FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to tobacco, and in particular, to tobacco formulations
suitable for use in a smokeless manner, and to the handling and use of tobacco that
is in a smokeless form.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Cigarettes, cigars, little cigars and pipes are popular smoking articles that employ
tobacco in various forms. Smoking articles are tobacco products that are used by heating
or burning tobacco, and aerosol (e.g., smoke) is inhaled by the smoker. Representative
manners or methods that have been proposed for the packaging of tobacco products,
including cigarettes and cigars, are set forth in
U.S. Pat. Nos. Des 368,221 to Montague;
1,886,115 to Muller;
3,371,775 to Butler;
3,967,730 to Driscoll et al.;
4,852,734 to Allen et al.;
5,139,140 to Burrows et al.;
5,333,729 to Wolfe;
5,542,529 to Hein, III et al.;
5,938,018 to Keaveney et al. and
7,014,039 to Henson et al.
[0003] Tobacco also may be enjoyed in a so-called "smokeless" form. Particularly popular
smokeless tobacco products are employed by inserting some form of processed tobacco
or tobacco-containing formulation into the mouth of the user.
[0004] Various types of smokeless tobacco products are set forth in
U.S. Pat. Nos. 1,376,586 to Schwartz;
4,513,756 to Pittman et al.;
4,528,993 to Sensabaugh, Jr. et al.;
4,624,269 to Story et al.;
4,987,907 to Townsend;
5,092,352 to Sprinkle, III et al.;
5,387,416 to White et al.; and
Des. 335,934 to Howard;
U.S. Pat. App. Pub. No. 2005/0244521 to Strickland et al. and
2006/0162732 to Winn et al.;
PCT Application Pub. No. WO 04/095959 to Arnarp et al.;
PCT Application Pub. No. WO 05/063060 to Atchley et al.;
PCT Application Pub. No. WO 05/004480 to Engstrom; and
PCT Application Pub. No. WO 05/041699 to Quinter et al.
One type of smokeless tobacco product is referred to as "snuff." Snuff typically is
formulated in "moist" or "dry" forms. Representative types of snuff products, commonly
referred to as "snus," are manufactured in Europe, particularly in Sweden, by or through
companies such as Swedish Match AB, Fiedler & Lundgren AB, Gustavus AB, Skandinavisk
Tobakskompagni A/S and Rocker Production AB. Snus products available in the U.S.A.
are marketed under the tradenames Camel Snus Frost, Camel Snus Original and Camel
Snus Spice by R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company. Representative smokeless tobacco products
also are marketed under the tradenames Oliver Twist by House of Oliver Twist A/S;
Copenhagen, Skoal, SkoalDry, Rooster, Red Seal, Husky, and Revel by U.S. Smokeless
Tobacco Co.; "taboka" by Philip Morris USA; and Levi Garrett, Peachy, Taylor's Pride,
Kodiak, Hawken Wintergreen, Grizzly, Dental, Kentucky King, and Mammoth Cave by Conwood
Sales Co., L.P.
[0005] Exemplary manners for providing various types of tobacco products for distribution
to consumers have been proposed in
U.S. Pat. No. 3,696,917 to Levi;
PCT WO 2004/095959 to Arnarp et al. and
PCT WO 2005/016036 to Bjorkholm. Equipment for packaging tobacco has been commercially available, and representative
equipment has been available as FPP 210 Pouch Packer from Schur Flexible Benelux.
WO 03/053175 A2 discloses a composition for use in the oral cavity comprising tobacco and/or a tobacco
substitute encapsulated in a membrane material comprising one or more membranes at
least one of which being water permeable and water-insoluble.
WO 96/14763 A1 discloses packed cigarettes characterized that each package contains only one single
cigarette.
[0006] Smokeless tobacco products are packaged for distribution, sale and use in a variety
of ways. Chewing tobacco has been packaged in pouches, foil bags and metal containers.
Snus types of products have been packaged in tins, "pucks" or "pots" that are manufactured
from metal or plastic. In certain circumstances, smokeless tobacco products are refrigerated
prior to sale, typically for the purpose of prolonging the freshness and moisture
content thereof. For example, smokeless tobacco products, particularly moist tobacco
products, can be refrigerated in order to avoid or retard absorption of contaminants
that provide an undesirable flavor or odor to the product, avoid or retard the development
discoloration or staining of the product, and to avoid or retard the activity of biologically
active microorganisms. For example, smokeless tobacco products, and typically moist
snuff types of products, can be refrigerated to retard the effects of enzymatic and
other biological activities, pH changes, oxidation, and other effects that have a
tendency to shorten product shelf-life or stability.
[0007] It would be desirable to provide efficient and effective forms of packaging for a
smokeless tobacco composition or formulation. It also would be desirable to provide
smokeless tobacco compositions or formulations, and in particular, processed smokeless
tobacco compositions and formulations.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The present invention relates to a smokeless tobacco product. The product includes
a smokeless tobacco composition or formulation. For example, the smokeless tobacco
formulation includes particles or pieces of tobacco, and may include other ingredients,
such as salts, sweeteners, binders, colorants, pH adjusters, fillers, flavoring agents,
disintegration aids, antioxidants, humectants, and preservatives. The moisture content
of the particles of the tobacco may vary. Certain smokeless tobacco products have
the form of tobacco compositions or formulations that result from casting or otherwise
forming a slurry incorporating tobacco material and other components as a film or
sheet. Certain smokeless tobacco products have the form of tobacco compositions or
formulations that result from pressing, extruding or otherwise forming a mixture incorporating
tobacco material and other components into a desired shape.
[0009] The tobacco formulation can be contained within a container, such as a pouch or bag,
such as is the type commonly used for the manufacture of snus types of products (e.g.,
a sealed, moisture permeable pouch that is sometimes referred to as a "portion").
A representative moisture permeable pouch can be composed of a "fleece" type of material.
The tobacco formulation is in turn contained within a package. The package is sealed
tightly, and is composed of a suitable material, such that the atmospheric conditions
within that sealed package are modified and/or controlled; that is, the sealed package
can provide a good barrier that inhibits the passage of compositions such as moisture
and oxygen therethrough; in addition, the atmosphere within the sealed package can
be further modified by introducing a selected gaseous species (e.g., nitrogen, argon,
or a mixture thereof) into the package prior to sealing or by drawing a vacuum therein
(vacuum sealing). As such, the atmospheric conditions to which the tobacco composition
is exposed are controlled during conditions of preparation, packing, storage and handling.
[0010] In one aspect, an individual portion of smokeless tobacco (e.g., one snus fleece
bag containing a smokeless tobacco formulation) can be wrapped in a package. The atmosphere
within each package is modified or controlled in a manner characteristic of the present
invention. Several snus fleece bags so packaged then can be contained within the product
container, such as a metal or plastic tin.
[0011] In one aspect, several individual portions of smokeless tobacco can be wrapped together
within one package. The atmosphere within that package is modified or controlled in
a manner characteristic of the present invention. That package, or a combination of
several of such packages, then can be contained within the product container, such
as a metal or plastic tin.
[0012] In one aspect, smokeless tobacco product (e.g., several individual portions of smokeless
tobacco) can be contained within a sealed container, such as a metal or plastic tin.
That container then can be wrapped within a package, such that the atmosphere within
that package and the sealed container is modified or controlled in a manner characteristic
of the present invention.
[0013] In one aspect, smokeless tobacco product (e.g., several individual portions of smokeless
tobacco) can be contained within a sealed container, such as a metal or plastic tin,
and the atmosphere within that sealed container is modified or controlled in a manner
characteristic of the present invention.
[0014] In one aspect, at least one individual portion of smokeless tobacco can be wrapped
in a package. The atmosphere within each package is modified or controlled in a manner
characteristic of the present invention. That package or several of those packages
then can be contained within the product container, such as a metal or plastic tin.
The atmosphere within that sealed metal or plastic container is modified or controlled
in a manner characteristic of the present invention. Alternatively, that container
then can be wrapped within an outer package, such that the atmosphere within that
package and the sealed container is modified or controlled in a manner characteristic
of the present invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] In order to provide an understanding of embodiments of the invention, reference is
made to the appended drawings, in which reference numerals refer to components of
described exemplary embodiments of the invention. The drawings are exemplary only,
and should not be construed as limiting the invention.
[0016] FIG. 1 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a tobacco product in the form of a
snus type of product individually wrapped in an outer package.
[0017] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a tobacco product in the form of a snus type
of product, wherein several snus-type products are wrapped in an outer package and
that outer package is contained within a generally cylindrical plastic or metal tin.
[0018] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a tobacco product in the form of a snus type
of product, wherein several snus-type products are contained within a generally cylindrical
plastic or metal tin, and that tin is wrapped in an outer package.
[0019] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a tobacco product in the form of a snus type
of product, wherein several snus-type products are contained within a generally cylindrical
plastic or metal tin possessing a controlled atmosphere.
[0020] FIG. 5 is cross-sectional view of a tobacco product in the form of a snus type of
product, wherein each of several snus-type products are individually wrapped in an
outer package, and are in turn contained within a generally cylindrical plastic or
metal tin possessing a controlled atmosphere.
[0021] FIG. 6 is a perspective view (partially cut away) of a plurality of individually
packaged snus types of products, each individual package being connected to another,
and an outer container for containing and dispensing those products.
[0022] FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a tobacco product in the form of a
snus type of product individually wrapped in an outer package.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0023] Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown a first embodiment of a representative type of
smokeless tobacco product 110. The tobacco product 110 includes a tobacco composition
115 contained in a sealed, moisture permeable pouch 120, thereby providing a tobacco
portion 122. A representative moisture permeable pouch can be composed of a fleece
type of material that is sealed shut in order to effectively retain the tobacco composition
within the pouch during normal conditions of handling. The tobacco product 110 possesses
a sealed outer package 125 that surrounds and contains the tobacco portion 122 as
a type of tightly sealed pouch. The representative outer package 125 possesses an
upper surface 126 and a lower surface 127; and the two faces 128, 129 of a "fin seal"
are shown lying essentially parallel to the lower surface of outer package 125. The
outer package 125 is tightly sealed, and is selected from an appropriate material,
such that the atmosphere 130 within that outer package can be controlled. In addition,
the atmosphere 130 within the package can be controlled such that the atmosphere is
composed most predominantly of high purity nitrogen gas, or other suitable gaseous
species. If desired, the embodiment can be altered in order that the outer package
contains a plurality (e.g., 2, 3 or 4) of individual tobacco portions. Each of the
two ends 131, 132 of the outer package is tightly sealed (e.g., heat sealed), and
if desired, those ends can have a serrated appearance, or cut to have the desired
visual effect. Preferably, the length of the inner region of the outer package 125
is at least about 10 percent greater than the overall length of the tobacco portion
122, the width of the inner region of the outer package 125 is at least about 10 percent
greater than the overall width of the tobacco portion 122, and the height of the inner
region of the outer package 125 is somewhat greater than the overall height of the
tobacco portion 122. For an exemplary embodiment, a snus-type of product has a maximum
length of about 20 mm to about 30 mm, a width of about 10 mm to about 15 mm, and a
height of about 5 mm to about 8 mm; thus the outer package 125 would have an overall
length of at least about 30 mm, a width of at least about 30 mm, and a height of at
least about 5 mm to about 8 mm; wherein the two end seals 131, 132 of the outer package
125 each extend about 5 mm along the width of the outer package 125, and the "fin
seal" has a width of about 10 mm. In use, the outer package 125 is opened by the consumer,
the tobacco portion 122 is removed from the outer package, and the tobacco portion
is enjoyed by the consumer.
[0024] Referring to FIG. 2, there is shown a second embodiment of a representative smokeless
tobacco product 110. The tobacco product 110 includes several tobacco compositions
115, 140, 141 each contained in a respective sealed, moisture permeable pouch 120,
145, 146. The tobacco product 110 possesses a sealed outer package 155 that surrounds
and contains all of those individual tobacco portions 125, 157, 158. The number of
tobacco portions within the outer package can vary, and can be a number such as 10,
12, 15, 20, 25 or 30. The outer package 155 is tightly sealed, and for the representative
embodiment shown, the outer package 155 possesses a three-sided type of packaging
configuration (i.e., the packaging material used to manufacture the outer package
is sealed on three sides). The outer package 155 is selected from an appropriate material,
such that the atmosphere 160 within that outer package can be controlled. For example,
the atmosphere 160 within the package can be controlled such that the atmosphere is
composed of high purity nitrogen gas, or other suitable gaseous species. The outer
package 155 is contained within a hard container 165, such as a plastic or metal tin
having a lower portion 168 and a corresponding or coordinating upper portion 170.
A representative hard container 165 is the short, rounded edge, generally cylindrical
container traditionally used for the marketing of snus types of products. See, for
example, the types of representative snuff-box types of designs set forth in
PCT WO 2005/016036 to Bjorkholm. Other types of containers that can be suitably modified are plastic or metal type
containers set forth in
US Pat. No. 7,014,039 to Henson et al. See, also, the types of hard containers used for the commercial distribution of
Camel Snus by R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company; Revel Mint Tobacco Packs type of smokeless
tobacco product by U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Corporation; SkoalDry by U.S. Smokeless
Tobacco Co. and "taboka" by Philip Morris USA. If desired, the type of container used
for the "taboka" product can be adapted to possess a slidable lid (e.g., one that
slides generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the container) in order that
the container can be opened and closed. If desired, the container can have an accordion
or bellows type of design, such that the container can be extended open for filling
with smokeless tobacco product during production, and then contracted after filling
of the container is complete. If desired, containers can be equipped with suitable
seals or grommets, in order that when an opened container is re-shut, a good seal
is provided.
[0025] In use, the hard container is opened, the outer package is opened, a tobacco portion
is removed therefrom, and the tobacco portion is enjoyed by the consumer. The hard
container can be manually resealed, and additional tobacco portions can be removed
from that container by the consumer as desired.
[0026] Referring to FIG. 3, there is shown a third embodiment of a representative smokeless
tobacco product 110. The tobacco product 110 includes several tobacco compositions
115, 140, 141 each contained in a respective sealed, moisture permeable pouch 120,
145, 146. Those individual pouch sealed tobacco portions 156, 157, 158 are themselves
contained within a hard container 165, such as a plastic or metal tin having a lower
portion 168 and a corresponding or coordinating upper portion 170. The number of tobacco
portions within the hard container can vary, and can be a number such as 10, 12, 15,
20, 25 or 30. A representative hard container 165 is the short, rounded edge, generally
cylindrical container traditionally used for the marketing of snus types of products.
The hard container 165 is in turn packaged within a sealed outer package 180. The
representative outer package 180 shown as a representative embodiment has a "lap seal"
type of sealing mechanism, and as such, possesses an upper surface 182, a lower surface
183, and an overlap seal 184 located on the bottom face of the outer package. The
outer package 180 is tightly sealed at each end 185, 186, and is constructed from
an appropriate material, such that the atmosphere 160 within that outer package, and
within the hard container 165, is controlled. For example, the atmosphere 160 within
the package can be controlled such that the atmosphere is composed of high purity
nitrogen gas, or other suitable gaseous species. In use, the outer package 180 is
opened, the hard container 165 is opened, and individual tobacco portions are removed
as desired from the hard container.
[0027] Referring to FIG. 4, there is shown a fourth embodiment of a representative smokeless
tobacco product 110. The tobacco product 110 includes several tobacco compositions
115, 140, 141 each contained in a sealed, moisture permeable pouch 120, 145, 146,
respectively. Those individual tobacco portions 156, 157, 158 are contained within
a hard container 165, such as a plastic or metal tin having a lower portion 170 and
a corresponding or coordinating upper portion 168. A representative hard container
165 is the short, rounded edge, generally cylindrical container traditionally used
for the marketing of snus types of products. The hard container 165 is in turn tightly
sealed, and can possess an optional ring or band of a sealing material 195 that circumscribes
the hard container in the area of the seal between lower and upper portions 168, 170.
As such, conditions are provided so that the atmosphere 160 within the hard container
165, can be controlled (e.g., the atmosphere may be composed of high purity nitrogen
gas, or other suitable gaseous species). In use, the ring or band of sealing material
195 is broken, the hard container is opened, and individual tobacco portions are removed
as desired from the hard container.
[0028] Referring to FIG. 5, there is shown a fifth embodiment of a representative smokeless
tobacco product 110. The tobacco product 110 includes several tobacco compositions
115, 140, 141 each contained in a sealed, moisture permeable pouch 120, 145, 146,
respectively. Each individual tobacco portion 156, 157, 158 possesses a sealed outer
package 125, 211, 212 that surrounds and contains each respective tobacco portion.
Each outer package 125, 211, 212 is tightly sealed, and is selected from an appropriate
material, such that the atmosphere 130, 221, 222 within each respective outer package
can be controlled. For example, the atmosphere 130, 221, 222 within each respective
outer package can be controlled such that the atmosphere is composed of high purity
nitrogen gas, or other suitable gaseous species. If desired, this embodiment can be
altered to provide that each outer package 125, 211, 212 contains a plurality (e.g.,
2, 3 or 4) of individual tobacco portions 156, 157, 158. The packaged individual tobacco
portions 156, 157, 158 are in turn contained within a hard container 165, such as
a plastic or metal tin having a lower portion 170 and a corresponding or coordinating
upper portion 168. A representative hard container 165 can be the short, rounded edge,
generally cylindrical container traditionally used for the marketing of snus types
of products. The hard container 165 is in turn tightly sealed, and can possess an
optional ring or band of a sealing material 195 that circumscribes the hard container
in the area of the seal between lower and upper portions 168, 170. As such, conditions
are provided so that the atmosphere 160 within that hard container 165, is controlled
(e.g., the atmosphere is composed of high purity nitrogen gas, or other suitable gaseous
species). Alternatively, the hard container 165 can be optionally packaged in a sealed
outer package 180, such as in the manner previously set forth with reference to FIG.
3 (e.g., so that the conditions within that outer package, and hence within the hard
container, are controlled). In either case, the modified or controlled atmosphere
160 within hard container 165 can be the same or different than the modified or controlled
atmospheres 130, 221, 222 of each of the outer packages 125, 211, 212 of the individually
wrapped tobacco portions 156, 157, 158 (e.g., the hard container can be packaged within
an outer package that provides a type of vacuum seal and the individually wrapped
tobacco portions can be wrapped under controlled atmosphere; or the individually wrapped
tobacco portions can be packaged within outer packages that provide a type of vacuum
seal and the outer packaged can be wrapped so as to provide internal conditions of
controlled atmosphere). In use, the outer package is broken, the hard container is
opened, a packaged individual tobacco portion is removed from the hard container,
and that packaged portion is opened so that the tobacco portion can be enjoyed by
the consumer.
[0029] Referring to FIG. 6, there is shown a sixth embodiment of a representative smokeless
tobacco product 110. The tobacco product 110 may include several tobacco compositions
(not shown) each contained in a sealed, moisture permeable pouch (not shown). The
tobacco compositions and tobacco portions are of the type previously described with
reference to FIG. 5. Each individual tobacco portion possesses a sealed outer package
125, 211, 212 that surrounds and contains each respective tobacco portion. Each outer
package 125, 211, 212 is tightly sealed, and is selected from an appropriate material,
such that the atmosphere (not shown) within each respective outer package can be controlled
(e.g., vacuum sealed). In addition, the atmosphere within each respective package
can be controlled such that the atmosphere is composed of high purity nitrogen gas,
or other suitable gaseous species. If desired, this embodiment can be altered so that
each outer package 125, 211, 212 contains a plurality (e.g., 2, 3 or 4) of individual
tobacco portions. The packaged individual tobacco portions within the outer packages
125, 211, 212 are in turn connected to one another in an end-to-end relationship.
That is, the individual outer packages 125, 211, 212 each are "fin sealed" along respective
sealing regions 270, 271, 272. The fin seal extends longitudinally along the length
of each outer package. For the embodiment shown, each fin sealed region 270, 271,
272 may possess 5 "jaw lines." At each end of outer package 125, and preferably generally
perpendicular to the longitudinally extending fin seal, are end seals 131, 132. In
addition, there are comparable end seals for each of the other outer packages. For
the embodiment shown, the end seal of each outer package may possess 3 "jaw lines."
Between adjacent end seals of each outer package is a line of perforations 305, 306,
307, such that each individual package can be separated from the next. A desired number
of the connected outer packages (e.g., 10, 12, 15, 20, 25 or 30) are rolled or wound
in a generally spiral manner (e.g., as in a manner generally akin to a spool or roll
of postage stamps). The resulting wound series of connected outer packages then is
positioned within a suitable container 315. One end of the spooled series of outer
packages extends through an opening 320 in the side face of the container 315. As
such, the container can hold the spooled product, as well as provide a manner or method
for dispensing product therefrom. As such, there is provided a dispenser for an essentially
continual strip of smokeless tobacco product (e.g., individual portions of smokeless
tobacco composition that are connected together but are separable from one another
about individual tearable lines of perforation).
[0030] For the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the individual packages are connected in an "end-to-end"
type of arrangement. If desired, the configuration by which the individual packages
can be connected can be altered. For example, rather than sealing the individual outer
packages at each end of the length of a smokeless product, the smokeless product can
be rotated 90°, and the end seals of the outer package can be parallel to the length
of the smokeless product. As such, individual outer packages for smokeless product
can be aligned in a "side-by-side" type of arrangement.
[0031] For the type of embodiment shown in FIG. 6, individual packages that are connected
to one another in either an "end-to-end" or "side-by-side" type of arrangement can
be incorporated into other types of containers for commercial distribution. For example,
a predetermined number (e. g., 4, 5 or 10) of connected but divisible individual outer
packages can be incorporated within a package of cigarettes. When incorporated within
the cigarette package, it is particularly desirable to have the smokeless product
sealed in a controlled atmosphere in order that flavors and aromas do not migrate
as between the cigarettes and the smokeless product. In this way product integrity
is preserved for each of the jointly packaged products. In one embodiment, cigarettes
can be packaged in a so-called "hard pack", having a lid that extends upward beyond
the ends of the cigarettes that are contained therein, and a strip of connected individual
packages can be positioned within the inner, upper portion of that lid. Exemplary
hard pack designs are set forth in
US Pat. Nos. 4,852,734 to Allen et al.;
5,139,140 to Burrows et al. and
5,938,018 to Keaveney et al. (For example, a hard pack designed for containing cigarettes having lengths of about
99 mm in a 7-6-7 configuration can be filled with comparable cigarettes having lengths
of about 85 mm, and several packaged smokeless tobacco portions can be contained within
the inner top region of the movable top lid). Alternatively, several packaged smokeless
tobacco portions can be included with a cigarette package by containing those packaged
smokeless portions within the polypropylene overwrap that covers the outer regions
of the cigarette package. Similarly, packaged smokeless tobacco portions can be connected
to a cigarette package by adhesive or by fastening as an onsert.
[0032] Referring to FIG. 7, there is shown yet another embodiment of a representative type
of smokeless tobacco product 110. The tobacco product 110 includes a tobacco composition
115 contained in a sealed, moisture permeable pouch 120, thereby providing a tobacco
portion 122. The tobacco product 110 possesses a sealed outer package 125 that surrounds
and contains the tobacco portion 122 in a type of tightly sealed manner. The representative
outer package 125 possesses an upper surface 126 and a lower surface 127. The lower
surface 127 is suitably adapted so as to possess a so-called "blister pack" type of
format and configuration. As such, the lowersurface can have the general shape of
a "bubble" having some degree of structural integrity, and hence can be formed to
have a generally hemispherical shape, or other desired shape. The outer package 125
is tightly sealed, and is selected from an appropriate material, such that the atmosphere
130 within that outer package is controlled. If desired, the embodiment can be altered
in order that the outer package contains a plurality (e.g., 2, 3 or 4) of individual
tobacco portions. An edge region 426 about which outer package is tightly sealed (e.g.,
heat sealed) preferably extends around the bubble region of the blister pack. The
edge region can form a shape that is rectangular, square, triangular, hexagonal, circular,
or other desired shape. If desired, the edge region 426 of each outer package can
have a serrated appearance; can be perforated so as to be connected in a strip or
matrix to other outer packages, or can be cut to have the desired visual effect. Preferably,
the length of the inner region of the outer package is at least about 10 percent greater
than the overall length of the tobacco portion, the width of the inner region of the
outer package is at least about 10 percent greater than the overall width of the tobacco
portion, and the height of the inner region of the outer package is somewhat greater
than the overall height of the tobacco portion. For an exemplary embodiment, a snus-type
of product has a maximum length of about 30 mm, a width of about 10 mm to about 12
mm, and a height of about 5 mm to about 6 mm; and the outer package has a length of
about 40 mm, a width of about 15 mm and a height of 15 mm; and the end seals of outer
package extend around the "bubble" portion at a width of about 5 mm to about 10 mm.
Tobacco product so packaged can be employed in the general manner set forth previously
with reference to FIG. 1, 2, 5 and 6.
[0033] Tobaccos used for the manufacture of tobacco products pursuant to the embodiments
herein may vary. The tobaccos may include types of tobaccos such as flue-cured tobacco,
burley tobacco, Oriental tobacco, Maryland tobacco, dark tobacco, dark-fired tobacco
and
Rustica tobaccos, as well as other rare or specialty tobaccos. Descriptions of various types
of tobaccos, growing practices, harvesting practices and curing practices are set
forth in
Tobacco Production, Chemistry and Technology, Davis et al. (Eds.) (1999). See, also, the types of tobaccos that are set forth in
U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,660,577 to Sensabaugh, Jr. et al.;
5,387,416 to White et al.;
6,730,832 to Dominguez et al.; and
7,025,066 to Lawson et al., and
US Pat. Applic. Serial No. 60/818,198, filed June 30, 2006, to Stebbins et al.. Most preferably, the tobacco materials are those that have been appropriately cured
and aged. Especially preferred techniques and conditions for curing flue-cured tobacco
are set forth in
Nestor et al., Beitrage Tabakforsch. Int., 20 (2003) 467-475 and
U.S. Pat. No. 6,895,974 to Peele, which are incorporated herein by reference. Representative techniques and
conditions for air curing tobacco are set forth in
Roton et al., Beitrage Tabakforsch. Int., 21 (2005) 305-320 and
Staaf et al., Beitrage Tabakforsch. Int., 21 (2005) 321-330.
[0034] The tobacco used for the manufacture of the tobacco product preferably is provided
in a shredded, ground, granulated, fine particulate or powder form. The tobacco used
for the manufacture of the tobacco product also can be processed, blended, formulated,
combined and mixed with other materials or ingredients. For example, the tobacco composition
can incorporate salts, sweeteners, binders, colorants, pH adjusters, fillers, flavoring
agents, disintegration aids, antioxidants, humectants, and preservatives. See, for
example, those representative components, combination of components, relative amounts
of those components and ingredients relative to tobacco, and manners and methods for
employing those components, set forth in
U.S. Pat. App. Ser. Nos. 11/233,399 to Holton, et al. and
11/351,919 to Holton, et al.. For example, the tobacco product can have the form of a pouch containing a tobacco
composition, and a flavored strip or film; the form of a pouch containing a tobacco
composition, and a flavored strip or film incorporating finely divided granules of
tobacco and/or tobacco extract (e.g., components of a spray dried aqueous extract
of tobacco); or the form of a highly processed dissolvable film incorporating finely
divided granules of tobacco and/or tobacco extract. Typically, for certain embodiments,
the amount of tobacco material within a portion of an individual portion of a smokeless
tobacco can be, on a dry weight basis, at least about 30 mg, often at least about
40 mg, and frequently at least about 45 mg; while that amount typically is less than
about 200 mg, often less than about 150 mg, and frequently less than about 100 mg.
The tobacco material can have the form of processed tobacco parts or pieces, cured
and aged tobacco in essentially natural lamina or stem form, a tobacco extract, extracted
tobacco pulp (e.g., using water as a solvent), or a mixture of the foregoing (e.g.,
a mixture that combines extracted tobacco pulp with granulated cured and aged natural
tobacco lamina).
[0035] The moisture content of the tobacco formulation prior to use by a consumer of the
formulation may vary. Typically, the moisture content of the tobacco formulation,
as present within the pouch prior to insertion into the mouth of the user, is less
than about 55 weight percent, generally is less than about 50 weight percent, and
often is less than about 45 weight percent. Certain types of tobacco formulations
have moisture contents, prior to use, of less than about 15 weight percent, frequently
less than about 10 weight percent, and often less than about 5 weight percent. For
certain tobacco products, such as those incorporating snus-types of tobacco compositions,
the moisture content may exceed 20 weight percent, and often may exceed 30 weight
percent. For example, a representative snus-type product may possess a tobacco composition
exhibiting a moisture content of about 25 weight percent to about 50 weight percent,
preferably about 30 weight percent to about 40 weight percent.
[0036] The manner by which the moisture content of the formulation is controlled may vary.
For example the formulation may be subjected to thermal or convection heating. As
a specific example, the formulation may be oven-dried, in warmed air at temperatures
of about 40°C to about 95°C, with a preferred temperature range of about 60°C to about
80°C for a length of time appropriate to attain the desired moisture content. Alternatively,
tobacco formulations may be moistened using casing drums, conditioning cylinders or
drums, liquid spray apparatus, ribbon blenders, mixers available as FKM130, FKM600,
FKM1200, FKM2000 and FKM3000 from Littleford Day, Inc., Plough Share types of mixer
cylinders, and the like. Most preferably, moist tobacco formulations, such as the
types of tobacco formulations employed within snus types of products, are subjected
to pasteurization or fermentation. Techniques for pasteurizing or fermenting snus
types of tobacco products will be apparent to those skilled in the art of snus product
design and manufacture.
[0037] The pH of the tobacco formulation can vary. Typically, the pH of that formulation
is at least about 6.5, and preferably at least about 7.5. Typically, the pH of that
formulation will not exceed about 9, and often will not exceed about 8.5. A representative
tobacco formulation exhibits a ph of about 6.8 to about 8.2. A representative technique
for determining the pH of a tobacco formulation involves dispersing 2 g of that formulation
in 10 ml of high performance liquid chromatography water, and measuring the ph of
the resulting suspension/solution (e.g., with a pH meter).
[0038] If desired, prior to preparation of the tobacco formulation, the tobacco parts or
pieces may be irradiated, or those parts and pieces may be pasteurized, or otherwise
subjected to controlled heat treatment. Additionally, if desired, after preparation
of all or a portion of the formulation, the component materials may be irradiated,
or those component materials may be pasteurized, or otherwise subjected to controlled
heat treatment. For example, a formulation may be prepared, followed by irradiation
or pasteurization, and then flavoring ingredient(s) may be applied to the formulation.
Alternatively, the tobacco formulation can be irradiated or pasteurized after the
tobacco formulation has been incorporated within a moisture-permeable packet or pouch
(e.g., so as to provide individual containers of snus-type smokeless tobacco product.
[0039] The composition/construction of a moisture-permeable packet or pouch that acts as
a snus-type container for use of the tobacco formulation can vary. Suitable packets,
pouches or containers of the type used for the manufacture of smokeless tobacco products
are available under the tradenames "taboka," CatchDry, Ettan, General, Granit, Goteborgs
Rape, Grovsnus White, Metropol Kaktus, Mocca Anis, Mocca Mint, Mocca Wintergreen,
Kicks, Probe, Prince, Skruf, TreAnkrare, Camel Snus Original, Camel Snus Frost and
Camel Snus Spice. The tobacco formulation may be contained in pouches and packaged,
in a manner and using the types of components used for the manufacture of conventional
snus types of products. The pouch or fleece provides a liquid-permeable container
of a type that may be considered to be similar in character to the mesh-like type
of material that is used for the construction of a tea bag. Components of the loosely
arranged, granular tobacco formulation readily diffuse through the pouch and into
the mouth of the user.
[0040] Descriptions of various components of snus types of products and components thereof
also are set forth in
U.S. Pat. App. Pub. No. 2004/0118422 to Lundin et al.. See, also, for example,
U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,607,479 to Linden;
4,631,899 to Nielsen;
5,346,734 to Wydick et al.; and
6,162,516 to Derr, and
U.S. Pat. App. Pub. No. 2005/0061339 to Hansson et al.. See, also, the representative types of pouches, and pouch material or fleece, set
forth in
U.S. Pat. No. 5,167,244 to Kjerstad. Snus types of products can be manufactured using equipment such as that available
as SB 51-1/T, SBL 50 and SB 53-2/T from Merz Verpackungmaschinen GmBH. Snus pouches
can be provided as individual pouches, or a plurality of pouches (e.g., 2, 4, 5, 10,
12, 15, 20, 25 or 30 pouches) can connected or linked together (e.g., in an end-to-end
manner) such that a single pouch or individual portion can be readily removed for
use from a one-piece strand or matrix of pouches.
[0041] Although the tobacco composition most preferably is provided in a form that is characteristic
of a snus type of product, the tobacco composition also can have the form of loose
moist snuff, loose dry snuff, chewing tobacco, pelletized tobacco pieces, extruded
tobacco strips or pieces, finely divided ground powders, finely divided or milled
agglomerates of powdered pieces and components, flake-like pieces (e.g., that can
be formed by agglomerating tobacco formulation components in a fluidized bed), molded
processed tobacco pieces, pieces of tobacco-containing gum, products incorporating
mixtures of edible material combined with tobacco pieces and/or tobacco extract, products
incorporating tobacco (e.g., in the form of tobacco extract) carried by a solid inedible
substrate, and the like. For example, the tobacco composition can have the form of
compressed tobacco pellets, multi-layered extruded pieces, extruded or formed strands,
rods or sticks (for example, a strand, rod or stick having a length of about 3-7 centimeters,
preferably about 4-6 centimeters, and a diameter of about 1-5 millimeters, preferably
about 2-4 millimeters), compositions having one type of tobacco formulation surrounded
by a different type of tobacco formulation, rolls of tape-like films, readily water-dissolvable
or water-dispersible films or strips, or capsule-like materials possessing an outer
shell (e.g., a pliable or hard outer shell that can be clear, colorless, translucent
or highly colored in nature) and an inner region possessing tobacco or tobacco flavor
(e.g., a Newtoniam fluid or a thixotroic fluid incorporating tobacco of some form).
[0042] Processed tobacco compositions, such as compressed tobacco pellets can be produced
by compacting granulated tobacco and associated formulation components, compacting
those components in the form of a pellet, and optionally coating each pellet with
an overcoat material. Exemplary granulation devices are available as the FL-M Series
granulator equipment (e.g., FL-M-3) from Vector Corporation and as WP 120V and WP
200VN from Alexanderwerk, Inc. Exemplary compaction devices, such as compaction presses,
are available as Colton 2216 and Colton 2247 from Vector Corporation and as 1200i,
22001, 3200, 2090, 3090 and 4090 from Fette Compacting. Devices for providing outer
coating layers to compacted palletized tobacco formulations are available as CompuLab
24, CompuLab 36, Accela-Cota 48 and Accela-Coata 60 from Thomas Engineering.
Processed tobacco compositions, such as multi-layered tobacco pellets, can be manufactured
using a wide variety of extrusion techniques. For example, multi-layered tobacco pellets
can be manufactured using co-extrusion techniques (e.g., using a twin screw extruder).
In such a situation, successive wet or dry components or component mixtures can be
placed within separate extrusion hoppers. Steam, gases (e.g., ammonia, air, carbon
dioxide, and the like), and humectants (e.g., glycerin or propylene glycol) can be
injected into the extruder barrel as each dry mix is propelled, plasticized, and cooked.
As such, the various components are processed so as to be very well mixed, and hence,
come in complete contact with each other. For example, the contact of components is
such that individual components can be well embedded in the extrusion matrix or extrudate.
See, for example,
US Pat. No. 4,821,749 to Toft et al..
Certain tobacco compositions can incorporate tobacco as the major component thereof.
Preferably, those compositions do not, to any substantial degree, leave any residue
in the mouth of the user thereof. Preferably, those compositions do not provide a
the user's mouth with slick or slimy sensation (e.g., due to overly high levels of
binding agents). Tobacco materials, during processing, can be treated with pH adjusters
or other suitable agents, so that natural pectins within the tobacco material can
be released. Release of natural tobacco pectin can act to reduce the amount of additional
gums/hydrocolloids, cellulose-derived, or starch-based binders needed to aid in desired
sheet or film tensile strength qualities. For example, to release pectin, fine tobacco
powder is cooked in an alkaline pH adjusted solution at elevated temperatures relative
to ambient. Such treatment also can provide desirable sensory attributes to the tobacco
material. See, for example,
US Pat. Nos. 5,099,864 to Young et al.;
5,339,838 to Young et al. and
5,501,237 to Young et al..
[0043] One representative type of individual portion tobacco product possesses an outer
shell and an inner region in the form of a tobacco formulation. A representative outer
shell can be provided by providing a liquid mixture of alginates (e.g., sodium alginates
available as Kelvis, Kelgin and Mannucol from International Specialty Products Corp.),
rice starch, sucralose, glycerin and flavoring agent (e.g., mint flavor) in water
so as to provide a liquid mix exhibiting a Brookfield viscosity at 25°C of about 20,000
to about 25,000 centipoise. That viscous mixture can be used to form a sheet that
can be formed into an outer layer (e.g., using a Villaware Imperia Pasta Machine,
Dough Roller 150 equipped with a Villaware Ravioli Attachment for Imperia 150-25,
each of which is available through Imperia Trading Company) or semi-circular shells
that can be combined (e.g., by exposure to heat) to form an outer layer. Typically,
such a viscous mixture can be suitably dried by heating at about 60°C for about 1
hour. Inside that outer shell can be incorporated a wide variety of tobacco formulations.
One representative tobacco formulation used as the inner region of such a is a dry
or moist mixture of granulated or milled tobacco material that can be mixed with other
ingredients, such as flavoring agents, humectants, emulsifiers, fillers, pH adjusters,
dispersion aids, and the like. One representative tobacco formulation has the form
of a fluid (e.g., the form of a weak gel or soft gel). That tobacco formulation can
be provided by mixing granulated or milled tobacco material, kappa-carageenan, Kelvis-type
sodium alginate, propylene glycol, polysobate 60, and flavoring agent (e.g., menthol
and cinnamon) in water, such that the moisture content of the formulation is about
40 to about 50 weight percent. One representative tobacco formulation has the form
of a fluid. That tobacco formulation can be provided by mixing granulated or milled
tobacco material, glycerin, glycerol stearate, propylene glycol, kappa-carageenan,
carboxymethycellulose available as Ticalose 1500 from TIC Gums and micro-crystalline
cellulose (e.g., Ticacel HV from TIC Gums) in water, such that the moisture content
of the formulation is about 60 to about 70 weight percent.
[0044] The amount of tobacco formulation incorporated within each sealed outer package can
vary. In one aspect, loose tobacco composition can be incorporated into an outer package,
the package is sealed, and that loose tobacco can be used as loose snuff or chewing
tobacco when the outer package is opened. In another, but preferred, aspect, tobacco
composition contained within a snus-type pouch or packet is incorporated within the
outer package, the package is sealed, and the snus-type product can be used when the
outer package is opened. Typically, the amount of tobacco formulation within each
individual portion (e.g., within each snus-type pouch) is such that there is at least
about 50 mg, often at least about 150 mg, and frequently at least about 250 mg, of
dry weigh tobacco; and less than about 700 mg, often less than about 500 mg, and frequently
less than about 300 mg, of dry weight tobacco. For example, snus-type smokeless tobacco
products can have the form of so-called "portion snus."
[0045] One exemplary snus-type product possesses about 1 g of a tobacco formulation having
a moisture content of about 35 weight percent; which tobacco formulation is contained
in a sealed fleece pouch having an overall length of about 30 mm, a width of about
16 mm, and a height of about 5 mm, wherein the length of the compartment area of that
pouch is about 26 mm due to a seal of about 2 mm width at each end of that pouch.
Another exemplary snus-type product possesses about 0.5 g of a tobacco formulation
having a moisture content of about 35 weight percent; which tobacco formulation is
contained in a sealed fleece pouch having an overall length of about 26 mm, a width
of about 12 mm, and a height of about 5 mm, wherein the length of the compartment
area of that pouch is about 22 mm due to a seal of about 2 mm width at each end of
that pouch.
[0046] The outer packaging material useful in accordance with the present invention can
vary. Typically, the selection of the packaging material is dependent upon factors
such as aesthetics, comfort of handling, desired barrier properties (e.g., so as to
provide protection from exposure to oxygen or radiation, or so as to provide protection
from loss of moisture), or the like. The packaging material most preferably has the
form of a film, such a laminated film (e.g., a co-extruded laminated film). The number
of layers present with a laminated packaging material can vary; and can be at least
about 3 layers, and often at least about 4 layers; while typically, the number of
layers does not exceed about 10 layers, and often does not exceed about 8 layers.
Overall thicknesses of exemplary packaging materials typically are at least about
0.0635 mm (0.0025 inch), often at least about 0.0762 mm (0.003 inch); while typically,
the thickness of the packaging materials typically is less than about 0.152 mm (0.006
inch), and often less than about 0.127 mm (0.005 inch). Representative materials that
can be used to provide components or layers of film materials or laminated films can
include polyvinyl chloride, ethylene vinyl acetate co-polymer, oriented polypropylene,
linear low density polyethylene, polyvinylidene dichloride, polyester terephalate,
ethylene methacrylic acid co-polymer, metallacene linear low density polyethylene,
and the like. Exemplary packaging materials can be plastic/metal films, plastic/metal
films that are paper coated, plastic laminate films, or the like. Such types of materials
can be manufactured from materials that make them essentially impervious to oxygen
and/or moisture, can be sealed to provide a seal with good integrity, and can provide
an outer package that retains or maintains its impervious nature or character over
time. Suitable materials are of the type that have been employed as packaging materials
for the controlled atmosphere or vacuum packaging of food and pharmaceutical types
of products.
[0047] Exemplary other materials useful form providing packaging materials of the present
invention preferably include flexible-type plastic materials. See, for example, those
polymeric materials, sealants, adhesives, and the like, set forth in
US Pat. Pub. No. 2004/0043165 to Van Hulle et al.. For packaging materials that are used for the purpose of preventing contamination
of the tobacco composition by oxygen, it is desirable to incorporate an effective
amount of suitable reducing agent into the material that provides the inner surface
of the packaging material.
[0048] One exemplary laminated film possesses four layers; the top or outer layer being
composed of a layer of polyester terephalate (PET) having a thickness of about 0.0122
mm (0.00048 inch), a thin layer of adhesive (e.g., a polyurethane-type adhesive available
under the tradename Tycel from the Liofol Company), a metal film (e.g., aluminum)
having a thickness of about 0.00889 mm (0.00035 inch), and a bottom layer of an ethylene
methacrylic acid containing composition available under the tradename Surlyn from
E. I. DuPont de Nemours & Company and having a thickness of about 0.0508 mm (0.002
inch). If desired, the side of the PET adjacent the adhesive can be printed with product
information using a suitable ink. Another exemplary laminated film possesses three
layers; the top or outer layer being composed of a layer of PET having a thickness
of about 0.0122 mm (0.00048 inch), a thin layer of adhesive (e.g., an adhesive available
as Tycel), and a bottom layer of a composition available as Surlyn and having a thickness
of about 0.0508 (0.002 inch). Another exemplary laminated film possesses four layers;
the top or outer layer being composed of a layer of PET having a thickness of about
0.0122 mm (0.00048 inch), a thin metal film (e.g., aluminum), a thin layer of adhesive
(e.g., an adhesive available as Tycel), and a bottom layer composition available as
Surlyn and having a thickness of about 0,0508 mm (0.002 inch). The foregoing representative
types of laminated films are suitable for providing so-called "fin sealed" and "three-sided"
types of packaging containers having the PET layer as the outer surface of those containers.
[0049] One exemplary laminated film possesses; the top or outer layer being composed of
a layer of a material such as Surlyn having a thickness of 0.0508 mm (0.002 inch),
a thin layer of adhesive, a metal film (e.g., aluminum) having a thickness of about
0.00889 mm (0.00035 inch), a thin layer of adhesive, and a bottom layer of a material
such as Surlyn having a thickness of about 0.0508 mm (0.002 inch). The foregoing representative
type of laminated film is suitable for providing so-called "lap seal" types of pouches.
[0050] The present invention can involve the use of equipment, materials, methodologies
and process conditions that are suitably modified in order to provide the packaging
and controlled atmospheric conditions for the tobacco products that are packaged pursuant
thereto. The atmosphere within the packaging materials can be modified in a variety
of ways. For example, a significant amount of the atmosphere within the package can
be removed (e.g., by using vacuum packaging types of techniques), or the atmosphere
within the package can be altered in a controlled manner (e.g., by using gas flushing
types of techniques). Representative aspects of various technologies associated with
modified atmosphere packaging and controlled atmosphere packaging are set forth in
Analysis and Evaluation of Preventative Control Measures for the Control and Reduction/Elimination
of Microbial Hazards on Fresh and Fresh-Cut Product; Chapter VI; Microbiological Safety
of Controlled and Modified Atmosphere Packaging of Fresh and Fresh-Cut Product; U.S.
Food and Drug Administration, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (Sept.
30, 2001).
[0051] The controlled or modified atmospheres within packaged tobacco products can vary.
Typically, when tobacco product is vacuum packed or flushed so as to have a controlled
or modified atmosphere (e.g., even if the atmosphere is controlled in a manner such
that the atmospheric pressure within the sealed package is at a positive pressure
relevant to ambient atmospheric pressure), atmospheric conditions within the package
are controlled such that a significant amount, and most preferably virtually all of
the oxygen present within with package is removed from that package prior to the time
that the package is sealed. That is, less than about 8 percent, and often less than
about 6 percent, of the weight of the controlled atmosphere initially present with
a sealed outer package is composed of oxygen. For example, when the package is sealed,
the atmosphere present within the package preferably can possess less than about 5
percent oxygen, and most preferably between about 1 percent oxygen and about 5 percent
oxygen, based on the weight of the controlled atmosphere initially present within
that sealed package. Typically, when the tobacco product is flushed with a gaseous
species (e.g., a selected gas or mixture of gases), a significant amount, and most
preferably virtually all, of the atmosphere within the scaled package is provided
by the desired gaseous species. Exemplary gaseous species includes nitrogen, argon,
carbon dioxide, and the like (e.g., high purity gases that are greater than about
99 percent pure, by weight). In accord and with the invention, the atmosphere to which
the tobacco product incorporates a relatively high level of a desired gaseous species
(oxygen) in order to introduce the effects of "gas shock" to the tobacco product (relatively
high levels of oxygen in the atmosphere can be desirable for the introduction of "oxygen
shock" for purposes of inhibiting enzymatic discoloration, preventing anaerobic fermentation
reactions, and inhibiting aerobic and anaerobic microbial growth). A controlled atmosphere
containing an amount of oxygen such that the level of oxygen in that atmosphere greater
than about 25 percent by weight, often greater than about 30 percent by weight, can
provide conditions suitable for introduction of oxygen shock.
[0052] Representative equipment useful for currying out process steps associated with the
packaging aspects of the present invention is available from Winpak Ltd. (eg., systems
identified as LD32, L25, L18 and L12); as Linium 300 Series horizontal flow wrapping
systems from Doboy Inc. (e.g., Linium Model Nos. 301, 302, 303, 304 or 305); as Hiwrap
504 systems available from Hitech Systems s.r.1.; and as the types of systems available
from Rovema Verpackungmaschinen GmbH. Preferred equipment provides a wrapping material
that provides a seal that does not allow passage of gases or moisture therethrough
(e.g., a seal that might be considered as "air tight").
[0053] Representative blister pack packaging materials can vary. Exemplary materials used
for the lower layer of a typical blister pack packaging material are laminated polymer
films available as Pentapharm alfoil T-250/25/90, Pentapharm ACLAR PA 180/02, Pentapharm
ACLAR PA 200/02, and Pentapharm ACLAR PA 300/02, from Klockner-Pentaplast of America,
Inc. Exemplary materials used for the upper layer of a typical blister pack packaging
material are heat sealable metal films. An exemplary heat sealable film is an aluminum
film having a thickness of about 0.0178 mm (0.0007 inch) coated on the sealing side
with a heat sealable material (e.g., Surlyn) that has a thickness of about 0.00254
mm (0.0001 inch). See, also, for example, the types of materials set forth in
US Pat. Pub. No. 2004/0043165 to Van Hulle et al.. Although so-called "pealable lid" types of blister packages can be employed, off
particular interest are the so-called "push through" types of blister packages.
[0054] If desired, the packaging can be carried out in a controlled environment. That is,
pasteurized tobacco product can be packaged in outer packages in a sterile environment.
[0055] Products of the embodiments herein may be packaged and stored in much the same manner
that conventional types of smokeless tobacco products are packaged and stored. For
example, a plurality of packets or pouches may be contained in a cylindrical container.
If desired, moist tobacco products (e.g., products having moisture contents of more
than about 20 weight percent) may be refrigerated (e.g., at a temperature of less
than about 10°C, often less than about 8°C, and sometimes less than about 5°C). Alternatively,
relatively dry tobacco products (e.g., products having moisture contents of less than
about 15 weight percent) often may be stored under a relatively wide range of temperatures.
[0056] For preferred embodiments herein, smokeless tobacco composition is packaged in such
a manner that there is no requirement for the necessity of refrigeration during periods
of transport and prior to sale. That is, shipping, handling and storage can be simplified,
and the periods during which shipping, handling and storage are carried out can be
prolonged, while the quality of the smokeless product can be maintained. In addition,
though the shelf life of the product can be prolonged, thus negating the necessity
of refrigeration, the shelf life of refrigerated product also can be prolonged. Product
packaged in accordance with the emobidments herein can be stored for prolonged periods
of time, while maintaining its overall freshness, maintaining its moisture content,
maintaining its visual appearance (e.g., not undergoing significant discoloration),
maintaining its sensory properties, not experiencing absorption of undesirable flavors
or odors, and not undergoing change in its overall chemical nature due to the action
of microbial species. Moist tobacco product (e.g., products having moisture contents
of more than about 20 weight percent, and often more than about 30 weight percent)
can be stored for prolonged periods of time without the necessity of refrigeration.
[0057] The following examples are provided to illustrate further certain aspects of the
embodiments herein, but should not be construed as limiting the scope thereof. Unless
otherwise noted, all parts and percentages are by weight.
Example 1
[0058] A tobacco formulation in the form of a somewhat flat strip or film is provided in
the following manner.
[0059] Tobacco material, comprised of a mixture of cured and aged flue-cured, burley and
Oriental lamina is provided in a strip or leaf form, and at a moisture of about 9
percent. A portion of this tobacco mixture is washed with water, and the solubles
or extractable portion that is collected is discarded, and the remaining water insoluble
solids (e.g., pulp portion) is dried. The resulting dried pulp portion then is mixed
with the retained untreated portion of the original tobacco mixture. That tobacco
mixture then is milled to a particle size that passes through a 150 Tyler mesh screen.
[0060] The resulting tobacco mixture is further mixed with other ingredients to form the
a formulation that contains about 40 parts of milled tobacco lamina, about 25 parts
calcium carbonate, about 15 parts binder (which may be composed of pectin, gelatin,
sodium alginate and starch), about 15 parts glycerin, about 4 parts flavoring, and
about 1 part sucralose or about 1 part sweetening agent available as SucraSweet HIS
600 from Sweetener Solutions LLC (on a dry weight basis). The binder can be a suitable
binding agent (e.g., food grade type binding agent), and exemplary binding agents
can be selected from a variety of pectins, gelatins, alginates (e.g., sodium alginate)
or starches. The resulting dry mixture is dispersed in deionized water (e.g., about
8 to about 10 parts dry mixture in about 90 to about 92 parts water) to form a slurry
that exhibits a Brookfield viscosity of about 20,000 centipoise to 25,000 centipoise
at 25 °C.
[0061] The slurry is cast as a thick, uniform layer onto a stainless steel drying tray,
which can be lightly coated with a non-stick spray before casting the slurry. The
tray is placed in a drying oven at relatively low heat (e.g., about 60°C to about
70°C) for up to about 10 hours (e.g., about 6 to about 8 hours). As such, a formed
mixture of tobacco formulation components is provided in a desired shape from an aqueous
slurry of those components.
[0062] The slurry can be cast in the shape of a strip (e.g., having a length of about 25
cm to about 35 cm) and a width of about 1 cm to about 2 cm. If desired, optional perforation
or weakness lines that extend generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of
the strip can be stamped into the strip at predetermined intervals. The resulting
product, which can be formulated and dried so as to be pliable and possess an acceptably
high tensile strength, can be coiled and incorporated within the type of container
described previously with reference to FIG. 6. That container then can be packaged
within an outer package, and under controlled atmospheric conditions, of the general
type described previously. In use, the outer package can be opened, and a piece of
the long strip of tobacco formulation extending from an opening on the container can
be broken off in the desired amount for use.
[0063] The slurry can be cast as a sheet or film, and upon drying, individual portions can
be stamped, punched or cut from that sheet or film. Thus, for example, rectangular
strips or sheets, or circular pieces can be provided from the sheet or film; and packaged
as individual portions (e.g., using outer wrapping material configured in the general
manner described previously with reference to FIG. 1).
[0064] Cast material that has been dried can be ground into a powder or granulated form,
and then packed within a moisture permeable pouch and sealed. Each such pouch can
be packaged in an outer package, in the manner described previously with reference
to FIG. 1.
Example 2
[0065] The smokeless tobacco products that are preferably non-chewable tobacco products
that are intended to be placed between the cheek and the gum of the mouth are provided
as follows. Preferred smokeless tobacco products, when used orally, completely dissolve
in the mouth leaving little to no solid or granular residue, while dispensing or dispersing
tobacco components, and while providing a pleasant trigeminal and organoleptic experience.
[0066] Cured and/or aged tobacco lamina or stems is provided in a strip or shredded form,
and at a moisture content of about 9 percent, or less. Tobacco types can include flue-cure,
burley and Oriental tobaccos, and various combinations thereof. In addition, specialty
or exotic types of tobaccos, including tobaccos such as Perique and Cavendish, also
can be incorporated within blends of tobacco materials. The lamina or stem is milled
under cryogenic conditions, or any other suitable dry milling means, to a fine ground
form. The powder is sufficiently fine so as to pass through a 150 Tyler mesh screen.
The resulting powder then is irradiated with about 5 to about 20 kilo Grays of gamma
radiation.
[0067] Flue cured tobacco lamina that has been aged is provided in a strip form, and at
a moisture content of about 9 percent or less. The lamina is milled under cryogenic
conditions or any other suitable dry milling means to a fine ground form. The powder
is sufficiently fine so as to pass through a 150 Tyler mesh screen. The resulting
powder then is irradiated with about 5 to about 20 kilo Grays of gamma radiation.
[0068] The tobacco powder is introduced into a fluidized bed. While in the fluidized bed,
the tobacco powder is introduced to a mixture of water and various other ingredients
that have been provided in a dry powder form. The resulting mixture is removed from
the fluidized bed, and dried to a moisture content of about 4 percent.
[0069] The resulting tobacco formulation is removed from the fluidized bed. A representative
formulation contains about 25 to about 40 parts of the granulated flue-cured tobacco
lamina, about 0.5 to about 3.0 parts of sucralose (modified sugar), about 1 part titanium
dioxide (color modifier), about 10 to about 25 parts calcium carbonate (in the form
available as HD PPT Fine from Ruger Chemical), about 15 to about 30 parts mannitol
powder, about 2 to about 5 parts powdered cellulose (in the form available as QC-90
from CreaFill Fibers), about 5 to about 15 parts pregelatinized corn starch (in the
form available as Starch 1500 from Colorcon), about 3 to about 6 parts povidone (in
the form available as PVPK-30 from Xian Medicines & Health Products), and about 0.75
to about 2.5 parts potassium hydroxide. The moisture content of the resulting granulated
tobacco formulation is about 4 percent. The resultant granulated tobacco formulation
is a dry, free flowing, finely milled powder that is light tan in color, and is made
up of particles having an average particle size sufficient to pass through a screen
of about 80 Tyler mesh.
[0070] A desired amount of the tobacco formulation (e.g., about 0.5 g to about 1 g) of the
tobacco formulation can be placed within a sealed fleece pouch, and that pouch can
be packaged within an outer package, such as in the general manner set forth previously
with reference to FIG. 1.
Example 3
[0071] A dry mix of about 200 g to about 225 g of granulated tobacco powder of the type
described previously in Example 2, a flavoring agent (e.g., mint flavor) and optionally
sodium chloride are mixed for about 5 minutes in a table-top Model P400 Popiel
™ Automatic Pasta Maker (available from Ronco Inventions, LLC, Chestworth, CA). Then,
about 48 g portion of a premixed warm aqueous solution (e.g., about 40 g water and
about 8 g glycerin) is added to the dry mix. Those contents are mixed for about 3
minutes, or until small pea-like size lumps develop. The pea-like mixture is subsequently
extruded via selected dies to obtain flat pasta-like sheets (1.4 cm wide x 30 cm length
x 0.1 to 0.7 cm depth) or noodle-like cylindrical rods (0.1 to 0.7 cm diameter x 12
to 24 cm length). The pasta-like sheet is further cut into smaller square or rectangular
pieces to obtain pellets that each weigh about 185 mg to about 250 mg. Generally wafer
shaped pieces, each weighing about 185 mg to about 250 mg, also can be punched out
of the pasta-like sheets. The noodle-like rods are further cut to obtain smaller cylindrical
pellet pieces or strands, each weighing about 185 mg to about 250 mg. Generally wafer
shaped pieces (e.g., generally cylindrically shaped pieces), each weighing about 185
mg to about 250 mg, also can be cut from extruded cylindrical rods (e.g., a continuous
cylindrical extrudate can be cut generally perpendicular to its longitudinal axis).
Alternatively, thin cylindrical extrudate can be similarly subdivided to provide somewhat
longer, stick-like pieces that weight about 150 mg to about 250 mg. The various shaped
pieces are placed onto a stainless steel plate and dried by ambient temperatures for
up to about 24 hours (e.g., for about 12 to about 20 hours). Alternatively, the pieces
are dried either via forced air ovens operated at about 50°C to about 100°C for up
to 15 minutes, or over steam from boiling water baths. The dried products typically
exhibit moisture contents of about 5 to about 10 percent. Typical tobacco formulations
exhibit, on a dry weight basis, about 85 to about 99 parts of the granulated tobacco
powder, about 1 to about 15 parts flavoring agent, and about 1 to about 1.5 parts
optional sodium chloride.
[0072] The various tobacco formulations can be packaged in the manner set forth previously
with reference to FIG. 1 through FIG. 5 and FIG. 7.
Example 4
[0073] Tobacco formulations having the general size and shape of those set forth previously
in Example 3 are provided, using the types of preparation techniques set forth in
Example 3. However, the granulated tobacco powder that is employed in Example 3 is
replaced with a finely milled tobacco powder that is prepared as follows.
[0074] Flue cured tobacco lamina that has been aged is provided in a strip form, and at
a moisture content of about 9 percent or less. The lamina is milled under cryogenic
conditions or any other suitable dry milling means to a fine ground form. The powder
is sufficiently fine so as to pass through a 150 Tyler mesh screen. The resulting
powder then is irradiated with about 5 to about 20 kilo Grays of gamma radiation.
[0075] The powdered tobacco lamina and various other dry ingredients are premixed in an
automated tumbling mixer for about 15 minutes. As such, on a dry weight basis, a dry
mix is prepared from about 122.5 g of the tobacco powder, about 80.5 g cane sugar,
about 52.5 g precipitated calcium carbonate, about 17.5 g mannitol, about 48 g rice
starch (pregelatinized) and about 1.7 g vanilla flavoring. Then, that dry mix is combined
with about 100g of warm water (e.g., at about 30°C to about 45°C) having about 4.6
g of potassium hydroxide dissolved therein in the pasta maker described in Example
3.
[0076] Tobacco formulations of the type generally set forth in Example 3 are provided. That
is, the tobacco formulations can be formed into desired shapes, such as sheets, strips,
pellets, sticks, and the like. The shaped tobacco formulations can be packaged using
the types of outer packaging materials set forth hereinbefore.
Example 5
[0077] Tobacco formulations are provided in the manner set forth previously in Example 4.
However, the tobacco formulation ingredients are formulated as follows. The powdered
tobacco lamina described in Example 4, and various other dry ingredients are premixed
in an automated tumbling mixer for about 15 minutes. As such, on a dry weight basis,
a dry mix is prepared from about 60 g of the tobacco powder, about 50 g cane sugar,
about 34 g precipitated calcium carbonate, about 20 g mannitol, about 20 g rice starch
(pregelatinized), about 10 g maltodextrin, about 5.2 g microcrystalline cellulose
(available as Ticacel HV from TIC Gums), about 0.8 g vanilla flavoring, about 0.5
g menthol and about 3.5 g glycerol tristearate. Then, that dry mix is combined with
about 50 g of warm water (e.g., at about 30°C to about 45°C) having about 2 g of potassium
hydroxide dissolved therein in the pasta maker described in Example 3.
Example 6
[0078] Tobacco formulations are provided in the manner set forth previously in Example 4.
However, the tobacco formulation ingredients are formulated as follows. A powdered
tobacco lamina is provided from flue-cured and burley tobacco lamina, in the general
manner set forth in Example 4. In addition, in the general manner set forth in Example
4, that powdered tobacco lamina, and various other dry ingredients are premixed in
an automated tumbling mixer for about 15 minutes. As such, on a dry weight basis,
a dry mix is prepared from about 64 g of the tobacco powder, about 4.4 g of a sweetening
agent available as SucraSweet HIS 600 from Sweetener Solutions LLC, about 40 g precipitated
calcium carbonate, about 42 g mannitol, about 19 g rice starch (pregelatinized), about
9g hydroxypropylmethylcellouse available as Klucel EF from Hercules, Inc. and about
5 g microcrystalline cellulose (available as Ticacel HV from TIC Gums). Then, that
dry mix is combined with about 50 g of warm water (e.g., at about 30°C to about 45°C)
having about 2.5 g of potassium hydroxide and about 8 g glycerin dissolved therein
in the pasta maker described in Example 3.
Example 7
[0079] Tobacco formulations are provided in the manner set forth previously in Example 4.
However, the tobacco formulation ingredients are formulated as follows. A powdered
tobacco lamina is provided from flue-cured and burley tobacco lamina, in the general
manner set forth in Example 4. In addition, in the general manner set forth in Example
4, that powdered tobacco lamina and various other dry ingredients are premixed in
an automated tumbling mixer for about 15 minutes. As such, on a dry weight basis,
a dry mix is prepared from about 64 g of the tobacco powder, about 4.4 g of a sweetening
agent available as SucraSweet HIS 600 from Sweetener Solutions LLC, about 40 g precipitated
calcium carbonate, about 42 g mannitol, about 19 g rice starch (pregelatinized), about
9 g sodium alginate available as Kelvis from International Specialty Products Corp.,
about 2 g of mint flavoring agent and about 5 g microcrystalline cellulose (available
as Ticacel HV). Then, that dry mix is combined with about 40 g of warm water (e.g.,
at about 30°C to about 45°C) having about 2.5 g of potassium hydroxide and about 8
g glycerin dissolved therein in the pasta maker described in Example 3.
Example 8
[0080] A tobacco composition having the form of a multi-layered, multi-flavored, co-extruded
pellet is provided as follows.
[0081] Granulated tobacco powder and other dry ingredients are again used as described in
Example 1, to make a two layered pellet smokeless tobacco formulation. The pellet
can be characterized as having a shape that might be considered to "pillow-type" in
nature (i.e., the top, bottom, sides and ends are made up by the outer layer or over
layer, and the inner layer is contained within the outer layer).
[0082] The inner layer is provided by mixing about 200 g granulated flue-cured tobacco powder,
about 6 g sodium chloride and about 1.5 g menthol powder. Then, that dry mix is combined
with about 42 g of warm water (e.g., at about 30°C to about 45°C) having about 8 g
of glycerin dissolved therein in the pasta maker described in Example 3. The inner
layer is generally cylindrical and is made as noodle-like rod.
[0083] The outer layer is provided by mixing about 200 g granulated flue-cured tobacco powder,
about 5 g sodium chloride and about 14 g of a finely milled burley tobacco powder.
The outer layer is made as a pasta-like flat sheet containing more fine tobacco powder,
as but less flavoring agent than the inner layer.
[0084] To make the smokeless tobacco composition, the pasta-like sheet is wrapped completely
around the thin noodle-like rod. The enwrapped rod is then cut into smaller cylindrical
pellets, and both cut ends molded or sealed to form small pillow-like pellets, each
pellet weighing about 185 mg to about 250 mg. The pellets are ambient temperature
dried over about 12 hours, or dried for about 20 minutes in a forced air oven set
at about 50°C to about 80°C.
[0085] It will be understood that the inner and outer layers may be formulated in various
ways; for example one layer may be produced to differ from the other in its level
of tobacco sensory properties, such as by varying the level of flavorings or by using
differing mixtures of tobacco compositions or formulations. Moreover, in addition
to co-extrusion, the multi-layering can also be achieved by physically wrapping a
preformed outer layer around a preformed inner layer. Alternatively, an inner layer
portion may be laminated between two outer layer portions of slightly larger lateral
dimensions, and the outer layers may then be sealed together at their edges to envelop
the inner layer.
[0086] The tobacco formulation so formed can be packaged within an outer package of the
type described previously with reference to FIG. 1.
Example 9
[0087] A tobacco composition having the general form of a tape or roll is provided as follows.
[0088] Fine tobacco powder containing a mixture of flue-cure and burley is premixed in a
tumbling mixer for 15 minutes with other ingredients. As such, a dry mix that is provided
contains about 60 g granulated tobacco material, about 3.4 g of a sweetening agent
available as SucraSweet HIS 600, about 36 g precipitated calcium carbonate, about
40 g mannitol, about 20 g rice starch (pregelatinized), about 10 g sodium alginate
available as Kelvis from International Specialty Products Corp., about 3 g of menthol
flavor, about 5 g cinnamon flavor and about 4 g microcrystalline cellulose (available
as Ticacel HV). Then, that dry mix is combined with about 42 g of warm water (e.g.,
at about 30°C to about 45°C) having about 8 g of glycerin and about 2.6 g potassium
hydroxide dissolved therein in the pasta maker described in Example 3. The aqueous
solution is then gently added to the dry mix in the pasta maker and mixed for 3 minutes
or until pea-like size lumps are formed. The blend is then extruded into flat pasta-like
sheets of dimension about 1.4 cm wide by about 30 cm long, by about 0.1 cm to about
0.3 cm thick. Each sheet is further perforated at intervals of about 0.5 to about
1.5 cm intervals length-wise to obtain a roll or tape-like product from which square
or rectangular pieces can easily be cut off. Samples are preferably not fully dried;
and hence, maintain prolonged pliability, elasticity, and tensile strength. The moisture
content of the tobacco composition ranges from about 12.5 to about 25 percent.
[0089] The tape-like product can be formed into a roll, and positioned within an outer container
of the type described previously with reference to FIG. 6. That outer container then
can be wrapped with an outer wrapping material, using packaging conditions such as
those of the type described hereinbefore.
Example 10
[0090] A tobacco composition having the general form of a tape or roll is provided as follows.
[0091] Fine tobacco powder containing a mixture of flue-cure and burley is premixed in a
tumbling mixer for 15 minutes with other ingredients. As such, a dry mix that is provided
contains about 52 g granulated tobacco material, about 2 g of a sweetening agent available
as SucraSweet HIS 600, about 30 g precipitated calcium carbonate, about 27.5 g rice
starch (pregelatinized), about 40 g sodium alginate available as Manucol LD from ISP
Corporation, about 12 g sodium alginate available as Kelvis from ISP Corporation,
about 3 g of menthol flavor, about 5 g cinnamon flavor and about 4 g microcrystalline
cellulose (available as Ticacel HV). Then, that dry mix is combined with about 40
g of warm water (e.g., at about 30°C to about 45°C) having about 16 g of glycerin
and about 7 g sodium carbonate dissolved therein in the pasta maker described in Example
3. The aqueous solution is then gently added to the dry mix in the pasta maker and
mixed for 3 minutes or until pea-like size lumps are formed. The blend is then extruded
into flat pasta-like sheets of dimension about 1.4 cm wide by about 30 cm long, by
about 0.1 cm to about 0.3 cm thick. Each sheet is further perforated at intervals
of about 0.5 to about 1.5 cm intervals length-wise to obtain a roll or tape-like product
from which square or rectangular pieces can easily be cut off. Samples are preferably
not fully dried; and hence, maintain prolonged pliability, elasticity, and tensile
strength. The moisture content the tobacco composition ranges from about 12.5 to about
25 percent.
[0092] The tape-like product can be formed into a roll, and positioned within an outer container
of the type described previously with reference to FIG. 6. That outer container then
can be wrapped with an outer wrapping material, using packaging conditions such as
those of the type described hereinbefore.
Example 11
[0093] A tobacco composition having the general form of a tape or roll is provided as follows.
[0094] A dry mix that is provided contains about 9 g rice starch (pregelatinized), about
20 g sodium alginate available as Manucol LD, about 5 g cinnamon powder and about
3 g menthol powder. Then, that dry mix is combined with about 40 g of warm water (e.g.,
at about 30°C to about 45°C) having about 16 g of glycerin dissolved therein in the
pasta maker described in Example 3. During operation of the pasta maker, about 142
g of granulated tobacco material of the type described in Example 10 is introduced
into the pasta maker along with the previously described aqueous mix.
[0095] The resulting blend is then extruded into flat pasta-like sheets of dimension about
1.4 cm wide by about 30 cm long, by about 0.1 cm to about 0.3 cm thick. Each sheet
is further perforated at intervals of about 0.5 to about 1.5 cm intervals length-wise
to obtain a roll or tape-like product from which square or rectangular pieces can
easily be cut off. Samples are preferably not fully dried; and hence, maintain prolonged
pliability, elasticity, and tensile strength. The moisture content the tobacco composition
ranges from about 12.5 to about 25 percent.
[0096] The tape-like product can be formed into a roll, and positioned within an outer container
of the type described previously with reference to FIG. 6. That outer container then
can be wrapped with an outer wrapping material, using packaging conditions such as
those of the type described hereinbefore.
Example 12
[0097] A tobacco composition having the general form of a tape or roll is provided as follows.
[0098] A dry mix that is provided contains about 20 g sodium alginate available as Manucol
LD and about 5 g mint flavor. Then, that dry mix is combined with about 50 g of warm
water (e.g., at about 30°C to about 45°C) having about 16 g of glycerin dissolved
therein in the pasta maker described in Example 3. During operation of the pasta maker,
about 195 g of granulated tobacco material of the type described in Example 10 is
introduced into the pasta maker along with the previously described aqueous mix.
[0099] The resulting blend is then extruded into flat pasta-like sheets of dimension about
1.4 cm wide by about 30 cm long, by about 0.1 cm to about 0.3 cm thick. Each sheet
is further perforated at intervals of about 0.5 to about 1.5 cm intervals length-wise
to obtain a roll or tape-like product from which square or rectangular pieces can
easily be cut off. Samples are preferably not fully dried; and hence, maintain prolonged
pliability, elasticity, and tensile strength. The moisture content the tobacco composition
ranges from about 12.5 to about 25 percent.
[0100] The tape-like product can be formed into a roll, and positioned within an outer container
of the type described previously with reference to FIG. 6. That outer container then
can be wrapped with an outer wrapping material, using packaging conditions such as
those of the type described hereinbefore.
Example 13
[0101] A combination of finely milled flue-cure and burley tobacco powder (e.g., about 25
g) is mixed with about 100 ml of a solution having about 1 g potassium hydroxide in
about 100 ml water. The resulting slurry is heated with constant stirring to about
60°C to about 80°C for about 15 minutes. About 1 g of a sweetening agent available
as SucraSweet HIS 600 and about 15 g mannitol then are added, and the slurry is held
at about 60°C to about 80°C for another 15 minutes, while mixing constantly to obtain
a tobacco/water slurry. Meanwhile, a binder system is prepared separately in a Warring
blender. About 5 g sodium alginate available as Kelvis is first mixed at high shear
with about 200 ml water for 5 minutes, followed by the slow addition of about 20 parts
sodium alginate available as Manucol LD, about 7 g rice starch (pregelantinized),
about 2 g microcrystalline cellulose available as Ticacel, about 10 g calcium carbonate
and about 15 g glycerin, successively, while the blender is operated at medium to
high shear speed for approximately another 10 minutes. The binder and tobacco slurry
mixtures are then mixed together in the blender at medium to high shear speed for
approximately another 5 minutes, with the addition of the about 2.5 g cinnamon and
about 1.5 g menthol. After mixing, portions of the final slurry are cast at about
0.1 cm to about 0.3 cm thickness onto a stainless steel plate. The slurries are then
dried to form tobacco sheets or films weighing about 95 g to about 125 g per square
meter. The sheets are finally cut into smaller square or rectangular pieces, each
weighing about 50 mg to about 150 mg. The resulting pieces have the form of relatively
slow dissolving strips. Those strips can be individually packaged in outer packaging
materials of the type described previously with reference to FIG. 1.
Example 14
[0102] A combination of finely milled flue-cure and burley tobacco powder (e.g., about 25
g) is mixed with about 100 ml of a solution having about 2 g sodium carbonate in about
100 ml water. The resulting slurry is heated with constant stirring to about 60°C
to about 80°C for about 15 minutes. About 1 g of a sweetening agent available as SucraSweet
HIS 600 then is added, and the slurry is held at about 60°C to about 80°C for another
15 minutes, while mixing constantly to obtain a tobacco/water slurry. Meanwhile, a
binder system is prepared separately in a Warring blender. About 6 g sodium alginate
available as Kelvis is first mixed at high shear with about 200 ml water for 5 minutes,
followed by the slow addition of about 20 g rice starch (pregelantinized), about 10
g maltodextrin, about 15 g calcium carbonate and about 15 g glycerin, successively,
while the blender is operated at medium to high shear speed for approximately another
10 minutes. The binder and tobacco slurry mixtures are then mixed together in the
blender at medium to high shear speed for approximately another 5 minutes, with the
addition of the about 4.9 g mint flavor. After mixing, portions of the final slurry
are cast at about 0.1 cm to about 0.3 cm thickness onto a stainless steel plate. The
slurries are then dried to form tobacco sheets or films weighing about 95 g to about
125 g per square meter. The sheets are finally cut into smaller square or rectangular
pieces, each weighing about 50 mg to about 150 mg. The resulting pieces have the form
of relatively slow dissolving strips. Those strips can be individually packaged in
outer packaging materials of the type described previously with reference to FIG.
1.
Example 15
[0103] A combination of finely milled flue-cure and burley tobacco powder (e.g., about 15
g) is mixed with about 100 ml of a solution having about 1.75 g sodium carbonate in
about 100 ml water. The resulting slurry is heated with constant stirring to about
60°C to about 80°C for about 15 minutes. About 0.5 g of a sweetening agent available
as SucraSweet HIS 600 and about 7.5 g mannitol then are added, and the slurry is held
at about 60°C to about 80°C for another 15 minutes, while mixing constantly to obtain
a tobacco/water slurry. Meanwhile, a binder system is prepared separately in a Warring
blender. About 7.5 g konjac flour available as Nutritol GP 312 from FMC Bioplolymers
Corporation is first mixed at high shear with about 200 ml water for 5 minutes, followed
by the slow addition of about 15 g calcium carbonate, about 0.75 g sodium chloride
and about 7.5 g glycerin, successively, while the blender is operated at medium to
high shear speed for approximately another 10 minutes. The binder and tobacco slurry
mixtures are then mixed together in the blender at medium to high shear speed for
approximately another 5 minutes, with the addition of the about 1.25 cinnamon and
about 0.75 g menthol. After mixing, portions of the final slurry are cast at about
0.1 cm to about 0.3 cm thickness onto a stainless steel plate. The slurries are then
dried to form tobacco sheets or films weighing about 95 g to about 125 g per square
meter. The sheets are finally cut into smaller square or rectangular pieces, each
weighing about 50 mg to about 150 mg. The resulting pieces have the form of relatively
slow dissolving strips. Those strips can be individually packaged in outer packaging
materials of the type described previously with reference to FIG. 1.
Example 16
[0104] A combination of finely milled flue-cure and burley tobacco powder (e.g., about 15
g) is mixed with about 100 ml of a solution having about 1.75 g sodium carbonate in
about 100 ml water. The resulting slurry is heated with constant stirring to about
60°C to about 80°C for about 15 minutes. About 0.75 g of a sweetening agent available
as SucraSweet HIS 600 then is added, and the slurry is held at about 60°C to about
80°C for another 15 minutes, while mixing constantly to obtain a tobacco/water slurry.
Meanwhile, a binder system is prepared separately in a Warring blender. About 3.5
g sodium alginate available as Kelvis is first mixed at high shear with about 200
ml water for 5 minutes, followed by the slow addition of about 9.5 g rice starch (pregelatinized),
about 5 g maltodextrin, about 5 g calcium carbonate, about 0.75 g sodium chloride
and about 7.5 g glycerin, successively, while the blender is operated at medium to
high shear speed for approximately another 10 minutes. The binder and tobacco slurry
mixtures are then mixed together in the blender at medium to high shear speed for
approximately another 5 minutes, with the addition of the about 1.25 cinnamon and
about 0.75 g menthol. After mixing, portions of the final slurry are cast at about
0.1 cm to about 0.3 cm thickness onto a stainless steel plate. The slurries are then
dried to form tobacco sheets or films weighing about 95 g to about 125 g per square
meter. The sheets are finally cut into smaller square or rectangular pieces, each
weighing about 50 mg to about 150 mg. The resulting pieces have the form of relatively
slow dissolving strips. Those strips can be individually packaged in outer packaging
materials of the type described previously with reference to FIG. 1.
Example 17
[0105] About 50 g of a granulated tobacco powder is mixed with about 100 ml of water in
a Warring blender at low shear speed for about 5 minutes to obtain an aqueous tobacco
slurry. Meanwhile a binder system is prepared in a separate blender by mixing about
5 g sodium alginate available as Kelvis with about 200 ml water at high shear speed
for about 5 minutes. About 15 g sodium alginate available as Manucol LD and about
5 g hydroxypropylcellulose available as Klucel EF are slowly added, successively,
as the slurry is mixed for approximately another 5 minutes. About 7.5 g glycerin is
then added to the binder system and the slurry mixed for another 5 minutes. The aqueous
tobacco slurry and binder systems are then mixed together for another 5 minutes at
medium to high shear speed with the addition of about 2 g mint flavor. The final slurry
is subsequently cast, dried, and cut into thin film strips. Those relatively slow
dissolving strips can be individually packaged in outer packaging materials of the
type described previously with reference to FIG. 1.
Example 18
[0106] About 50 g of a granulated tobacco powder is mixed with about 100 ml of water in
a Warring blender at low shear speed for about 5 minutes to obtain an aqueous tobacco
slurry. Meanwhile a binder system is prepared in a separate blender by mixing about
6 g sodium alginate available as Kelvis with about 200 ml water at high shear speed
for about 5 minutes. About 10 g sodium alginate available as Manucol LD is slowly
added, as the slurry is mixed for approximately another 5 minutes. About 14 g glycerin
is then added to the binder system and the slurry mixed for another 5 minutes. The
aqueous tobacco slurry and binder systems are then mixed together for another 5 minutes
at medium to high shear speed with the addition of about 5 g mint flavor. The final
slurry is subsequently cast, dried, and cut into thin film strips. Those relatively
slow dissolving strips can be individually packaged in outer packaging materials of
the type described previously with reference to FIG. 1.
1. A smokeless tobacco product (110) comprising:
a water-permeable pouch (120) containing a tobacco formulation (115) and configured
for insertion into the mouth of a user of that product the tobacco formulation (115)
including granular tobacco, and
an outer packaging material (125) enveloping said pouch (120) and being sealed so
as to allow a controlled gaseous environment (130) to be maintained within said outer
packaging material, wherein said controlled gaseous environment comprises oxygen in
an amount greater than about 25 percent by weight in order to introduce the effects
of gas shock to said tobacco formulation.
2. The smokeless tobacco product (110) of claim 1 including a plurality of said water-permeable
pouches (120, 145, 146) enveloped by said outer packaging material (155).
3. The smokeless tobacco product (110) of claim 2 wherein one edge of said outer packaging
material (155) is contiguous with two sides of said outer packaging material, the
other three edges of said outer packaging material being sealed.
4. The smokeless tobacco products (110) of claim 1 wherein the seal on said outer packaging
material is a fin-seal.
5. The smokeless tobacco product (110) of claim 2 including a hard container (165) encompassing
said outer packaging material (155), said hard container (165) constructed so it can
be opened and resealed to allow one or more of said water permeable pouches (120,
145, 146) to be dispensed as desired by the user.
6. The smokeless tobacco product of claim 5 wherein said hard container (165) is made
of metal or plastic.
7. A smokeless tobacco product (110) comprising:
a plurality of water-permeable pouches (120, 145, 146) each configured for insertion
into the mouth of a user of the product and containing a tobacco formulation (115,
140, 141), the tobacco formulation including granular tobacco,
a hard container (165) encompassing said water-permeable pouches (120, 145, 146),
and an outer packaging material (180) enveloping said hard container and being scaled
so as to allow a controlled gaseous environment (160) to be maintained within said
outer packaging material, wherein said controlled gaseous environment comprises oxygen
in an amount greater than about 25 percent by weight in order to introduce the effects
of gas shock to said tobacco formulation.
8. The smokeless tobacco product (110) of claim 7 wherein said hard container (165) can
be opened and resealed to allow one or more of said water permeable pouches (120,
145, 146) to be dispensed as desired by the user.
9. The smokeless tobacco product (110) of claim 8 wherein said hard container (165) is
made of metal or plastic.
10. The smokeless tobacco product (110) of claim 7 wherein said outer packaging material
(180) is formed of two pieces of said material superimposed in edge to edge contact,
said edges being sealed by an overlap seal (184).
11. A smokeless tobacco product (110) comprising:
a plurality of water-permeable pouches (120, 145, 146) containing a tobacco formulation
(115, 140, 141) and configured for insertion into the mouth of a user of that product,
the tobacco formulation including granular tobacco, and
a hard container (165) encompassing said water-permeable pouches, said hard container
being tightly sealed so as to allow a controlled gaseous environment (160) to be maintained
within said hard container, wherein said controlled gaseous environment comprises
oxygen in an amount greater than about 25 percent by weight in order to introduce
the effects of gas shock to said tobacco formulation.
12. The smokeless tobacco product (110) of claim 11, said hard container (165) comprising
a lower portion (170) and a separate, upper portion (168) which mates with said lower
portion to form a closed container, and a band of scaling material (195) covering
the mating surfaces of said upper and lower portions.
13. The smokeless tobacco product (110) of claim 11 wherein said container (165) is made
of metal or plastic.
14. A smokeless tobacco product (110) comprising:
a plurality of water-permeable pouches (120, 145, 146) each containing a tobacco formulation
(115, 140, 141) and configured for insertion into the mouth of a user of that product,
the tobacco formulation including granular tobacco;
an outer packaging material (125, 211, 212) enveloping each of said pouches and being
sealed so as to allow a controlled gaseous environment (130, 221, 222) to be maintained
within said outer packaging material, wherein said controlled gaseous environment
comprises oxygen in an amount greater than about 25 percent by weight in order to
introduce the effects of gas shock to said tobacco formulation; and
a hard container (165) encompassing said water-permeable pouches enveloped by said
outer packaging material, said hard container being tightly sealed so as to allow
a controlled environment (160) to be maintained within.
15. The smokeless tobacco product (110) of claim 14, said hard container (165) comprising
a lower portion (168) and a separate, upper portion (170) which mates with said lower
portion to form a closed container, and a band of scaling material (195) covering
the mating surfaces of said upper and lower portions.
16. The smokeless tobacco product (110) of claim 14 wherein said container (165) is made
of metal or plastic.
17. The smokeless tobacco product (110) of claim 14 wherein the controlled environment
(130, 221, 222) maintained within said outer packaging material (125, 211, 212) enveloping
each of said pouches (125, 140, 146) is different from the controlled environment
(160) maintained within said hard container.
18. A smokeless tobacco product (110) comprising:
a plurality of water-permeable pouches (120, 145, 146) each containing a tobacco formulation
(115, 140, 141) and configured for insertion in the mouth of a user of that product,
the tobacco formulation including granular tobacco;
an outer packaging material (125, 211, 212) enveloping each of said pouches and being
sealed so as to allow a controlled gaseous environment (130, 221, 222) to be maintained
within said outer packaging material, wherein said controlled gaseous environment
comprises oxygen in an amount greater than about 25 percent by weight in order to
introduce the effects of gas shock to said tobacco formulation;
a hard container (165) encompassing said water-permeable pouches enveloped by said
outer packaging material; and
a second outer packaging material (180) enveloping said hard container and being sealed
so as to allow a controlled environment (160) to be maintained within.
19. The smokeless tobacco product (110) of claim 18 wherein the controlled environment
(130, 221, 222) maintained within said outer packaging material (125, 211, 212) enveloping
each of said pouches (120, 145, 146) is different from the controlled environment
(160) maintained within said second outer packaging material (180).
20. A smokeless tobacco product (110) comprising:
a plurality of water-permeable pouches (120, 145, 146) each containing a tobacco formulation
(115, 140, 141) and configured for insertion into the mouth of a user of that product,
the tobacco formulation including granular tobacco;
an outer packaging material (125, 211, 212) enveloping at least one of each of said
pouches and being sealed so as to allow a controlled gaseous environment to be maintained
within said outer packaging material, wherein said controlled gaseous environment
comprises oxygen in an amount greater than about 25 percent by weight in order to
introduce the effects of gas shock to said tobacco formulation; and
the outer packaging material (125, 211, 212) enveloping each of said one or more pouches
(120, 145, 146) being interconnected (270, 271, 272) to form a tape-like assembly.
21. The smokeless tobacco product (110) of claim 20 wherein the interconnections (270,
271, 272) between the outer packaging material enveloping each of said one or more
pouches are adapted to be readily separated for use by said user.
22. The smokeless tobacco product (110) of claim 21 wherein said interconnections (270,
271, 272) each contain a line of perforations to facilitate separation.
23. The smokeless tobacco product (110) of claim 20, wherein said tape-like assembly is
rolled up to facilitate handling by the user.
24. The smokeless tobacco product (110) of claim 23, wherein said rolled up tape-like
assembly is packaged in a dispenser (315) constructed to allow said tape-like assembly
to be withdrawn and separated for use by said user.
25. The smokeless tobacco product (110) of claim 23 wherein said dispenser (315) is cylindrical
in shape.
26. The smokeless tobacco product (110) of claim 24 including a second outer packaging
material enveloping said dispenser and being sealed so as to allow a controlled environment
to be maintained within.
1. Rauchloses Tabakprodukt (110), umfassend:
einen wasserdurchlässigen Beutel (120), der eine Tabakformulierung (115) enthält und
zum Einführen in den Mund eines Benutzers dieses Produkts ausgebildet ist, wobei die
Tabakformulierung (115) körnigen Tabak umfasst, und
ein äußeres Verpackungsmaterial (125), welches den Beutel (120) umhüllt und gesiegelt
ist, um die Aufrechterhaltung einer kontrollierten gasförmigen Umgebung (130) innerhalb
des äußeren Verpackungsmaterials zu erlauben, wobei die kontrollierte gasförmige Umgebung
Sauerstoff in einer Menge größer als ungefähr 25 Gewichtsprozent umfasst, um die Effekte
eines Gasschocks auf die Tabakformulierung einzuführen.
2. Rauchloses Tabakprodukt (110) nach Anspruch 1, umfassend eine Mehrzahl von den wasserdurchlässigen
Beuteln (120, 145, 146), welche von dem äußeren Verpackungsmaterial (155) umhüllt
sind.
3. Rauchloses Tabakprodukt (110) nach Anspruch 2, wobei eine Kante des äußeren Verpackungsmaterials
(155) an zwei Seiten des äußeren Verpackungsmaterials anschließt, wobei die anderen
drei Kanten des äußeren Verpackungsmaterials gesiegelt sind.
4. Rauchlose Tabakprodukte (110) nach Anspruch 1, wobei die Siegelung an dem äußeren
Verpackungsmaterial eine Flossennaht ist.
5. Rauchloses Tabakprodukt (110) nach Anspruch 2, umfassend einen Hartbehälter (165),
welcher das äußere Verpackungsmaterial (155) umschließt, wobei der Hartbehälter (165)
so ausgebildet ist, dass er geöffnet und wiederversiegelt werden kann, um die Abgabe
eines oder mehrerer der wasserdurchlässigen Beutel (120, 145, 146) nach Wunsch des
Benutzers zu erlauben.
6. Rauchloses Tabakprodukt nach Anspruch 5, wobei der Hartbehälter (165) aus Metall oder
Kunststoff hergestellt ist.
7. Rauchloses Tabakprodukt (110), umfassend:
eine Mehrzahl von wasserdurchlässigen Beuteln (120, 145, 146), welche jeweils zum
Einführen in den Mund eines Benutzers des Produkts ausgebildet sind und eine Tabakformulierung
(115, 140, 141) enthalten, wobei die Tabakformulierung körnigen Tabak umfasst,
einen Hartbehälter (165), welcher die wasserdurchlässigen Beutel (120, 145, 146) umschließt,
und ein äußeres Verpackungsmaterial (180), welches den Hartbehälter umhüllt und gesiegelt
ist, um die Aufrechterhaltung einer kontrollierten gasförmigen Umgebung (160) innerhalb
des äußeren Verpackungsmaterials zu erlauben, wobei die kontrollierte gasförmige Umgebung
Sauerstoff in einer Menge größer als ungefähr 25 Gewichtsprozent umfasst, um die Effekte
eines Gasschocks auf die Tabakformulierung einzuführen.
8. Rauchloses Tabakprodukt (110) nach Anspruch 7, wobei der Hartbehälter (165) geöffnet
und wiederversiegelt werden kann, um die Abgabe eines oder mehrerer der wasserdurchlässigen
Beutel (120, 145, 146) nach Wunsch des Benutzers zu erlauben.
9. Rauchloses Tabakprodukt (110) nach Anspruch 8, wobei der Hartbehälter (165) aus Metall
oder Kunststoff hergestellt ist.
10. Rauchloses Tabakprodukt (110) nach Anspruch 7, wobei das äußere Verpackungsmaterial
(180) aus zwei Stücken des Materials gebildet ist, welche in Kante-Kante-Kontakt überlagert
sind, wobei die Kanten durch eine Überlappnaht (184) gesiegelt sind.
11. Rauchloses Tabakprodukt (110), umfassend:
eine Mehrzahl von wasserdurchlässigen Beuteln (120, 145, 146), welche eine Tabakformulierung
(115, 140, 141) enthalten und zum Einführen in den Mund eines Benutzers dieses Produkts
ausgebildet sind, wobei die Tabakformulierung körnigen Tabak umfasst, und
einen Hartbehälter (165), welcher die wasserdurchlässigen Beutel umschließt, wobei
der Hartbehälter dicht gesiegelt ist, um die Aufrechterhaltung einer kontrollierten
gasförmigen Umgebung (160) innerhalb des Hartbehälters zu erlauben, wobei die kontrollierte
gasförmige Umgebung Sauerstoff in einer Menge größer als ungefähr 25 Gewichtsprozent
umfasst, um die Effekte eines Gasschocks auf die Tabakformulierung einzuführen.
12. Rauchloses Tabakprodukt (110) nach Anspruch 11, wobei der Hartbehälter (165) umfasst:
einen unteren Teil (170) und einen separaten oberen Teil (168), der mit dem unteren
Teil zusammenpasst, um einen geschlossenen Behälter zu bilden, und ein Band aus Siegelmaterial
(195), welches die zusammenpassenden Oberflächen des oberen und des unteren Teils
bedeckt.
13. Rauchloses Tabakprodukt (110) nach Anspruch 11, wobei der Behälter (165) aus Metall
oder Kunststoff hergestellt ist.
14. Rauchloses Tabakprodukt (110), umfassend:
eine Mehrzahl von wasserdurchlässigen Beuteln (120, 145, 146), welche jeweils eine
Tabakformulierung (115, 140, 141) enthalten und zum Einführen in den Mund eines Benutzers
dieses Produkts ausgebildet sind, wobei die Tabakformulierung körnigen Tabak umfasst;
ein äußeres Verpackungsmaterial (125, 211, 212), welches jeden der Beutel umhüllt
und gesiegelt ist, um die Aufrechterhaltung einer kontrollierten gasförmigen Umgebung
(130, 221, 222) innerhalb des äußeren Verpackungsmaterials zu erlauben, wobei die
kontrollierte gasförmige Umgebung Sauerstoff in einer Menge größer als ungefähr 25
Gewichtsprozent umfasst, um die Effekte eines Gasschocks auf die Tabakformulierung
einzuführen; und
einen Hartbehälter (165), welcher die von dem äußeren Verpackungsmaterial umhüllten
wasserdurchlässigen Beutel umschließt, wobei der Hartbehälter dicht gesiegelt ist,
um die Aufrechterhaltung einer kontrollierten Umgebung (160) im Inneren zu erlauben.
15. Rauchloses Tabakprodukt (110) nach Anspruch 14, wobei der Hartbehälter (165) umfasst:
einen unteren Teil (168) und einen separaten oberen Teil (170), der mit dem unteren
Teil zusammenpasst, um einen geschlossenen Behälter zu bilden, und ein Band aus Siegelmaterial
(195), welches die zusammenpassenden Oberflächen des oberen und des unteren Teils
bedeckt.
16. Rauchloses Tabakprodukt (110) nach Anspruch 14, wobei der Behälter (165) aus Metall
oder Kunststoff hergestellt ist.
17. Rauchloses Tabakprodukt (110) nach Anspruch 14, wobei die kontrollierte Umgebung (130,
221, 222), welche innerhalb des äußeren Verpackungsmaterials (125, 211, 212), welches
jeden der Beutel (125, 140, 146) umhüllt, aufrechterhalten wird, von der kontrollierten
Umgebung (160), welche innerhalb des Hartbehälters aufrechterhalten wird, verschieden
ist.
18. Rauchloses Tabakprodukt (110), umfassend:
eine Mehrzahl von wasserdurchlässigen Beuteln (120, 145, 146), welche jeweils eine
Tabakformulierung (115, 140, 141) enthalten und zum Einführen in den Mund eines Benutzers
dieses Produkts ausgebildet sind, wobei die Tabakformulierung körnigen Tabak umfasst;
ein äußeres Verpackungsmaterial (125, 211, 212), welches jeden der Beutel umhüllt
und gesiegelt ist, um die Aufrechterhaltung einer kontrollierten gasförmigen Umgebung
(130, 221, 222) innerhalb des äußeren Verpackungsmaterials zu erlauben, wobei die
kontrollierte gasförmige Umgebung Sauerstoff in einer Menge größer als ungefähr 25
Gewichtsprozent umfasst, um die Effekte eines Gasschocks auf die Tabakformulierung
einzuführen;
einen Hartbehälter (165), welcher die von dem äußeren Verpackungsmaterial umhüllten
wasserdurchlässigen Beutel umschließt; und
ein zweites äußeres Verpackungsmaterial (180), welches den Hartbehälter umhüllt und
gesiegelt ist, um die Aufrechterhaltung einer kontrollierten Umgebung (160) im Inneren
zu erlauben.
19. Rauchloses Tabakprodukt (110) nach Anspruch 18, wobei die kontrollierte Umgebung (130,
221, 222), welche innerhalb des äußeren Verpackungsmaterials (125, 211, 212), welches
jeden der Beutel (120, 140, 146) umhüllt, aufrechterhalten wird, von der kontrollierten
Umgebung (160), welche innerhalb des zweiten äußeren Verpackungsmaterials (180) aufrechterhalten
wird, verschieden ist.
20. Rauchloses Tabakprodukt (110), umfassend:
eine Mehrzahl von wasserdurchlässigen Beuteln (120, 145, 146), welche jeweils eine
Tabakformulierung (115, 140, 141) enthalten und zum Einführen in den Mund eines Benutzers
dieses Produkts ausgebildet sind, wobei die Tabakformulierung körnigen Tabak umfasst;
ein äußeres Verpackungsmaterial (125, 211, 212), welches mindestens jeweils einen
der Beutel umhüllt und gesiegelt ist, um die Aufrechterhaltung einer kontrollierten
gasförmigen Umgebung innerhalb des äuβeren Verpackungsmaterials zu erlauben, wobei
die kontrollierte gasförmige Umgebung Sauerstoff in einer Menge größer als ungefähr
25 Gewichtsprozent umfasst, um die Effekte eines Gasschocks auf die Tabakformulierung
einzuführen; und
wobei das äußere Verpackungsmaterial (125, 211, 212), welches jeweils den einen oder
die mehreren Beutel (120, 145, 146) umhüllt, verbunden (270, 271, 272) ist, um eine
bandartige Anordnung zu bilden.
21. Rauchloses Tabakprodukt (110) nach Anspruch 20, wobei die Verbindungen (270, 271,
272) zwischen dem äußeren Verpackungsmaterial, welches jeweils den einen oder die
mehreren Beutel umhüllt, so ausgebildet sind, dass sie zum Gebrauch durch den Benutzer
leicht zu trennen sind.
22. Rauchloses Tabakprodukt (110) nach Anspruch 21, wobei die Verbindungen (270, 271,
272) jeweils eine Perforationslinie enthalten, um die Trennung zu erleichtern.
23. Rauchloses Tabakprodukt (110) nach Anspruch 20, wobei die bandartige Anordnung aufgerollt
ist, um die Handhabung durch den Benutzer zu erleichtern.
24. Rauchloses Tabakprodukt (110) nach Anspruch 23, wobei die aufgerollte bandartige Anordnung
in eine Abgabevorrichtung (315) gepackt ist, welche ausgebildet ist, um das Abziehen
und Trennen der bandartigen Anordnung zum Gebrauch durch den Benutzer zu erlauben.
25. Rauchloses Tabakprodukt (110) nach Anspruch 23, wobei die Abgabevorrichtung (315)
eine zylindrische Form aufweist.
26. Rauchloses Tabakprodukt (110) nach Anspruch 24, umfassend ein zweites äußeres Verpackungsmaterial,
welches die Abgabevorrichtung umhüllt und gesiegelt ist, um die Aufrechterhaltung
einer kontrollierten Umgebung im Inneren zu erlauben.
1. Produit (110) de tabac sans fumée comprenant :
une blague perméable à l'eau (120) contenant une formulation de tabac (115) et configurée
pour être insérée dans la bouche d'un utilisateur de ce produit, la formulation de
tabac (115) comportant du tabac granuleux, et
un matériau (125) de conditionnement externe enveloppant ladite blague (120) et étant
scellé pour permettre à un environnement gazeux régulé (130) d'être maintenu dans
ledit matériau de conditionnement externe, où ledit environnement gazeux régulé comprend
de l'oxygène en une proportion supérieure à environ 25 pourcent en poids afin d'initier
ladite formulation de tabac aux effets d'un choc gazeux.
2. Produit (110) de tabac sans fumée de la revendication 1, comportant une pluralité
desdites blagues perméables à l'eau (120, 145, 146) enveloppées par ledit matériau
(155) de conditionnement externe.
3. Produit (110) de tabac sans fumée de la revendication 2, dans lequel un bord dudit
matériau (155) de conditionnement externe est contigu à deux côtés dudit matériau
de conditionnement externe, les trois autres bords dudit matériau de conditionnement
externe étant scellés.
4. Produit (110) de tabac sans fumée de la revendication 1, dans lequel le joint sur
ledit matériau de conditionnement externe est un joint à nervure.
5. Produit (110) de tabac sans fumée de la revendication 2, comportant un conteneur rigide
(165) renfermant ledit matériau (155) de conditionnement externe, ledit conteneur
rigide (165) étant construit de sorte à pouvoir être ouvert et refermé pour permettre
à un utilisateur de distribuer une ou plusieurs desdites blagues perméables à l'eau
(120, 145, 146) comme il le souhaite.
6. Produit de tabac sans fumée de la revendication 5, dans lequel ledit conteneur rigide
(165) est réalisé en métal ou en matière plastique.
7. Produit (110) de tabac sans fumée comprenant :
une pluralité de blagues perméables à l'eau (120, 145, 146) chacune configurée pour
être insérée dans la bouche d'un utilisateur du produit et contenant une formulation
de tabac (115, 140, 141), la formulation de tabac comportant du tabac granuleux,
un conteneur rigide (165) renfermant lesdits blagues perméables à l'eau (120, 145,
146) et un matériau de conditionnement externe (180) enveloppant ledit conteneur rigide
et étant scellé de sorte à permettre à un environnement gazeux régulé (160) d'être
maintenu dans ledit matériau de conditionnement externe, où ledit environnement gazeux
régulé comprend de l'oxygène en une proportion supérieure à environ 25 pourcent en
poids afin d'initier ladite formulation de tabac aux effets d'un choc gazeux.
8. Produit (110) de tabac sans fumée de la revendication 7, dans lequel ledit conteneur
rigide (165) peut être ouvert et refermé pour permettre à un utilisateur de distribuer
une ou plusieurs desdites blagues perméables à l'eau (120, 145, 146) comme il le souhaite.
9. Produit (110) de tabac sans fumée de la revendication 8, dans lequel ledit conteneur
rigide (165) est réalisé en métal ou en matière plastique.
10. Produit (110) de tabac sans fumée de la revendication 7, dans lequel ledit matériau
de conditionnement externe (180) est formé de deux pièces dudit matériau, superposées
en contact bout-à-bout, lesdits bords étant scellés par un joint de recouvrement (184).
11. Produit (110) de tabac sans fumée comprenant :
une pluralité de blagues perméables à l'eau (120, 145, 146) contenant une formulation
de tabac (115, 140, 141) et configurées pour être insérées dans la bouche d'un utilisateur
de ce produit, la formulation de tabac comportant du tabac granuleux, et
un conteneur rigide (165) renfermant lesdites blagues perméables à l'eau, ledit conteneur
rigide étant hermétiquement scellé de sorte à permettre à un environnement gazeux
régulé (160) d'être maintenu dans ledit conteneur rigide, où ledit environnement gazeux
régulé comprend de l'oxygène en une proportion supérieure à environ 25 pourcent en
poids afin d'initier ladite formulation de tabac aux effets d'un choc gazeux.
12. Produit (110) de tabac sans fumée de la revendication 11, ledit conteneur rigide (165)
comprenant une partie inférieure (170) et une partie supérieure (168) séparée qui
se conjugue avec ladite partie inférieure pour former un conteneur fermé, et une bande
d'un matériau d'étanchéité (195) couvrant les surfaces conjuguées desdites parties
supérieure et inférieure.
13. Produit (110) de tabac sans fumée de la revendication 11, dans lequel ledit conteneur
(165) est réalisé en métal ou en matière plastique.
14. Produit (110) de tabac sans fumée comprenant :
une pluralité de blagues perméables à l'eau (120, 145, 146) chacune contenant une
formulation de tabac (115, 140, 141) et configurées pour être insérées dans la bouche
d'un utilisateur de ce produit, la formulation de tabac comportant du tabac granuleux
;
un matériau de conditionnement externe (125, 211, 212) enveloppant chacune desdites
blagues et étant scellé de sorte à permettre à un environnement gazeux régulé (130,
221, 222) d'être maintenu dans ledit matériau de conditionnement externe, où ledit
environnement gazeux régulé comprend de l'oxygène en une proportion supérieure à environ
25 pourcent en poids afin d'initier ladite formulation de tabac aux effets d'un choc
gazeux ; et
un conteneur rigide (165) renfermant lesdites blagues perméables à l'eau enveloppées
par ledit matériau de conditionnement externe, ledit conteneur rigide étant hermétiquement
scellé afin d'y maintenir un environnement régulé (160).
15. Produit (110) de tabac sans fumée de la revendication 14, ledit conteneur rigide (165)
comprenant une partie inférieure (168) et une partie supérieure (170) séparée qui
se conjugue avec ladite partie inférieure pour former un contenant fermé, et une bande
de matériau d'étanchéité (195) couvrant les surfaces conjuguées desdites parties supérieure
et inférieure.
16. Produit (110) de tabac sans fumée de la revendication 14, dans lequel ledit conteneur
(165) est réalisé en métal ou en matière plastique.
17. Produit (110) de tabac sans fumée de la revendication 14, dans lequel l'environnement
régulé (130, 221, 222) maintenu dans ledit matériau de conditionnement externe (125,
211, 212) enveloppant chacune desdites blagues (125, 140, 146) est différent de l'environnement
régulé (160) maintenu dans ledit contenant rigide.
18. Produit (110) de tabac sans fumée comprenant :
une pluralité de blagues perméables à l'eau (120, 145, 146) chacune contenant une
formulation de tabac (115, 140, 141) et configurées pour être insérées dans la bouche
d'un utilisateur de ce produit, la formulation de tabac comportant du tabac granuleux
;
un matériau de conditionnement externe (125, 211, 212) enveloppant chacune desdites
blagues et étant scellé de sorte à permettre à un environnement gazeux régulé (130,
221, 222) d'être maintenu dans ledit matériau de conditionnement externe, où ledit
environnement gazeux régulé comprend de l'oxygène en une proportion supérieure à environ
25 pourcent en poids afin d'initier ladite formulation de tabac aux effets d'un choc
gazeux ;
un contenant rigide (165) renfermant lesdites blagues perméables à l'eau enveloppées
par ledit matériau de conditionnement externe ; et
un deuxième matériau (180) de conditionnement externe enveloppant ledit conteneur
rigide et étant scellé afin d'y maintenir un environnement régulé (160).
19. Produit (110) de tabac sans fumée de la revendication 18, dans lequel l'environnement
régulé (130, 221, 222) maintenu dans ledit matériau de conditionnement externe (125,
211, 212) enveloppant chacune desdits blagues (120, 145, 146) est différent de l'environnement
régulé (160) maintenu dans ledit deuxième matériau (180) de conditionnement externe.
20. Produit (110) de tabac sans fumée comprenant :
une pluralité de blagues perméables à l'eau (120, 145, 146), chacune contenant une
formulation de tabac (115, 140, 141) et configurées pour être insérées dans la bouche
d'un utilisateur de ce produit, la formulation de tabac comportant du tabac granuleux
;
un matériau de conditionnement externe (125, 211, 212) enveloppant au moins l'une
de chacune desdits blagues et étant scellé de sorte à permettre à un environnement
gazeux régulé d'être maintenu dans ledit matériau de conditionnement externe, où ledit
environnement gazeux régulé comprend de l'oxygène en une proportion supérieure à environ
25 pourcent en poids afin d'initier ladite formulation de tabac aux effets d'un choc
gazeux ; et
le matériau de conditionnement externe (125, 211, 212) enveloppant chacune desdites
une ou plusieurs blagues (120, 145, 146) étant relié (270, 271, 272) pour former un
assemblage en forme de bande.
21. Produit (110) de tabac sans fumée de la revendication 20, dans lequel les liaisons
(270, 271, 272) entre le matériau de conditionnement externe enveloppant chacune desdites
une ou plusieurs blagues sont adaptées pour être facilement séparées pour l'utilisation
par ledit utilisateur.
22. Produit (110) de tabac sans fumée de la revendication 21, dans lequel lesdites liaisons
(270, 271, 272) contiennent chacune une ligne de perforations pour faciliter la séparation.
23. Produit (110) de tabac sans fumée de la revendication 20, dans lequel ledit assemblage
en forme de bande est enroulé pour en faciliter la manipulation par l'utilisateur.
24. Produit (110) de tabac sans fumée de la revendication 23, dans lequel ledit assemblage
en forme de bande enroulée est emballé dans un distributeur (315) construit pour permettre
audit assemblage en forme de bande d'être retiré et séparé pour l'utilisation par
ledit utilisateur.
25. Produit (110) de tabac sans fumée de la revendication 23, dans lequel ledit distributeur
(315) a une forme cylindrique.
26. Produit (110) de tabac sans fumée de la revendication 24, comportant un deuxième matériau
de conditionnement externe enveloppant ledit distributeur et étant scellé de sorte
à y maintenir un environnement régulé.