HK1175963B

HK1175963B - Tobacco compositions

Info

Publication number: HK1175963B
Application number: HK13103320.0A
Authority: HK
Inventors: 詹姆斯.A.斯特里克兰; 弗兰克.S.阿奇利; 詹姆斯.M.罗斯曼; 阿曼德.J.德斯马雷斯; 斯科特.A.威廉斯; 托德.J.米勒; 彻恩.W.约翰逊
Original assignee: 美国无烟烟草有限责任公司
Priority date: 2003-11-07
Filing date: 2007-11-08
Publication date: 2015-09-11

Description

Tobacco composition

The application is a divisional application of the invention with the application date of 2004, 11/05, Chinese application No. 200480040041.8 and the invention name of "tobacco composition".

Technical Field

The present invention relates to the field of tobacco products (tobaco products).

Brief description of the invention

The invention features tobacco compositions and methods of their use and preparation. The compositions of the present invention may be based on a variety of processes. The processes include films, tablets (tab), shaped parts, gels, consumable units (consumable units), insoluble matrices (insoluble substrates), and hollow shapes. In addition to tobacco, the composition may also contain flavorants, colorants (colors), and other additives as described herein. The composition may also be orally disintegrating. Exemplary compositions and methods for their preparation are described herein.

For example, any of the compositions described herein can include a perfume or odor masking agent (scenting agent). Exemplary flavorants include licorice, kudzu, hydrangea, Japanese white bark magnolia leaf (Japanese white bark woody leaf), camomile, fenugreek, clove, menthol, Japanese mint, star anise, cinnamon, vanilla (herb), wintergreen (winterer green), cherry, berry, apple, peach, Dramboui, bourbon (bourbon), scotch whiskey (scotch), whiskey, spearmint, peppermint (peppermint), lavender, cardamom, celery, caltrop, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium (geranium), honey essence (crowney essace), rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, cinnamon, tarragon, cognac, jasmine, garland, sage, pimenta, pimento (anise), ginger, anise, fennel, coffee or mint oil from any genus.

Any of the compositions of the present invention may also include a sweetener (e.g., sucrose, sucralose, dioxygen)Thiazine potassium, aspartame, saccharin, cyclamate, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol and mannitol), surfactants, plasticizers (such as glycerol, propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, sorbitol/mannitol, acetylated monoglycerides, triacetin and 1, 3-butanediol), fillers (such as starch, microcrystalline cellulose, wood pulp, soluble fibers, calcium carbonate, dicalcium phosphate, calcium sulfate and clay), lubricants (such as stearic acid and stearate) or waxes (such as lecithin, glycerol monostearate and propylene glycol monostearate), preservatives (such as methyl paraben and potassium sorbate) and/or stabilizers (such as ascorbic acid, citric acid and phytosterol esters, BHT and BHA).

Any of the compositions described herein may further include, for example, a matte or gloss coating (coating). The coating preferably includes a colorant, a flavorant, a sweetener, or an odor masking agent. The coating may also include a different fragrance, colorant, or disintegration rate than the form (format) in the composition. The coating may also include tobacco.

Any of the compositions described herein may further include a printed pattern such as a logo. The printed pattern may include a colorant, tobacco, flavor, sweetener, or odor masking agent. The surface of any of the compositions described herein may also include a relief pattern (pattern in relief).

The tobacco contained in any composition may be a powder, granules, pieces, or may be perceived to dissolve in the mouth.

Any of the compositions described herein can further comprise a sheet, such as comprising tobacco or a plurality of flavors or colors.

Any of the compositions of the present invention may be formed into a shape suitable for application in the mouth. The compositions of the present invention may further provide tobacco satisfaction (tobaco satisfactions), such as over a period of 10-30 minutes.

The invention also features a method of obtaining tobacco satisfaction by placing at least a portion of any of the compositions described herein in the mouth.

The invention also features methods of making the compositions described herein. Any of these methods may further comprise applying a coating to the composition, such as by spraying, brushing, rolling, doctor blade casting, slot coating, extrusion, or hot melt deposition. Either method may further comprise printing a pattern on the composition, such as by offset printing, flexographic printing, gravure printing, ink jet, laser, or screen printing. In addition, the method of making a composition further comprises adding a fragrance, colorant, odor masking agent, or any other ingredient described herein to the form or composition.

"Format" refers to an ingredient or collection of ingredients in a composition as provided herein, for example as a carrier or reagent.

"tobacco" refers to any part of any member of the genus nicotiana, such as the leaves, flowers, roots, and stems. Exemplary species of tobacco include n.rustica and n.tabacum (such as LA B21, LN KY171, TI 1406, Basma, gale, perley tobacco, beiinha 1000-1, and pelico), and other species include n.acaulis, n.acutina var. multifloana, n.aficana, n.alata, n.amplexicaulis, n.aretisii, n.enatuttata, n.benthia, n.benthamiana, n.bigelovivii, n.bonensis, n.camivicola, n.clavelandi, n.cordifolia, n.coribaffle, n.degerminalis, n.coribaffle, n.bentoniflora, n.coribaffle, n.benthia, n.exfiltration, n.fornitrogen, n.upright, n.1, n.upright, n.1. upright, n.upright, n.2. The tobacco may be whole, shredded, cut, cured, aged, fermented or otherwise processed, such as granulated or encapsulated. The tobacco may also be in the form of a finished product, including, but not limited to, any non-combustible tobacco, i.e., orally consumed, such as smokeless tobacco. The smokeless tobacco includes snuff (wet or dry), chewing tobacco, loose tobacco, pouched tobacco (tobacco tobacaco), and the like, or any form of agent contained therein. The term also includes extracts of tobacco that include two or more tobacco organoleptic components.

"tobacco satisfaction" in this context refers to the perception of components associated with the organoleptic properties of tobacco released in the mouth and flavor components added thereto when smokeless tobacco is used. Adult consumers who choose to use smokeless tobacco products typically purchase smokeless tobacco products according to their individual preferences, including, but not limited to, flavor, cut of tobacco, form, ease of use, and packaging.

"organoleptic" means a general sensory perception that relates to or contributes to the consumer and includes, for example, any combination of aroma, fragrance, breath, taste, off-flavor, mouthfeel, and the like.

By "non-combustible" is meant that no combustion occurs during ordinary use.

The compositions described herein are advantageous from the standpoint of size, ease of use and controlled rate of disintegration (disintegration).

All percentages are by weight unless otherwise indicated.

The present invention relates to the following:

1. a tobacco composition comprising tobacco and a form agent, wherein the composition readily disintegrates in the mouth.

2. The composition of item 1, comprising the ingredients listed in Table I

TABLE I

Composition (I)	Percentage of
		Water-soluble polymers	10-70
Tobacco	1-90
		Perfume	1-40
Sweetening agent	0.2-6
		Fiber	2-40
Plasticizer	1-40
		Surface active agent	0.05-5
Starch/maltodextrin	1-40
		Lubricant agent	0.5-10

3. The composition of item 1, comprising the ingredients listed in Table II

TABLE II

Composition (I)	Percentage of
		Water-soluble polymers	20-45
Tobacco	20-40
		Perfume	5-15
Sweetening agent	2-5
		Fiber (soluble or insoluble)	5-20
Plasticizer	5-15
		Surface active agent	0.1-1
Starch/maltodextrin	10-20
		Lubricant agent	1-3

4. The composition of item 1, wherein the composition is a film.

5. The composition of item 1, wherein the composition comprises a monolayer.

6. The composition of item 1, wherein the composition comprises a foamed layer.

7. The composition of item 1, wherein the composition comprises multiple layers.

8. The composition of item 7, wherein at least two layers are laminated together.

9. The composition of item 7, wherein the tobacco is disposed between two layers.

10. The composition of item 7, wherein at least two of the multiple layers comprise different fragrances or colors.

11. The composition of item 1, wherein the composition disintegrates in less than 2 minutes.

12. The composition of item 1, wherein the composition has a thickness of 0.001 to 1.0 mm.

13. The composition of item 1, wherein the form comprises carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), Hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC), Hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC), Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC), Methylcellulose (MC), starch, amylose, high amylose starch, hydroxypropylated high amylose starch, konjac, karaya gum, collagen, inulin, soy protein, whey protein, casein, wheat gluten, kappa carrageenan, iota carrageenan, lambda carrageenan, alginates, propylene glycol alginate, xanthan gum, dextran, pullulan, curdlan, gellan, locust bean gum, guar gum, tara gum, tragacanth gum, pectin, agar, zein, karaya gum, gelatin, psyllium seed, chitin, chitosan, gum arabic (acacia), shellac, polyvinylpyrrolidone, Polyethylene oxide or polyvinyl alcohol.

14. A tobacco composition comprising tobacco and a form, wherein the composition is prepared as a tablet.

15. The composition of item 14, comprising the ingredients listed in Table III

TABLE III

Composition (I)	Percentage of
		Water-soluble polymers	0-70
Tobacco	1-70
		Spice oil	0.5-4.0
Artificial sweetener	0.05-0.4
		Candy	1-80
Maltodextrin	0-50
		Disintegrating agent	0.1-15
Starch	5-80
		Release agent	0.1-2.0

Emulsifier

0.1-5.0

16. The composition of item 14, wherein the tablet is ultra-rapidly disintegrating.

17. The composition of item 14, wherein the tablet is rapidly disintegrating.

18. The composition of item 14, wherein the tablet is slowly disintegrating.

19. The composition of item 14, wherein the tablet is chewable.

20. The composition of item 14, wherein the tablet has a largest dimension of 2-4 mm.

21. The composition of item 14, wherein the tablet is shaped as a disc or pellet.

22. The composition of item 14, further comprising a water-insoluble coating and a water-soluble coating, wherein the water-insoluble coating is disposed between the form and the water-soluble coating.

23. The composition of item 22, wherein the water-soluble coating provides mechanical stability.

24. A tobacco composition comprising a plurality of the tablets of item 20.

25. The composition of item 24, wherein the plurality of tablets comprise a plurality of flavors or colors.

26. A non-combustible tobacco composition comprising tobacco and a form agent, wherein the composition is shaped.

27. The composition of item 26, comprising the ingredients listed in Table IV

TABLE IV

Composition (I)	Portions are
		Tobacco	1-80
Perfume	0.5-4
		Insoluble fiber	4.5-36
Water-soluble polymers	1-50
		Filler/disintegrant	1-50
Artificial sweetener	0.05-5
		Dispersing agent	0.1-20

28. The composition of item 27, comprising the ingredients listed in Table V

TABLE V

Composition (I)	Portions are
		Tobacco	30-50

Perfume	2.5-3
		Insoluble fiber	22.5-27
Water-soluble polymers	5-20
		Filler/disintegrant	10-30
Artificial sweetener	0.1-2
		Dispersing agent	0.1-2

29. The composition of item 26, comprising the ingredients listed in Table VI

TABLE VI

Composition (I)	Portions are
		Tobacco	1-80
Perfume	0.5-4
		Insoluble fiber	4.5-36
Water-soluble polymers	1-50
		Filler/disintegrant	1-50
Artificial sweetener	0.05-3
		Dispersing agent	0.1-20

30. The composition of item 29, comprising the ingredients listed in Table VII

TABLE VII

Composition (I)	Portions are
		Tobacco	20-50
Perfume	1-3
		Insoluble fiber	9-27
Water-soluble polymers	5-25
		Filler/disintegrant	10-30
Artificial sweetener	0.1-1
		Dispersing agent	0.1-2

31. The composition of item 26, comprising the ingredients listed in Table VIII

TABLE VIII

Composition (I)	Portions are
		Tobacco	10-80
Plasticizer	1-20
		Water-soluble polymers	10-80
Filler	0-60
		Stabilizer	0.1-0.5

32. The composition of item 26, comprising the ingredients listed in Table IX

TABLE IX

Composition (I)	Portions are
		Tobacco	25-80
Plasticizer	1-20
		Water-soluble polymers	20-50
Filler	0-30
		Stabilizer	0.2-0.4

33. The composition of item 26, wherein the water content of the composition is 2-50%.

34. The composition of item 26, wherein the composition is palatable disintegrable.

35. The composition of item 34, wherein the composition disintegrates in 1-60 minutes.

36. The composition of item 26, wherein the composition is sized to be partially in the mouth.

37. The composition of item 26, wherein the composition has a largest dimension of less than 6 inches.

38. The composition of item 26, wherein the composition has a largest dimension of less than 3 inches.

39. The composition of item 26, wherein the composition is in the shape of a tube, toothpick, stick, helix, or stick.

40. The composition of item 26, further comprising one or more discrete regions, wherein each region comprises a perfume or a colorant.

41. The composition of item 40, wherein each region comprises a strand, and each strand is twisted together to form the composition.

42. The composition of item 40, wherein at least one region comprises a fragrance or a colorant different from the form.

43. The composition of item 40, comprising at least two regions, wherein each region comprises a different fragrance or colorant.

44. The composition of item 26, wherein the composition is formed by injection molding, compression molding, overmolding, extrusion, or slurry process.

45. A non-combustible tobacco composition comprising tobacco and a gel form agent.

46. The composition of clause 45, wherein the gel form agent comprises kappa carrageenan, sodium alginate, carboxymethyl cellulose, gelatin, pectin, agar, or starch.

47. The composition of item 45, wherein the gel form agent encapsulates a center.

48. The composition of clause 45, wherein the format comprises a polymer and a crosslinker.

49. The composition of item 48, wherein the polymer comprises carrageenan and the crosslinking agent comprises a monovalent cation.

50. The composition of clause 49, wherein the monovalent cation is potassium.

51. The composition of item 48, wherein the polymer comprises alginate and the crosslinking agent comprises a divalent cation.

52. The composition of item 51, wherein the divalent cation is calcium.

53. The composition of item 48, wherein the polymer comprises carboxymethyl cellulose, and the crosslinking agent comprises a trivalent cation.

54. The composition of item 53, wherein the trivalent cation is aluminum.

55. The composition of item 48, wherein the polymer comprises pectin and the crosslinking agent comprises a divalent cation.

56. The composition of item 55, wherein the divalent cation is calcium.

57. The composition of item 45, wherein the form comprises gelatin.

58. The composition of item 48, wherein the form comprises gelatin and gum arabic.

59. The composition of item 47, wherein the center comprises a solid material.

60. The composition of item 47, wherein the center comprises a liquid material.

61. The composition of item 60, wherein the liquid material is aqueous.

62. The composition of item 60, wherein the liquid material is non-aqueous.

63. The composition of item 60, wherein the liquid material is heterogeneous.

64. The composition of item 62, wherein the non-aqueous material comprises ethanol or an oil.

65. The composition of item 47, wherein the center comprises tobacco.

66. The composition of item 47, wherein the center comprises tobacco serum.

67. The composition of item 47, wherein the center comprises tobacco and a sugar or salt solution.

68. The composition of item 47, wherein the center does not comprise tobacco.

69. The composition of item 47, wherein the center comprises a colorant, sweetener, flavor, or odor masking agent.

70. The composition of item 47, wherein the center comprises a different colorant than the form.

71. The composition of item 47, wherein the center comprises a perfume that is different from the form.

72. The composition of item 47, wherein the center has a different disintegration rate than the form.

73. The composition of item 45, wherein the composition is palatable disintegrable.

74. The composition of item 45, wherein the composition is chewable.

75. The composition of item 45, wherein the largest dimension is at most 15 mm.

76. The composition of item 45, wherein the largest dimension is at most 5 mm.

77. The composition of item 45, wherein the form is a gelatin capsule.

78. A tobacco composition comprising a plurality of the compositions of item 45.

79. The composition of item 78, wherein the plurality comprises a plurality of fragrances or colors.

80. The composition of item 45, further comprising a plurality of discrete regions of gel, wherein each region comprises a fragrance or colorant.

81. The composition of item 80, wherein at least two regions have different fragrances or colors.

82. The composition of item 80, wherein at least two of the regions are concentrically arranged.

83. The composition of item 45, wherein the form is non-orally disintegrable.

84. The composition of clause 45, wherein the format comprises a polymer and a crosslinker.

85. The composition of clause 84, wherein the polymer, tobacco, and crosslinking agent are unsolvated, wherein addition of the solvent causes the polymer and crosslinking agent to form an insoluble gel.

86. The composition of item 85, wherein the polymer comprises carrageenan and the crosslinking agent comprises a monovalent cation.

87. The composition of item 86, wherein the monovalent cation is potassium.

88. The composition of item 85, wherein the polymer comprises alginate and the crosslinking agent comprises a divalent cation.

89. The composition of item 88, wherein the divalent cation is calcium.

90. The composition of item 85, wherein the polymer comprises carboxymethyl cellulose, and the crosslinking agent comprises a trivalent cation.

91. The composition of item 90, wherein the trivalent cation is aluminum.

92. The composition of item 85, wherein the polymer comprises pectin and the crosslinking agent comprises a divalent cation.

93. The composition of item 92, wherein the divalent cation is calcium.

94. The composition of item 85, wherein the solvent is aqueous.

95. The composition of item 85, wherein the solvent is non-aqueous.

96. The composition of item 85, wherein the solvent is heterogeneous.

97. The composition of item 85, wherein the composition is made by a phase separation process.

98. A kit comprising (i) a mixture of tobacco and a format, and (ii) a cast, wherein in the cast, an insoluble gel is formed in the shape of the cast when a solvent is added to the mixture.

99. The kit of clause 98, wherein the format comprises a polymer and a crosslinking agent.

100. The kit of item 99, wherein the polymer comprises carrageenan and the crosslinking agent comprises a monovalent cation.

101. The kit of clause 100, wherein the monovalent cation is potassium.

102. The kit of item 99, wherein the polymer comprises alginate and the crosslinking agent comprises a divalent cation.

103. The kit of item 102, wherein the divalent cation is calcium.

104. The kit of item 99, wherein the polymer comprises carboxymethyl cellulose and the crosslinking agent comprises a trivalent cation.

105. The kit of item 104, wherein the trivalent cation is aluminum.

106. The kit of item 99, wherein the polymer comprises pectin and the crosslinking agent comprises a divalent cation.

107. The kit of item 106, wherein the divalent cation is calcium.

108. The kit of item 98, wherein said form comprises a solvent swellable insoluble polymer.

109. The kit of item 108, wherein the solvent-swellable, insoluble polymer comprises polyvinyl alcohol.

110. The kit of item 98, wherein the solvent is aqueous.

111. The kit of clause 98, wherein the solvent is non-aqueous.

112. The kit of item 98, wherein the solvent is heterogeneous.

113. A non-combustible composition comprising (i) a tobacco composition comprising tobacco and a format, and (ii) a packaging material.

114. The composition of item 113, wherein the tobacco composition comprises a plurality of components.

115. The composition of item 114, wherein the component comprises a flake, tablet, or bead.

116. The composition of item 114, wherein the component is embedded in the packaging material.

117. The composition of item 114, wherein the component is not embedded in the packaging material.

118. The composition of item 113, wherein the packaging material is palatable disintegrating.

119. The composition of item 113, wherein the packaging material is not orally disintegrable.

120. The composition of item 113, wherein the packaging material comprises HPMC, CMC, pectin, alginate, or pullulan.

121. The composition of item 113, wherein the packaging material comprises a fabric or paper.

122. The composition of item 113, wherein the tobacco composition comprises a liquid.

123. The composition of item 113, wherein the liquid comprises a sugar or salt, wherein the sugar or salt prevents the packaging material from being disintegrated by the liquid.

124. The composition of item 113, wherein the form and tobacco form a moldable plug.

125. The composition of item 113, wherein the form is shaped using a vertical form/fill/seal machine, a horizontal form/fill/seal machine, a flow wrap machine, or a thermoformer.

126. A tobacco composition comprising tobacco and a palatable disintegrating package, wherein said tobacco is placed in said package.

127. The composition of item 126, wherein the tobacco comprises dry snuff or moist smokeless tobacco.

128. The composition of item 126, wherein the orodispersible package comprises HPMC, CMC, pectin, alginate, or pullulan.

129. The composition of item 126, wherein the form is shaped using a vertical form/fill/seal machine, a horizontal form/fill/seal machine, a flow wrap machine, or a thermoformer.

130. A tobacco composition comprising an insoluble, open cell matrix, tobacco, and a form, wherein the tobacco is disposed in the matrix and retained in the matrix by the form.

131. The composition of item 130, wherein the open-cell substrate comprises a fabric, a foam, or a paper.

132. The composition of item 131, wherein the foam comprises polyurethane.

133. The composition of item 130, wherein the composition is chewable.

134. The composition of item 130, wherein the open-cell matrix is placed on a stick or handle.

135. The composition of item 130, comprising the ingredients listed in Table X

Table X

136. The composition of item 130, comprising the ingredients listed in Table XI

TABLE XI

137. A tobacco composition comprising tobacco and a form, wherein the form is formed in a hollow shape.

138. The composition of item 137, comprising the ingredients listed in table XII

TABLE XII

139. The composition of item 137, comprising the ingredients listed in table XIII

TABLE XIII

Composition (I)	Percentage of
		Water-soluble polymers	20-45

Tobacco	20-40
		Perfume	5-15
Sweetening agent	2-5
		Fiber (soluble or insoluble)	5-20
Plasticizer	5-15
		Surface active agent	0.1-1
Starch/maltodextrin	10-20
		Lubricant agent	1-3

140. The composition of item 137, wherein the form is helically wound.

141. The composition of item 137, further comprising an adhesive, wherein the adhesive is positioned to prevent release.

142. The composition of item 137, wherein the hollow shape is formed by extrusion.

143. The composition of item 137, wherein the tobacco and form a single layer.

144. The composition of item 137, wherein the composition comprises multiple layers.

145. The composition of item 144, wherein at least two layers are laminated together.

146. The composition of item 144, wherein the tobacco is disposed between two layers.

147. The composition of item 144, wherein at least two layers of the plurality of layers comprise different fragrances or colors.

148. The composition of item 137, further comprising a filler disposed within the hollow shape.

149. The composition of item 148, wherein the filler comprises tobacco.

150. The composition of item 148, wherein the bulking agent comprises a colorant, sweetener, flavorant, or odor masking agent.

151. The composition of item 148, wherein the filler comprises a different colorant or fragrance than the shape.

152. The composition of item 148, wherein the bulking agent comprises a gel.

153. The composition of item 137, further comprising a disintegrant.

154. A non-combustible tobacco composition comprising tobacco and a foamable form.

155. The composition of item 154, wherein the composition is shaped.

156. The composition of item 154, wherein the composition is shaped into a film.

157. The composition of item 154, wherein the form is water soluble.

158. The composition of item 154, wherein the form is thermoplastic.

159. The composition of any of items 1-158, further comprising a fragrance or odor masking agent.

160. The composition of item 159, wherein the flavorant comprises licorice, kudzu, hydrangea, japanese white bark magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, menthol, japanese mint, star anise, cinnamon, vanilla (herb), wintergreen (winter green), cherry, berry, Dramboui, bourbon (bourbon), scotland whiskey (scotch), whiskey, spearmint, peppermint (peppermint), lavender, cardamom, celery, gooseberry, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium (geranium), honey essence (honey sequential access), rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, cinnamon, garland, cognac, jasmine, garland, caraway, sage, any, allspice (piment), ginger, anise, coriander, coffee, or peppermint oil from the genus mentha.

161. The composition of any one of items 1-158, further comprising a sweetener.

162. The composition of item 161, wherein the sweetener comprises sucrose, sucralose, dioxygenThiazine potassium, aspartame, saccharin, cyclamate, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, and mannitol.

163. The composition of any of items 1-158, further comprising a surfactant.

164. The composition of any of items 1-158, further comprising a plasticizer.

165. The composition of item 164, wherein the plasticizer comprises glycerol, propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, sorbitol/mannitol, acetylated monoglycerides, triacetin, or 1, 3-butanediol.

166. The composition of any of items 1-158, further comprising a filler.

167. The composition of item 166, wherein the filler comprises starch, microcrystalline cellulose, wood pulp, soluble fiber, calcium carbonate, dicalcium phosphate, calcium sulfate, or clay.

168. The composition of any of items 1-158, further comprising a lubricant or wax.

169. The composition of item 168, wherein the lubricant comprises stearic acid or a stearate.

170. The composition of clause 168, wherein the wax is lecithin, glycerol monostearate, or propylene glycol monostearate.

171. The composition of any one of items 1-158, further comprising a preservative.

172. The composition of item 171, wherein the preservative comprises methylparaben or potassium sorbate.

173. The composition of any one of items 1-158, further comprising a stabilizer.

174. The composition of item 173, wherein the stabilizing agent comprises ascorbic acid, citric acid monosterol ester, BHT, or BHA.

175. The composition of any of items 1-158, further comprising a coating.

176. The composition of item 175, wherein the coating is matte.

177. The composition of item 175, wherein the coating is glossy.

178. The composition of item 175, wherein the coating comprises a colorant, a flavorant, a sweetener, or an odor masking agent.

179. The composition of item 175, wherein the coating comprises a fragrance that is different from the form.

180. The composition of item 175, wherein the coating has a different disintegration rate than the form.

181. The composition of item 175, wherein the coating comprises tobacco.

182. The composition of item 175, wherein the coating comprises a colorant.

183. The composition of item 175, wherein the coating comprises a different colorant than the form.

184. The composition of any of items 1-158, further comprising a printed pattern.

185. The composition of item 184, wherein the printed pattern comprises a logo.

186. The composition of item 184, wherein the printed pattern comprises a colorant.

187. The composition of item 184, wherein the printed pattern comprises tobacco.

188. The composition of item 184, wherein the printed pattern comprises a fragrance, sweetener, or odor masking agent.

189. The composition of any of items 1-158, wherein the surface of the composition comprises a relief pattern (pattern in relief).

190. The composition of any of items 1-158, wherein the tobacco comprises a powder, granules, or pieces.

191. The composition of any of items 1-158, wherein the tobacco is sensorially dissolvable in the mouth.

192. The composition of any of items 1-158, further comprising flakes.

193. The composition of item 192, wherein the sheet comprises tobacco.

194. The composition of item 192, wherein the flakes comprise a plurality of fragrances or colors.

195. The composition of any of items 1-158, wherein the composition is in a shape suitable for application into an oral cavity.

196. The composition of any of items 1-158, wherein the composition provides tobacco satisfaction.

197. The composition of any of items 1-158, wherein the tobacco satisfaction occurs over a period of 10 seconds to 30 minutes.

198. A composition comprising a water-impermeable, water-insoluble package and tobacco, wherein the tobacco is disposed in the package and is dispensable from the package into the mouth.

199. The composition of item 198, wherein the package comprises a film pouch, and the film pouch is compressed to provide the tobacco to the mouth.

200. The composition of item 198, wherein the package comprises a spray bottle.

201. The composition of item 198, wherein the tobacco is disposed in a gel.

202. A method of obtaining tobacco satisfaction, the method comprising placing at least a portion of the composition of any of items 1-197 in the mouth, thereby obtaining tobacco satisfaction.

203. A process for preparing a tobacco composition, said process comprising the steps of (i) forming a form into a film, and (ii) adding tobacco to said form or film.

204. The method of clause 203, wherein the film is formed by solution casting, extrusion, melt extrusion, drum drying, or calendering (calendaring).

205. The method of item 203, wherein the tobacco is added to the form prior to the forming.

206. The method of item 203, wherein the tobacco is added to the film after the forming.

207. The method of item 203, further comprising forming a second form into a second film, and bonding the film of (i) and the second film.

208. The method of item 203, wherein the tobacco is placed between the film of (i) and the second film.

209. A process for preparing a tobacco composition, said process comprising the steps of (i) forming a form into a tablet, and (ii) adding tobacco to said form or tablet.

210. The method of clause 209, wherein the form is molded using compression, injection molding, compression molding, injection foam molding, or compression foam molding.

211. A method of making a tobacco composition, the method comprising the steps of (i) forming a form into a shape, and (ii) adding tobacco to the form or shape.

212. The method of item 211, wherein the forming is shaped into a shape by extrusion, compression molding, injection molding, stamping molding, foam molding, blow molding, overmolding, or a slurry process.

213. The method of item 211, wherein the form is die cut from a sheet into the shape.

214. The method of item 211, wherein the form is foamed.

215. A method of making a tobacco composition, the method comprising the steps of (i) combining a gel former with a solvent to form a gel, and (ii) adding tobacco to the gel former, solvent or gel.

216. The method of clause 215, wherein the format comprises a polymer and a crosslinker.

217. The method of item 215, wherein the gel is formed in a casting mold.

218. The method of item 215, wherein the gel is formed by extruding a profile and cutting the extruded profile to length.

219. A method of making a tobacco composition, the method comprising the steps of (i) providing a liquid mixture of tobacco and polymer, and (ii) placing the liquid in a bath, wherein the bath initiates a curing reaction of the polymer.

220. The method of item 219, wherein the bath comprises a crosslinking agent capable of crosslinking the polymer.

221. The method of clause 219, wherein the bath is at a temperature that causes the polymer to cure.

222. The method of item 219, wherein the center of the composition is a liquid.

223. A method of making a tobacco composition, the method comprising placing tobacco in a gelatin capsule.

224. A method of making a tobacco composition, the method comprising the steps of (i) providing a mixture of tobacco and a form, and (ii) adding a liquid to the tobacco and form, wherein the form is solvated and forms a solid.

225. The method of item 224, wherein prior to step (ii), the mixture is placed in a casting mold, and after step (ii), the composition retains the shape of the casting mold.

226. A method of making a composition, the method comprising the steps of (i) providing a tobacco composition, and (ii) combining the tobacco composition with a packaging material.

227. The method of item 226, wherein the tobacco composition is embedded in the wrapper.

228. The method of item 226, wherein the tobacco composition is not embedded in the wrapper.

229. The method of item 226, wherein the packaging material is formed using a vertical form/fill/seal machine, a horizontal form/fill/seal machine, a flow wrap machine, or a thermoformer.

230. A method of making a tobacco composition, the method comprising introducing a mixture of tobacco and a form into an open-cell matrix, wherein the form binds the tobacco to the matrix, and the matrix is non-orally disintegrating.

231. A method of making a tobacco composition, the method comprising (i) blending a mixture of tobacco and a forming agent with an immiscible liquid comprising a matrix material; and (ii) causing phase separation and solidification of the matrix material, thereby placing the mixture in the solidified matrix material.

232. A process for preparing a tobacco composition, the process comprising the steps of (i) providing a form shaped into a sheet; (ii) (ii) spirally winding the sheet to form a hollow tube, and (iii) adding tobacco to the form or tube.

233. A method of making a tobacco composition, the method comprising the steps of (i) forming a form into a hollow shape, and (ii) adding tobacco to the form or shape.

234. The method of clause 233, further comprising filling the shape with a liquid, gel, or solid.

235. The method of clause 233, wherein the shaping comprises extrusion, injection molding, or blow molding.

236. A method of making a tobacco composition, the method comprising placing a flowable liquid comprising tobacco in a water-resistant container.

237. The method of item 236, wherein the container is a spray bottle.

238. The method of item 236, wherein the container comprises a capsule.

239. The method of any one of items 203-235, further comprising adding a coating to the composition.

240. The method of item 239, wherein the coating is applied by spraying, brushing, rolling, doctor blade casting, slot coating, extrusion, or hot melt deposition.

241. The method of any one of items 203-235, further comprising printing a pattern on the film.

242. The method of item 241, wherein the printing is by offset printing, flexographic printing, gravure printing, inkjet, laser, or screen printing.

243. The method of any one of items 203-235, further comprising adding a fragrance, a colorant, or an odor masking agent to the form or composition.

Other features and advantages will be apparent from the following description, and from the claims.

Detailed Description

The invention features tobacco compositions that can typically be used for tobacco satisfaction.

A. Tobacco

Tobacco used in the compositions described herein includes any raw material or processed form, such as a powder, granules, or pieces. Preferably, the tobacco is sized or shaped to disintegrate (e.g., dissolve) in the mouth to give a perception of solubility (e.g., the tobacco does not produce a tactile sensation in the mouth), or is easy to swallow. Alternatively, the tobacco is sized or shaped to provide a tactile sensation in the mouth. Exemplary average sizes are in the range of 1-1000 μm, for example about 800, 500, 250, 100, 80, 75, 50, 25, 20, 15, 10, 8, 6, 5, 3, 2, or 1 μm or less, preferably less than 80 μm or less. The tobacco may also be in the form of a serum or flowable gel. The flowable gel is a mixture of the form agents dissolved in water and mixed with tobacco, and then mixed with a miscible solvent to prevent complete dissolution of the form agents. Such a mixture causes the formulation to swell to form a viscous pseudoplastic paste and to be readily dispensed (dispense) from a container (e.g. a catheter) under low pressure (light pressure). An exemplary tobacco is smokeless tobacco. Other tobaccos are described in U.S. published nos.2003/0094182 and 2003/0070687, U.S. s.n.60/603, and U.S. s.s.n. __, filed on 5.11.2004, entitled "nicotiana compositions," the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference. The tobacco used in the composition can also be prepared according to the method in U.S. publication No.2004/0112394, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference. Other suitable tobaccos are well known in the art.

The tobacco may be randomly distributed or uniformly distributed throughout the composition, or concentrated into different regions thereof, such as in the center or on the surface.

Depending on the desired characteristics and the end use of the composition, typical final tobacco concentrations range from 1% to 99% by weight of the final composition, e.g., up to 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, or 90%. In a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises about 25% tobacco.

B. Composition comprising a metal oxide and a metal oxide

Generally, the compositions of the present invention are intended for oral use or consumption. Any suitable orally compatible form can be used to prepare the tobacco-containing composition. The tobacco can be mixed directly with the form or loaded with the form. For example, the composition can comprise tobacco deposited on, mixed in, surrounded by, or otherwise associated with the form, such as a dry particulate, chip, granule, powder, or slurry. The tobacco in the composition is soluble or insoluble or is perceived to be soluble. In one embodiment, the composition is a non-spitting (spitless) tobacco composition. The composition may also include a mixture of tobacco forms or types. The composition may be foamed or dense. The foam-like composition may be rigid or soft and may be based on water-soluble, water-insoluble or thermoplastic forms. Exemplary compositions are described herein. In one embodiment, the composition of the present invention is non-combustible.

Suitable forms for use in the compositions described herein include orally compatible polymers such as cellulose (e.g., carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and Methyl Cellulose (MC)), natural polymers (e.g., starches and modified starches, konjac, collagen, inulin, soy protein, whey protein, casein and wheat gluten (while gluten)), seaweed-derived polymers (e.g., carrageenan (kappa, iota and lambda), alginates and propylene glycol alginate), microbe-derived polymers (e.g., xanthan, dextran, pullulan, curdlan and exopolysaccharides), extracts (e.g., locust bean gum, guar gum, tara gum, tragacanth gum, pectin (lo methoxy) and amidated), agar, zein, karaya, gelatin, gum karaya, gelatin, and the like, Psyllium (psyllium seed), chitin and chitosan), secretions (such as gum arabic and shellac), synthetic polymers (such as polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyethylene oxide and polyvinyl alcohol). Other useful agents are known in the art, for example, see Food Technology, 1997, 51: 61-74, Glicksman Food Hydrocolloids CRC 1982, Krochta audible Coatings and Filmsto improved Food Quality technical 1994, Industrial chewing gum Academic 1993, Nussinovitch Water-solvent Polymer Applications in Foods Blackwell Science 2003. Depending on the desired properties, the composition may also include fillers (such as starch, microcrystalline cellulose, wood pulp (such as Solkafloc from International Fibers, inc.), soluble Fibers (such as Fibersol from Matsushita), calcium carbonate, dicalcium phosphate, calcium sulfate, and clays), lubricants (such as lecithin, stearic acid, stearates (such as Mg or K), and waxes (such as glyceryl monostearate, propylene glycol monostearate, and acetylated monoglycerides)), plasticizers (such as glycerol, propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, sorbitol, mannitol, triacetin, and 1, 3-butanediol), stabilizers (such as ascorbic acid and citric acid monoglyceride, BHT, or BHA), or other compounds (such as vegetable oils, surfactants, and preservatives). Some compounds function as both plasticizers and lubricants.

The composition of the present invention may include a spice extract (e.g., licorice, kudzu, hydrangea, eupatorium japonicum leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, menthol, peppermint, aniseed, cinnamon, vanilla (herb), wintergreen, cherry, berry, peach, apple, Dramboui, bourbon (bourbon), Scotch (scotch), whiskey, spearmint, peppermint (peppermint), lavender, cardamom, celery, gooseberry, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium (geranium), honey essence (honey access), rose oil, lemon oil, vanilla, orange oil,Cinnamon, garland chrysanthemum, cognac wine, jasmine, canary tree, sage, fennel, allspice (pigment), ginger, anise, coriander, coffee or peppermint oil from any species of the genus mentha), odor masking agents, bitter taste receptor blockers (bitter taste receptor blocker), receptor enhancers, sweeteners (e.g., sucralose, dioxygen)Thiazine potassium (Ace-K), aspartame, saccharin, cyclamate, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, and mannitol), as well as other desirable additives such as chlorophyll, minerals, botanicals, or breath freshening agents.

Fragrances may also be provided by plant matter such as peppermint leaves, which are typically 10% perfume oil (flavanol) and 90% insoluble fibre. Exemplary plants further include any of licorice, kudzu, hydrangea, japanese white Mulberry, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, japanese mint, cinnamon, vanilla (herb), cherry, berry, peach, apple, lavender, celery, cardamom, quinoa, nutmeg, sandalwood, geranium, bergamot, rose, vanilla, lemon, orange, cinnamon, crowndaisy chrysanthemum, jasmine, cananga regular tree, sage, fennel, allspice (piment), ginger, anise, coriander, coffee or mint.

The compositions described herein may also be provided with a fragrance by a composition of fragrance extracts, plant matter, or combinations thereof. In addition to natural perfume extracts, perfumes can also be provided by imitation, synthetic or artificial perfume ingredients and blends containing such ingredients. The perfume may be added in powder, oil or capsule form.

In particular embodiments, the composition disintegrates in the mouth. The disintegration rate of the composition can vary from 60 minutes to less than 1 minute. The fast-release composition typically disintegrates in less than 2 minutes and most preferably in 1 minute or less, such as less than 60 seconds, 50 seconds, 45 seconds, 40 seconds, 35 seconds, 30 seconds, 25 seconds, 20 seconds, 15 seconds, 10 seconds, 5 seconds, 4 seconds, 3 seconds, 2 seconds or 1 second. The disintegration can occur by any mechanism, such as dissolution, melting, mechanical disruption (e.g., from chewing), enzymatic or other chemical degradation, or disruption of the interaction between the form and tobacco. The form or the tobacco itself may likewise disintegrate. The time required for the composition to disintegrate can be controlled by varying the thickness of the composition and depends on the type of form, other additives and mode of use. When placed in the mouth, the composition may temporarily adhere to a portion of the oral mucosa. In addition, the duration of tobacco satisfaction can be varied. This duration is influenced by, for example, the rate of disintegration of the composition, the rate of extraction of the organoleptic components from the composition, and the residence time of the composition in the mouth. The tobacco satisfaction can be provided for a period of at least 10 seconds, 30 seconds, 45 seconds, 1 minute, 2 minutes, 3 minutes, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, or 1 hour, etc., preferably from 10 seconds to 10 minutes, and more preferably from 30 seconds to 5 minutes.

In other embodiments, the composition does not disintegrate in the mouth over a residence time period. In this composition, the tobacco organoleptic components can be introduced into the mouth by dissolution, leaching, extraction or mechanical disruption caused by chewing.

The individual compositions (individual compositions) may be sized to fit entirely within the mouth, or sized to fit only partially within the mouth. Preferred cross-sections of the composition include, but are not limited to, square, circular, rectangular, elliptical, oval, and the like. Depending on the supply size and composition, the preferred dimensions may vary. Typically, the maximum dimension of a single serving (single serving) is equal to or less than 5 cm. Alternatively, the smoking article can be formed into a larger form from which individual servings can be cut or separated, such as by chewing, biting or mouth disintegration. For example, a strip or other long sheet may be placed in the container and the consumer may remove the desired serving size. Larger compositions (or mouth-sized pieces adhered to a handle) may also be inserted partially into the mouth, similar to a toothpick or cigarette, and may be sucked or chewed by the consumer. In one embodiment, the larger tablets are palatable and completely consumable over a period of time.

C. Process for the preparation of a coating

The compositions of the present invention can form orally disintegrating films. The film may comprise a single layer or multiple layers. The monolayer film may, for example, contain tobacco, form and other ingredients in a homogeneous mixture. The multilayer film may include multiple layers comprising tobacco, e.g., tobacco of the same or different type or size, such as tobacco that is perceptibly solubilized. Multiple layers may be laminated together. Further, as described herein, the multilayer film may include tobacco in one or more layers and in layers that include other ingredients. For example, various layers may be added for flavor, sweetness, color, disintegration rate, or stability (e.g., during handling or consumption). The tobacco may also be disposed between two or more layers in a sandwich arrangement. One or more of the layers in the interlayer can also comprise tobacco. In films having multiple layers, the layers may disintegrate at the same or different rates, or the layers may not disintegrate orally. When the disintegration rates are different, the composition can provide tobacco at different times based on the disintegration of the layers. The monolayer film or individual layers in the multilayer film may be foamed or aerated to provide desired physical properties or a desired rate of dissolution or disintegration.

The membrane may be sized to fit the mouth as a single supply (serving). Alternatively, larger membranes can be made from which individual supplies can be divided. For example, the membrane may be wrapped (coiled) or otherwise shaped to form a hollow tube or straw (straw), which may in turn be filled with other materials. Further, as described herein, films comprising, for example, a high percentage of 1% to 99% tobacco on a dry weight basis can be prepared and then used in the preparation of sheets or powders for incorporation into other compositions. Preferred thicknesses of the film are typically less than 1mm, for example less than 500, 200, 100, 50, 40, 30, 20, 10, 5, 4, 3, 2 or 1 μm; preferably 5-125 μm.

The membrane may be prepared using a variety of methods known in the art. The process used may depend on the format used in the film. Exemplary methods include solution casting or extrusion, melt extrusion, drum drying, and calendering (calendaring). Once formed, the film may be modified, for example, using printing or other coatings or modifying the surface of the film. Flavors, colors, or tobacco may be added to the surface of the film by printing, coating, or decorative treatments. All printing methods known in the art can be used, such as offset printing, flexography, gravure, inkjet, laser, screen printing and other typical methods. Coatings or decorative patterns can be applied to the surface of the film using methods known in the art, such as spraying, brushing, roll coating, doctor blade casting, slot coating, extrusion, hot melt deposition, deposition of particles or flakes, and other typical methods. The film that is printed, coated or modified may or may not contain tobacco. One function of the printed, coated or decorative pattern is to provide additional amounts of color, flavor or tobacco to the film. Another function is to improve the dimensional stability and appearance of the film. Once the printed, coated or decorated film is prepared, additional layers of film may be applied to cover, protect and seal the printed, coated or decorated surface.

Film examples

The following table shows exemplary ingredients used to prepare the films of the present invention.

TABLE A1

Example B tobacco film

A50 g mixture of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) grades K-3(60%), K-100(35%) and K4M (5%) from Dow Chemical was added to a beaker containing 450g of well-stirred deionized water that had been heated to 180 ℉. While mixing, 40g of finely ground tobacco was added to the HPMC solution along with 15g of microcrystalline cellulose (FMC), 17g of starch (B-700 from gain Processing Corp.), 16g of glycerol, 0.8g of Tween 80(Unichema) and 4g of propylene glycol monostearate (PGMS from Danisco). When the temperature is reduced below 100 ° f, 10g cinnamon flavor and 2g sucralose (artificial sweetener) are added to the solution. 2g of sodium carbonate was added to adjust the pH to about 7.5. Once all ingredients were added and uniformly dispersed, the mixture was placed in a water bath and stirred for 30 minutes with the temperature reduced to 65 ° f. Additional water was added as needed to obtain a brookfield viscosity of 5,000 cps at a temperature of 65 ° f.

The tobacco containing portion solution was applied to the glass plate using a film coater having a fixed gap of 15 mils (0.015 inch). The glass sheet was placed in an air circulation test oven set at a temperature of 170 ° f. After 30 minutes, the glass plate was removed from the oven, cooled to room temperature, and the dried film having a thickness of 2.5 mils (0.0025 inches) was removed from the glass plate. The film is cut into smaller pieces that fit into the mouth. Within less than 1 minute, the 1.0 inch by 1.25 inch portion of the film disintegrates in the mouth, releasing the flavorants, sweeteners, and tobacco. The tobacco content of the film was 25% on a dry weight basis.

Example C. opaque fragranced film

Using the same procedure as in example B, a solution without added tobacco was prepared. While the solution was still hot, 32g of titanium dioxide dispersion (50% titanium dioxide in water) supplied by sensitive color and 0.01g of FD & C Red No.40 lake (sensitive color) were added with stirring. The solution was cooled to 65 ° f and applied to a glass plate, dried and removed from the glass plate as described in example B. An opaque pale red film with good strength and a dry film thickness of 1.5 mils (0.015 inch) was produced.

Example D. bilayer film

A portion of the solution from example B was applied to a glass sheet using a film coater having a fixed gap of 15 mils (0.015 inch). The glass plate was placed in a test oven and dried as in example B. The glass plate was removed from the oven and cooled to room temperature, but the film was not removed from the glass plate.

A portion of the solution from example C was applied to the dried film of example B using a film applicator with a fixed gap of 5 mils (0.005 inch). The glass plate was placed in a test oven at 170 ° f for 10 minutes. The dried film having a thickness of 3 mils (0.003 inch) was removed from the glass plate. The film clearly has two sides, a brown tobacco-containing film on one side and a red flavored film on the opposite side. The 1.0 inch by 1.25 inch portion of the film can typically disintegrate in the mouth in less than 1 minute.

Example E three layer film

A portion of the solution from example C was applied to a glass plate using a film coater having a fixed gap of 5 mils, as previously described, and dried in a test oven. A portion of the solution from example B was applied to the dried film of example C using a film coater having a fixed gap of 15 mils and dried in a test oven as before. A portion of the solution from example C was applied to a glass panel using a film coater having a fixed gap of 5 mils and dried in a test oven as before. The resulting film was 3 mils (0.003 inch) thick and consisted of three layers, an opaque, red flavored layer on either side, and a middle layer comprising a tobacco film. The 1.0 inch by 1.25 inch portion of the film can typically disintegrate in the mouth in less than 1 minute.

Example F. foamed film

To 100g of the tobacco-containing partial solution from example B, 0.5g of sodium lauryl sulfate (surfactant) was added with vigorous stirring. The solution is then mixed in a high shear mixer such as a silverson laboratory homogen, Model L4RT-W to produce a uniform bubble structure. The highly aerated solution was then applied to a glass plate using a draw down applicator with a fixed gap of 4 mils (0.040 inches) and dried in a test oven. The dried foam film had a thickness of 4 mils (0.004 inch) when removed from the glass plate. The weight of a 1.0 inch by 1.25 inch by 4 mil (0.004 inch) (thickness) cut piece of this foamed film was 35% less than the weight of the same cut piece of the non-foamed film produced in example B. The rate of disintegration of the foamed film in the mouth is typically faster than the same non-foamed film prepared in example B.

Example G. sheet

A solution was prepared in a beaker by adding 40g of spray dried gum arabic (TIC Gums, Inc.) and 0.4g of Propylene Glycol Monostearate (PGMS) to 60g of deionized water with vigorous mixing for 30 minutes. To 10g of this solution, 0.01g of FD & C Red No.40 lake was added while stirring at high speed to ensure uniform dispersion of the color. The solution was capped and allowed to stand for 24 hours to allow all entrapped air to escape. A portion of the solution was then applied to a glass plate using a film coater having a fixed gap of 5 mils (0.005 inch). The glass plate was placed in a test oven set at 170 ° f for 20 minutes until the film was sufficiently dry. When the film is removed from the glass plate, it breaks into small pieces with a high gloss, vivid red flake. This process was repeated with other FD & C lakes to produce multiple flakes of different colors. Flavors and artificial sweeteners may also be added to the flakes.

Example H tobacco sheet

To 10G of the solution prepared in example G was added 4G of finely ground tobacco powder. In the same manner as in example G, a film was produced on a glass plate and dried, cooled and removed. The resulting sheet consisted of 50% tobacco and 50% gum arabic and had a dark brown color. If desired, a fragrance may be added to the sheet. Materials such as sodium carbonate may also be added to the flakes to adjust the pH.

Example i tobacco film with lamina

A film was prepared as in example B. While the film was still wet on the glass plate, a measured amount of foil was prepared and applied uniformly to the wet film. The glass plate was then dried in a test oven; the film was cooled to room temperature and then removed from the glass plate. Typically, the dry film of example B has a dry weight of 1g (comprising 25% or 0.25g tobacco). If the film is divided into 20 equal film slices (1.0 inch by 1.25 inch by 2 mil), each slice weighs 50mg (contains 25% or 12.5mg of tobacco). If 1g of tobacco sheet (which is 50% by weight of tobacco) is uniformly applied to the film, the entire sheet of the film will have a dry weight of 2g (which contains 0.75g of tobacco in total). When divided into 20 equal pieces, each piece weighed 100mg and contained 37.5mg of tobacco. The film slices cut into 1.0 inch by 1.25 inches may typically disintegrate in the mouth in less than 1 minute.

Example J tobacco film with decorative sheet

The process set forth in example I can be repeated using decorative sheets (e.g., colored sheets that do not contain any tobacco) or blending colored sheets with sheets that contain tobacco. The resulting film had a vivid appearance.

Example k. flavored tobacco film

TABLE K1

HPMC	36.56%
		Starch	12.18%
Tobacco	24.37%
		Na₂CO₃	1.46%
Plasticizer	13.15%
		Perfume	6.82%
Sweetening agent	0.49%
		Surface active agent	0.97%
Water (W)	4.00%

The following ingredients were weighed and combined in a suitable volume container:

MIX1

the resulting mixture was mixed until homogeneous. The following ingredients were weighed in a separate container:

MIX2

Na₂CO₃ 1.96g

0.65g of propylene glycol monostearate

Sodium dodecyl sulfate 0.65g

In a third vessel, the following ingredients were weighed:

MIX3

a total of 619.14g of boiling water were weighed into a stainless steel container. The water was vigorously stirred using an Arrow Model1750 high shear mixer. MIX2 was added to the water. Stirring was continued for 30 seconds and MIX1 was added. Vigorous stirring was continued for 4 minutes. To the resulting solution was added MIX 3. Vigorous stirring was continued for 1 minute. The resulting solution was transferred to a Silverson SS1 vessel suitable for vacuum mixing. The vessel was connected to a Silverson L4RTU homogenizer motor unit. The solution was homogenized under vacuum (20-25 inches Hg) at 7500RPM for 2 minutes, and then placed in an ice bath around the homogenizing vessel. Homogenization was continued under vacuum (20-25 inches Hg) at 10,000RPM for 8 minutes. After homogenization was complete, a portion of the solution was transferred to a 500mL Nalgene bottle for storage.

A portion of the resulting gel solution was poured onto a glass plate previously covered with a suitably sized Mylar sheet. The gel solution was drawn across the glass plate with a draw down applicator having a fixed gap of 15 mils. The glass plates were placed in a side-blown forced air oven (VWR model 1330FM) set at 75 ℃ for 30 minutes. The resulting film, dried to about 4% humidity, was removed from the Mylar sheet and cut into appropriately sized units. A 1.0 inch by 1.25 inch film unit disintegrates in the mouth in less than 30 seconds.

From the same solution, a relatively slow disintegrating film (e.g., a film that disintegrates in the mouth for greater than 30 seconds) was made by casting the solution across a (cross) glass plate using a draw bar applicator with a fixed gap of 30 mils. The film was dried in the same manner as above for 40 minutes. The films produced typically disintegrate in the mouth in less than 1 minute.

The solution is foamed to produce a super rapidly disintegrating film (e.g., a film that disintegrates in the mouth in less than 15 seconds) before being cast from the same solution onto a glass plate. Foaming was accomplished by subjecting 100g of each solution to high shear mixing (using an Arrow Model1750 high shear mixer) for about 3 minutes, and the foamed solution was immediately cast onto a glass plate using a draw-down coater having a fixed gap of 30 mils. The films produced typically disintegrate in the mouth in less than 15 seconds.

Example l. flavored tobacco film

TABLE L1

HPMC	36.56%
		Starch	12.18%
Tobacco	24.37%
		Na₂CO₃	1.46%
Plasticizer	10.71%
		Perfume	9.26%
Sweetening agent	0.49%
		Surface active agent	0.97%
Water (W)	4.00%

MIX1

MIX2

Na₂CO₃ 1.96g

0.65g of propylene glycol monostearate

Sodium dodecyl sulfate 0.65g

In a third vessel, the following ingredients were weighed:

MIX3

A portion of the resulting gel solution was poured onto a glass plate previously covered with a suitably sized Mylar sheet. The gel solution was drawn across the glass plate with a draw down applicator having a fixed gap of 15 mils. The glass plates were placed in a side-blown forced air oven (VWR model 1330FM) set at 75 ℃ for 30 minutes. The resulting film, dried to about 4% humidity, was removed from the Mylar sheet and cut into appropriately sized units. A 1.0 inch by 1.25 inch unit film disintegrates in the mouth in 15-30 seconds.

Alternatively, the film comprises wintergreen, spearmint or apple flavour.

Relatively slowly disintegrating films (e.g., films that disintegrate in the mouth for more than 30 seconds) and ultra-rapidly disintegrating films (e.g., films that disintegrate in the mouth for less than 15 seconds) were prepared from the same solution as described in example K.

Example M. peach flavored tobacco film

TABLE M1

HPMC	29.12%
		Starch	9.71%
Tobacco	19.41%
		Na₂CO₃	1.16%
Plasticizer	2.33%
		Peach paste	29.66%
Perfume	3.43%
		Sweetening agent	0.39%
Surface active agent	0.77%
		Water (W)	4.00%

MIX1

MIX2

Na₂CO₃ 1.96g

0.65g of propylene glycol monostearate

Sodium dodecyl sulfate 0.65g

In a third vessel, the following ingredients were weighed:

MIX3

Example n. flavored tobacco films for rod/package/pouch/vacuum forming

TABLE N1

HPMC	41.31%
		Starch	13.76%
Tobacco	9.75%
		Na₂CO₃	1.46%
Plasticizer	18.99%
		Perfume	9.27%
Sweetening agent	0.49%
		Surface active agent	0.98%
Water (W)	4.00%

MIX1

MIX2

Na₂CO₃ 2.16g

propylene glycol monostearate 0.72g

Sodium dodecyl sulfate 0.72g

In a third vessel, the following ingredients were weighed:

MIX3

a total of 606.10g of boiling water were weighed into a stainless steel container. The water was vigorously stirred using an Arrow Model1750 high shear mixer. MIX2 was added to the water. Stirring was continued for 30 seconds and MIX1 was added. Vigorous stirring was continued for 4 minutes. To the resulting solution was added MIX 3. Vigorous stirring was continued for 1 minute. The resulting solution was transferred to a Silverson SS1 vessel suitable for vacuum mixing. The vessel was connected to a Silverson L4RTU homogenizer motor unit. The solution was homogenized under vacuum (20-25 inches Hg) at 7500RPM for 2 minutes, and then placed in an ice bath around the homogenizing vessel. Homogenization was continued under vacuum (20-25 inches Hg) at 10,000RPM for 8 minutes. After homogenization was complete, a portion of the solution was transferred to a 500mL Nalgene bottle for storage.

A portion of the resulting gel solution was poured onto a glass plate previously covered with a suitably sized Mylar sheet. The gel solution was drawn across a (draw cross) glass plate using a draw bar with a set gap of 20 mils. The glass plates were placed in a side-blown forced air oven (VWR model 1330FM) set at 75 ℃ for 35 minutes. The resulting film, dried to about 4% humidity, was removed from the Mylar sheet and stored in a plastic bag for later use.

Other flavored tobacco films, such as apple flavored, were prepared according to the foregoing formulation and method.

Example o. flavored/colored tobacco film for stick/pack/pouch

TABLE O1

HPMC	41.31%
		Starch	13.76%
Fibersol-2	9.75%
		Na₂CO₃	1.46%
Plasticizer	18.99%
		Perfume	9.26%
Sweetening agent	0.49%
		Surface active agent	0.79%
Colorant	0.20%
		Water (W)	4.00%

MIX1

MIX2

Na₂CO₃ 2.16g

propylene glycol monostearate 0.58g

Sodium dodecyl sulfate 0.58g

In a third vessel, the following ingredients were weighed:

MIX3

a total of 606.10g of boiling water were weighed into a stainless steel container. The water was vigorously stirred using an Arrow Model1750 high shear mixer. MIX2 was added to the water. Stirring was continued for 30 seconds and MIX1 was added. Vigorous stirring was continued for 4 minutes. To the resulting solution was added MIX 3. Vigorous stirring was continued for 1 minute. The resulting solution was transferred to a Silverson SS1 vessel suitable for vacuum mixing. The vessel was connected to a Silverson L4RTU homogenizer motor unit. The solution was homogenized under vacuum (20-25 inches) at 7500RPM for 2 minutes, and then placed in an ice bath around the homogenizing vessel. Homogenization was continued under vacuum (20-25 inches) at 10,000RPM for 8 minutes. After homogenization was complete, a portion of the solution was transferred to a 500mL Nalgene bottle for storage.

A portion of the resulting gel solution was poured onto a glass plate previously covered with a suitably sized Mylar sheet. The gel solution was drawn across the glass plate using a draw down applicator with a fixed gap of 20 mils. The glass plates were placed in a side-blown forced air oven (VWR model 1330FM) that had been set at 75 ℃ for 35 minutes. Additional films were cast at 40 mils and dried for 1 hour. The resulting film, dried to about 4% humidity, was removed from the Mylar sheet and stored in a plastic bag for later use.

Other flavors include peppermint flavor, wintergreen flavor, or spearmint flavor. Other colorants include FD & C Blue Alum Lake 35-42%, FD & C Emerald Green Lake Blend and FD & C Blue Alum Lake + FD & C Emerald Green Lake Blend.

Example p. peach flavored film for stick/package/bag

TABLE P1

HPMC	31.73%
		Starch	10.57%
Tobacco	7.49%
		Na₂CO₃	1.12%
Plasticizer	14.59%

Peach paste	26.01%
		Perfume	3.37%
Sweetening agent	0.37%
		Surface active agent	0.75%
Water (W)	4.00%

MIX1

MIX2

Na₂CO₃ 2.16g

propylene glycol monostearate 0.72g

Sodium dodecyl sulfate 0.72g

In a third vessel, the following ingredients were weighed:

MIX3

A portion of the resulting gel solution was poured onto a glass plate previously covered with a suitably sized Mylar sheet. The gel solution was drawn across the glass plate using a draw down applicator with a fixed gap of 20 mils. The glass plates were placed in a side-blown forced draft oven (VWR model 1330FM) set at 75 ℃ for 35 minutes. The resulting film, dried to about 4% humidity, was removed from the Mylar sheet and stored in a plastic bag for later use.

Example q. perfuming/white opaque film for coating

TABLE Q1

HPMC	45.46%
		Starch	15.15%
Fibersol-2	10.73%
		Na₂CO₃	1.07%
Plasticizer	10.73%
		TiO₂	10.45%
Perfume	1.07%
		Sweetening agent	0.27%
Surface active agent	1.07%
		Water (W)	4.00%

MIX1

MIX2

Na₂CO₃ 1.44g

propylene glycol monostearate 0.72g

Sodium dodecyl sulfate 0.72g

In a third vessel, the following ingredients were weighed:

MIX3

a total of 606.10g of boiling water were weighed into a stainless steel container. The water was vigorously stirred using an Arrow Model1750 high shear mixer. MIX2 was added to the water. Stirring was continued for 30 seconds and MIX1 was added. Vigorous stirring was continued for 4 minutes. To the resulting solution was added MIX 3. Vigorous stirring was continued for 1 minute. The resulting solution was transferred to a Silverson SS1 vessel suitable for vacuum mixing. The vessel was connected to a Silverson L4RTU homogenizer motor unit. The solution was homogenized under vacuum (20-25 inches Hg) at 7500RPM for 2 minutes, then placed in an ice bath around the homogenizer vessel. Homogenization was continued under vacuum (20-25 inches Hg) at 10,000RPM for 8 minutes. After homogenization was complete, a portion of the solution was transferred to a 500mL Nalgene bottle for storage.

A portion of the resulting gel solution was poured onto a glass plate previously covered with a suitably sized Mylar sheet. The gel solution was drawn across the glass plate using a draw down applicator with a fixed gap of 20 mils. The glass plates were placed in a side-blown forced air oven (VWR model 1330FM) set at 75 ℃ for 35 minutes. The resulting film, dried to about 4% humidity, was removed from the Mylar sheet and stored in a plastic bag for later use.

Example R. extruded tobacco film

TABLE R1

Tobacco	25.63%
		Klucel LF	61.53%
Na₂CO₃	3.32%
		Plasticizer	6.68%
Sweetening agent	0.83%
		Water (W)	2.00%

As described herein, the following ingredients were granulated in a manner similar to granulation for tablet production to produce tobacco granules (tobaco granules) having a moisture content of about 4.50%:

the tobacco particles were introduced into the feed zone of a Leistritz Micro-18 Twin Screw Screen Extruder (Twin Screw Extruder) 40: 1L/D, which had been configured for co-rotating extrusion with a medium-shear Screw design. The feed rate for the extrusion was 1-3 lbs/hr. Barrel zone temperatures of 75-240 DEG F. Venting of volatiles from the extruded melt is accomplished by incorporating a vent in front of the discharge die of the extruder.

Tobacco films having a width of about 3 inches and a thickness of 2-3 mils were made by incorporating a strip extrusion die (strip die) at the discharge end of the extruder. At the time of discharge, the tobacco film was calendered (calendared) using a 3-roll stacked chill roll (stacked roll) and cooled to room temperature. Downstream from the chill roll, the film was wound on a rewinder, and Mylar was introduced between the film layers to prevent sticking. Placing the tobacco film in a container suitable for storage.

The tobacco film is then used in the preparation of a soluble tobacco-containing pouch, as described herein. The film slowly disintegrates in the mouth over a period of 2-4 minutes.

Example s. flavored tobacco film with gelatin

TABLE S1

HPMC	35.95%
		Gelatin	0.98%
Starch	12.30%
		Tobacco	23.64%
Na₂CO₃	1.47%
		Plasticizer	10.84%
Perfume	9.35%
		Sweetening agent	0.50%
Surface active agent	0.97%
		Water (W)	4.00%

MIX1

MIX2

Na₂CO₃ 0.91g

propylene glycol monostearate 0.30g

Sodium dodecyl sulfate 0.30g

In a third vessel, the following ingredients were weighed:

MIX3

a total of 288.93g of boiling water were weighed into a stainless steel container. The water was vigorously stirred using an Arrow Model1750 high shear mixer. MIX2 was added to the water. Stirring was continued for 30 seconds and MIX1 was added. Vigorous stirring was continued for 4 minutes. To the resulting solution was added MIX 3. Vigorous stirring was continued for 3 minutes. The resulting solution is transferred to a suitable container for storage.

A portion of the resulting gel solution was poured onto a glass plate previously covered with a suitably sized Mylar sheet. The gel solution was drawn across the glass plate using a draw down applicator with a fixed gap of 20 mils. The glass plates were placed in a side-blown forced air oven (VWR model 1330FM) set at 75 ℃ for 35 minutes. The resulting film, dried to about 4% humidity, was removed from the Mylar sheet and cut into appropriately sized units. The 1.0 inch by 1.25 inch film unit disintegrates in the mouth in less than 30 seconds releasing flavor, sweetener, and tobacco.

Example t. flavored tobacco film with gelatin

TABLE T1

HPMC	32.01%
		Gelatin	4.92%
Starch	12.30%
		Tobacco	23.64%
Na₂CO₃	1.47%
		Plasticizer	10.84%
Perfume	9.35%
		Sweetening agent	0.50%

Surface active agent	0.97%
		Water (W)	4.00%

MIX1

MIX2

Na₂CO₃ 0.91g

propylene glycol monostearate 0.30g

Sodium dodecyl sulfate 0.30g

In a third vessel, the following ingredients were weighed:

MIX3

Example u. flavored tobacco film with gelatin

Watch U1

HPMC	27.09%
		Gelatin	9.85%
Starch	12.30%
		Tobacco	23.64%
Na₂CO₃	1.47%
		Plasticizer	10.84%
Perfume	9.35%
		Sweetening agent	0.50%
Surface active agent	0.97%
		Water (W)	4.00%

MIX1

MIX2

Na₂CO₃ 0.91g

propylene glycol monostearate 0.30g

Sodium dodecyl sulfate 0.30g

In a third vessel, the following ingredients were weighed:

MIX3

Tablet formulation

The compositions of the present invention may also be formulated into tablets, such as ultra-fast disintegrating (about 15 seconds), fast disintegrating (less than 2 minutes), slow disintegrating (2-10 minutes), and chewable tablets.

The size of the tablet may be a single supply or smaller portions, with multiple smaller portions making up a single supply. Tablets sized for a single supply typically have a size of 5mm to 15 mm. Smaller tablets are typically 2-4mm in diameter. The smaller tablets may be made in a variety of colors or flavors for simultaneous consumption. Tablets may be formed as compressed tablets, convex or concave pellets, oval or any other shape known to the trade. The tablets may also be foamed to provide faster dissolution or disintegration in the mouth. Tablets may also be layered to provide a variety of tastes or mouthfeel when the tablet dissolves or disintegrates. Tablets may also be coated to change color or taste or to provide mechanical strength for improved handling. In one embodiment, a tablet designed to disintegrate rapidly in water may be coated with a very thin water insoluble coating to provide protection to the tablet while a second water soluble coating is applied.

Tablets may be made from dry mixes known as direct compression (dry mix) or from pre-granulated material using any forming method known in the art, such as by compression (press), injection molding, compression molding, injection foam molding (injection foam molding) or compression foam molding (compression foam molding).

Tablet examples

The following table shows exemplary ingredients used to prepare the tablets of the present invention.

TABLE V1

Example z. exemplary chewable tablet

The following ingredients may be used to form chewable tablets: compressible sugar (40%), tobacco (20%), glucose (25%), maltodextrin (13%), colorants (0.05%), flavors (1.35%) and magnesium stearate (0.60%).

Example AA. thermoplastic tablet

The following ingredients (parts) can be used to form thermoplastic tablets: hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC)54, tobacco 27, microcrystalline cellulose 10, propylene glycol 4, artificial sweetener 2, flavor 2, and stabilizer 0.2. The ingredients may be dry stirred and fed into the extruder using the barrel temperature required to melt the HPC (typically 340-. A rod of about 12 inches in diameter was extruded and cut to a size sufficient to form a tablet.

Example AB. tobacco tablet

TABLE AB1 formulation of tobacco tablets

Composition (I)	% of dry weight basis
		Tobacco powder	25.00
Sweetening agent	32.11
		Maltodextrin	40.22
Perfume	0.75
		Emulsifier	1.36
Na₂CO₃	0.56
		Total of	100.00

TABLE AB2 formulation of binding solution for preparing tobacco tablets

Composition (I)	%
		Water (W)	45.00
Maltodextrin	53.05
		Emulsifier	1.80
Sweetening agent	0.15
		Total of	100.00

Preparation of the binding solution

The amounts of ingredients shown in table AB2 were weighed out in separate containers. The pre-hydrated gum arabic (emulsifier) was slowly added to water and mixed under high shear agitation in a stainless steel container. After dissolution was complete, M585 maltodextrin (Grain processing corporation) was slowly added to the water. Once M585 is completely dissolved, sucralose sweetener (Tate & Lyle) is slowly added and mixed well to ensure complete dissolution.

Formula amounts of peppermint (peppermint) and spearmint flavor, shown in table AB1, were added to the binding solution. All mixtures were homogenized for about 20 minutes at 9000-. The appropriate amount of binding solution to use is determined by the batch size and percentage of ingredients shown in table AB1. The homogenized solution was transferred to a perfume holding/pumping tank.

Preparation of the Dry ingredients

Mannitol (sweetener) and tobacco powder (completely dry base) in the formula amounts shown in table AB1 were mixed together and placed in a product tank.

Preparation of Vector Multiflo-15 fluidized bed Chamber

The binding solution was applied to the dry ingredient mixture using a Vector Multiflo-15 fluidized bed coater to form the final granules. Manual processing is selected on the control panel computer. The machine operating parameters listed in table AB3 were entered into the program:

TABLE AB3.vector Multiflo-15 fluidized bed parameter settings

Parameter(s)	Is provided with
		Inlet temperature (Celsius)	60
Air flow (CFM)	150
		Flow (G/min)	125
Filter pulse interval (seconds)	30
		Time of rear pulse (second)	60

The appropriate amount of sprayed bonding solution is also entered into the program. The amount of the binding solution was determined by the desired batch size to give the percentage composition shown in table AB1.

Granulation treatment

Once the drying composition is fluidized in the fluidized bed chamber and a temperature of 40-45 ℃ is obtained, the binding solution is slowly sprayed onto the drying composition to form the particles. The nozzle pressure was set at 22psi and the air flow was 200 CFM. The gas flow is increased to ensure good product movement or fluidization in the fluidized bed chamber. Once all of the bonding solution has been applied, the air flow is reduced to 200 CFM. The process was stopped once the product temperature reached about 43 ℃.

Preparation of granules for forming tablets

The granular material was size quantified by passing it through a 12-mesh screen. Magnesium stearate (lubricant) was sized through a 40-mesh screen. The formula amount of magnesium stearate shown in table AB4 was combined with the granulated material in a plastic bag and hand shaken for 2 minutes.

TABLE AB4 formulation of ingredients for forming tablets

Composition (I)	% of dry weight
		Granular material	99.50
Lubricant agent	0.50
		Total of	100.00

Tablet forming method

The granular material and lubricant are fed into the feed hopper of the press. The following parameters, marked in Table AB5, are set on the Vanguard VSP 8Mini Rotary Press:

TABLE AB5 parameters for tobacco tablets

Fast disintegration disintegrates in the mouth within 1-3 minutes. Slowly disintegrating in the mouth within 5-8 minutes.

Example AC tobacco tablet

TABLE AC1 formulation of tobacco tablets

Composition (I)	% of dry weight basis
		Tobacco powder	25.00
Sweetening agent	34.11
		Maltodextrin	38.58
Perfume	1.00
		Emulsifier	1.31
Total of	100.00

TABLE AC2 formulation of binding solution for preparing tobacco tablets

Composition (I)	%
		Water (W)	45.00
Maltodextrin	53.04
		Emulsifier	1.80
Sweetening agent	0.16
		Total of	100.00

The method for adhesive solution preparation previously set forth in example AB1 was followed. To the binding solution were added peppermint (peppermint) and spearmint flavors in the amounts indicated in Table AC1 with 45.00g Na₂CO₃. The method for making the binding solution, preparation of the dry ingredients, preparation of the VectorMultiflo-15 fluidized bed chamber, and granulation were followed.

Preparation of granules for forming tablets

As previously described, the granular material is sized through a suitable mesh screen. A formula amount of magnesium stearate (for fast disintegration to 0.75% or for slow disintegration to 1.00%) was combined with the granular material in a plastic bag and hand shaken for 2 minutes.

Tablet forming method

The mechanical operating parameters marked in Table AC3 were set on a Vanguard VSP 8Mini Rotary Press:

TABLE AC3 tablet formation parameters for tobacco tablets

Example AD. tobacco tablet

TABLE AD1 formulation of tobacco tablets

Composition (I)	% of dry weight basis
		Tobacco powder	25.00
Filler	30.00

Maltodextrin	42.15
		Perfume	0.75
Emulsifier	1.43
		Sweetening agent	0.12
Na₂CO₃	0.56
		Total of	100.00

TABLE AD2 formulation of binding solution for preparing tobacco tablets

Composition (I)	%
		Water (W)	45.00
Maltodextrin	53.06
		Emulsifier	1.80
Sweetening agent	0.14
		Total of	100.00

The method previously used for the preparation of the binding solution was followed. To the binding solution were added cinnamon flavor and Na in the amounts indicated in Table AD1₂CO₃. The remaining processing for the preparation of the binding solution, the dry ingredients (lactose bulking agent in combination with tobacco powder), the Vector Multiflo-15 fluidized bed chamber and the granulation process was followed.

Preparation of granules for forming tablets

The granular material and magnesium stearate were sized through a 12-mesh screen and a 40-mesh screen, respectively. A formula amount of magnesium stearate (for fast disintegration to 0.50% or for slow disintegration to 1.00%) was combined with the granular material in a plastic bag and hand shaken for 2 minutes.

Tablet forming method

The mechanical operating parameters marked in Table AD3 were set on the Vanguard VSP 8Mini Rotary Press:

TABLE AD3 tablet formation parameters for tobacco tablets

Example AE. tobacco tablet

The same procedure used to prepare the tobacco tablets in example AD was followed except that a wintergreen (wintergreen) flavor was used instead of cinnamon flavor.

Preparation of granules for forming tablets

The finished material was then size quantified through a 12-mesh screen. Magnesium stearate was size quantified through a 40-mesh screen. The formula amount of magnesium stearate (for fast disintegration to 0.50% or for slow disintegration to 0.75%) was combined with the granular material in a plastic bag and hand shaken for 2 minutes.

Tablet forming method

The parameters marked in Table AE1 were set on a Vanguard VSP 8Mini Rotary Press:

TABLE AE1 tablet formation parameters for tobacco tablets

Example af tobacco tablet with opaque white coating

TABLE AF1 formulation of tobacco tablets

Composition (I)	% of dry weight basis
		Tobacco	25.00
Filler	30.00
		Maltodextrin	39.74
Perfume	0.75
		Emulsifier	1.35
Sweetening agent	0.10
		Na₂CO₃	0.56
Tobacco flavor modifier	2.50

Total of

100.00

TABLE AF2 formulation of binding solution for preparing tobacco tablets

Composition (I)	%
		Water (W)	45.00
Maltodextrin	53.07
		Emulsifier	1.80
Sweetening agent	0.13
		Total of	100.00

Preparation of the binding solution

The method described previously for the preparation of the binding solution was followed. To the binding solution were added apple flavour, natural bitterness blocker (Comax) and Na in the amounts indicated in Table AF1₂CO₃. The remaining processing of the preparation and granulation process for constituting the binding solution, the preparation of the dry ingredients (lactose bulking agent plus tobacco powder), the preparation of the VectorMultiflo-15 fluidized bed chamber and granulation were followed.

Preparation of granules for forming tablets

The finished material was then size quantified through a 12-mesh screen. Magnesium stearate was size quantified through a 40-mesh screen. A formula amount of magnesium stearate (for slow disintegration to 0.75%) was combined with the granulated material in a plastic bag and hand shaken for 2 minutes.

Tablet forming method

The parameters marked in Table AF3 are set on the Vanguard VSP 8Mini Rotry Press:

TABLE AF3 tablet formation parameters for slowly disintegrating tobacco tablets

Parameter(s)	Is provided with	Range of
			Filling depth (MM)	13.6	13.5-13.7
Thickness (MM)	2.4	2.4-2.5
			Main pressure (KN)		4.5-5.2
Injection pressure (MM)		0.04-0.24

Tobacco tablet coating suspension complement (Tobacco tab coating-Suspension makeup)

A 20% aqueous solution of Opadry II was prepared according to the manufacturer's instructions and mixed for 45 minutes prior to application.

Coating method

Tablets (5.5-6.5KG) were placed in the coating pan of a Vector/Freund Hi-coater pan coater and warmed until the degassing temperature reached 45 ℃. This step is accomplished while the disc is running at less than 5RPMs to minimize tablet wear. Air was passed through the disks at 75 ℃ and 100CFM at a disk pressure of-0.5 "water.

Once the tablet reached temperature, the disc speed was increased to about 15RPMs and the Opadry coating suspension was applied at a rate of 15-20 g/min. The suspension is continuously mixed during application to prevent solids settling. The spray was atomized using about 100 liters of air/minute at about 70 psi. The spray was patterned using directional air ports (directional air ports) on a nozzle set at about 70psi at about 50 liters of air per minute.

The inlet air temperature is periodically increased or decreased to maintain the exhaust temperature between 43-46 ℃.

Spraying is continued until the desired amount of solids is applied to meet the formulation requirements, typically about 3%, or until the tablet is visually satisfactory.

Example AG. disintegrable tobacco solids

The following components were weighed out in separate containers:

6g of water were added to the sodium carbonate and the mixture was stirred. The mixture is stirred until it is added to another ingredient in the process.

Part water 2 (cold) was chilled in an ice bath, while part water 1 (hot) was heated to 60 ℃ and transferred to a stainless steel vessel. The water at 60 ℃ was stirred with an Arrow Model1750 high shear mixer and Klucel EF was added gradually to the water. The solution was stirred for several minutes. Part of the water 2 (cold) is then added to the mixture. An ice bath was placed under the stainless steel container and the mixture was stirred for 15 minutes.

After stirring for 15 minutes, the remaining ingredients were added to the mixture all at once. The mixture was thoroughly mixed before the next ingredient was added. The ingredients were added in the following order: tobacco flavor modifier, propylene glycol, sucralose solution, corn syrup, sodium carbonate solution, sucrose, tobacco powder, B700, and peppermint oil. Ice was added to the ice bath throughout the mixing to keep the mixture ice-cold. After all ingredients were added, the mixture was stirred for an additional 10 minutes.

The container was removed from the ice bath and the mixture was dispersed as a solid disintegratable portion on waxed paper and dried at room temperature for 24 hours. The disintegrable solid was removed from the stencil and transferred to another piece of stencil to continue drying at room temperature. After a continuous drying time of 12-24 hours, the desired hardness for the disintegrable solid is obtained.

Example AH. disintegrable tobacco solids

The following components were weighed out in separate containers:

6g of water were added to the sodium carbonate and the mixture was stirred. The mixture is stirred until it is added to the latter ingredient in the process.

Part 1 of the water (hot) was heated to 80 ℃ and transferred to a stainless steel vessel. The 80 ℃ water was stirred with an Arrow Model1750 high shear mixer and HPMC was added gradually to the water. The solution was stirred for several minutes. Then part of water 2 (room temperature) was added to the mixture and the mixture was stirred for 15 minutes.

After stirring for 15 minutes, the remaining ingredients were added to the mixture all at once. The mixture was thoroughly mixed before the next ingredient was added. The ingredients were added in the following order: tobacco flavor modifier, propylene glycol, sucralose solution, corn syrup, sodium carbonate solution, sucrose, tobacco powder, B700, and peppermint oil. After all ingredients were added, the mixture was stirred for an additional 10 minutes.

The mixture was dispensed in portions (in ports) onto waxed paper and dried at room temperature for 24 hours. The disintegrable solid was removed from the stencil and transferred to another piece of stencil to continue drying at room temperature. After a continuous drying time of 12-24 hours, the desired hardness for the disintegrable solid is obtained.

Similar preparations were obtained using the same formulation, mixing procedure and dispensing procedure, but the disintegrable solid was dried in a forced air oven (VWR Model 1330FM) set at 32 ℃ for 1 hour. The disintegrable solid is then removed from the oven and dried at room temperature for 24 hours. Additionally, the disintegrable solid was dried in the pressurized air oven at 32 ℃ for 18 hours. Using this drying process, a slightly harder disintegrable solid with a matting treatment (dull finish) was obtained.

Example ai. multilayer tablet

Commercially available compression devices can be used to prepare tablets having two or more distinct layers. The compositions of the layers in the composition may be the same or different. The individual layers may differ in color, flavor, tobacco type, tobacco content, dissolution rate, and other similar characteristics. For example, one layer may disintegrate rapidly to release the fragrance or odor-masking ingredient. The second layer comprising tobacco powder may disintegrate more slowly, thereby gradually exposing the tobacco.

Formed part

The tobacco composition can be formed into an article that is sufficiently rigid to be easily handled. These shaped articles may vary in physical properties and range from highly flexible to highly rigid parts. The article may be formed into any shape and may be dense or foamed. These compositions typically have a moisture content of from 2 to 50%, preferably from 5 to 10%, by weight of the finished product. Exemplary shapes include tubes, toothpicks, sticks, spirals, or solid sticks (solid rod). Typically, the plug may be delayed in sucking or chewing to release the tobacco organoleptic components in the mouth. The shaped part may or may not be orally disintegrable. The disintegrable part disintegrates within 1 to 60 minutes, preferably 1 to 10 minutes.

The size of the shaped part can be completely suitable or unsuitable in the mouth. A composition larger than the mouth may be partially inserted. A typical maximum dimension for the shaped part is 6 inches, more preferably 2.5 inches.

The shaped article may comprise discrete regions, such as regions having the same or different flavors or colors or sizes or tobacco forms, such as tobacco that is detectable upon dissolution. For example, the helical shaped piece may comprise individual strands, each strand having a different flavour or colour or size or tobacco form. As a further example, the shaped parts may be prepared in a multi-step process, wherein the molded or extruded part is composed of multiple layers, two or more of which contain different flavors, colors or sizes or tobacco forms.

The molding compositions may be prepared by any method known in the art, such as extrusion, compression molding, injection molding, press forming, foam molding, blow molding and overmolding. Furthermore, the shaped parts can be based on water-soluble or thermoplastic formulations. In one embodiment, a water-based shaped article is made by forming a viscous slurry of the form, water, tobacco and other ingredients (e.g., by the Hobar process), and pressing the slurry into a mold (form), extruding through a die, or forming a sheet from which the shape is cut. The slices or forms may then be dried to a moisture content of 2-50% of the finished weight, preferably 5-10% for highly rigid parts and 10-50% for highly flexible parts. In another embodiment, the aqueous slurry may be formed in a two-stage extrusion process (e.g., by a Wenger twin screw extruder), wherein the form, water, tobacco, and other ingredients are mixed in the mechanical mixing or pre-extrusion stage, and the resulting slurry is fed directly into the mechanical twin screw extrusion elements and extruded through a die to form a shape, which is then dried to a desired moisture content. The thermoplastic-based shaped parts are prepared, for example, by mixing the components by means of a PK stirrer, high-intensity mixer, pre-granulator or granulation (fluidized bed or Hobart) process. The blended components may then be extruded through a conventional single or twin screw extruder to form a shaped part, or the mixture may be fed to an injection molding machine or other thermoplastic processing machinery to form a shaped part.

Embodiments of the molded parts

Example AJ. injection molded article

The following table provides exemplary molded parts formed by injection molding.

TABLE AJ1.

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8
									Composition (I)	%	%	%	%	%	%	%	%
Tobacco	47.98	45.59	67.18	63.83	78.22	74.32	29.33	27.87
									Low viscosity HPC	48.02	45.62	28.84	27.40	19.59	18.61	68.48	65.06

Water (W)	4	3.80	3.98	3.78	2.19	2.08	2.19	2.08
									Propylene glycol		4.99		4.99		4.99		4.99

The heating zones are zone 1-300-; the molding temperature is ambient temperature. Feeding sufficient composition into the screw to be the same as one injection cycle; injecting the material into the mold immediately; after 10 seconds the mold was opened and the molded part was removed. The shaped parts are graded color chips (STEPPED COLOR CHIP) at 1/8^th、1/4^thAnd 3/8^thGraded in inches thick, 2 inches by 3 inches.

EXAMPLE AK. compression Molding

The following table provides exemplary molded parts formed by compression molding.

TABLE AK1

	A	B	C	D	E	F	G
								Composition (I)	%	%	%	%	%	%	%
Tobacco	26.47	25.00	25.00	30.00	25.00	25.00	25.00
								Corn starch	49.41	30.30		9.50	60.60	30.30	56.60
Starch B-820			30.30
								Maltodextrin						30.30
Low viscosity HPC				45.00
								Soluble fiber		30.30	30.30
Cortex Cinnamomi	4.41	5.00	5.00	5.00	5.00	5.00	5.00
								Spice oil	4.41	5.00	5.00	5.00	5.00	5.00	5.00
Sucralose	0.88	0.90	0.90	0.90	0.90	0.90	0.90
								Sodium carbonate	2.65	2.50	2.50	2.50	2.50	2.50	2.50
Glycerol		1.00	1.00	2.00	1.00	1.00	5.00
								Propylene glycol	11.77

10-50g of water was added to enough compound per 100g of dry to soften the compound and allow it to pass through a paste die (pasta die) mounted on a mixer. The mold parameters were as follows:

TABLE AK2

Temperature of the mold	220-280℉
		Residence time	5-60 seconds
Toothpick die cavity	5/32 inches diameter × 23/8^thLong and long
		Stick die cavity	3/8^thInch diameter x 23/8^thLong and long
Disc die cavity	3/4 inches diameter by 1/4 inches deep

The longer the dwell time, the more rigid profile can be produced, as long as the steam is allowed to vent freely during stretching of the profile. Additives may also be used so that the molded part remains flexible after removal from the mold. If a shaped part comprising mostly low-viscosity HPC is left in the mould for a long time (40-60 seconds), a good workpiece (piece) is formed. The inclusion of a plasticizer increases the rate of moisture absorption from the environment, which results in some shaped parts softening over time.

When the mold cavity is completely filled with the molding compound, a dense and rigid part is produced. When the mold cavity is filled to about 75% of the mold capacity, the compound forms a foamed part under expansion steam pressure (expanding stem pressure) that has good rigidity, good flavor, and is easily disintegrated in the mouth.

Foaming is accomplished in an aqueous system by introducing a surfactant (e.g., sodium lauryl sulfate) into the mixture and slurrying to introduce air; foaming or aeration may also be accomplished by introducing a gas (e.g., nitrogen) into the aqueous system while the composition is under high shear. The aqueous system is then dried to the desired moisture content to produce a stable foam composition. In one embodiment, the aqueous composition is introduced to partially fill the stamp; closing the stamper; the mold temperature is raised above the boiling point of water to form steam which expands the aqueous composition to fill the void area and produce a foamed shaped part. For thermoplastic systems, foaming can be accomplished by incorporating water into the tobacco/form composition; raising the temperature above the boiling point of water to form steam, and as the tobacco composition exits the die, the steam expands to create a foam structure. In another embodiment, a gas (e.g., nitrogen or carbon dioxide) is introduced into the molten thermoplastic tobacco composition prior to release of the composition from the extruder, thereby producing a highly uniform foam structure in the shaped tobacco composition. Other thermoplastic foaming processes known in the art, such as spray foam molding, can be used to prepare the foamed tobacco composition and shaped articles.

Example AL. exemplary aqueous Forming part

Tables AL1 and AL2 show exemplary ingredients for preparing the aqueous shaped parts according to the invention. Sufficient water was added to form a viscous slurry.

TABLE AL1

	Illustrative (in)	Preference is given to	Examples
				Tobacco	1-80	30-50	54
Perfume	0.5-4	2.5-3	3
				Insoluble fiber	4.5-3.6	22.5-27	27
Water soluble polymers	1-50	5-20	10CMC 7MF (Medium viscosity)
				Filler/disintegrant	1-50	10-30	30 microcrystalline cellulose
Artificial sweetener	0.05-5	0.1-2	0.2 sucralose
				Dispersing agent	0.1-20	0.1-2	0.2 sodium dodecyl sulfate

TABLE AL2

	Illustrative (in)	Preference is given to	Fruit of Chinese wolfberryExamples of the embodiments
				Tobacco	1-80	20-50	27
Perfume	0.5-4	1-3	1
				Insoluble fiber	4.5-36	9-27	9
Water soluble polymers	1-50	5-25	18 low viscosity HPC
				Filler/disintegrant	1-50	10-30	10 microcrystalline cellulose
Artificial sweetener	0.05-3	0.1-1	0.5 sucralose
				Dispersing agent	0.1-20	0.1-2	0.2 sodium dodecyl sulfate

Example AM. thermoplastic Molding

Table AM1 shows exemplary ingredients for producing the thermoplastic moldings of the invention.

TABLE M1

	Illustrative (in)	Preference is given to	1	2	3
						Tobacco	10-80	25-80	76.6	50	25
Plasticizer	1-20	1-20	3 propylene glycol	4.6 propylene glycol	5.6 propylene glycol
						Water soluble polymers	10-80	20-50	20	30	40
Filler	0-60	0-30	-	15	29
						Stabilizer	0.1-0.5	0.2-0.4	0.4	0.4	0.4

Example AN. tobacco rod

The tobacco rod is composed of tobacco (54 parts), spice (2), insoluble fiber (28), CMC (10), artificial sweetener (0.2) and microcrystalline cellulose (30). Sufficient water (e.g., 140 parts) to form a viscous slurry is added and the slurry can be suitably processed through an extruder. A suitable extruder may be a Kitchen Aid mixer equipped with a paste extruder and a die. The rod produced by extrusion through the paste die is then used as a forming mandrel (forming mandrel) for a spiral winding machine, and a tobacco-containing film may be used to form a wrapping material (wrapping) around the tobacco core.

EXAMPLE AO. compression molded Roots of cinnamon with cigarettes

TABLE AO1

Tobacco	23.84%
		Starch	24.09%
HPMC	4.97%
		Perfume	15.90%
Filler	19.27%
		Na₂CO₃	2.98%
Sweetening agent	0.99%
		Plasticizer	4.97%
Water (W)	3.00%

The following ingredients were weighed and combined in a container of suitable volume.

MIX1

MIX2

glycerol 11.16g

Cinnamon flavor 11.16g

MIX1 was added to a stainless steel mixing tank of a Kitchen Aid vertical mixer. MIX2 was slowly incorporated into the mixture over 3 minutes with the aid of a medium-low speed connected paddle. After the addition, 76.92g of water was added to the mixture in the same manner. The resulting slurry was allowed to stand at room temperature for 5 minutes.

After this time, the slurry was fed through a string forming unit (strand forming unit) having an 1/8 inch opening attached to the Kitchen Aid mixer. The resulting rope was cut to a length of 1¹/₂2 inches and stored in a suitable container.

A secondary platen having a 2 inch x 1/4 inch diameter facing the mold cavity was heated to 300-. The formed rope was placed in the lower cavity and the mould was closed by water pressure. Closing the mold for 30-60 seconds provides a means for cooking the units of starch component and releasing a portion of the volatile component.

The newly formed stick, measured approximately 2 inches by 1/8 inches, includes a smooth rigid outer layer and a rigid foam-like interior. The unit can disintegrate in the mouth within 1-2 minutes.

EXAMPLE AP. compression molded apple plus cigarette straw stick

TABLE AP1

Tobacco	23.84%
		Starch	24.09%
HPMC	4.97%
		Perfume	6.45%
Filler	19.27%
		Na₂CO₃	2.98%
Sweetening agent	10.42%
		Plasticizer	4.97%
Water (W)	3.00%

MIX1

MIX2

glycerol 11.16g

Apple spice 12.27

MIX1 was added to a stainless steel mixing tank of a Kitchen Aid type mixer. MIX2 was slowly incorporated into the mixture over 3 minutes with the aid of a medium-low speed connected paddle. After the addition, 76.95g of water were added to the mixture in the same manner. The resulting slurry was allowed to stand at room temperature for 5 minutes.

After this time, the slurry was fed through a 1/8 inch open rope forming unit that had been attached to the Kitchen Aid mixer. The resulting rope was cut to a length of 1¹/₂2 inches and stored in a suitable container.

A secondary platen having a 2 inch x 1/4 inch diameter facing the mold cavity was heated to 300-. The formed rope was placed in the lower cavity and the mould was closed by water pressure. The mold is closed for 30-60 seconds, providing a means for cooking the starch component of the unit and releasing a portion of the volatile components.

The newly formed stick, measured approximately 2 inches by 1/8 inches, includes a rigid outer layer and a rigid foam-like interior. The unit can disintegrate in the mouth within 1-2 minutes.

EXAMPLE AQ. extruded tobacco rods

Watch AQ1

Tobacco	24.34%
		Starch	58.48%
Na₂CO₃	3.17%
		Plasticizer	6.34%
Sweetening agent	0.79%
		Perfume	4.88%
Water (W)	2.00%

The following ingredients were granulated in the same granulation process as used for the tablet preparation, resulting in tobacco granules having a moisture content of about 4.5%.

Tobacco particles were introduced into the feed zone of a Leistritz Micro-18 Twin Screw Extruder 40: 1L/D, which had been subjected to a medium shear Screw design configured for co-rotating extrusion. The feed rate for the extrusion is 1 to 3 pounds per hour. Barrel zone temperatures of 75-100 DEG F. Setting the perfume application speed to be 5% of the process flow rate; cinnamon flavor can thus be incorporated into the process downstream of the granulation feed. Venting of volatiles from the extruded melt can be accomplished by incorporating a vent before the discharge die of the extruder.

A solid tobacco rod having a diameter of about 1/8 inches can be made by incorporating a string die at the discharge end of the extruder. Upon discharge, the flexible tobacco strands may be cooled to room temperature and hardened on an air-cooled conveyor belt, and may be cut into about 2¹/₂In inches in length. The formed tobacco rods are placed in suitable containers for storage. The stick can disintegrate slowly in the mouth within 5-10 minutes.

The compositions of the present invention may also be formulated as gels or gel beads. The composition may comprise a soluble or insoluble gel containing tobacco. The gel may be used to encapsulate other materials, or other materials may encapsulate the gel. The gel may be consumed containing up to 70% water in hydrated form. The gel may also be dried to produce a part containing 1-70% water. The amount of water retained in the gel depends on the properties desired in the finished product. Gels containing tobacco that provide a variety of organoleptic properties can be prepared.

Exemplary gel forms for soluble or insoluble gels include kappa carrageenan, sodium alginate, carboxymethyl cellulose, gelatin, pectin, agar, and starch.

By dissolving the form agent, such as kappa carrageenan, at 180 ° f at elevated temperatures and adding tobacco powder to the solution while continuing to mix vigorously, a soluble gel comprising tobacco can be formed. The hot mixture is then precipitated into a mold. Gelatin provides a weak gel at room temperature, but its hardness and stability can be increased by the addition of agar or starch. Other gel forms may be formed in a similar manner.

Insoluble gels are formed by adding a crosslinking agent to a pre-dissolved solution or slurry. The solution is precipitated in a casting mould to form the desired shape and solidified by cooling and/or drying. In most cases, the solution must be maintained at an elevated temperature, such as greater than 180 ° f, to prevent premature gelation prior to deposition into the mold. After the gel hardens into its final shape, the gel may be packaged as is or further dried to a desired moisture content. The cross-linking agent includes potassium ions for carrageenan, calcium ions for alginate and low methoxyl pectin, and trivalent ions for carboxymethyl cellulose such as aluminum. In insoluble gels (i.e., those that do not disintegrate in the mouth), tobacco organoleptic compounds may leach from the gel when the gel is buccally or chewed in the mouth.

In one embodiment, the gel composition, i.e., the beads, have a solid or liquid center. An exemplary solid center includes smokeless tobacco. Depending on the solubility characteristics of the encapsulating bead wall, the liquid inside may be aqueous, non-aqueous or multiphase. Water-based liquids are typically encapsulated in a water-insoluble gel that disintegrates mechanically or chemically in the mouth. The encapsulated gel form may include a polymer and a crosslinking agent. Exemplary systems include carrageenan and monovalent cations (e.g., potassium), alginate or pectin and divalent ions (e.g., calcium), carboxymethyl cellulose and trivalent ions (e.g., aluminum), as well as gelatin and gum arabic. The center may or may not include tobacco.

In another embodiment, the water-soluble gel encapsulates a non-aqueous filler such as with ethanol, ethylene glycol, vegetable oil, or mineral oil. The water-soluble gel and/or the non-aqueous filler may comprise tobacco and other ingredients as described herein. The aqueous liquid may also be encapsulated in a water-soluble gel by the addition of additives such as sugars or salts which bind the available moisture sufficiently in the filler, thus preventing water in the liquid from dissolving the sealant. Gel sealants may also include hard and soft standard gelatin capsules, which may be filled with liquids or solids.

The center of these gel compositions may or may not include tobacco, e.g., as a tobacco slurry. The gel sealant may or may not also include tobacco. An exemplary solid center includes smokeless tobacco. The center may also include a colorant, sweetener, flavor, or odor masking agent, which may be the same as or different from that of the gel sealant. The disintegration rates of the gel sealant and the core may be the same or different. Gels with a center typically have a maximum dimension of at most 10mm, such as at most 5 mm. Gel beads having a liquid center can be made by introducing droplets of a tobacco/form mixture into a solution, causing gelation of the outer surface of the gel bead, and maintaining the liquid center. Beads may be formed using an industrial process developed by the Morishita Jinton company and others and generally referred to as "seamless liquid encapsulation" or "seamless capsule technology". In addition, suppliers of alginate, carrageenan and pectin polymers have developed widely used methods for forming all types of gels (including beads), which are well known in the art. By varying the concentration of the format, the concentration of the crosslinking agent (e.g., salt), the temperature of the curing solution, and the residence time of the gel beads in the curing solution, the amount of gelation, and thus the thickness of the gel sealant, can be controlled. The solution may contain a cross-linking agent or may be gelled by other means such as a temperature change.

Solid gels are soluble or insoluble. For solid gels, the tobacco, with or without additives, and the form are typically mixed and the form is gelled. Soluble gels can be made using self-gelling gum gelatins such as gellan gum or kappa carrageenan, or using polymers that set by changing temperature such as gelatin. A cross-linking agent may be used to make an insoluble solid gel. The soluble or insoluble gel can be made by introducing the droplets into an oil bath such as canola oil or into an aqueous cross-linking bath to form spheres. It can also be prepared by oil into a water-based crosslinking solution. The gel may also be formed in a mold or die cut from a sheet.

In another embodiment, the gel composition is supplied as a dry mix of the form, cross-linking agent (e.g., salt), and tobacco, for example, as a powder form that is solvated prior to use by the consumer. The solvation causes the gel composition to form a solid that can be placed in the mouth. Typically, the user places the dry mix of gel ingredients in a mold and adds a solvent, which is aqueous or non-aqueous. The mixture is then rapidly hydrated, forming a gel that solidifies in the shape of the casting mold. A solvating liquid may be used to impart a flavor or other taste or mouthfeel characteristics to the composition. Alternatively, the consumer may place the dry mix in the mouth for dissolution. The solvent may impart a scent or color to the composition.

Gel examples

Example ar gel beads

100g of a 4% solution of CMC-7MF and 20g of tobacco were subjected toAnd (4) mixing. Depositing droplets onto water-soluble edible trivalent salts (e.g., AlCl)₃Or Al₂(SO4)₃) ) in a 5% solution. The surface of the droplets is then dried using air drying or mild oven drying.

100g of 2% kappa carrageenan and tobacco were mixed and heated to 180-. The droplets were deposited into a cold solution of 5% KCl.

100g of 4% medium viscosity sodium alginate and tobacco were mixed at 150-. Depositing droplets onto edible divalent salts (e.g., CaCl)₂Or calcium citrate) in a 5% cold solution.

Beads comprising gelatin walls and a tobacco slurry center can be made by depositing droplets of cold tobacco slurry (e.g., 60 ° f) into a low velocity stream of dilute warm gelatin solution (e.g., 130 ° f). The outer face of the cold droplet is coated with the warm gelatin and as the gelatin cools and solidifies, a gelatin wall forms around the center of the liquid.

Beads were recovered from the solution by standard methods.

Example AS. solid palatable disintegrating gel

10g of gelatin and 90g of water were mixed and heated to 140 ℃ F. to dissolve the gelatin. 20g of tobacco was added and injected into the mold. The strength of the gel can be increased by replacing 6g of gelatin and 4g of agar and heating to 190 ° f for dissolution.

Table AS1 shows exemplary ingredients used to prepare the orally disintegrating gels of the invention.

TABLE AS1

	Example 1 (parts)	Example 2 (parts)
			Gelatin	8	6
Tobacco	40	40
			Perfume	2	2
Insoluble fiber	18	18
			Sweetening agent	0.2	0.2
Agar-agar	4	6
			Soluble fiber	15	15
Preservative	0.1	0.1
			Water (W)	200	200

Example AT. exemplary insoluble solid gel

The following table and description show exemplary ingredients for making the insoluble gels of the present invention, i.e., gels that do not disintegrate orally.

TABLE AT1 Carrageenan gels

	Portions are
		Kappa carrageenan	8
Water (W)	240
		Tobacco	54
Sweetening agent	0.5
		Soluble fiber	27
KCl	1.5

The composition was cast at 180 ° f after KCl addition and thorough mixing.

TABLE AT2 alginate gels

	Portions are
		Sodium alginate	10

Water (W)	240
		Tobacco	54
Sweetening agent	0.5
		Soluble fiber	27
CaCl₂	1

After adding CaCl₂Casting the composition at 180 ° f.

TABLE AT3 carboxymethylcellulose gels

	Portions are
		CMC-7MF	10
Water (W)	240
		Tobacco	54
Sweetening agent	0.5
		Soluble fiber	27
Al₂(SO₄)₃	1

After adding Al₂(SO₄)₃Casting the composition at 180 ° f.

Example AU. soluble gel

416g of aqueous 3.9% kappa carrageenan and 51.0g of tobacco were mixed. The solution is heated to 180-190 ° f with agitation and then deposited into a mold having the desired shape. Once cooled, the resulting solid form is removed from the mold and dried to the desired tobacco concentration and gel consistency.

In another method, 400ml of water is added at greater than 200 ° f to a 1000ml stainless steel vessel equipped with an overhead mixer, mixing bar and hot plate. The water was stirred continuously and heated, and 16.0g kappa carrageenan (Gelcarin GP 812, FMC Biopolymer) was added over 2 minutes. The resulting mixture was stirred for an additional 20 minutes, or until all kappa carrageenan was completely dissolved, then tobacco was added to the homogeneous solution and the mixture was stirred for an additional 2 minutes at an optimal temperature maintained at 180 ° f. To this solution 0.8g powdered sucralose and 7.0g cinnamon oil (Wixon Industries) were added with vigorous stirring. The mixture was then stirred for an additional 1 minute and quickly transferred to a teflon-coated metal mold using a pipette (internal diameter of 0.5cm) to obtain the desired shape. After cooling to room temperature, the resulting gel was removed from the mold and air dried at room temperature for 1 hour to several days until the desired gel consistency was obtained.

TABLE AU1. carrageenan gels

	Number of parts
		Kappa carrageenan	16
Water (W)	400
		Tobacco	51
Sweetening agent	0.8
		Cinnamon oil	7.0

Example AV. soluble gel

100g of aqueous 20% gelatin and 33g of tobacco were mixed. The solution is heated to 140-150 ° f with agitation and then deposited into a mold having the desired shape. The resulting solid form is then removed from the mold and dried to the desired tobacco concentration and gel consistency, depending on the desired firmness, frozen for minutes to days.

In another method, 80ml of water is added at 140 ° f to a 400ml stainless steel vessel equipped with an overhead mixer, mixing bar and hot plate. The water was stirred continuously and heated, and 20.0g of gelatin (Type A250 Bloom 40 Mesh, Gum Technology) was added over 2 minutes. The resulting mixture was stirred for an additional 5 minutes, or until the gelatin was dissolved, and then 33g of tobacco was added in portions over 2 minutes. The mixture was stirred for an additional 1 minute, then 0.3g of powdered sucralose and 1.0g of peppermint oil (refined, Blend SX 091O001, Essex Labs) were added and the resulting mixture was vigorously stirred for an additional 1 minute while maintaining a temperature of 140 ° f. The resulting mixture was transferred to a teflon-coated metal mold using a pipette (inner diameter of 0.5cm) to obtain the desired shape. After cooling to room temperature, the resulting gel was removed from the mold and the gelatin was cured at 40 ° f for 1 hour to several days depending on the desired firmness of the finished part.

TABLE AV1 gelatin gels

	Number of parts
		Gelatin	20
Water (W)	80
		Tobacco	33
Sweetening agent	0.3
		Peppermint oil	1.0

Example AW. gel bead

A 4% solution of sodium alginate (Keltone LV, International Specialty Products) was prepared by adding 12g of sodium alginate to 288g of water which had been heated to boiling, followed by stirring the water on a hot plate and heating for 30 minutes or until the solution became homogeneous (stock solution a). A second 0.50M solution of disodium phosphate was prepared by dissolving 33.5g of disodium phosphate heptahydrate in 200ml of water, warming and stirring the resulting solution until the salt dissolved, and then adjusting the solution to 250ml with water. To a 0.50M aqueous solution of 100g disodium phosphate was added 20g tobacco and the resulting solution was stirred for 5 minutes (stock B). To 50g of the resulting tobacco slurry (stock B) was added 50ml of a 4% aqueous solution of sodium alginate (stock A) and the resulting mixture was stirred for 5 minutes. To flavor the resulting tobacco/sodium alginate slurry (solution C) was added 0.20g of powdered sucralose and 0.80g of peppermint oil (refined, Blend SX 0910001, Essex Labs) and the mixture was stirred for 2 minutes.

To prepare gel beads from solution C, 5g of CaCl were added under stirring₂Added to 95g of water until the calcium chloride was completely dissolved (solution D) to make a 5% aqueous solution of CaCl 2. Solution C was then added dropwise to solution D using a pipette from a height of 10 inches. The outer coating of each droplet was exposed to solution D to solidify, forming a solid gel-like outer coating with a liquid center that sinks to the bottom of the calcium chloride solution. The gel beads were retained in the calcium chloride solution for 2-4 minutes, removed, and air dried for several minutes.

Solution A

	Number of parts
		Sodium alginate	12
Water (W)	288

Solution B

	Number of parts
		Disodium hydrogen phosphate heptahydrate	13.4
Water (W)	86
		Tobacco	20

Solution C

	Number of parts
		Solution A	50
Solution B	50
		Sucralose	0.2
Peppermint oil	0.8

Solution D

Number of parts

Calcium chloride	5
		Water (W)	95

Consumable units compositions of the present invention can also be prepared as a consumer unit. These units may be packaged as edible or non-edible materials. In one embodiment, the consumable unit comprises tobacco (e.g., smokeless tobacco) or a tobacco composition, a sheet, tablet, bead, granule, or other tobacco composition as described herein, and a packaging material, such as a pouch. In one embodiment, the packaging material may act as a binder to integrate the composition, such as a plurality of tablets, beads, flakes, and the like. Alternatively, the packaging material may encapsulate the composition, such as loose tablets, beads, flakes, and the like. The composition may also include a liquid such as tobacco serum. The packaging material may or may not be mouth disintegrating. The mouth disintegrating packaging material may be used to seal aqueous or non-aqueous liquids. When an aqueous liquid is used with a water-soluble packaging material, the liquid includes an agent to prevent dissolution of the packaging material. Exemplary agents include sugars, salts, and other hydrophilic agents that are capable of binding water sufficiently to reduce water activity to a level where water no longer affects and dissolves the water-soluble packaging material. The wrapper may also seal the moldable tobacco composition to conform to or maintain its shape in the mouth. In one embodiment, the palatable disintegrating packaging material encapsulates smokeless tobacco, such as snuff or tobacco (e.g., having a particle size less than 80 μm) that is perceptible upon dissolution. The palatable disintegrating smokeless tobacco composition can be introduced into a consumer portion package that has been formed on a continuous thermoforming or horizontal form/filling/sealing apparatus or other suitable packaging apparatus using an edible film (which may or may not contain tobacco) prepared according to the subject technology. The consumption unit may also comprise two or more separate portions of the tobacco package, such as all contained in a larger package, one containing the other portion, or none of these portions containing the other portion. When multiple portions are used, any two may have the same or different flavors, colors, tobacco forms, or disintegration rates.

Exemplary packaging materials include films formed from film compositions based on form agents such as HPMC, CMC, pectin, alginate, pullulan, and other commercially available edible film forming polymers such as those described herein. Other packaging materials may include preformed capsules made from gelatin, HPMC, starch/carrageenan, or other commercially available materials. These wrappers may include tobacco as an ingredient. The non-palatable disintegrating packaging material may comprise woven or non-woven fabrics, coated or uncoated paper, or perforated or otherwise obtained porous foamed plastic films. The packaging material may also be coloured. Exemplary consumer units include those formed by any method used for commercial packaging, such as blister plastic liner packaging and stik-pak (e.g., small packages formed on vertical form/fill/seal packaging machines).

Example of a Consumer Unit

The following description provides exemplary ingredients of the present invention for making consumable units.

EXAMPLE AX. film or Capsule encapsulating beads, powder, tablets, and the like

Any of the ingredients described herein can be encapsulated with a film or capsule. The encapsulant may provide color, stability (e.g., during storage, handling, or consumption), or organoleptic properties (e.g., flavor, sweetness, smell, or mouthfeel). The encapsulant may also comprise tobacco.

A vacuum forming tool was designed having a series of cavities shaped to have a diameter of 3/4^thInches and depth 3/8^thA circle of inches. Films described herein were prepared with or without tobacco as an ingredient. These films are introduced into a vacuum forming machine having a vacuum forming die. Placing the film on a heating element and warming to temperatureIs 200 DEG F. The film is then quickly placed onto the vacuum forming mold and a vacuum is drawn to pull the film into the cavity. The film is then cooled to solidify the shape. Tobacco powder is then introduced into each cavity. A second film piece, prepared with or without tobacco, was selected and coated with a thin layer of water (by wiping the surface of the film with a wet blanket) to create a sticky adhesive surface. Placing the viscous surface on top of the formed sheet, wherein each cavity is filled with a tobacco product. The sheets are pressed together to form a closed consumable unit. Each cavity is then cut from the vacuum-formed sheet to produce a single unit. The unit is placed in the mouth, wherein the film disintegrates and disperses the tobacco in the mouth.

Example AY. tobacco particles in Water-soluble pouch

Smokeless tobacco particles or powders such as snuff can be placed in a water-disintegrable pouch. When placed in the mouth, the bag disintegrates after a specified period of time. The pouch may contain a single serving supply of tobacco. Other additives as described herein may also be included. Once the packaging material disintegrates, the tobacco may also adhere to itself as a moldable plug (mouldable plug).

The collapsible pouch may be formed using a film as described herein. The film may be formed into bags using commercially available packaging equipment such as vertical form/fill/seal machines (e.g., stick packaging machines), horizontal form/fill/seal machines, flow wrap machines (flow coaters), thermoformers (blister pack machines), and other equipment known in the art.

Example AZ. tobacco particles in a film/fabric laminate.

The smokeless tobacco particles or powder can be placed in a pouch formed from an open or highly porous packaging material, such as a web, paper, or plastic film, that has been laminated to a film of water-soluble packaging material. The water-soluble film layer can provide protection to the tobacco contents and prevent tobacco from moving through the opening of the non-dissolving material during storage and handling. Once the pouch is placed in the mouth, the water-soluble film layer dissolves or disintegrates.

Example ba. film pouch containing tobacco

The films described in film examples N, O, P and Q were used to prepare tobacco-containing belts. About 1 inch by 1 was cut from each sheet of the prepared film¹/₄A single unit of inches. The unit was folded in the machine direction and heat sealed using a Clamco Model 210-8E impulse sealer. One end of the forming unit is also sealed in the same manner. Flavoured tobacco particles are supplied to the interior of the formed sachet and finally sealed as described to seal the sachet. The pouch containing the tobacco disintegrates in the mouth within 20 seconds to 1 minute, releasing the contents of the pouch.

The tobacco can also be coated or trapped inside an insoluble matrix. When formed into a film, the tobacco can be dispersed in an aqueous solution of the form to form a slurry; the slurry can be coated onto an insoluble substrate or used to saturate a porous insoluble substrate. The slurry can then be turned into a soluble or insoluble gel, or it can be simply dried to form a coating. When a portion of the coated/saturated insoluble matrix is placed in the mouth, leaching of the organoleptic components occurs by dissolution, chewing, or other means. In one embodiment, the tobacco in the form is incorporated into a porous matrix, such as an open-cell polyurethane foam or a high-loft polyester nonwoven fabric structure. The insoluble matrix may be placed entirely within the mouth, or may be treated on a stick or other handle, which remains partially outside the mouth during consumption. In another embodiment, the tobacco in the form is mixed with an incompatible liquid, such as a dispersion of carnauba wax in water, placed in a mold, and rapidly cooled to cause phase separation, thereby disposing the tobacco slurry in a waxy structure. These matrices may also be chewable.

The form agent used to retain the tobacco in the insoluble matrix can include any film forming polymer described herein, any gelling system described herein, and any coating material described herein.

Insoluble matrix examples

Example BB. polyurethane foam A.

A film-forming composition comprising finely ground tobacco as described herein is used to saturate blocks (e.g., 12 inches by 1 inch) of open-cell polyurethane foam (Stephenson & Lawyer, inc. The saturated foam was placed on a metal tray and placed in an air circulation test oven set at 175 ° f for 1 hour. When the foam is removed from the oven, the tobacco-containing composition is dried to form a coating that uniformly covers all of the interstices of the polyurethane foam. The coated foam is cut into pieces (e.g., 1 inch by 1 inch) sized to fit in the mouth. After use, the polyurethane foam is removed from the mouth and discarded.

Example bc polyurethane foam B.

A sodium alginate and calcium salt gel composition containing finely ground tobacco as described herein was used to saturate an open cell polyurethane foam (e.g., 12 inches by 1 inch). Maintaining the alginate gel at a temperature of 180 ° f to prevent premature curing of the gel. Hot alginate gel was poured onto the polyurethane foam placed on a metal tray and rapidly cooled in a 40 ° f freezer to solidify the gel. The foam was then placed in an air circulation test oven set at 175 ° f for 10 minutes to surface dry the gel and reduce the moisture content to 50% based on the dry weight of the gel. Allowing the partially dried gel to fill voids in the polyurethane foam. The foam was cut into pieces and placed in the mouth. Other examples of gels in an insoluble matrix are obtained by drying the gel to a lower moisture content (e.g., 10% based on the dry weight of the gel). The tobacco-containing gel exhibits a firm, rubbery structure in the foam matrix and is slowly rehydratable when placed in the mouth and chewed. After use, the polyurethane foam is removed from the mouth and discarded.

As noted above, a film or sheet of material may be wrapped, extruded, blown, or otherwise formed to form a tube, straw, or other hollow shape. Exemplary film or sheet materials are disclosed in the film section herein. The hollow shape may be a single layer or a multilayer. When multiple layers are used, some may contain tobacco, while others may contain colors, flavors, sweeteners, or other compounds as described herein. Different layers may also be used for stability during handling or for controlling disintegration during consumption. Spiral wound hollow shapes such as tubes or straws may require a binder (such as CMC or guar) to prevent unraveling. The layers in the multi-layer hollow shape may contain the same or different colorants or flavors, and the layers may disintegrate at the same or different rates. Along with the film, tobacco may also be placed in one or more layers, or in a sandwiched configuration between layers. The hollow shape may also include a disintegrant to speed disintegration.

The above-described composition may be hollow or filled. The filler may include tobacco, flavors, sweeteners, odor masking agents, or colors. The flavor or color of the filler may be the same or different than the hollow shape. The filler is typically a gel (solid or flowable), but may also be mechanically rigid or may consist of a powder or other product form. Exemplary filler materials include the gels described herein. The hollow shapes may also be filled with a composition that disintegrates more rapidly than the shape, such as to provide tobacco at different times based on the rate of disintegration.

In one embodiment, a tobacco core (e.g., formulated with tobacco and a format) can be extruded from a single or twin screw extruder into a co-extrusion die. In a separate single or twin screw extruder, a water soluble, thermoplastic outer layer (as formulated with a form and perfume) can be introduced into the coextrusion die to produce a coated rod. A typical thermoplastic outer layer may be provided with a dosage form based on hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) extruded between temperatures of 220-. In addition, the rigid extruded tobacco rod may become a core surrounded by a film of wrapping material.

In one embodiment, a thermoplastic formulation comprising hydroxypropyl cellulose, tobacco, flavorants, and sweeteners may be blow molded to form a hollow shape.

In another embodiment, the membranes described herein may additionally be used to prepare spiral wound straws and/or sticks. Strips of approximately 10 inches by 3/4 inches were cut from each piece of prepared film. The same size strip of paper was cut and spirally wound around a 3/16 inch diameter stainless steel mandrel. The paper was taped at each end to secure the mandrel. The paper sheet was spirally wound with a strip of film in the same manner, each spiral overlapping 1/16 inches. On each overlap, the film strips were self-adhered with a 30% gum arabic solution. The process was repeated with two additional films. The mandrel and newly formed spiral wound membrane pipette/stick were placed in a side sweep forced air oven (VWR model 1330FM) at 75 ℃ for 15 minutes for drying. Once removed from the oven, the spiral wound straw/stick is removed from the mandrel and the paper "core" is removed from the interior of the straw/stick. The resulting straws/sticks are cut into multiple sizes.

For example, spiral wound straw/stick articles were made using the tobacco-containing film described in example N for rod/wrap/pouch/vacuum formed flavored tobacco films. Straw/stick articles comprising one, two and three layers of the film of example N were made as described. When placed in the mouth, the straw/stick gradually disintegrates within 1-5 minutes.

In another example, a straw/stick article was made using a two-layer film as described in example N. A third film-a perfumed/coloured film for stick/pack/pouch as prepared in example O-is provided on the tip or periphery of the straw/stick. The film from example O was red, cinnamon flavored and no tobacco. When the straw/stick is placed in the mouth, it gradually disintegrates within 1-5 minutes.

In another example, a straw/stick article was made using the three-layer film as described in example P for peach flavored films for sticks/packages/pouches. The film from example P comprised tobacco powder and peach puree. Straws/sticks were prepared as above. The straw/stick gradually disintegrates within 1-5 minutes.

Still in another embodiment, a straw/stick article is made using a three layer film as described in example N and example Q. A single layer film comprising tobacco prepared in example N was used. A second opaque white film prepared as in example Q was wrapped around the first layer of film and offset 1/8^thIn inches. The third tobacco-containing film prepared in example N was wrapped around the second layer and again offset 1/8^thIn inches. This action provides a spirally wound straw/stick with a striped appearance. When placed in the mouth, the straw/stick gradually disintegrates within 1-5 minutes.

In another example, a hollow tobacco straw having a diameter in the range of 1/8-1/4 inches was made using a method similar to that in example AQ of the formed part. However, a tube die was used in the preparation of the straw. The straw disintegrates slowly in the mouth within 5-10 minutes. Similar articles are prepared with fillers using methods known in the art (e.g., coextrusion).

D. Modification of

Any of the tobacco compositions described herein can be modified in a variety of ways. For example, the composition may be applied as a single layer or as multiple layers. The coating is used for e.g. processing, disintegration speed, taste or colour. Exemplary coatings include HPMC. A coating or decorative pattern can be applied to the surface of the film using methods known in the art, such as spraying, brushing, roll coating, doctor blade casting, slot coating, extrusion, hot melt deposition, precipitation of particles or flakes, and other typical methods. The coating may be matte or glossy. The coating may contain a colorant, fragrance, or odor masking agent as described herein. The color, sweetener, or taste masking agent in the coating may be the same as or different from that of the composition below. In addition, multiple coatings may also contain the same or different colors, flavors, sweeteners, or odor masking agents. The coating may also disintegrate at a different rate than the underlying composition. For example, the coating may disintegrate faster than the underlying composition to provide a burst of flavor or other organoleptic component. The orally disintegrating coating may also be on top of a composition that is not orally disintegrating. The non-orally disintegrating coating can be placed on top of the orally disintegrating composition and the coating can be removed, such as by chewing. Coatings may also be used to prevent evaporation of volatile components in the composition, and to prevent mechanical impregnation of the composition prior to use. The coating may also comprise tobacco.

A pattern may also be printed on the surface of the composition. The printed pattern may also include dust or interspersed compounds on the surface of the composition. The pattern may be random or a design such as a logo. All printing methods known in the art, such as offset printing, flexography, gravure, inkjet, laser, screen printing and other typical methods can be used. As described herein, the printed pattern may or may not contain colorants, flavors, sweeteners, or odor masking agents. The colorant, flavor, sweetener, or odor masking agent in the pattern may be the same or different from the underlying composition. In addition, the multiple patterns may also contain the same or different colorants, flavors, sweeteners, or odor masking agents. The printed pattern may also comprise tobacco, e.g. up to 1-99%, preferably 10-50%. The pattern may contain more tobacco in a percent manner or absolute sense than the underlying composition.

Flakes can also be added to the compositions described herein. Flakes can be mixed into the composition, can be placed in the voids of the composition, or can be placed on a surface, such as by being adhered by coating. As described herein, the flakes may or may not contain colorants, flavors, sweeteners, or odor masking agents. The color, flavor, sweetener, or odor masking agent in the flakes can also be the same as or different from that in the underlying composition. In addition, the plurality of flakes may also contain the same or different colors, flavors, sweeteners, or odor masking agents. The sheet may also comprise tobacco, e.g. up to 99%, preferably up to 50%. The sheet can be made by standard film forming techniques as described herein. The sheet may contain more tobacco in percent form or in an absolute sense than the underlying composition.

Once the printed, coated or decorated film is produced, additional layers of film may be applied to cover, protect and seal the printed, coated or decorated surface.

The compositions of the present invention may be formed in a variety of forms, such as plants and geometric shapes (e.g., circles, squares, rectangular triangles, ovals, octagons, etc.). In addition, the composition may comprise a relief pattern (positive or negative) on the surface. The pattern may be a design such as a logo.

The present invention also contemplates complex compositions, i.e., compositions comprising two or more of the different types of products described herein. For example, the shaped article may comprise an area of the gel composition, such as with a plurality of fragrances. In another embodiment, the tablet may be surrounded by a gel. The composite compositions may also have different disintegration rates.

E. Package (I)

The individual compositions can be packaged in suitable amounts. Preferably, the composition is storable in a water-resistant container and is stable between 40-120 ° f. The compositions are typically dry, flexible and non-adhesive on storage. Alternatively, the composition may be packaged using a non-stick barrier such as a plastic film or paper between supplies. The composition may also be provided in bulk form, whereby the individual supplies are separated.

In another embodiment, the package is water-impermeable and water-insoluble, and the tobacco in liquid, serum or flowable gel form is inside the package, such as an easily compressible plastic wrap, a capsule (bellow) or a squirt bottle, and can be dispensed from the package into the mouth. The bellows can be compressed for oral use. Solutions or slurries are prepared for use in plastic bellows containers or other similar consumer packaging containers, wherein the liquid is injected into the mouth by squeezing the package. Thixotropic polymers are mixed with tobacco and other ingredients to make a more viscous solution suitable for use in other containers. The tobacco particles may be larger in size but must still be small enough to pass through the opening of the container. For a squirt bottle, containing a stable tobacco slurry in the bottle; the tobacco particles are sized to pass through the nozzle without clogging the opening; and spraying the tobacco slurry directly in the mouth. Liquid sprays are made by dissolving a thixotropic polymer such as xanthan, gellan or dextran in water and suspending tobacco particles in a low viscosity (e.g. <50 centipoise) solution. Other compounds such as flavors, sweeteners, and dispersants may be added to the solution. The tobacco particles are ground to a particle size (e.g., <80 microns) such that the homogeneous solution can pass through the opening of the spray bottle. Other packs may be extruded in other ways or used to discharge tobacco in the mouth.

F. Solutions of

The following tobacco solutions may be included in any of the compositions described herein.

Example BD. sprayable solution

A solution was prepared by mixing 0.2g xanthan gum (Kelzan from c.p. kelco) in 78.6g cold water with vigorous stirring for 30 minutes. To this solution was added 20g of finely ground tobacco, 0.2g of sucralose, and 2g of cinnamon flavor while continuing to stir vigorously. The solution viscosity was adjusted to 50 centipoise with water.

Example BE. Thick solution

A solution was prepared by mixing 1g xanthan gum (Kelzan from c.p. kelco) with 76.8g cold water while vigorously mixing for 30 minutes. To this solution was added 20g of fine tobacco, 0.2g of sucralose, and 2g of cinnamon flavor while continuing to mix vigorously. The solution viscosity was 1,500 cps.

Example BF. slurry

Slurry was prepared by adding 2g of medium viscosity carboxymethylcellulose (CMC 7MF from Hercules, inc.) to a mixture of 35.8g of cold water and 40g of glycerol while vigorously mixing for 30 minutes. To this mixture was added 20g of fine tobacco, 0.2g of sucralose, and 2g of cinnamon flavor. A high shear sensitive thick slurry is prepared. The slurry may be introduced into a tube or other compressible package, where the shear forces from extrusion reduce the viscosity of the slurry so that it can flow.

Other embodiments

The description of specific embodiments of the invention has been presented for purposes of illustration. The particular forms described herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the scope of the invention. While the invention has been described with reference to several embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the following claims. All patents, patent applications, and publications referred to herein are incorporated by reference. Other implementations are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. An article of manufacture, comprising:

an insoluble open cell matrix comprising polyurethane; and

a tobacco composition of tobacco and a form, the tobacco being disposed in the matrix and retained by the form in the matrix, the matrix being chewable, wherein the tobacco comprises an extract of tobacco comprising two or more components associated with the organoleptic properties of the tobacco.

2. The article of claim 1, wherein the palatable disintegrating composition is placed within the pores.

3. The article of claim 1 wherein the palatable disintegrating composition is coated on the insoluble substrate.

4. The article of claim 1, wherein the palatable disintegrating composition further comprises a water soluble polymer.

5. The article of claim 1, wherein the palatable disintegrating composition comprises tobacco particles.

6. The article of claim 5, wherein the tobacco particles have an average particle size of 250 μm or less.

7. The article of claim 1, wherein said tobacco has an average particle size of 80 μm or less.

8. The article of claim 1, said tobacco having an average particle size of 75 μm or less.

9. The article of claim 1, said tobacco having an average particle size of 50 μm or less.

10. The article of claim 1, said tobacco having an average particle size of 25 μm or less.

11. An article of manufacture comprising an insoluble substrate and a tobacco composition, wherein the insoluble substrate comprises polyurethane and the tobacco composition comprises an extract of tobacco that includes two or more components associated with the organoleptic properties of tobacco.

12. The article of claim 11 wherein the insoluble matrix comprises pores.

13. The article of claim 12, wherein the tobacco composition is disposed within the pores.

14. The article of claim 11, wherein the tobacco composition further comprises a water soluble polymer.

15. The article of claim 11, wherein the tobacco composition comprises tobacco particles.

16. The article of claim 15, wherein the tobacco particles have an average particle size of 250 μm or less.

17. The article of claim 15, wherein the tobacco particles have an average particle size of 80 μm or less.