LIQUID AND/OR TEMPERATURE ACTIVATED ELAPSED TIME INDICATORS SUITABLE, IN PARTICULAR, AS DONENESS INDICATORS FOR FOODSTUFFS

摘要

: The invention relates to liquid and/or temperature activated elapsed time sensors suitable, in particular, for use as doneness indicators for foodstuffs and for other purposes. The liquid activated indicators comprise a porous structure which generates a first colour by effects which include optical interference when pores of the structure are gas-filled, and a second contrasting colour when the pores of the structure are liquid filled. The porous structure is covered with a transparent or translucent cover which is unattached in certain areas to allow for capillary movement of liquid between the cover and the porous structure. An entrance permits liquid to enter between the cover and the porous structure. When contacted with liquid, the liquid is drawn into the device and produces an expanding area of contrasting colour which is used to indicate the elapse of time. The invention also relates to the activation of a doneness indicator, preferably located on the outside of a food container, by water condensed from steam generated as the food is heated, preferably by microwaves, and to temperature activated elapsed time indicators which contain a meltable solid which provides the liquid to operate the liquid activated indicator described above at a predetermined temperature.