Self-expanding and reclosable flexible pouch

Abstract

A sealed, self-expanding, reclosable, flexible pouch having a pair of extensible stays located in the throat area of the pouch. The extensible stays are biased toward a circular configuration but are initially held substantially flat in a stressed condition by the pouch's sealed top portion. When the pouch's top portion is removed, the extensible stays expand to their relaxed expanded configuration and thereby expand and open the throat area of the pouch. An inwardly oriented male securement means is attached to one extensible stay and extends along the throat area of the pouch. A complementary inwardly oriented female securement means is attached to the other of the opposing extensible stays and extends along the throat area of pouch. The complementary male and female securement means permits the throat area of the pouch to be sufficiently closed after initial opening, thereby constraining the pouch's contents.