platform  200 , dividing the separable raised platform into the first and second raised platform sections  202 ,  204 . In addition to dividing the separable raised platform  200  into the first and second raised platform sections  202 ,  204 , the area of weakness  238  also partially defines first and second supporting legs  240 ,  242 . In the illustrated form, the area of weakness  238  includes perforations in the form of small cuts, however, other suitable areas of weakness  238  could be utilized, such as, scores (laser or mechanical), a pull strip, a notch, offset partial cuts, or other patterns, shapes, and sizes of perforations. 
     The area of weakness  238  includes five segments. In the illustrated form, a first segment  138 A extends across one of the end walls  226  offset from the center of the end wall  226  in the direction of one of the sidewalls  224 , such as by a distance generally half of the height of the end walls  226 . The first segment  238 A extends across the one of the end walls  226  at a direction generally perpendicular with the bottom edge  230  of the end wall  226 . A second segment  238 B connects to the first segment  238 A at the top edge  228  of the end wall  226  and extends across a portion of the support  206  generally in line with the first segment  238 A. A third segment  238 C extends across the end wall  226  opposite from the first segment  238 A in a direction generally perpendicular with the bottom edge  230  of the end wall  226 . The third segment  238 C is offset from the center of the end wall  226  in the direction opposite the offset of the first segment  238 A, such as by a distance generally half of the height of the end walls  226 . A fourth segment  238 D connects to the third segment  238 C at the top edge  228  of the end wall  226  and extends across a portion of the support  206  generally in line with the third segment  238 C. A fifth segment  238 E connects the ends of the second and fourth segments  238 B,  238 D opposite the ends on the top edge  228  of the end walls  226 , such as in a direction generally perpendicular with both the second and fourth segments  238 B,  238 D. 
     It will be understood, however, that the orientations of the segments of the area of weakness  238  could extend at directions other than perpendicular and parallel with the edges  210 ,  212  of the support  206 . Additionally, the first and third segments  238 A,  238 C could be disposed across other areas of the end walls  226 , such as the center of the end walls  226 , which would then require additional segments to connect the first and third segments  238 A,  238 C with the offset second and fourth segments  238 B,  238 D. 
     In the illustrated form, the separable raised platform  200  further includes a first area of weakness  244 . The first area of weakness  244  connects to the first and second segments  238 A,  238 B of the area of weakness  238  at the top edge  228  of the end wall  226 . The first area of weakness  244  extends along the top edge  228  of the end wall  225  in a direction opposite the offset of the first segment  238 A until the first area of weakness  244  is generally aligned with the fourth segment  238 D. A first fold line  246  extends from this point of the first area of weakness  244  and connects to the fourth segment  238 D. In the illustrated form, the first supporting leg  240  is generally rectangular and has sides defined by the first area of weakness  244 , the second segment  238 B, the fifth segment  238 E, and the first fold line  246 . 
     A second area of weakness  248  connects to the third and fourth segments  238 C,  238 D of the area of weakness  238  at the top edge  228  of the end wall  226 . The second area of weakness  248  extends along the top edge  228  of the end wall  225  in a direction opposite the offset of the third segment  238 C until the second area of weakness  248  is generally aligned with the second segment  238 B. A second fold line  250  extends from this point of the second area of weakness  248  and connects to the second segment  238 B. In the illustrated form, the second supporting leg  242  is generally rectangular and has sides defined by the second area of weakness  248 , the fourth segment  238 D, the fifth segment  238 E, and the second fold line  248 . 
     The first and second areas of weakness  246 ,  248  are illustrated as cuts through the separable raised platform  200 , however, other suitable areas of weakness may be utilized, such as perforations and scoring (lasing and mechanical), offset partial cuts, or the like in any desirable size, pattern, and configuration. By one approach, the first and second fold lines  246 ,  250  may have vent slits formed therein. 
     So disposed, dividing the area of weakness  238  separates the separable raised platform  200  into the separated configuration, producing the first and second raised platform sections  202 ,  204 . The first raised platform section  202  has a first part  252  of the support  206  and the second raised platform section  204  has a second part  254  of the support  206 . Additionally, when the separable raised platform  200  is separated, the first and second raised platform sections  202 ,  204  each have a free edge  256  adjacent to the separated area of weakness  238 . In order to support the free edge  256  during microwave heating of the food product  108 , the first and second support legs  240 ,  242  are configured to fold about the first and second fold lines  246 ,  250  respectively to an erected position generally perpendicular with the first and second parts  252 ,  254  of the support  206 . When the first and second support legs  240 ,  242  are folded down to this position, they effectively support and elevate the free edge  256  and portions of the support  206  proximate thereto, including when a food product is disposed thereon during microwave heating. A tab and slot may be provided to secure the first and second support legs  240 ,  242  in their folded position. For example, the first and second support legs  240 ,  242  may each have a tab that is provided in the associated legs  226 ,  228  that is separable therefrom (such as via an area of weakness) and insertable into a slot formed in each of the legs  226 ,  228 . 
     By one approach, the susceptor  208  does not extend over the area of weakness  238 . In this approach, the susceptor  208  would extend only to an area adjacent the area of weakness  238 , such as on the support  208  or on the end walls. This configuration prevents edges or corners of metallic materials in the susceptor  208  from being exposed as a result of separating the area of weakness  238 , also preventing the metallic edges or corners from arcing during microwave heating. 
     To provide for the ventilation of the food product  108  during microwave heating, the support  206  and susceptor  208  have a plurality of vent slits  216  and holes  218  therethrough. The vent slits  216 , as illustrated, are aligned in a series of five generally parallel rows  120 , each row having a number of spaced slits  216 . The holes  218  are provided in corner portions of the support  206  and in a cluster in the center of the support  206  including four smaller holes  218  and a large center hole  222 . This cluster is provided to ventilate the center a large food product disposed over a majority of the support  206  during microwave heating. Additional vent slits  216  are provided on the side edges  210  and the end edges  212  of the support  206 . It will be understood, however, that other combinations, quantities, and patterns of the slits  216  and/or holes  218  can be utilized to optimize the ventilation of the specific food product  108  for which the separable raised platform  200  is manufactured. 
     As discussed above with reference to  FIG. 4  for the first embodiment, the separable raised platform  200  can be utilized as one part of the food product packaging. The food product packaging can include an outer carton  178 , the food product or products  108  sealed within inner film wrappers  180 , and the separable raised platform  200 . In this embodiment, the support  206  and the legs  214  of the separable raised platform  200  form a cavity. In order to minimize the packaging costs of the outer carton  178 , this cavity can be utilized to hold the food product or products  108  within the outer carton  178  during storage and transportation. Preferably, the height of the end walls  226  and the side walls  224  of the separable raised platform  200  extend beyond the height of the food product or products  108  so that the food products  108  are confined within the limits of the cavity. This configuration provides additional protection for the food products  108  against damage caused during storage, transportation, and handling. The food product or products  108  are wrapped within the inner film wrappers  180  as is known for preservation and protection. The food products  108  are then placed within the cavity of the separable raised platform  200  and then the separable raised platform  200  storing the food products therein is inserted into the outer carton  178 . 
     So configured, the separable raised platform  200  is convertible from the joined configuration to the separated configuration. The joined configuration can be utilized to cook a large or multiple food products at a single time and the separated configuration can be utilized to cook a portion of the large food product or single food products at different times. The separable raised platform  200  further provides support for the free edge  256  of the first and second raised platform sections  202 ,  204  adjacent the area of weakness  238  when in the separated configuration. 
     In accordance with one example of the second embodiment of the separable raised platform  200 , the support  206  may be about 6.5 inches long by 6.5 inches wide, where the first and second parts  252 ,  254  of the support are about 6.5 inches long by about 2.75 inches wide with the first and second support legs  240 ,  242 , each measuring about 1 inch, folded down for support. The legs  214  may have a height of about 1 inch. However, these dimensions can be varied depending upon the size and type of food product. 
     In the third exemplary embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 9-12 , the separable raised platform  300  is convertible from a joined configuration to a separated configuration of first and second raised platform sections  302 ,  304 . The separable raised platform  300  includes a support  306  for the food product  108  during microwave heating having a susceptor  308  disposed thereon. In the illustrated form, the support  306  is generally rectangular having a pair of generally parallel side edges  310  and a pair of generally parallel end edges  312  forming a periphery. Legs  314  depend from the support periphery to elevate the support  306  and the susceptor  308 , and thus the food product  108 , above the floor or tray of the microwave during microwave heating. 
     Turning now to details of the legs  314 , opposing side walls  324  depend from the pair of side edges  310  and opposing end walls  326  depend from the pair of end edges  312 . Each of the side walls  324  and the end walls  326  is rectangular, having a top edge  328 , an opposite bottom edge  330 , and a pair of side edges  332 . Specifically, the top edges  328  of the side walls  324  connect to the side edges  310  of the support and the top edges  328  of the end walls  326  connect to the end edges  312  of the support  306 . The end walls  326  join to the side walls  324  at four outside corners  334 , where they are secured together to hold the separable raised platform  300  in an elevated position. The side walls  324  each have a pair of tabs  336  depending off of the pair of side edges  332 . The tabs  336  are then adhered to the end walls  326 , such as to an inside of the end walls  326  to preserve the aesthetics of the separable raised platform  300  and prevent the tabs  336  from becoming snared and separated from the end walls  326 . In use, however, the side walls  324  could also secure to the end walls  326  by mechanical methods, such as a locking tab inserted into a slot or a tongue-and-groove mechanism. It will be understood that the end walls  326  could alternatively be secured to the side walls  324  by similar methods. 
     An area of weakness  338  is disposed across the end walls  326  and the support  306  of the separable raised platform  300 , dividing the separable raised platform into the first and second raised platform sections  302 ,  304 . In addition to dividing the separable raised platform  300  into the first and second raised platform sections  302 ,  304 , the area of weakness  238  also partially defines first and second support legs  340 ,  342 . In the illustrated form, the area of weakness  338  includes perforations in the form of small cuts, however, other suitable areas of weakness  338  could be utilized, such as, scores (laser or mechanical), a pull strip, a notch, offset partial cuts, or other patterns, shapes, and sizes of perforations. 
     The area of weakness  338  includes three segments. In the illustrated form, a first segment  338 A extends across one of the end walls  226  generally aligned with the center of the end wall  326  and in a direction generally perpendicular with the bottom edge  330  of the end wall  326 . A second segment  338 B extends across the end wall  326  opposite from the first segment  338 A generally aligned with the center of the end wall  326  and in a direction generally perpendicular with the bottom edge  330  of the end wall  326 . The third segment  138 C connects to the first and second segments  338 A,  338 B at the top edges  328  of the end walls  326  forming the continuous area of weakness  338  generally bisecting the separable raised susceptor  300 . 
     It will be understood, however, that the orientations of the segments of the area of weakness  338  could extend at directions other than perpendicular with the edges  310 ,  312  of the support  306 . Additionally, the first and second segments  338 A,  338 B could be disposed across other areas of the end walls  326 . 
     In the illustrated form, the separable raised platform  300  further includes first and second areas of weakness  344 ,  346 . The first area of weakness  344  is disposed on the top edge  328  of the end wall  326  and is generally centered on the connection of the first and third segments  338 A,  338 C of the area of weakness  338 . By one approach, the first area of weakness  344  extends from the connection of the first and third segments  338 A,  338 C in both directions approximately 0.5 to 2 inches and preferably, about 1 inch. The second area of weakness  346  is disposed on the top edge  328  of the end wall  326  opposite the first area of weakness  344  and is generally centered on the connection of the second and third segments  338 B,  338 C of the area of weakness  338 . By one approach, the second area of weakness extends from the connection of the second and third segments  338 B,  338 C in both directions approximately 0.5 to 2 inches, and preferably, about 1 inch. 
     The first and second areas of weakness  344 ,  346  are illustrated as cuts through the separable raised platform  300 , however, other suitable areas of weakness may be utilized, such as perforations and scoring (lasing and mechanical), offset partial cuts, or the like in any desirable size, pattern, and configuration. 
     The first raised platform section  302  includes first fold lines  348  disposed across the end walls  326  in a generally aligned orientation. In the illustrated form, the first fold lines  348  extend from the bottom edge  330  of the end walls  326  in a perpendicular orientation and connect to ends of the first and second areas of weakness  344 ,  346 . The first support leg  340  includes two generally rectangular wall segments  350 . One of the wall segments  350  includes sides defined by the bottom edge  330  of the end wall  326 , the first segment  338 A, the first area of weakness  344 , and one of the first fold lines  348 . The other one of the wall segments  350  includes sides defined by the bottom edge  330  of the end wall  326 , the second segment  338 B, the second area of weakness  346 , and the other of the first fold lines  348 . So configured, the wall segments  350  are inwardly pivotable over the first fold lines  348  between a first position in the joined configuration where the wall segments  350  are connected on two edges by the area of weakness  338  and the first and second areas of weakness  344 ,  346  and a second position in the separated configuration inwardly oriented and in a generally perpendicular supporting relationship with the support  306 . 
     The second raised platform section  304  includes second fold lines  352  disposed across the end walls  326  in a generally aligned orientation. In the illustrated form, the second fold lines  352  extend from the bottom edge  330  of the end walls  326  in a perpendicular orientation and connect to ends of the first and second areas of weakness  344 ,  346  opposite of the first fold lines  348 . The second support leg  342  includes two generally rectangular wall segments  354 . One of the wall segments  354  includes sides defined by the bottom edge  330  of the end wall  326 , the first segment  338 A, the first area of weakness  344 , and one of the second fold lines  352 . The other one of the wall segments  354  includes sides defined by the bottom edge  330  of the end wall  326 , the second segment  338 B, the second area of weakness  346 , and the other of the second fold lines  352 . So configured, the wall segments  354  are inwardly pivotable over the second fold lines  352  between a first position in the joined configuration where the wall segments  354  are connected on two edges by the area of weakness  338  and the first and second areas of weakness  344 ,  346  and a second position in the separated configuration inwardly oriented and in a generally perpendicular supporting relationship with the support  306 . By one approach, the first and second fold lines  348 ,  352  may have vent slits  316  formed therein. 
     So disposed, dividing the area of weakness  338  separates the separable raised platform  300  into the separated configuration, producing the first and second raised platform sections  302 ,  304 . The first raised platform section  302  has a first part  356  of the support  306  and the second raised platform section  304  has a second part  358  of the support  306 . Additionally, when the separable raised platform  300  is separated, the first and second raised platform sections  302 ,  304  each have a free edge  360  adjacent to the area of weakness  338  when separated. In order to support the free edge  360  during microwave heating of the food product  108 , the first and second support legs  340 ,  342  are configured to fold inward about the first and second fold lines  348 ,  352  respectively to an erected position generally perpendicular with and underneath the first and second parts  356 ,  358  of the support  306 . When the first and second support legs  340 ,  342  are folded inward to this position, they effectively support and elevate the free edge  360  of the first and second raised platform sections  302 ,  304  and portions of the support  306  proximate thereto, as well as any food product thereon during microwave heating. The support legs  340 ,  342  may be securable to the support  306 , such as by using a tab and slot connection. For example, the support legs  340 ,  342  may be connected to a tab integral with the support  306  but removable from the support  306  via perforations. That tab can then be inserted into a slot in the support  306  after the support legs  340 ,  342  have been folded therebeneath. A like arrangement can be used with both platform sections  302 ,  304 . 
     By one approach, the susceptor  308  does not extend over the area of weakness  338 . In this approach, the susceptor  308  would extend only to an area adjacent the area of weakness  338 , such as on the support  308  or on the end walls  336  if the susceptor  308 . This configuration prevents edges or corners of metallic materials in the susceptor  308  from being exposed as a result of separating the area of weakness  338 , preventing the metallic edges or corners from arcing during microwave heating. 
     To provide for the ventilation of the food product  108  during microwave heating, the support  306  and susceptor  308  have a plurality of vent slits  316  and holes  318  therethrough. The vent slits  316 , as illustrated, are aligned in a series of five generally parallel rows  320 , each row having a number of spaced slits  316 . The holes  318  are provided in corner portions of the support  206  and in a cluster in the center of the support  306  including four smaller holes  318  and a large center hole  322 . This cluster is provided to ventilate the center a large food product disposed over a majority of the support  306  during microwave heating. Additional vent slits  316  are provided on the side edges  310  and the end edges  312  of the support  306 . It will be understood, however, that other combinations, quantities, and patterns of the slits  316  and/or holes  318  can be utilized to optimize the ventilation of the specific food product  108  for which the separable raised platform  300  is manufactured. 
     As discussed above with reference to  FIG. 4  for the first embodiment, the separable raised platform  300  can be utilized as one part of the food product packaging. The food product packaging can include an outer carton  178 , the food product or products  108  sealed within inner film wrappers  180 , and the separable raised platform  300 . In this embodiment, the support  306  and the legs  314  of the separable raised platform  300  form a cavity. In order to minimize the packaging costs of the outer carton  178 , this cavity can be utilized to hold the food product or products  108  within the outer carton  178  during storage and transportation. Preferably, the height of the end walls  326  and the side walls  324  of the separable raised platform  300  extend beyond the height of the food product or products  108  so that the food products  108  are confined within the limits of the cavity. This configuration provides additional protection for the food products  108  against damage caused during storage, transportation, and handling. The food product or products  108  are wrapped within the inner film wrappers  180  as is known for preservation and protection. The food products  108  are then placed within the cavity of the separable raised platform  300  and then the separable raised platform  300  storing the food products therein is inserted into the outer carton  178 . 
     So configured, the separable raised platform  300  is convertible from the joined configuration to the separated configuration. The joined configuration can be utilized to cook a large or multiple food products at a single time and the separated configuration can be utilized to cook a portion of the large food product or single food products at different times. The separable raised platform  300  further provides support for the free edge  356  of the first and second raised platform sections  302 ,  304  adjacent the area of weakness  338  when in the separated configuration. 
     In accordance with one example of the third embodiment of the separable raised platform  300 , the support  306  may be about 6.5 inches long by 6.5 inches wide, where the first and second parts  356 ,  358  of the support are about 6.5 inches long by about 3.25 inches wide with the first and second support legs  340 ,  342 , each segment  350 ,  354  measuring about 1 inch long, folded inward for support. The legs  314  may have a height of about 1 inch. These dimensions can be varied depending upon the size and shape of the food product. 
     In a fourth exemplary embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 13-15 , the separable raised platform  400  is convertible from a joined configuration to a separated configuration of first and second raised platform sections  402 ,  404 . The separable raised platform  400  includes a support  406  for the food product  108  during microwave heating having a susceptor  408  disposed thereon. In the illustrated form, the support  406  is generally rectangular having a pair of generally parallel side edges  410  and a pair of generally parallel end edges  412  forming a periphery. Legs  414  depend from the support periphery to elevate the support  406  and the susceptor  408 , and thus the food product  108 , above the floor or tray of the microwave during microwave heating. 
     An area of weakness  416  is disposed across the support  406  of the separable raised platform  400 , dividing the separable raised platform  400  into the first and second raised platform sections  402 ,  404 . In addition, the area of weakness  416  also partially defines first and second supporting legs  418 ,  420 . The area of weakness  416  includes five segments. Three segments  416 A,  416 B, and  416 C extend between the first and second raised platform sections  402 ,  404  forming sides of the first and second supporting legs  418 ,  420 . Preferably, the three segments  416 A,  416 B, and  416 C are approximately equal in length to the height of the separable raised platform  400 . Fourth and fifth segments  416 D and  416 E connect adjacent pairs of the three segments  416 A,  416 B, and  416 C, respectively, forming end edges of the first and second supporting legs  418 ,  420  configured to rest on the floor of the microwave when the separable raised platform  400  is in an erected configuration. 
     The area of weakness  416  further includes a pattern of perforations forming pull tab strips  422 . The pull tab strips  422  extend between the segments  416 A and  416 C, respectively, and the side edges  410  of the support  406 . The pull tab strips  422  are configured to be pulled and removed by a user, partially separating the separable raised platform  400 , as shown in  FIG. 14 . After the pull tab strips  422  are removed, the segments  416 B,  416 D, and  416 E are separated and the first and second supporting legs  418 ,  420  fold down over first and second fold lines  424 ,  426  to a position generally perpendicular with the support. In this position, the first and second supporting legs  418 ,  420  support an edge portion of the support in an elevated configuration. 
     In the illustrated form, the area of weakness  416  includes perforations in the form of small cuts and pull strips, however, other suitable areas of weakness could be utilized, such as, scores (laser or mechanical), a notch, offset partial cuts, or other patterns, shapes, and sizes of perforations. 
     In a fifth exemplary embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 16-17 , the separable raised platform  500  is convertible from a joined configuration to a separated configuration of first and second raised platform sections  502 ,  504 . The separable raised platform  500  could alternatively include three or more raised platform sections. The separable raised platform  500  includes a support  506  for the food product  108  during microwave heating having a susceptor  508  disposed thereon. In the illustrated form, the support  506  is generally rectangular having a pair of generally parallel side edges  510  and a pair of generally parallel end edges  512  forming a periphery. Legs  514  depend from the support periphery to elevate the support  506  and the susceptor  508 , and thus the food product  108 , above the floor or tray of the microwave during microwave heating. 
     The separable raised platform  500  further includes first and second support legs  516 ,  518 . The first and second support legs  516 ,  518  extend between and connect the first and second raised platform sections  502 ,  504 . Preferably, the first and second support legs  516 ,  518  each span the width of the support  506 . The first and second support legs connect to the support  506  by first and second fold lines  520 ,  522  respectively and are divided by an area of weakness  524 . By being unattached to adjacent portions of the legs  514 , the first and second support legs  516 ,  518  are pivotable over the first and second fold lines  520 ,  522  and the area of weakness  524 , allowing the separable raised platform  500  a range of widths between a fully extended position and a fully folded position. 
     The support legs  516 ,  518 , however, may be securable to the support  506 , such as by using a tab and slot connection. For example, the support legs  516 ,  518  may include a tab protruding from one or more side edges. That tab can then be inserted into a slot in the support  506  or legs  514  after the support legs  516 ,  518  have been folded therebeneath. A like arrangement can be used with both platform sections  502 ,  504 . 
     In an alternative form, the first and second raised platform sections  502 ,  504  can be raised to different elevations. In this form, the first support leg  516  and the legs  514  of the first raised platform section  502  would have a substantially equal height. Similarly, the height of the second support leg  518  and the legs  514  of the second raised platform section  504  would be substantially equal and different from the first raised platform section  502 . 
     In the illustrated form, the area of weakness  524  includes perforations in the form of small cuts, however, other suitable areas of weakness could be utilized, such as, scores (laser or mechanical), a pull strip, a notch, offset partial cuts, or other patterns, shapes, and sizes of perforations. 
     So configured, the separable raised platform  500  can be converted from a joined configuration to a separated configuration by separating the area of weakness  524 . The first and second support legs  516 ,  518  are then folded down over the first and second fold lines  520 ,  522  to positions generally perpendicular with the support  506 . In this position, the first and second support legs  516 ,  518  support and maintain an edge portion support  506  in an elevated configuration. 
     In a sixth exemplary embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 18-21 , the separable platform  600  is convertible from a joined configuration to a separated configuration of first and second platform sections  602 ,  604 . The separable platform  600  could alternatively include three or more platform sections. Each platform section  602 ,  604  includes a support  606 ,  606 ′ for a food product  608  during microwave heating having a susceptor  610 ,  610 ′ disposed thereon. In the illustrated form, the support  606 ,  606 ′ is generally rectangular having a pair of generally parallel side edges  612 ,  612 ′ and a pair of generally parallel end edges  614 ,  614 ′ forming a periphery. Walls  616  extend from the support periphery and connect to a top  618 ,  618 ′. The susceptor  610 ,  610 ′ may also extend onto any portion of the walls  616  and/or the top  618 ,  618 ′ to provide greater susceptor contact area to the food product  608 . 
     The top  618 ,  618 ′ may further include an area of weakness  620 ,  620 ′ defining a removable portion  622 ,  622 ′. Removing the removable portion  622 ,  622 ′ provides access to an interior of the platform  600 , such as to access the food product  608 . The removable portion  622 ,  622 ′ may be left on during microwave cooking of the food product  608 , or alternatively, it may be removed, such as to remove the food product  608  from an inner film wrapper prior to cooking. 
     The first and second platform sections  602 ,  604  are connected by an area of weakness  624 . In the illustrated form, the area of weakness  624  includes a combination of perforations and a cut extending a majority of the width of the top  618 ,  618 ′. It will be understood, however, that other suitable areas of weakness or combinations could be utilized, such as, scores (laser or mechanical), a pull strip, a notch, offset partial cuts, or other patterns, shapes, and sizes of perforations. 
     In another form, a susceptor can be disposed on the bottom of the first and second platform sections  602 ,  604 . So configured, the first and second platform sections  602 ,  604  can be flipped over to provide an elevated surface for microwave heating of the food product  108 . Alternatively, a susceptor can be disposed on the inside surface of the removable portions  622 ,  622 ′. In this configuration, an end of the removable portions  622 ,  622 ′ can be attached to a middle region of the legs  616  to wrap around and lay across a bottom of the first and second platform sections  602 ,  604 . So configured, the removable portions  622 ,  622 ′ can be wrapped around the first and second platform sections  602 ,  604  to provide elevated microwave heating of the food product. 
     In yet another form, a susceptor can be disposed on a top surface of the removable portions  622 ,  622 ′. In this form, the removable portions  622 ,  622 ′ can be partially attached to the top  618 ,  618 ′, and after the removable portions  622 ,  622 ′ are partially separated, the removable portions  622 ,  622 ′ can be returned to the original position. So configured, the food product  108  can be removed from the first and second platform sections  602 ,  604 , the removable portions  622 ,  622 ′ can be replaced, and the food product can be heated in an elevated position while supported by the removable portions  622 ,  622 ′. 
     So configured, the platform  600  is provided in a joined configuration and can be utilized to heat two food products  608  concurrently. If desired, however, a user can separate the area of weakness  624  dividing the platform  600  into the first and second platform sections  602 ,  604 , allowing the two food products  608  to be heated separately. 
     In the illustrated forms, the support is generally rectangular having four sides. In use, however, the support may take any suitable shape, including, for example, curvilinear shapes, such as generally circular or elliptical, or shapes with linear sides, such as a triangle, a quadrilateral, a hexagon, an octagon, or other regular or irregular polygons. The susceptor may be imprinted onto the support or, alternatively, may be secured to the support by any suitable method, such as adhesive. The susceptor may be of a type that expands upon heating to better conform to an adjacent portion of the food product, which can be advantageous if the adjacent portion of the food product has surface irregularities or is slightly curved, and thus not entirely planer. One type of expanding susceptor material is made and sold by Graphics Packaging, Inc. under the product name QuiltWave™. As the susceptor expands, it can at least partially contact some of the non-planar portions of the adjacent portion of a food product resulting in a more desirable food product. 
     The separable raised platforms disclosed herein are particularly suitable for use with food products having an outer dough-based portion in contact with the susceptor surface. For example, the separable raised platforms can be used in microwave heating of a food product that comprises French bread having toppings, such a pizza toppings, and an outer crust on the bottom. Other examples of food products having dough-based portions include sandwiches, calzones, pitas, pizzas, strombolis and other such dough-enrobed or dough-based food products. The dough-based portions of the food products can be in various forms, such as cooked, par-baked, raw, ready-to-heat, ready-to-eat, proofed or unproofed dough which is suitable for being cooked, browned, and/or crisped. 
     Preferably, though not necessarily, the separable raised platforms are formed from a single unitary blank of material, such as paperboard. Forming the separable raised platforms from a single unitary blank can eliminate the need for separately attaching the legs to the support. Alternatively, the separable raised platforms can be pressed trays. 
     The drawings and the foregoing descriptions are not intended to represent the only forms of the separable raised platform in regards to the details of construction. Changes in form and in proportion of parts, as well as the substitution of equivalents, are contemplated as circumstances may suggest or render expedient.