Packaging and method of opening

Description

FIELD

Disclosed is a food packaging for confectionery or the like and in particular, although not exclusively, to packaging that conforms to the shape of the packaged product such as packaging for confectionery eggs.

BACKGROUND

Confectionery eggs are often wrapped in a foil wrapper that conforms to the shape of the packaged confectionery egg. Here a rectangular foil sheet with graphics and the like printed on the outer side is wrapped around a confectionery egg to provide a protective barrier and maintain the confectionery egg in a hygienic condition ready for consumption. The foil is easily malleable so forms a close contour around the confectionery egg so that the packaged confectionery egg substantially maintains its outer profile. Because the foil is wrapped around the confectionery egg, it is not possible to provide a continuous graphic on the packaged product. Furthermore, the appearance of the packaged product is not always repeated. That is, the graphics on the outer surface of the foil can form differently from one production line to the next and even between packaged confectionery eggs on the same production line.

In use, the foil wrapped confectionery eggs can be sold individually from containers in which loose filled confectionery eggs are stored. Typically, the confectionery eggs will be stacked randomly on top of each other given the non-stacking shape. Once purchased, a consumer unwraps the packaged confectionery egg from the foil wrapper to consume the confectionery egg. The foil wrapper is able to be unwrapped because the packaging process does not seal the edges of the foil. The consumer therefore simply peels back an edge of the foil wrapper to begin opening. This opening procedure does not provide for a tamper evident packaging. That is, because the foil wrapper can be reclosed to substantially its original position, it is not possible for a consumer to know if the packaging has been tampered with, following dispatch from the confectionery plant.

SUMMARY

The disclosure attempts to overcome at least one of the above or other disadvantages. It is a further aim to provide a packaging and packaging method that may allow a packaging to conform to the shape of the packaged product whilst still providing a tamper evident closure and additionally or alternatively an improved graphical consistency on the outer surface of the packaged product. It is a further aim to provide an improved method of opening a packaging that conforms to the shape of the packaged product, with a particular aim being to allow a user to consume the product with reduced direct handling of the product. Other aims include providing a packaging for a non-stable shaped product having improved ease of display and handling as well as providing an element of fun and playfulness to the packaging and opening method.

There is herein provided a confectionery packaging, a method of packaging a confectionery product, and a method of opening said confectionery packaging as set forth in the appended claims. Other features will be apparent from the dependent claims, and the description which follows.

According to the exemplary embodiments, a confectionery packaging is provided that is ideally suited to packaging shaped products and in particular, shaped products such as eggs or ovoid or cylinders or complex shapes including the same whose shape does not offer a natural stability. That is, shapes that are prone to rolling or tipping or the like. The exemplary embodiments could even be applied to more stable geometric shapes like bars where it is desirable to stand the product on a thin or narrow edge. Consequently, although herein, the exemplary embodiments will be described with reference to packaging an egg-shaped product, other shapes are envisaged and the reader will understand that the packaging can be readily adopted to suit other shapes by changing the shape of the packaging. In each embodiment, main surfaces of the packaging are shaped so that the formed internal space conforms to the shape and size of the packaged product. Here, the internal volume may be less than 115% or less than 110% or less than 105% of the volume of the product to be packaged. Suitably, any internal dimensions are less than 105% of the corresponding dimension of the packaged product.

Suitably the main surfaces of at least one of the first and second parts of the confectionery packaging comprise a non-planar portion. Suitably the main surfaces of both of the first and second parts of the confectionery packaging comprise a non-planar portion.

Suitably the main surfaces of at least one of the first and second parts of the confectionery packaging comprise a curved portion. Suitably the main surfaces of both of the first and second parts of the confectionery packaging comprise a curved portion.

Suitably the non-planar and/or curved portion or portions cause the confectionery packaging to be unstable when placed on a substantially flat, level surface and therefore cause the confectionery packaging to be prone to rolling or tipping when placed on said surface. Some exemplary embodiments address the inherent instability or such confectionery packing.

Suitably at least one of the first and second parts of the confectionery packaging comprises a portion on which the confectionery packaging is unstable (i.e. prone to rolling or tipping) when the confectionery packaging is placed on a planar, level surface. Suitably both of the first and second parts of the confectionery packaging comprise a portion on which the confectionery packaging is unstable (i.e. prone to rolling or tipping) when the confectionery packaging is placed on a planar, level surface. The non-planar and/or curved portion or portions might be described or defined as a typical resting surface of the packaging. That is, a resting surface is one which sits on a supporting surface that does not form part of the packaging (e.g. a table, counter, shelf or the like).

Suitably the main surfaces of at least one of the first and second parts of the confectionery packaging are entirely non-planar. Suitably the main surfaces of both of the first and second parts of the confectionery packaging are entirely non-planar. Confectionery packaging wherein one or both of the first and second parts (or, e.g., at least a typical resting surface) are entirely non-planar are unstable (i.e. prone to rolling or tipping) when placed on a planar, level surface so that the entirely non-planar first or second part contacts the planar, level surface. Examples of such confectionery packaging include egg-shaped, ovoid, ellipsoid and spherical confectionery packaging and also include more complex shapes. Such confectionery packaging shapes are attractive to consumers but are inherently unstable when placed on a planar, level surface. Some exemplary embodiments address the inherent instability of these confectionery packaging shapes by providing one or more stabilising features.

The main surfaces and/or any reference to the surface may exclude (i.e. not include) the flange(s).

Suitably the confectionery packaging has a shape selected from egg-shaped, ovoid, spherical, ellipsoid and cylindrical. Suitably the confectionery packaging is egg-shaped, ovoid, ellipsoid or spherical. Suitably the confectionery packaging is egg-shaped or ovoid, to mimic, match or mirror an egg or ovoid product in or for the packaging.

Suitably the confectionery packaging has a shape which has no (e.g. major or main) planar surfaces (with the exception of any flanges, or other stabilising feature described herein). Suitably the confectionery packaging has a (e.g. main) shape which is entirely non-planar (with the exception of any flanges, or other stabilising feature described herein).

Suitably the confectionery packaging comprises at least one entirely curved circumference, for example being at least partly egg-shaped, ovoid, spherical, ellipsoid and/or cylindrical. Suitably the confectionery packaging comprises at least two entirely curved circumferences which are orthogonal to each other (or at least extend in different directions), for example an egg-shape, spherical, ovoid or ellipsoid. Such a shape is likely to be more unstable than a shape that comprises only one entirely curved circumference, for example a cylinder, which has flat/planar end surfaces on which the shape can stably rest.

The shape of the confectionery packaging referred to above may exclude the flange(s).

Suitably the confectionery packaging has an elongate shape, for example egg-shaped, ovoid, ellipsoid or cylindrical.

In each exemplary embodiment, the confectionery packing provides a sealed enclosure for a packaged product by sealing together two parts. Each part covers at least 30% of the surface of the product to be packaged. Moreover, the parts are sealed together at a flange seal, wherein flanges on either part are sealed together in a face-to-face relationship. Here, the flanges extend around an open mouth of each shell part. Suitably, the flanges extend away from main surfaces of each part. Suitably, the packaging substantially conforms to the shape of the confectionery except for the flanges. Typically, the flanges are orthogonal to the direction of closure of the two parts. However, other arrangements are envisaged and some exemplary embodiments include the flanges extending away from the main surfaces at other angles as well as the flanges extending in arcuate or otherwise non-planar fashion. The two parts can be joined in any known manner including, but not exclusively limited to; induction sealing, heat sealing, ultrasonic sealing, and cold sealing.

In each exemplary embodiment, at least one of the parts of the confectionery packaging is formed from a substantially rigid material. That is, the part is preformed into a desired shape, and the part maintains that shape. Advantageously, the preformed part acts as a holder for the packaged product when opened and during the packaging process. Substantially rigid includes the preformed part being easily deformable when put under pressure between a user's digits. Pre-formed parts typically have a constant thickness and can be formed from any known process such as casting, moulding, injection moulding, pressing, or any other suitable technique, though thermoforming is particularly suitable. It will be appreciated that the constant thickness may include variations in manufacturing tolerances as well as deliberately designed areas of increased or decreased thickness for particular features.

In some embodiments, the confectionery packaging is flexible. Suitably the confectionery packaging is formed from a flexible material. Suitably the flexible confectionery packaging can be deformed or bent by the handling of a user during an opening operation. Suitably the flexible confectionery packaging can be opened by peeling one of the first and second parts away from the other of the first and second parts so that at least one of the first and second parts is significantly deformed or bent with respect to its original shape. Suitably the flexible confectionery packaging has sufficient rigidity to maintain its shape when closed but can deform and bend during an opening operation. The deformed or bent parts may stay substantially deformed or bent after deformation or bending.

The other of the two parts may be similarly formed to the first. That is to say, the other of the two parts may be preformed. Alternatively, the other of the two parts may be formed from a foil or other flexible material. Parts formed from flexible films include aluminium films and the like. In this case, the flange of the aluminium film is the perimeter of the film that overlays the flange of the pre-formed part. Here, suitably a shrink film technology is adopted to cause the film to shape against the packaged product.

By forming the exemplary embodiments from pre-formed parts and films, graphics and the like can be printed or applied to the outside of the parts. This enables repeatable and clear graphics to be used. For instance, words and logos can be correctly formed even when the outside of the packaging is contoured. In contrast, when wrapping a packaged confectionery in foil, often words and logos are not easily distinguishable. In addition, because the packaging is completely sealed and cannot be opened without breaking, a tamper evident wrapping is provided.

According to one exemplary embodiment, a confectionery packing is provided with an exaggerated flange that extends continuously about a periphery of the packaging. The packaging is opened to reveal an enclosed product by separating the packaging along the exaggerated flange to separate the packaging into two pieces. Here, the term exaggerated flange means a flange that extends away from main surfaces of the packaging a distance typically greater than 20% or 30% of a centre line across an opening formed in one of the separated parts. Advantageously, the exaggerated flange provides a stop to prevent the packaging from rolling. Furthermore, a secondary packaging is suitably provided wherein multiple packages can be stowed. For instance, here the secondary packaging includes apertures for receiving part of each package. For Point of Sale purposes, or for transport, or for multiple sale purposes, a package having the exaggerated flange may be placed in each aperture. The exaggerated flange abuts a surface of the secondary packaging having the aperture. Typically, each package would be suspended by the abutment between the secondary packaging and exaggerated flange. Moreover, the exaggerated flange may be shaped to provide a fun aesthetic.

In one exemplary embodiment, a confectionery packaging is provided wherein multiple packages are joined by their flanges. That is, at least one of the parts includes a plurality of hollows each for receiving a product to be packaged. Here, the confectionery packaging can be separated into individual packages by separating through weakened lines or perforations.

The exemplary embodiments may suitably include an aperture for hanging the packaging when displaying at point of sale. Here, the aperture is suitably formed through the flanges.

In some particularly exemplary embodiments, the flanges in each part are not arranged to register directly with each other. Rather, at least in part, one of the flanges is arranged to be larger than the other. This causes an area of the sealed flanges to form a grasping part, which only includes part of a flange from one piece of the packaging. Consequently there is provided an easy opening function whereby the user may use the part of the sealed flanges with only one piece to grip the packaging and initiate the separation of the pieces along the flange seal. It will be appreciated that typically this will comprise a peeling action. Accordingly there is provided an exemplary confectionery packaging comprised of two parts each having a flange extending continuously about a perimeter of an opening to each part, wherein the packaging is formed by sealing the two flanges together and wherein the flanges are arranged not to register perfectly with each other. Yet further, there is provided an exemplary method of opening a confectionery packaging wherein the user grips a part of a sealed flange that extends about a continuous periphery of the packaging and includes a flange of one part of the packaging being sealed to a flange of another part of the packaging, said part of the flange that the user grasps comprising only a portion of one of the flanges and not the other, the method comprising using said grasping portion to peel one part away from the other so that the packaging separates along the sealed flange.

In one exemplary embodiment, flanges on both parts are arranged to include an oversized region. That is, a plurality of grasping portions are provided, wherein at least one grasping portion includes only a part of the flange of one part and at least one of the other grasping portions includes only a part of the flange of the other part. Moreover, the oversized regions in each part are ideally arranged adjacent one another so that they allow the user to pull the two parts away from each other. This further enhances the opening characteristics of the packaging.

In other exemplary embodiments, the flange of one of the parts is formed with a weakened line or fracture zone through which the flange is arranged to break when a shear force is applied. The weakened line extends across the flange so that when the shear force is applied, a part of the flange breaks away from the main part of the flange. Here, the flanges are sealed together in registration. When a shear force is applied to the weakened line, the flange in one of the parts fractures. The user is then grasping only one of the flanges and the two parts can be separated by peeling apart as herein described. Consequently there is provided an exemplary confectionery packaging comprised of two parts each having a flange extending continuously about a perimeter of an opening to each part, wherein the packaging is formed by sealing the two flanges together and wherein one of the flanges includes a weakened line through which the flange is arranged to fracture. Here, the packaging is opened as with the previous exemplary embodiment except that the grasping portion becomes the part of the sealed flange including the part of the flange that is arranged to separate from the main flange when fractured. As with the previous exemplary embodiment, the other of the parts may include a fracture zone in another position so that two grasping portions are provided. The grasping portions are ideally arranged adjacent each other.

In the exemplary embodiments the sealed flanges can form a continuous perimeter around the packaging taking any number of routes. Here continuous perimeter includes arrangements wherein the flange is substantially continuous but at one or more portions reduces or is not formed. In some of the exemplary embodiments, the flanges are substantially planar. There is therefore provided an exemplary confectionery packaging comprised of two parts each having a flange extending continuously about a perimeter of an opening to each part, wherein the packaging is formed by sealing the two flanges together and wherein the flanges extend in a planar direction. However, in alternative embodiments, the flanges are non-planar and have a curved or wavy profile in on or two axes. Consequently, there is also provided an exemplary confectionery packaging comprised of two parts each having a flange extending continuously about a perimeter of an opening to each part, wherein the packaging is formed by sealing the two flanges together and wherein the flanges extend in a non-planar direction.

Furthermore, in some exemplary embodiments, the flanges are formed substantially about the x-axis or waist axis. In this case there is provided an exemplary confectionery packaging comprised of two parts each having a flange extending continuously about a perimeter of an opening to each part, wherein the packaging is formed by sealing the two flanges together and wherein the flanges extend substantially in a plane parallel to the waist of the product. Alternatively, the flanges are formed substantially in the y-axis or tip-to-tip axis of the packaging. Here, there is provided an exemplary confectionery packaging comprised of two parts each having a flange extending continuously about a perimeter of an opening to each part, wherein the packaging is formed by sealing the two flanges together and wherein the flanges extend in a plane parallel to the tip-to-tip direction of the product. In particularly exemplary embodiments however, the sealed flanges are formed substantially along a plane angled to the x-axis or y-axis. According to this exemplary embodiment, there is provided an exemplary confectionery packaging comprised of two parts each having a flange extending continuously about a perimeter of an opening to each part, wherein the packaging is formed by sealing the two flanges together and wherein the flanges extend in a plane angled to waist or the tip-to-tip direction of the product

Suitably the flanges of the exemplary embodiments are all formed about a mouth that provides the widest point of each part. That is to say that each part does not trap the packaged product so that the packaged product can be removed from both parts. In some embodiments however, it is desirable for one part of the packaging to provide a holder whilst the product is consumed. Here it is preferable for the packaged product to be easily accessible when one part is removed.

The exemplary embodiments provide varying selling points. For instance, the waist flange allows the packaging to sit upright in a secondary packaging as herein described. Alternatively when the flanges are formed in the tip-to-tip axis, each part, or at least the major part of the packaging is conveniently held between the thumb and forefinger. In the particular exemplary embodiments wherein the flanges are formed substantially along a plane angled to one of the major axis of the shape, the part having a larger part of the waist of the shape provides a convenient holder for the packaged product. To aid the handle-ability of the packaging, the flanges can be arranged to curl as they extend away from the main surfaces. For instance, the flanges could curl up or down depending on the part being held.

In some exemplary embodiments, the confectionery packaging is adapted to provide a stable orientation when placed on a level surface. Here, at least a part of one or both flanges is arranged to extend a sufficient distance from the main surfaces such that the flanges come in to contact with the level surface when the packaged product is placed thereon. As well as the contact with the flange, when stood on the level surface, at least one portion of the main surfaces of the packaging is arranged to also contact the level surface. Importantly, the shape of the packaging is such that the centre of gravity of the packaging acts through or between the points of contact. Preferably, the centre of gravity acts downwards between and spaced from each contact. Furthermore, at least one of the contacts, that is either the contact between the level surface and flange or the contact between the level surface and main surface of the packaging contacts the surface either side of the centre of gravity when viewed from a view orthogonal to the first. Again, although the centre of gravity can act through one of the points of contact in the orthogonal direction, it is preferable if the centre of gravity acts downwards between and spaced from each contact.

Suitably in an exemplary embodiment, the part of the main surface of the packaging arranged to contact the level surface is adapted to include a stand feature such as a rib to provide increased stability. The rib could be hollow or solid. Furthermore, the flanges may be curled or bent at the distal ends to form a larger surface are or foot to act as the contact point with the level surface.

It will be appreciated that the exemplary embodiments can be arranged and shaped so that the product stands in any orientation. For instance, it is thought that for point of sale purposes a suitable orientation may be for the product to be stood up right so that the tip-to-tip direction is aligned upwardly. However, other orientations are envisaged including the tip-to-tip axis being arranged at a slanted angle.

In the exemplary embodiments described herein the exemplary embodiments of the confectionery packaging have been formed of two parts joined at a flange seal. In one exemplary embodiment, the two parts are not entirely separate. Rather, the two parts remain joined at a hinge. The hinge is typically formed by a weakened line across the part. Here, the packaging is formed by folding the packaging about the hinge to bring the flanges of each part in to contact for sealing. This enables the two parts to stay connected to each other when the user separates the parts along the seal to consume the product. Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiments the flanges may be sealed with Pressure Sensitive Adhesive (PSA) to allow recloseability of the packaging. Here, the two parts being joined by a hinge improves the recloseability function.

In exemplary embodiments wherein the main surfaces of at least one of the first and second parts of the confectionery packaging comprise a non-planar portion, the confectionery packaging may comprise an arrangement of one or more main surfaces and centre of gravity which allows the confectionery packaging, optionally containing confectionery, to adopt a stable orientation (i.e. a resting position) on the non-planar portion when the non-planar portion contacts a planar, level surface.

Suitably the confectionery packaging has an arrangement of one or more main surfaces and centre of gravity which allows the confectionery packaging to return to such a stable orientation after being tilted from the stable orientation.

Suitably the confectionery packaging comprises an arrangement of main surfaces and centre of gravity which allows the confectionery packaging to only rest on a planar, level surface in one stable orientation.

Suitably the confectionery packaging which can adopt a stable orientation on a non-planar portion when the non-planar portion contacts a planar, level surface, comprises a localised increase in mass at or adjacent to a non-planar surface. Alternatively the localised increase in mass may be between the non-planar surface and a centre of volume of the confectionery packaging.

Suitably the localised increase in mass is provided by a portion of one of the first and second parts of the confectionery packaging. Suitably the portion of one of the first and second parts of the confectionery packaging which provides the localised increase in mass is formed from a thicker and/or denser material than the other portions of the first and second parts. For example the confectionery packaging may be formed from a polymer material and the localised increase in mass provided by a portion of the polymer material which is thicker compared to the majority of the packaging. Alternatively the confectionery packaging may be formed from a polymer material and the localised increase in mass provided by a polymer material which is more dense than the polymer material which forms the majority of the packaging.

Suitably the portion of one of the first and second parts of the confectionery packaging which provides the localised increase in mass is formed from a denser material than the other portions of the first and second parts. Suitably the portion of one of the first and second parts of the confectionery packaging which provides the localised increase in mass is formed from a metal. Alternatively the localised increase in mass may be provided by a different material, such as one or more of a polymer material, resin, stone or mineral.

In one exemplary embodiment the confectionery packaging includes a weight. The weight provides one portion of the packaging with a localised increase in mass as compared to the other parts of the packaging. The placement of the weight can be used to provide the packaging with a ‘wobble’ feature wherein, the packaging can be tipped so that the centre of gravity acts to one side of the contact point between the packaging and surface it is placed on. If the centre of gravity acts to the opposite side to that which the packaging has been tipped, the packaging is caused to move or rock back on itself. Inertia causes the part to overshoot the centre of gravity and a rocking motion generated. Consequently there is provided an exemplary embodiment wherein a packaging having a non-stable shape includes a weight giving a portion of the packaging a localised increased mass. The embodiment is ideally suited to substantially egg-shaped packaging as herein described. Moreover, although the packaging may be formed in a number of ways, the two part method described herein is again ideally suited. Here the weight is suitably arranged in the preformed part.

Suitably the confectionery packaging comprises a weight; wherein the weight provides one portion of the packaging with a localised increase in mass as compared to the other parts of the packaging; and wherein the placement of the weight provides the packaging with a wobble feature.

Suitably the packaging can be tipped so that the centre of gravity acts to one side of a contact point between the packaging and a surface it is placed on; and wherein the centre of gravity acts to the opposite side to that which the packaging has been tipped, causing the packaging to move or rock back on its self.

Suitably the packaging has a non-stable shape.

Suitably the packaging is egg or ovoid in shape.

Suitably the packaging comprises a first preformed part and a second part, wherein the first and second parts are sealed together about the confectionery at flanges that extend away from main surfaces of each part, said main surfaces substantially conforming to the shape of the confectionery.

According to the exemplary embodiments, there is provided a confectionery packaging for a confectionery, the packaging comprising a first preformed part and a second part, wherein the first and second parts are sealed together about the confectionery at flanges that extend away from main surfaces of each part, said main surfaces substantially conforming to the shape of the confectionery;

the flanges being arranged to provide a gripping portion that allows a consumer to grip the packaging in order to apply a separating force to separate one part from the other through the seal between the flanges.

Suitably a first gripping portion is provided to allow a user to apply a separating force to one part and a second gripping portion is provided to allow a user to apply a separating force to the other part.

Suitably the first and second gripping portions are arranged adjacent each other.

Suitably the or each gripping portion is provided by at least a portion of one flange overlying at least a portion of the other flange, and the portion of the flange that overlies the other flange forms the gripping portion.

Suitably the or each gripping portion is provided by at least a portion of one flange overlying and extending beyond at least a portion of the other flange, and the portion of the flange that overlies and extends beyond the other flange forms the gripping portion.

Suitably a plurality of portions of said one flange overlay a corresponding plurality of portions of said other flange to provide multiple gripping portions.

Suitably a plurality of portions of said one flange overlies and extends beyond a corresponding plurality of portions of said other flange to provide multiple gripping portions.

Suitably one of the flanges includes a first fracture zone that is arranged to fracture said flange into a main part and a distal end part when a force is applied to the fracture zone, the or each gripping portion being formed by a portion of one flange and the distal end part of said other flange.

Suitably a plurality of fracture zones are provided in said flange in order to form multiple gripping portions.

Suitably the flanges are joined at a plane and the plane is substantially planar.

Suitably the flanges are joined at a plane and the plane is arcuate in at least one axis.

Suitably the flanges are joined at a plane and the plane is wavy in at least one axis.

Suitably the planes are arcuate or wavy in both axes.

Suitably the confectionery packaging has an elongate shape, for example egg-shaped, ovoid, ellipsoid or cylindrical.

Suitably the flanges are joined at a plane and the plane extends parallel to a major axis of the confectionery.

The major axis corresponds to the longest dimension of the confectionery packaging, wherein the confectionery packaging has an elongate shape.

Suitably the confectionery packaging comprises at least one entirely curved circumference, the flanges are joined at a plane and the plane extends around the longest entirely curved circumference of the confectionery packaging.

Suitably the confectionery packaging comprises at least two entirely curved circumferences which are orthogonal to each other (or at least extending in different directions), the flanges are joined at a plane and the plane extends around the longest entirely curved circumference of the confectionery packaging (i.e. in a plane including and parallel to the major axis).

Suitably the confectionery packaging is egg-shaped, ovoid or ellipsoid, the flanges are joined at a plane and the plane extends around the longest entirely curved circumference of the packaging.

Suitably the flanges are joined at a plane and the plane extends parallel to a minor axis of the confectionery.

The minor axis is orthogonal to the major axis; wherein the confectionery packaging has an elongate shape.

Suitably the confectionery packaging comprises at least two entirely curved circumferences which are orthogonal to each other (or at least extending in different directions), the flanges are joined at a plane and the plane extends in a plane orthogonal to the longest entirely curved circumference of the confectionery packaging (i.e. in a plane including and parallel to the minor axis).

Suitably the confectionery packaging is egg-shaped, ovoid or ellipsoid, the flanges are joined at a plane and the plane extends around the waist of the packaging. The waist of the packaging is the longest entirely curved circumference around the packaging which is orthogonal to the overall longest entirely curved circumference of the packaging (i.e. in a plane including and parallel to the minor axis).

Suitably the flanges are joined at a plane and the plane extends at an angle to a major or minor axis of the confectionery.

Suitably the flanges are joined at a plane and the plane extends at an angle between a major and a minor axis of the packaging.

Suitably the confectionery packaging comprises at least two entirely curved circumferences which are orthogonal to each other (or at least extending in different directions), the flanges are joined at a plane and the plane extends at an angle between the at least two entirely curved circumferences of the confectionery packaging.

Suitably at least one of the flanges is arranged to extend so that a portion of at least one of the flanges is arranged to contact a linear plane that extends in first and second orthogonal directions when a portion of the main surface of one of the parts also contacts the linear plane.

A linear plane refers to a substantially flat surface on which the confectionery packaging may be placed in use. The linear plane is not part of the confectionery packaging.

Suitably the packaging is arranged such that the centre of gravity of the packaging acts between the contact between the plane and flange and the contact between the plane and main surface in one direction, and the flange or main surface being adapted to provide two spaced contacts either side of the centre of gravity in the second direction.

Suitably the portion of the flange that extends to contact the linear plane includes a gripping portion.

Suitably the flange is adapted to provide the two spaced contacts in the second direction, and one of the spaced contacts forms a gripping portion to apply a separating force to one of the parts and the other of the spaced contacts forms a gripping portion to apply a separating force to the other of the parts.

According to exemplary embodiments, there is provided a method of forming a confectionery packaging as described above, the method comprising the steps of:

preforming a first part with main surfaces that substantially conform to part of the shape of a confectionery to be packaged and a flange that extends about a mouth of the preformed part;

placing the confectionery product in the first part; and

sealing a second part to the flange of the first part such that at least one gripping portion is formed, wherein the gripping portion allows a consumer to grip the packaging in order to apply a separating force to separate one part from the other through the seal between the flanges.

Suitably the method comprises preforming the second part with main surfaces that substantially conform to part of the shape of a confectionery to be packaged and a flange that extends about a mouth of the preformed part.

Suitably the method comprises forming a fracture zone in one of the flanges.

According to exemplary embodiments, there is provided a packaging assembly comprising a confectionery packaging and a secondary packaging, the confectionery packaging comprising main surfaces that substantially correspond to the shape of the confectionery being packaged and an outwardly extending flange, and the secondary packaging comprises a surface having at least one aperture, wherein the secondary packaging provides a support to the confectionery packaging by abutment between the flange and surface.

Suitably multiple confectionery packages are provided and the surface of the secondary packaging includes a plurality of apertures.

According to exemplary embodiments, there is provided a method of packaging a confectionery package, wherein the method comprises supporting a flange of the confectionery package in a secondary packaging by abutment between the flange and a surface surrounding an aperture.

According to the exemplary embodiments, there is provided a confectionery packaging for a confectionery, the packaging comprising a first preformed part and a second part, wherein the first and second parts are sealed together about the confectionery at flanges that extend away from main surfaces of each part, said main surface substantially conforming to the shape of the confectionery;

a portion of at least one of the flanges being arranged to contact a linear plane that extends in first and second orthogonal directions when a portion of the main surface of one of the parts also contacts the linear plane.

A linear plane refers to a substantially flat surface on which the confectionery packaging may be placed in use. The linear plane is not part of the confectionery packaging.

Suitably the packaging is arranged such that flange or main surface is adapted to provide two spaced contacts either side of the centre of gravity in the second direction.

Suitably the portion of the main surface that contacts the linear plane is adapted to provide a foot.

Suitably the foot provides a substantially flat surface of contact in one direction.

Suitably the foot provides a substantially flat surface contact in two directions.