The invention is directed to a canister for packaging and delivering a product such as, but not limited to, infant formula. The canister of the invention includes a container and cover. The cover includes a base and a lid with the base including an easy-open sealing material and/or a utensil for dispensing the product and docking station for holding the utensil when not in use. This invention is further directed to an apparatus and method for the in-line sterilization of the cover during the manufacture thereof. The invention is further directed to an apparatus and method for the in-line detection of leaks in the canister for quality assurance.
