Protein products presented in patty or sliced form often depend on interleaving and stacking prior to being packaged in film on a form-fill-seal machine or loaded into trays or cartons. An interleaved flat or folded paper, film or foil sheet often separates patties/slices. Interleaving also enhances sanitary handling, delivers freeze release and improves shelf life.
Unfortunately, whether destined for home or foodservice use, stacks of frozen patties often come out of the carton fused together, particularly if the package has experienced any conditions involving partial thawing and refreezing. As a result, when it comes time for meal preparation, it’s not always easy to free a single portion from a stack of frozen patties. Interestingly, a quick survey of the grocery store freezer case shows packaging for protein patties provides safe handling instructions and cooking instructions (typically calling for a start from the frozen state). However, when it comes to separating an individual portion from the stack, the consumer is on his or her own.