A free-standing, microwavable food container capable of being used for both high pressure processing (HPP) and microwave reconstitution of food products. The container is designed so as to be capable of being hand-held, even after microwave heating of the food products contained therein. The design of the container, coupled with the incorporation of the pressure release valve, enables the container to be used to both HPP preserve the food product and reconstitute the food product in the same container while retaining the original organoleptic properties of the preserved food, including taste, texture and appearance. A method of combining the high pressure processing of food products and microwave reconstitution in the stand-up container containing the pressure release valve is also described. Typical food products preserved include vegetables, proteins and/or carbohydrates, optionally coated or mixed with powdered, pellet or cube sauce or gravy.
