a container lid system is compatible with traditional metal - rimmed paper ice cream containers , and protects the user from interaction with any sharp metal edges or points . the lid system includes a protector strip disposed over the metal rim , which completely shields the user from contact with any sharp rim edges . a selectively removable and replaceable lid allows the containers to be shipped , opened and used while maintaining protection of with the rim . the lid may also serve as , or be provided with , a replaceable night cover compatible with the protected rim . accordingly , the metal rim strip is never exposed to the user &# 39 ; s hands or arms during use of the ice cream container , either during initial removal of the lid or when replacing and subsequently removing of the night cover .