Packaging means and methods for reducing decomposition of particulate products during shipping and handling

Abstract

The present invention relates to a means of packaging to reduce decomposition of particulate products, such as dry flake cereals that are often crushed, compacted, or pulverized during shipping and handling, by distributing the product across a multiplicity of structurally isolated cellular storage sections within the package.

1 . A means of packaging and distribution of particulate products into structurally isolated storage sections that reduce product decomposition, compacting, crushing, shifting, and pulverizing with said means being comprised of:
 Isolated cellular compartments; with individually partitioned removable cell covers, opening tabs, and flexible sides with adhesive sealant edges for inserting or removing product with covers, compartments, sides, and partitions being fabricated of paper, cardboard, plastic, metallic materials, or composites.   
   
   
       2 . The means as recited in  claim 1 , further comprising sealed bags, boxes or other containment assemblies containing product to be inserted into structurally isolated storage sections that reduces product decomposition, compacting, crushing, and shifting. 
   
   
       3 . The means as recited in  claim 1 , wherein said isolated cellular compartments being comprised of formed, molded, or assembled components and materials fitted into or structurally part of cellular compartments that provide for structurally isolating product to reduce decomposition, compacting, crushing, and shifting. 
   
   
       4 . The means as recited in  claim 1 , further comprising individually partitioned removable cell covers being able to be individually separated by means of scoring, indentation, serration, notching, stamping, or cutting to remove or displace said cover for the purpose of removing or replacing product. 
   
   
       5 . The means as recited in  claim 1 , wherein said flexible sides with adhesive sealant edges for inserting or removing product adhesive sealant may permanently seal, or be resealable, of for the purpose of loading, unloading or replacing product. 
   
   
       6 . The means as recited in  claim 1 , further comprising resizing all or individual sections, partitions, cells, or sides to reconfigure packaging to simultaneously accommodate different quantities or different products in the same package and insure product freshness if so desired or required. 
   
   
       7 . The means as recited in  claim 1 , wherein said particulate product is cereal packaged to reduce decomposition, compacting, crushing, shifting, pulverizing, and distribution costs while increasing product life. 
   
   
       8 . The means as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the form, fit and function of product packaging is maintained insuring that product recognition, advertising, handling, and distribution is not affected. 
   
   
       9 . The means as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the insertion or removal of product is from the sides, front, or rear of the package, as opposed to the conventional top or bottom, during production or use. 
   
   
       10 . The means as recited in  claim 1  herein the inclusion of the isolated cellular compartments; with individually partitioned removable cell covers, opening tabs, and flexible sides with adhesive sealant edges for inserting or removing product with covers, compartments, sides, and partitions being fabricated of paper, cardboard, plastic, metallic materials, or composites does not significantly reduce the amount of product enclosed or increase the total package weight.