EP4701943A1

EP4701943A1 - Packaging item and packaged food product

Info

Publication number: EP4701943A1
Application number: EP24720237.7A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Thomas Raedler; Peter Müller; Abhijit Bhattacharya; Jenni Irina JUKARAINEN; Gerhard Niederreiter; Nicola GALAFFU; Gaël BUSSIEN; Joachim Pellissier
Original assignee: Societe des Produits Nestle SA; Nestle SA
Current assignee: Societe des Produits Nestle SA; Nestle SA
Priority date: 2023-04-24
Filing date: 2024-04-23
Publication date: 2026-03-04
Also published as: CN121079252A; AU2024259955A1; MX2025012464A; WO2024223556A1; KR20260002703A; JP2026513371A; CL2025003200A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to a packaging item comprising a cylindrical container made of a multilayer oxygen and moisture barrier laminate comprising a cardboard and an organic or inorganic barrier layer The container has a dispensing opening. The packaging item further comprises at least one sleeve element with at least one sleeve element peripheral wall, the sleeve element being configured to be slid over at least a top end portion of the container peripheral wall and being made of a multilayer oxygen and moisture barrier laminate comprising a cardboard and an organic or inorganic barrier layer. The packaging item further comprises at least one base element with at least one base element peripheral wall, the base element at least partially enclosing and preferably immovably attached to a bottom end portion of the container peripheral wall. The present invention further relates to a packaged food product.

Description

PACKAGING ITEM AND PACKAGED FOOD PRODUCT

Field of the invention

The invention relates to a packaging item and a packaged food product.

Background of the invention

Packaging items for packaging various types of contents are provided in a variety of different shapes, sizes, and materials. For instance, packaging items made of paper are known from the prior art and are often promoted as being environmentally friendly and more sustainable, e.g., compared with plastic.

However, the existing packaging items made of paper often do not provide the same protection of the contents, e.g., compared with other materials, such as plastic or glass. This may adversely affect one or more properties of the contents, e.g., which may result in a reduced storage life of the contents.

Typically, oxidation and/or moisture intake of the packed contents leads to degradation of the organoleptic properties of said product, which is of course undesirable. In some instances, the food safety can be impaired by transfer of gases and/or moisture through the packaging walls. It is therefore of utmost importance, at least with sensitive food products, to ensure a packaging barrier against gases - in particular oxygen - and moisture.

Moreover, the existing packaging items made of paper often suffer from a reduced structural stability compared with packaging items made from other materials, e.g., plastic or glass. This may adversely affect the handling properties of the packaging items.

US 2017/0057687 Al is a patent application to Borer et Al. that discloses a container comprising an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve that are able to slide one into the other for opening and closing the container. The inner sleeve is printed with various matter and the outer sleeve comprises an opening forming a window such that, when the outer and inner sleeves are moved relative to each other, the matter printed on the inner sleeve is revealed. The container disclosed therein can be made of any kind of material such as cardboard, but it does not disclose a solution to preserve the contents against oxygen or moisture interactions. On the contrary, the reading window opened in the outer sleeve significantly lowers the possibilities to tightly protect the contents when the container is closed. Furthermore, the container assembly provides little resistance to vertical stacking due to the fact that in its upright stacked position, the compression forces applied to the container are supported only by the inner sleeve.

US 2011/0204015 Al is a patent application to West et Al. that discloses a biodegradable jar with a cap. The jar walls are made of a permeation barrier material that prevents the semi-solid contents from seeping through the walls of the jar, but it does not disclose a barrier against oxygen and moisture transfer, especially after the first opening (so- called "open shelf life"): with the construction of US'015, it is necessary to apply a complex capping solution in order to ensure a proper moisture and oxygen barrier at the interface between the jar and the cap. Furthermore, the container has moderate resistance to vertical stacking due to the fact that in its upright stacked position, the compression forces are supported only by the jar walls.

US 2377471 is a US patent to Williamson that discloses a classic box-type container comprising a dispensing opening located in one of its lateral panels. The container is an assembly of individual elements, each of which is formed from a flat blank. It provides little barrier to oxygen and moisture, in particular after the box has first been opened and used and has moderate resistance to stacking.

Hence, in particular in view of the above-identified drawbacks, it is an object of the present invention to provide a packaging item that provides greater protection to the contents within the packaging item. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a packaging item with improved handling and mechanical resistance properties.

Solution to the problem

In a first aspect, the invention relates to a packaging item. The packaging item comprises at least one cylindrical container made of a multilayer oxygen and moisture barrier laminate comprising a cardboard and an organic and/or inorganic barrier layer. The cardboard has a grammage comprised between 120 and 600 g/m² and a cellulose content higher than 90%, preferably higher than 95%, more preferably higher than 99%. The cylindrical container includes at least one container peripheral wall and a container bottom closure which define at least one compartment for packaging contents.

In one preferred embodiment of the invention, the container peripheral wall can be manufactured from a cellulose-based multilayer material having barrier properties against oxygen and/or moisture transfer, and comprising at least the following layers, from its inner side (oriented towards the interior of the container) to its outer side:

- at least one organic sealing layer made of an ethylene acrylic or methacrylic acid ionomer, said heat seal layer being applied in an amount comprised between 2 and 20 g/m², preferably in an amount comprised between 4 and 9 g/m², then

- at least one inorganic barrier layer providing moisture barrier properties, selected within the list of: metals, metalloids, or a combination thereof, said inorganic layer having a thickness comprised between 1 and 100 nm, and

- at least one organic barrier layer providing oxygen barrier properties, comprising a polymer selected within the list of: polyvinylalcohol (PVOH), ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), butenediol vinyl alcohol co-polymer (BVOH), or a combination thereof, in an amount of 0.5 to 20 g/m², preferably in an amount of 1 to 10 g/m², more preferably in an amount of 2 to 8 g/m²,

- a paper layer having a grammage in the range of 30 to less than 120 g/m²,

- an adhesive, preferably a water-based or solvent-less adhesive, with a base compound that is preferably selected within the list of: polyvinylacetate (PVAc), polyurethane (PU), acrylic, polyvinylalcohol (PVOH), ethylenevinylalcohol (EVOH), butenediol vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH), a starch-based adhesive, a modified cellulose based adhesive, or a combination thereof, said adhesive layer having a thickness that is preferably comprised in the range of 1 to 10 pm,

- a paperboard or cardboard having a grammage in the range of 120 g/m² to 600 g/m². The container further includes at least one dispensing opening configured to allow the packaged contents to be dispensed from the container through the dispensing opening. The dispensing opening can be of the type that requires full opening of the package (typically by removing at least one element from the rest of the package). Alternatively, or in addition, the packaging can include a second type of dispensing opening that does not require full opening of the packaging, especially one dispensing opening that requires only displacing one element relative to the rest of the package, e.g. by twisting, turning or basculating one portion of the packaging relatively to the rest of the packaging, in order to open/close the packaging.

The multilayer oxygen and moisture barrier laminate comprising the cardboard and the organic and/or inorganic barrier layer increases the resistance of the container, and thus of the packaging item, against oxygen and moisture transfer, e.g., compared with the packaging items made of paper which are known from the prior art. This results in greater protection, preservation and/or a greater storage life of the contents within the container.

As understood in the context of the present invention, a "cylinder" preferably has circular cross section (or "base line"). However, also other, e.g., polygonal or elliptical base lines (i.e. cross sections) may be considered as "cylindrical" within the frame of the present invention. Preferably, the cylinder is a right cylinder. However, oblique cylinders can also be considered.

As understood in the context of the present invention a "cardboard" is a cellulosic flat structure of one or more paper layer(s) having a grammage comprised between 120 g/m² and 600 g/m². Below 120 g/m2, a cellulosic flat structure will rather be considered under the term "paper" in the context of the present invention.

The packaging item further comprises at least one "top" sleeve element with at least one sleeve element peripheral wall, the sleeve element being configured to be slid over at least a top end portion of the cylindrical container peripheral wall, such that the sleeve element peripheral wall at least partially encloses the container peripheral wall and the sleeve element at least partially covers the dispensing opening. Said sleeve element is made of a multilayer oxygen and moisture barrier laminate comprising at least a cardboard and an organic and/or inorganic barrier layer. The cardboard has a grammage comprised between 120 and 600 g/m² and a cellulose content higher than 90%, preferably higher than 95%, more preferably higher than 99%. As stated above, the multilayer oxygen and moisture barrier laminate comprising the cardboard and the organic and/or inorganic barrier layer increases the resistance of the container against oxygen and moisture transfer.

Configuring the sleeve element to be slid over at least a top end portion of the container peripheral wall such that the sleeve element peripheral wall at least partially encloses the container peripheral wall and the sleeve element at least partially covers the dispensing opening, provides greater protection of the contents within the container. In particular, this provides at least a double-walled protection of the packaged contents via the container peripheral wall and the sleeve element peripheral wall. Moreover, this allows to use the sleeve element to re-close the dispensing opening of the container after initial opening in a manner that oxygen and moisture barrier properties are maintained.

Alternatively or additionally, such sleeve element may be utilized for advertising and/or informational and/or aesthetic purposes, e.g., by providing printing at least partially on the sleeve element, whereas the container may be configured mainly to protect and/or conserve the contents of the packaging item, in particular in a hygienic and/or food safe manner. For instance, the container may be free of printing, adhesives, etc. This minimizes the risk of printing colors or adhesives - for instance - diffusing into the packaged contents (e.g., even if the barrier layer is very thin and/or the packaged contents are stored for extended periods of time). This may also allow the container and the sleeve element to be manufactured from different materials and/or different material compositions and/or different thicknesses. The sleeve element peripheral wall may completely enclose the container peripheral wall in a circumferential direction along a certain portion of the container's length.

The packaging item further comprises at least one "bottom" base element with at least one base element peripheral wall, the base element at least partially enclosing and being optionally but preferably immovably attached to a bottom end portion of the container peripheral wall. Said base element is made of a cardboard having a grammage comprised between 120 and 600 g/m² and a cellulose content higher than 90%, preferably higher than 95%, more preferably higher than 99%.

Preferably but not necessarily, the base element is made of a multilayer oxygen and moisture barrier laminate comprising said cardboard. The base element provides a support surface for the packaging item to rest on, e.g., on a tabletop. This allows the base element to be configured mainly to provide a reliable and sturdy interface between the packaging item and an external surface, e.g., a tabletop. Preferably, the base element does not contain/house any of the packaged contents. Preferably, the base element is not in direct contact with the packaged contents of the packaging item. Hence, this eliminates or at least reduces deformation of the base element caused by the packaged contents which increases the stability of the packaging item when resting on a surface by means of the base element. Preferably, the container bottom closure remains covered/sealed on the container throughout use of the packaging item, i.e., at least until the packaged contents of the packaging item has been completely dispensed from the packaging item.

Moreover, configuring the respective cardboard to have a grammage comprised between 120 and 600 g/m² increases the sturdiness and stability of the packaging item especially in the vertical or "axial" (top load) direction. However, the cardboard material is also particularly advantageous because it is sufficiently flexible, especially in the transverse direction, to be collapsed after use, such that it can take less space when it is disposed of for recycling. In particular, the container and/or the sleeve element and/or the base element is/are preferably dimensionally stable/rigid.

Configuring the cardboard to have a relatively high cellulose content, e.g., higher than 90%, preferably higher than 95%, more preferably higher than 99%, reduces the density and/or the production costs and/or increases the biodegradability and/or the recyclability of the packaging item, e.g., compared with materials which have a lower cellulose content.

In one important aspect of the invention, the sleeve element is dimensioned and configured such that when the packaging is in its fully closed configuration, said sleeve element overlaps the container element by at least 25mm, preferably at least 50mm, more preferably at least 80mm depending on the dimensions of the container as disclosed hereafter.

In another important aspect of the invention, the sleeve and container elements have a functional play (i.e. the difference between the internal diameter of the sleeve element and the external diameter of the container element of the package) that is sufficient to ensure proper attachment of the two in the closed configuration of the package, and such that no complex capping is necessary such as threads, or clipping mechanism. By selecting a functional play which is comprised preferably between 50 and 500 pm, preferably between 100 and 300 pm, the possibility to easily slide the top sleeve element onto the core container element is ensured, while the adherence between the two elements is sufficiently high to prevent sliding of one element relative to the other, without applying an external force.

The combination of the functional play and overlap between the sleeve and container elements ensures tightness of the package in its closed configuration, which allows so-called "open shelf life". Open shelf life means that when the package is first open, it can be reclosed after first use, with a guarantee that moisture and oxygen intake by the contents is very limited.

The packaging item, more specifically the container, is configured to house and/or preserve, at least for a certain time period, food material in the compartment, i.e., any material used as food, e.g., edible/drinkable material, or used to make/produce food. The packaged material, e.g., food material, may be liquid and/or solid matter. Preferably, the packaged material is solid, and in flowable format, in particular in powder format. The powder can have various granularity values, from small to coarse diameter particles, or be a mix of large and small diameter powder particles. It can also take the form of kibbles, or solid particle items of various shapes and sizes, which are either individually prepacked food items or not. The type of food product can be of wide range like e.g. coffee particles or solids, potato chips, chocolate solids, petfood kibbles, compacted edible items such as e.g. compacted coffee doses, etc.

The above-identified components of the packaging item, e.g., the container, the sleeve element and the base element, may be provided in a range of different dimensions. Preferably, the container may have a width/diameter in a range of 20 mm to 200 mm. Preferably, the container may have a length in a range of 50 mm to 500 mm, preferably 75 mm to 250 mm.

Preferably the diameters of the elements are such that they allow a comfortable handling with a user hand. The diameter is advantageously comprised between 20 and 200 mm, preferably between 40 and 100 mm.

The dispensing opening may be arranged at an end of the container, e.g., at the top end of the container. Alternatively, or additionally, the dispensing opening may be defined at least partially in the container peripheral wall.

The container bottom closure can be a membrane and/or a foil, e.g., a metal, e.g., aluminium, ora metallized material, e.g., a metallized paperor a metallized plastic, such as a metallized polyolefin, preferably a metallized polypropylene or a metallized polyethylene terepthalate (PET), the thickness of which is comprised preferably between 5 and 30 microns, more preferably between 10 and 15 microns. Alternatively, or additionally, the container bottom closure may be made of non-metallized plastic, e.g., a polymer such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or a layer of a polyolefin such as a polyethylene (PE), the thickness of which is comprised between 20 and 60 microns.

The content percentage(s) of the material(s) mentioned above, e.g., the cellulose content, are defined in wt% relative to a total weight of the respective material.

Preferably, at least a section of the base element protrudes from the container beyond the container bottom closure. Hence, when the container is stood on a surface (e.g., a tabletop), with the base element resting on the surface, the base element may space the container bottom closure from the surface. This may prevent mechanical damage to the container bottom closure. Moreover, this may allow the packaging item to be well- supported on the surface substantially independently from a state of the container bottom closure, e.g., even if the container bottom closure is deformed, e.g., if the container bottom closure bulges due to a weight and/or volume of the packaged contents within the container.

Preferably, the packaging item further includes at least one ledge. The sleeve element, preferably a bottom end of the sleeve element, may be configured to abut at least partially against the ledge when the sleeve element is slid overthe container. Preferably, the ledge is defined at an interface between the base element and the container. In other words, the ledge may be used as a stop for the sleeve element which may provide an easier, more intuitive and/or more reliable closure of the packaging item by a user. Moreover, the ledge may provide a haptic and/or optical feedback to the user to ensure proper closure of container by means of the sleeve element. The ledge may be provided by dimensioning the base element wider than the container at least in a direction in which the ledge extends, e.g., by configuring the base element to have a greater diameter than the container.

Preferably, the ledge may be defined at least partially by a top end of the base element, preferably at least partially by a top end of the peripheral wall of the base element. In other words, a bottom end of the sleeve element may at least partially rest against and/or abut the top end of the peripheral wall of the base element when the sleeve element is slid over the container. Preferably, a shape and/or a size, e.g., a circumference, of the top end of the base element may substantially match a shape and/or a size of the bottom end of the sleeve element.

This abutment feature of the base element against the sleeve element when the packaging item is in its fully closed configuration, ensures that the mechanical resistance of the packaging item against a top load (i.e. in the vertical or "axial" direction) is guaranteed, because the forces exerted in the vertical direction are held by three contact points:

A first contact point at the interface between the upper edge of the cylindrical container, and the internal surface of the sleeve element upper wall,

A second contact point at the interface between the lower edge of the cylindrical container (and the cylindrical container bottom closure), and the internal surface of the base element lower wall, and

A third contact point between the lower edge of the sleeve element and the upper edge of the base element.

In this configuration, the three constitutive elements of the packaging item, i.e. the container, the sleeve element and the base element, support altogether the stacking forces that apply in the axial (vertical) direction onto the packaging item. The compression forces that apply to each element of the packaging item individually are therefore reduced and the integrity of each of the container, sleeve element and base element is preserved. The amount of material used for making each of these elements can be reduced but the mechanical resistance of the entire packaging item is maintained.

Stackability of the whole packaging item, is thus guaranteed, which ensures that the integrity of each individual package is not impacted when a lot of such packages are piled up one onto the other for transportation or storage.

Preferably the sleeve element and/or the base element is "cylindrical". More preferably, the sleeve element and/or the base element is shaped as a cylinder having a circular base line (i.e. "cross section"). The inner and/or outer diameter of the cylinder forming the sleeve element and the cylinder forming the base element may be the same. By "cylindrical", it is meant - within the frame of the present specification - that the container, the sleeve element and/or the base element may be formed as a cylinder having also an elliptical or polygonal cross section.

Preferably, the sleeve element and/or the container is/are configured such that the sleeve element can be removed from and slid over the container multiple times. This may allow the container to be opened and reclosed multiple times by the sleeve element.

Preferably, the packaging item further includes at least one container top closure configured to close, preferably sealingly close, the dispensing opening of the upper edge of the cylindrical container, in order to prevent the packaged contents from being dispensed through the dispensing opening. Preferably, the container top closure is at least partially removable, preferably peelable, from the dispensing opening.

In one embodiment, the upper edge of the container peripheral wall can comprise an inwardly inclined portion directed towards the interior of the container. An annular ring (or "collar", or "washer") is sealed under the inwardly inclined portion, on the inside of the container. The annular ring can be a flat ring comprising an inclined external portion in its periphery. The external diameter, and width of the annular ring are such that that at least the inclined external portion of the annular ring overlaps radially with the container inwardly inclined portion to allow a proper sealing between the two. Preferably, the radial overlap between the inclined portion of the annular ring and the inclined portion of the container upper edge, has a width comprised between 1 and 10 mm, more preferably between 3 and 7 mm. The flat innermost portion of the annular ring protrudes inwardly from the container inclined portion, thus leaving an inward sealing surface of the annular ring which is sufficient to allow proper sealing of a container top closure thereon. Preferably, the inward sealing surface of the annular ring has a width comprised between 1 and 5 mm, more preferably between 2 and 3 mm. The annular ring inclined portion has an effect to rigidify the ring in the axial and radial directions. Similarly, the inwardly inclined portion of the container upper edge also rigidities this portion of the container both radially and axially. The "axial direction" is by convention the direction oriented along the vertical symmetry axis of the packaging item, whereas a "radial direction" is a direction oriented in a plane generally perpendicular to the axial direction. By sealing the two inclined portions described above, the sealing portion between the annular ring and the container wall is provided with a good resistance against mechanical deformation, in the axial and also, more importantly in the radial direction.

The annular ring can be manufactured from a rolled paper, from cardboard, metal, from a plastic such as a biodegradable or recyclable polymer, or a combination thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the annular ring is manufactured from a multilayer cardboard having barrier properties against oxygen and/or moisture transfer. More precisely, in such preferred embodiment, the annular ring is a flat ring, comprising at least the following layers, from its upper side to its lower side (oriented towards the interior of the container):

- at least one organic barrier layer providing oxygen barrier properties, comprising a polymer selected within the list of: polyvinylalcohol (PVOH), ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), butenediol vinyl alcohol co-polymer (BVOH), or a combination thereof, in an amount of 0.5 to 20 g/m², preferably in an amount of 1 to 10 g/m², more preferably in an amount of 2 to 8 g/m², - a paper layer having a grammage in the range of 30 to less than 120 g/m²,

- a paperboard or cardboard having a grammage in the range of 120 g/m² to 600 g/m².

The oxygen and/or moisture barrier properties achieved by the annular ring are preferably similar to the barrier properties of the material used for manufacturing the container peripheral wall. The sealing overlap between the container and the ring, and the orientation of the layers in each of these two elements guarantee a proper continuity of the barrier properties in the sealing zone. To this effect, it is also preferred that the cellulosic layers (e.g. paper, paperboard, cardboard) in the container peripheral wall, are turned towards the outside whereas the organic and inorganic barrier layers and the sealing layer are turned towards the inside of the container, and on the contrary, the barrier layers and the sealing layer of the annular ring are oriented towards the outside and its cellulosic layers are turned to the inside of the container (in contact with the container contents). The annular ring ensures a proper continuity of the oxygen and/or moisture barrier properties between the container and the container top closure.

The container top closure is preferably sealed onto the upper surface of the annular ring that protrudes inwardly from the container inclined portion, along the entire periphery of said ring. As described above, the role of the annular ring is to reinforce mechanically the rigidity of the container in the region of its opening, such that any radial force applied onto the container walls in the upper region of the container, does not result in a deformation of the container.

Due to its inclined profile, the upper portion of the container peripheral wall that surrounds the dispensing opening also facilitates the insertion of the container into the sleeve element, which facilitates reclosability of the packaging item. This is particularly important because the packaging item is designed to be opened and reclosed multiple times. The container top closure may be a membrane and/or a foil, e.g., a metal, e.g., aluminium, or a metallized material, e.g., a metallized paper or a metalized plastic, such as a metallized polyolefin, preferably a metallized polypropylene. Alternatively, or additionally, the container top closure may be made of plastic, e.g., a polymer such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

In one embodiment, the top closure is a multilayer membrane comprising an aluminium foil layer, the thickness of which is preferably comprised between 20 and 60 microns, and a sealable plastic layer, for instance a polyolefin such as a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) layer adhered to the aluminium foil layer with an adhesive. The thickness of the sealable plastic layer is preferably comprised between 10 and 40 microns, more preferably between 20 and 30 microns. The advantage of such an aluminium foil peelable membrane achieves extremely high barrier properties against oxygen and moisture transfer. Oxygen transmission rate (OTR) and water vapour transmission rate (WVTR) values measured for such types of aluminium membranes are so low that are almost not measurable, and therefore are considered a reference in terms of barrier efficiency in the industry.

However, in an alternative embodiment, in order to guarantee a high cellulosic contents for recyclability of the packaging item, the top closure may be made of a heat-sealable or ultrasonic sealable paper-based membrane that is recyclable in a paper stream process. To this effect, the membrane may comprise at least 90% of cellulose fibers. In such a case, it may comprise at least one of an organic and/or inorganic very thin layer attached to a layer of paper, in order to provide barrier properties to oxygen and/or moisture, that are similar to the barrier properties of the container peripheral wall. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the membrane comprises the following layers, in order from its outer side to its inner side (the inner side being the side in contact with the container contents): a paper layer having a grammage in the range of 30 to less than 120 g/m², at least one organic barrier layer of a polymer selected within the list of: polyvinylalcohol (PVOH), ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), butenediol vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH), or a combination thereof, in an amount of 0.5 to 20 g/m², preferably in an amount of 1 to 10 g/m², more preferably in an amount of 2 to 8 g/m², at least one inorganic barrier layer selected within the list of: metals, metalloids, or a combination thereof, said inorganic layer having a thickness comprised between 1 and 100 nm, and at least one organic sealing layer made of an ethylene acrylic or methacrylic acid ionomer, said heat seal layer being applied in an amount comprised between 2 and 20 g/m², preferably in an amount comprised between 4 and 9 g/m².

Generally, inorganic layers provide barrier against moisture (i.e. water vapour) transfer, whereas organic layers provide barrier against oxygen transfer.

The peelable membrane is preferably attached to the peripheral wall of the container by a heat-sealing process, but alternatives such as an ultrasonic sealing process can also be used.

In other words, the container top closure may provide a moisture and oxygen barrier that is removable upon initial opening of the packaging item by the consumer (e.g., after removing the sleeve element). Subsequently, the container opening may be reclosed by sliding (or re-sliding) the sleeve element onto the container. After removal of the container top closure during the first use of the packaging item, it is the sleeve element that is able to provide oxygen and/or moisture barrier properties to the packaging item.

The container further comprises a container bottom closure (or "container bottom wall") which is preferably made of a material achieving oxygen and/or barrier properties similar to those of the material used for making the container walls.

In one embodiment, the container bottom closure can be a multilayer foil comprising a first layer of metallized polyethylene terepthalate (PET) having a thickness of 12 microns that is attached to a second layer of polyethylene (PE) having a thickness of 40 microns. The polyethylene layer provides good sealing properties for sealing the container bottom to the bottom edge of the container peripheral wall.

Alternatively, the container bottom may be manufactured from a multilayer cellulose-based material having oxygen and/or moisture barrier properties. In one embodiment, the multilayer material comprises at least the following layers, from its outer side to its inner side (oriented towards the interior of the container): - at least one organic sealing layer made of an ethylene acrylic or methacrylic acid ionomer, said heat seal layer being applied in an amount comprised between 2 and 20 g/m², preferably in an amount comprised between 4 and 9 g/m², then

- a paper layer having a grammage in the range of 30 to less than 120 g/m²,

Preferably, the outer surface of the peripheral portion of the container bottom closure is sealed onto the inner surface of the container peripheral wall by a heatsealing process.

The base element comprises a base element bottom closure that covers at least partially the surface of the bottom opening in the base element. The base element bottom closure may be made at least of a cardboard material or paper, e.g. a cardboard or paper material with a grammage comprised between 120 and 600 g/m² and a cellulose content higher than 90%, preferably higher than 95%, more preferably higher than 99%.

In one embodiment, similarly to the construction of the sleeve element top wall, the base element bottom closure can be made of a material comprising at least the following layers, from its outer side to its inner side (the inner side being the side oriented towards the interior of the base element):

- a paper layer having a grammage in the range of 30 to less than 120 g/m²,

Alternatively, or additionally, a membrane and/or a foil, e.g., a sealable paper, a sealable plastic film, a metal, e.g., aluminium, or a metallized material, e.g., a metallized paper or a metallized plastic, such as a metallized polyolefin, preferably a metallized polyethylene or polypropylene can be attached to the outer surface of the base element wall and to the outer surface of the bottom closure. Alternatively, or additionally, the base element bottom closure may be made of plastic, e.g., a polymer such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

In one embodiment, the membrane and/or foil that may be attached to the outer surface of the base element wall and to the outer surface of the bottom closure may comprise the following layers, in order from its outer side to its inner side (the inner side being the side in contact with the outer surfaces of the base element wall and the bottom closure): a paper layer having a grammage in the range of 30 to less than

120 g/m², at least one organic barrier layer of a polymer selected within the list of: polyvinylalcohol (PVOH), ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), butenediol vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH), or a combination thereof, in an amount of 0.5 to 20 g/m², preferably in an amount of 1 to 10 g/m², more preferably in an amount of 2 to 8 g/m², at least one inorganic barrier layer selected within the list of: metals, metalloids, or a combination thereof, said inorganic layer having a thickness comprised between 1 and 100 nm, and at least one organic sealing layer made of an ethylene acrylic or methacrylic acid ionomer, said heat seal layer being applied in an amount comprised between 2 and 20 g/m², preferably in an amount comprised between 4 and 9 g/m².

The additional membrane serves to protect the sealing edge between the base wall and the bottom closure against scratches or accidental peeling.

Preferably, a similar construction applies to the sleeve element.

Generally, the constitutive elements of a package according to the present invention are chosen within packaging materials comprising a high contents of cellulose and having barrier properties against oxygen and moisture. Such barrier properties are achieved by incorporating organic and/or inorganic layers in the packaging material structure, such as to provide values of Oxygen Transmission Rate (OTR) below 1, preferably below 0.5 cm³/m²/day measured at 23°C and 50% relative humidity (RH), and values of water vapour transmission rate (WVTR) below 1, preferably below 0.5 g/m²/day measured at 23°C and 85% RH.

Preferably, the packaged contents is a bulk solid, preferably a flowable bulk solid, preferably a flowable powder. The powder may include granules and/or particles. Preferably, the packaged contents is a coffee powder, preferably a soluble and/or freeze-dried coffee powder, or a milk powder. Preferably, the packaged contents is an edible product for human and/or animal consumption and/or the packaged contents is configured for producing an edible product for human and/or animal consumption.

Preferably, the sleeve element peripheral wall and the container peripheral wall overlap axially, preferably along a longitudinal axis of the container, by at least 4 cm, more preferably at least 5 cm, more preferably at least 7.5 cm, more preferably at least 10 cm, more preferably at least 12.5 cm, more preferably at least 15 cm, when the sleeve element is slid onto the container. In other words, the sleeve element peripheral wall may extend over the container peripheral wall by the above-mentioned value(s) in an axial direction.

Preferably, the sleeve element and the container are configured to be frictionally connected, preferably at least by friction between the container peripheral wall and the sleeve element peripheral wall, when the sleeve element is slid over the container. This may provide a relatively sturdy connection and/or seal between the sleeve element and the container. This may increase the storage life of the contents in the packaging item. Moreover, this may prevent the sleeve element from inadvertently dislodging from the container, e.g., when the user grips only the sleeve element and lifts the packaging by the sleeve element.

Preferably, when the sleeve element is slid onto the container, the sleeve element peripheral wall overlaps the container peripheral wall in an axial direction along at least 50%, preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, of an axial length of the container. It is believed that these lengths may provide for an adequate frictional connection between the sleeve element and the container as well as adequate moisture and oxygen barrier properties for keeping the packaged contents fresh.

Preferably, the base element peripheral wall overlaps the container peripheral wall in an axial direction along at least 5%, preferably at least 10%, more preferably at least 20%, more preferably at least 30%, of an axial length of the container. It is believed that such overlap may provide for a stable connection of the base element to the container.

Preferably, the container and/or the sleeve element and/or the base element is/are composed of at least 50 vol% paper, more preferably at least 60 vol% paper, more preferably at least 70 vol% paper, more preferably at least 80 vol% paper, more preferably at least 90 vol% paper, more preferably at least 95 vol% paper.

Preferably, at least one opening is defined in the sleeve element, preferably in the sleeve element peripheral wall, more preferably adjacent to a top end of the sleeve element peripheral wall. The opening may be configured to function as a vent that allows gas to pass through the vent into and/or out of the packaging item during opening of the sleeve element. This may at least partially equalize a pressure within the packaging item vis-a-vis an environment which may facilitate removal of the sleeve element. Alternatively, or additionally, the opening may be configured as a pouring opening that allows the packaged contents to be dispensed therethrough after sliding the sleeve element upwards and/or away from the base element.

Preferably, the container is free of printing and/or labels, and optionally wherein the sleeve element and/orthe base element is printed at least along an outer surface of the respective peripheral wall.

In the context of the present invention, any of the barrier layers may be provided as an organic barrier layer, e.g. a barrier layer made a polyethylene vinyl alcohol- type polymer, or a compound thereof (PVOH, EVOH, BVOH, or compounds thereof). The thickness of the organic layer, e.g. the thickness of a PVOH layer, may be less than 20 pm, preferably less than 10 pm, or more preferably less than 8 pm. Any organic layers in the structure, if present, are preferably deposited by an aqueous dispersion process, which provides low thickness, easy separation of molecules in a recycling process, and therefore a high compatibility with paper recycling stream processes. Any inorganic barrier layer, if present in the packaging material structure, may comprise a metal such as aluminum, and/or a metalloid such as SiOx (silicon oxide) or AIOx (aluminium oxide). The barrier layer may also be made from a combination of various layers, e.g. at least one organic layer (e.g. PVOH) and at least one inorganic layer (e.g., aluminum).

Importantly, several cardboard-based packaging material structures can be used for manufacturing the various elements of the present packaging. The various constitutive elements of the packaging can be made out of the same, or different packaging materials. But generally and preferably, the packaging materials that are used are laminates comprising a high cellulosic contents to achieve recyclability in the paper stream processes, and also contain at least one layer that provides barrier properties against oxygen and/or moisture transfer.

A first preferred packaging material structure is a multilayer that comprises, from outside towards the inside, the following layers:

A paperboard layer having a grammage between 120 g/m² and 600 g/m²,

An optional adhesive layer having a grammage between 0.5 and 10 g/m²,

A paper layer having a grammage comprised between 30 and less than 120 g/m², at least one organic barrier layer of a polymer selected within the list of: polyvinylalcohol (PVOH), ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), butenediol vinyl alcohol co-polymer (BVOH), or a combination thereof, in an amount of 0.5 to 20 g/m², preferably in an amount of 1 to 10 g/m², more preferably in an amount of 2 to 8 g/m², at least one inorganic barrier layer selected within the list of: metals, metalloids, or a combination thereof, said inorganic layer having a thickness comprised between 1 and 100 nm, and at least one organic heat seal layer made of an acrylic or methacrylic acid polymer or polyolefin grafted with at least one type of ionomer - preferably a sodium ionomer), said heat seal layer being applied in an amount comprised between 2 and 20 g/m², preferably in an amount comprised between 4 and 9 g/m².

The inorganic layer comprises metals or metalloids selected within the list of: aluminium, aluminium oxide (AIOx), or silicon oxide (SiOx), said metals and/or metalloids being deposited either by vacuum deposition or transfer metallization.

A second preferred packaging material structure is a multilayer that comprises, from outside towards the inside, the following layers: A paperboard layer having a grammage between 120 g/m² and 600 g/m²,

An optional adhesive layer having a grammage between 0.5 and 10 g/m²,

A paper layer having a grammage comprised between 30 and less than 120 g/m², at least one organic barrier layer of a polymer selected within the list of: polyvinylalcohol (PVOH), ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), butenediol vinyl alcohol co-polymer (BVOH), or a combination thereof, in an amount of 0.5 to 20 g/m², preferably in an amount of 1 to 10 g/m², more preferably in an amount of 2 to 8 g/m², at least one inorganic barrier layer selected within the list of: metals, metalloids, or a combination thereof, said inorganic layer having a thickness comprised between 1 and 100 nm, and at least one organic barrier layer of a polymer selected within the list of: polyvinylalcohol (PVOH), ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), butenediol vinyl alcohol co-polymer (BVOH), or a combination thereof, in an amount of 0.5 to 20 g/m², preferably in an amount of 1 to 10 g/m², more preferably in an amount of 2 to 8 g/m², at least one organic heat seal layer made of a polyolefin applied by extrusion, said heat seal layer being applied in an amount comprised between 2 and 20 g/m², preferably in an amount comprised between 4 and 9 g/m².

In one embodiment of the invention, the orientation of the layers of the first or second preferred packaging structures described above can be inverted, for the construction of any one of (or all) the following elements of the packaging item: the sleeve element peripheral wall, the sleeve element top wall, the base element peripheral wall, and/or the base element bottom closure.

In other terms, in such cases, the order of the layers of the first preferred packaging structure, in cases applicable to embodiments of the invention, described above comprises from the inside towards the outside:

A paperboard layer having a grammage between 120 g/m² and 600 g/m²,

An optional adhesive layer having a grammage between 0.5 and 10 g/m²,

Alternatively, the order of the layers of the second preferred packaging structure described above, and in cases applicable to embodiments of the invention, may comprise from the inside (i.e. the side of the material oriented towards the interior of the packaging item) towards the outside:

A paperboard layer having a grammage between 120 g/m² and 600 g/m², An optional adhesive layer having a grammage between 0.5 and 10 g/m²,

This embodiment of the first and second preferred packaging structures gives a metallized appearance to the external surface of the packaging item. In this case, the cellulose based layers are therefore oriented towards the inside of the packaging item and not visible from outside when the packaging item is closed.

In the preferred embodiment where the peripheral walls of the container, sleeve element and base element are formed into cylinders, they are preferably manufactured by rolling a flat material into a tube and seaming the longitudinal edges of the tube in an "edge-to-edge" configuration (i.e. without overlapping the edges) with a flat seaming strip that is applied on at least one side of the tube. The seaming strip is a flexible foil or film having a thickness preferably less than 50 microns. It is preferably attached along the entire length of the longitudinal seam of the tube and overlaps both edges of the tube that need to be adjoined, with an overlap of the seaming strip onto each edge which is preferably at least 1 mm, preferably at least 2 mm, but preferably not more than 10 mm. Preferably two seaming strips are applied, on both side of the tube. Preferably, the seaming strip is a tear-resistant heat-sealable multilayer strip film comprising polyethylene (PE) and polyethylene terepthalate (PET) in a PE/PET or PE/PET/PE configuration.

In one embodiment of the invention, the outer surfaces of the sleeve and/or the base elements can be printed, preferably with a food grade ink. Digital (inkjet or laser printing) may be used, however a flexographic printing process is preferred. As an alternative, or in addition to printing, at least a portion of the outer surfaces of the sleeve and/or the base elements may be labelled.

In a second aspect, the invention also relates to a packaged food product which includes at least one packaging item according to any of the embodiments described herein and at least one food material contained within the container of the packaging item.

Preferably, the food material is a bulk solid, preferably a flowable bulk solid, preferably a flowable powder. The powder may include granules and/or particles. Preferably, the packaged contents is a coffee or milk powder, preferably a soluble coffee powder.

Brief description of the drawings

Additional features and advantages of the present invention are described in, and will be apparent from, the description of the presently preferred embodiments which are set out below with reference to the drawings in which:

Figure 1 schematically shows a partially exploded view of a packaging item according to an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 2 schematically shows the packaging item of Figure 1 in an assembled state; Figure 3 schematically shows an enlarged view of a container top closure of the packaging item of Figures 1 and 2;

Figure 4 schematically shows an enlarged view of a container bottom closure of the packaging item of Figures 1 and 2 according to an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 5 schematically shows an enlarged view of a container bottom closure of the packaging item of Figures 1 and 2 according to a further embodiment of the invention; and

Figure 6 schematically shows an enlarged view of a container bottom closure of the packaging item of Figures 1 and 2 according to a further embodiment of the invention;

Figures 7A and 7B are schematic views showing the partial lifting of one packaging element relative to the others, in order to open a dosing opening;

Figures 8A and 8B are schematic partial cut views showing respectively two configurations for the orientation of cellulosic and oxygen/moisture barrier layers in a sleeve element or a base element;

Figure 9A is a schematic fully exploded perspective view that shows an arrangement of the constitutive elements of one embodiment of a packaging item according to the invention;

Figure 9B is a schematic cut view of an embodiment of a packaging item according to the invention.

Detailed description

Figures 1 and 2 show a packaging item 100 which comprises a cylindrical container 102 made of a multilayer oxygen and moisture barrier laminate. The multilayer oxygen and moisture barrier laminate comprises a cardboard an organic barrier layer and in inorganic barrier layer. The cardboard may have a grammage comprised between 120 and 600 g/m² and/or may have a cellulose content higher than 90%, preferably higher than 95%, more preferably higher than 99%. More precisely, preferably the container peripheral wall can be manufactured from a cellulose-based multilayer material having barrier properties against oxygen and/or moisture transfer, and comprising at least the following layers, from its inner side (oriented towards the interior of the container) to its outer side:

- a paper layer having a grammage in the range of 30 to less than 120 g/m²,

The container 102 includes a container peripheral wall 104 and a container bottom closure (or "container bottom wall") 106 which define at least one compartment 108 for packaging contents, e.g., a food material. The container 102 further comprises a dispensing opening 110 configured to allow the packaged contents to be dispensed from the container 102 through the dispensing opening 110.

In one preferred embodiment illustrated in figure 1, the container bottom wall 106 is a multilayer foil comprising a first layer of metallized polyethylene terepthalate (PET) having a thickness of 12 microns that is attached to a second layer of polyethylene (PE) having a thickness of 40 microns. The polyethylene layer provides good sealing properties for sealing the container wall to the bottom portion of the container peripheral wall.

The packaging item 100 further comprises a sleeve element 114 with a sleeve element peripheral wall 116. The sleeve element further comprises a sleeve element top wall 150 illustrated in figure 1 which closes at least partially the top extremity of said sleeve element.

The sleeve element 114 is configured to be slid over at least a top end portion 118 of the container peripheral wall 104 such that the sleeve element peripheral wall 116 at least partially encloses the container peripheral wall 104 and the sleeve element 114 at least partially covers the dispensing opening 110. The sleeve element 114 may be made of a multilayer oxygen and moisture barrier laminate comprising a cardboard and an organic barrier layer. The cardboard may have a grammage comprised between 120 and 600 g/m² and/or a cellulose content higher than 90%, preferably higher than 95%, more preferably higher than 99%.

The packaging item 100 further comprises a base element 122 with a base element peripheral wall 124. The base element 122 comprises a base element bottom wall (or bottom "closure") 160 which closes at least partially the lower extremity of said base element. The base element 122 at least partially encloses and is preferably (but not strictly necessarily) immovably attached to a bottom end portion 128 of the container peripheral wall 104. In other words, the base element 122 may be slid at least partially over the container peripheral wall 104 and optionally but preferably firmly attached thereto. The base element 122 may be made of a cardboard having a grammage comprised between 120 and 600 g/m² and/or a cellulose content higher than 90%, preferably higher than 95%, more preferably higher than 99%. The base element 122 may be made of a cardboard, and optionally of a multilayer oxygen and moisture barrier laminate comprising an organic barrier layer.

The packaging item 100 further includes a container top closure 132 configured to close, preferably sealingly close, the dispensing opening 110 to prevent the packaged contents from being dispensed through the dispensing opening 110. The container top closure 132 may be sealed (e.g., by a heat seal, adhesive, and/or welding) to the top end (i.e. upper edge) portion 118 of the container peripheral wall, in particular around the dispensing opening 110 but alternatively and preferably, the top closure 132 may also be sealed to a ring (or "collar" or "washer") 180 that is itself attached to the top end (i.e. upper edge) portion 118 of the container peripheral wall, as illustrated in figures 3, 9A and 9B. The container top closure 132 is at least partially removable from the dispensing opening 110, e.g. upon initial opening of the container 102. Once the containertop closure 132 has been at least partially removed from the dispensing opening 110, the container 102, more specifically the dispensing opening 110, may be reclosed and reopened, preferably multiple times, by sliding the sleeve element 114 over the container 102 and removing it therefrom.

The packaging item 100 further includes a second opening 140 defined in the sleeve element peripheral wall 116. The second opening 140 may be configured to be at least partially closeable, preferably re-closeable, preferably multiple times. The second opening 140 is closed by the container peripheral wall when the sleeve element 114 is slid, e.g. fully slid, onto the container 102, and/or the second opening 140 may be opened and reclosed by rotation of the sleeve element 114 with respect to the container 102 (e.g., by providing a cut out along a portion of the container peripheral wall 104 that is configured to overlap with the second opening 140 in the sleeve element peripheral wall 116 when the second opening 140 is open).

The second opening 140 may be configured to function as a vent that allows gas to pass therethrough into and/or out of the packaging item 100 during and/or prior to opening of the sleeve element 114. Alternatively, or additionally, the second opening 140 may function as a pouring opening that allows the contents to be dispensed therethrough, preferably after sliding the sleeve element 114 upwards and/or away from the container 102.

In one embodiment, which is only optional, an element 142 may be displaceable back towards the second opening 140, preferably via interaction between the sleeve element 114 and the container 102 while the sleeve element 114 is slid onto or further onto the container 102. This may allow the second opening 140 to be at least partially reclosed by means of the displaceable element 142. Preferably, the cylindrical container 102 is free of printing and/or labels. The sleeve element 114 may include one or more printings and/or labels 144, as shown in Figures 1 and 2.

The packaging item 100 further includes a ledge 146. The ledge 146 is defined by an end 147 of the base element 122, in particular an distal edge 148 of the base element peripheral wall 124. The sleeve element 114 is configured to abut at least partially against the ledge 146, when the sleeve element 114 is slid over the container 102, as shown in Figure 2.

More precisely, this abutment feature of the base element against the sleeve element when the packaging item is in its fully closed configuration, ensures that the mechanical resistance of the packaging item against a top load (i.e. in the vertical direction) is guaranteed, because the forces exerted in the vertical direction are held by three contact points:

A second contact point at the interface between the lower edge of the cylindrical container (and the cylindrical container bottom closure), and the internal surface of the base element, and

Figure 3 shows an enlarged view of the container top closure 132 of the packaging item 100 of Figures 1 and 2. As schematically shown in Figure 3, the container top closure 132 is attached, preferably sealingly attached, preferably adhesively, to an annular ring (or "collar" or "washer") 180 of the container 102. The container top closure 132 may be configured to be pealed from the annular ring 180, in particular from the annular ring 180, and/or the container top closure 132 may be puncturable to at least partially open the dispensing opening 110. The annular ring 180 may be made of cardboard. Alternatively, the annular ring 180 may be formed as a section of the container peripheral wall 104. As described above, the main role of the annular ring 180 is to reinforce mechanically the rigidity of the container 102 in the region of its dispensing opening 110, such that any radial force applied onto the container walls in the upper region of the container, does not result in its deformation. Furthermore, the annular ring 180 is preferably manufactured from a material which has barrier properties against oxygen and moisture transfer, such that said annular ring 180 allows a continuity of the oxygen and/or moisture barrier between the container 102 and the container top closure 132.

Figures 4 to 6 schematically show different embodiments for configuring the container bottom closure 106. As schematically shown in Figure 4, the bottom closure 106 may be attached, preferably sealingly attached, preferably adhesively, to an inner side 154 of the container peripheral wall 104.

As schematically shown in Figure 5, the bottom closure 106 may be attached to a flared section 158 of the container 102 which extends outwardly, in particular radially outwardly, away from the compartment 108. The flared section 158 extends axially away from the dispensing opening 110.

As schematically shown in Figure 6, the bottom closure 106 may be attached to a section 160 of the container 102 which extends outwardly, in particular radially outwardly, away from the compartment 108 and axially towards the dispensing opening 110.

As depicted in Figures 7A and 7B, the packaging may comprise a dosing opening 170 in the side of the sleeve element 114. By lifting the sleeve element 114 (without detaching it from the rest of the packaging), a passage is created between the interior compartment of the packaging, and the dosing opening 170, so as to create a passage for the product. The diameter (comprised between 5mm and 30mm) of the dosing opening is sufficient to let some product flow out in a metered quantity and flow, which allows to conveniently dose the product as illustrated in figure 7B. After dosing, the sleeve element 114 is pushed back onto the rest of the packaging to close the latter. In figures 8A and 8B are illustrated two alternative configurations for the construction of the sleeve element 114 and/or of the base element 122.

As described above, the base element 122 comprises a base element peripheral wall 124, a base element bottom wall 160 that covers at least partially the surface of the bottom opening in the base element. The sleeve element 114 comprises a sleeve element peripheral wall 116, and a sleeve element top wall 150 which closes at least partially the top extremity of said sleeve element.

In one embodiment, the peripheral wall of the base element may be manufactured from a cellulose based (e.g. a paper or cardboard based) material to which at least one layer of an oxygen and/or moisture barrier material is attached. The oxygen and/or moisture barrier material may comprise at least one of an organic and/or inorganic layer. The at least one oxygen and/or moisture barrier layer may be attached to the cellulose base layer by extrusion, lamination, or by an aqueous dispersion process. In case of an inorganic layer, it may be deposited by a vacuum deposition process, as an ultrathin layer of a nanometric thickness.

In one embodiment illustrated in figure 8A, the peripheral walls of the base element and of the sleeve element are manufactured from a multilayer packaging material structure that comprises, from outside towards the inside, the following layers:

- a paperboard layer having a grammage between 120 g/m2 and 600 g/m²,

- an optional adhesive layer having a grammage between 0.5 and 10 g/m²,

- a paper layer having a grammage comprised between 30 and less than 120 g/m²,

- at least one organic barrier layer of a polymer selected within the list of: polyvinylalcohol (PVOH), ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), butenediol vinyl alcohol co-polymer (BVOH), or a combination thereof, in an amount of 0.5 to 20 g/m², preferably in an amount of 1 to 10 g/m², more preferably in an amount of 2 to 8 g/m²,

- at least one inorganic barrier layer selected within the list of: metals, metalloids, or a combination thereof, said inorganic layer having a thickness comprised between 1 and 100 nm, and

- at least one organic heat seal layer made of an acrylic or methacrylic acid polymer or polyolefin grafted with at least one type of ionomer - preferably a sodium ionomer), preferably an ethylene acrylic or methacrylic acid ionomer, said heat seal layer being applied in an amount comprised between 2 and 20 g/m², preferably in an amount comprised between 4 and 9 g/m².

The inorganic layer can comprise metals or metalloids selected within the list of: aluminium, aluminium oxide (AIOx), or silicon oxide (SiOx), said metals and/or metalloids being deposited either by vacuum deposition or transfer metallization.

In this embodiment schematically illustrated in figure 8A, the group of barrier layers 190 comprising especially a metallized layer is turned towards the inside of the container (not visible from outside when the packaging item is closed), whereas the cellulosic (paperboard, paper) layer 200 is oriented towards the outside of the container.

In an alternative embodiment of the invention illustrated in figure 8B, the order of the layers of the peripheral wall is reversed compared to the previously described first embodiment illustrated in reference to figure 8A. In this alternative embodiment, the group of barrier layers 190 comprising especially a metallized layer is turned towards the outside, whereas the cellulosic (paperboard, paper) layer 200 is oriented towards the inside of the container. This configuration provides the packaging item 100 with a metallic appearance from the outside, especially when it is closed. This alternative embodiment provides an outside surface of the packaging item which has a very smooth surface, even at microscopic level, due to the metallization layer, and the outermost organic heat seal layer. Such a smooth surface provides an advantage, and is therefore preferred, when the outer surface of the base element 122 and /orthe outer surface of the sleeve element 114 is printed. It enables the use of a flexographic printing technique, which is less expensive than a digital printing technique that is usually necessary to print a rough paperboard or paper surface.

In both embodiments described above with reference to figures 8A and 8B, the base element bottom wall 160 and the sleeve element top wall 150 can be made of the same material as the peripheral walls of the base and sleeve elements to which they are attached. The sleeve element top wall 150 comprises a flat disc having an external circumferential portion 151 that is slightly inclined downwardly, as shown in figures 8A and 8B. The upper portion 152 of the sleeve element peripheral wall 114 is also inclined towards the internal volume of the sleeve, such that the inclined portions 151, 152 of both elements overlap and can be sealed together as illustrated in figures 8A and 8B. In the embodiments depicted in figures 8A and 8B, an additional membrane 210 can be attached to the outer surface of the inclined portion 152 of the sleeve element peripheral wall, and to the outer surface of the top wall 150. The additional membrane 210 comprises the following layers, in order from its outer side to its inner side (the inner side being the side in contact with the outer surfaces of the sleeve element peripheral wall 116 and the top wall 150): a paper layer having a grammage in the range of 30 to less than 120 g/m², at least one organic barrier layer of a polymer selected within the list of: polyvinylalcohol (PVOH), ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), butenediol vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH), or a combination thereof, in an amount of 0.5 to 20 g/m², preferably in an amount of 1 to 10 g/m², more preferably in an amount of 2 to 8 g/m², at least one inorganic barrier layer selected within the list of: metals, metalloids, or a combination thereof, said inorganic layer having a thickness comprised between 1 and 100 nm, and at least one organic sealing layer made of an acrylic or methacrylic acid ionomer, preferably an ethylene acrylic or methacrylic acid ionomer, said heat seal layer being applied in an amount comprised between 2 and 20 g/m², preferably in an amount comprised between 4 and 9 g/m².

The additional membrane serves to protect the sealing zone 220 between the peripheral wall of the sleeve 116 and the top closure 150, against scratches or accidental peeling. Furthermore, in the embodiment shown in figure 8B, when the peripheral wall of the sleeve 116 is made of a material wherein the cellulosic layer is turned to the inside of the packaging item, and the oxygen and/or barrier layer are turned to the outside, it was found that the oxygen and/or moisture barrier properties in the sealing zone 220 may be decreased due to the fact that the sealing occurs between the innermost cellulose based layer 200 of the peripheral wall of the sleeve and the outermost cellulosic layer of the sleeve top closure 150. In that case, it was found that a membrane 210 comprising at least one layer of an oxygen and/or moisture barrier material, especially as described above, may provide an additional oxygen and/or barrier protection to protect the packaging item's contents. This additional protection is due to the fact that the organic and inorganic barrier layers of the membrane 210 are placed adjacent to the organic and/or inorganic barrier layers 190 of the peripheral wall 116 of the sleeve 114.

The same construction applies to the base element 122 and the base element closure (or "wall") 160 attached thereto.

Figures 9A and 9B show an embodiment of a packaging item 100 according to the invention. Figure 9A is a split view of the various constitutive elements described hereinbefore, whereas figure 9B represents a packaging item 100 in its fully closed configuration.

A container 102 is manufactured from a cylindrical tube forming a container peripheral wall 104. The bottom portion of the container peripheral wall 104 is closed with a container bottom wall 106, and the upper portion of the container peripheral wall 104 is closed by a peelable membrane 132 through an annular ring 180 that makes an interface between the membrane 132 and the container peripheral wall 104. The internal volume of the container 102 defines a compartment 108 for containing a product.

A top sleeve element 114 is manufactured from a cylindrical tube forming a sleeve peripheral wall 116, having an internal diameter such that it is able to f rictiona I ly slide onto the container peripheral wall 102 in order to open and close the packaging item 100. The top of the sleeve peripheral wall 104 is closed with a sleeve top wall 150 covered on its outer side by a membrane 210 that overlaps with the sealing zone between said sleeve top wall 150 and said sleeve peripheral wall 102.

A base element 122 is manufactured from a cylindrical tube forming a base element peripheral wall 124, having an internal diameter such that it is able to be placed frictiona I ly onto the container peripheral wall 102. The bottom of the base element peripheral wall 124 is closed with a base element bottom wall (or "closure") 160 covered on its outer side by a membrane 210 that overlaps with the sealing zone between said base element bottom wall 160 and said base element peripheral wall 124. Preferably, the base element 122 is attached permanently onto the container 102.

The peripheral walls 104, 116, 124 of the container, sleeve element and base element, as well as the base element bottom wall 160 and sleeve element top wall 150 may be manufactured from a multilayer packaging material structure that comprises, from outside towards the inside, the following layers:

- a paperboard layer having a grammage between 120 g/m2 and 600 g/m²,

- an optional adhesive layer having a grammage between 0.5 and 10 g/m²,

- a paper layer having a grammage comprised between 30 and less than 120 g/m²,

- at least one organic barrier layer of a polymer selected within the list of: polyvinylalcohol (PVOH), ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), butenediol vinyl alcohol co-polymer (BVOH), or a combination thereof, in an amount of 0.5 to 20 g/m², preferably in an amount of

1 to 10 g/m², more preferably in an amount of 2 to 8 g/m²,

- at least one organic heat seal layer made of an polyolefin acrylic or methacrylic acid polymer or grafted ionomer - preferably a sodium ionomer) preferably an ethylene acrylic or methacrylic acid ionomer, said heat seal layer being applied in an amount comprised between

2 and 20 g/m², preferably in an amount comprised between 4 and 9 g/m².

The inorganic layer may comprise metals or metalloids selected within the list of: aluminium, aluminium oxide (AIOx), or silicon oxide (SiOx), said metals and/or metalloids being deposited either by vacuum deposition or transfer metallization.

The membranes 210 may be manufactured from a multilayer material comprising the following layers, in order from its outer side to its inner side (inner side being directed to the inside of the packaging item): a paper layer having a grammage in the range of 30 to less than 120 g/m², at least one organic barrier layer of a polymer selected within the list of: polyvinylalcohol (PVOH), ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), butenediol vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH), or a combination thereof, in an amount of 0.5 to 20 g/m², preferably in an amount of 1 to 10 g/m², more preferably in an amount of 2 to 8 g/m², at least one inorganic barrier layer selected within the list of: metals, metalloids, or a combination thereof, said inorganic layer having a thickness comprised between 1 and 100 nm, and at least one organic sealing layer made of an ethylene acrylic or methacrylic acid ionomer, said heat seal layer being applied in an amount comprised between 2 and 20 g/m², preferably in an amount comprised between 4 and 9 g/m².

In the embodiment shown in figures 9A and 9B, the material for forming the peripheral walls of the sleeve element 114 and the base element 122 may therefore be layered with a cellulosic layer 200 that faces the outer side of the packaging item 100, and the organic and/or inorganic barrier layers 190 against oxygen and/or moisture transfer are oriented to face the interior of the packaging item 100. As a result, in the embodiment illustrated in figures 9A and 9B, the external appearance of the packaging item 100 in its closed state is that of a cellulosic (paper or cardboard) package.

However, the material of the peripheral walls of the sleeve element and base element could be reversed, such that the external appearance of the package may be that of a metallized package.

The height of the sleeve element and base element may be the same, but they may also have a different height. However in a highly preferred embodiment of the invention, the height of the sleeve and base element is chosen such that in the closed configuration of the packaging item, the lower edge of the sleeve element 114 contacts a ledge 146 of the base element 122 as illustrated in figure 9B, and the inner surface of the sleeve element top wall 150 contacts the upper surface of the container and the inner surface of the base element bottom wall 160 contacts the lower surface of the container 102.

Various aspects and embodiments of the invention have been described for purposes of illustration. The invention, however, should not be unduly limited by any of the details of the above disclosure, as a person skilled in the art will appreciate that changes and modifications that do not contradict the principle of the invention may be made and are still covered by the invention. In particular, the invention shall not be construed to be limited to the embodiments described above with reference to the drawings. Rather, the scope of protection of the invention is determined solely by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Generally, the packaging according to the present invention provides a certain number of advantages and benefits to a user, as follows. It provides a unique structural design, using a cardboard packaging with unique tube shape, size; the construction is made of cardboard which is recyclable in a paper stream process.

It comprises an innovative closure system: a tube packaging with a novel "lift & push" mechanism for closure that enables user friendly opening, closing and reseal (easy to seal and reseal, while also being secure and protective). In particular, the only attachment for the upper sleeve element onto the core container is done by sliding one over the other. The functional play between the two is sufficient to ensure proper attachment, and such that no complex capping is necessary such as threads, or clipping mechanism. By selecting a functional play which is comprised preferably between 50 and 500 pm, preferably between 100 and 300 pm, the possibility to easily slide the top sleeve element onto the core container element is ensured, while the adherence between the two elements is sufficiently high to prevent sliding of one element relative to the other, without applying an external force. By "functional play" it is meant the difference between the internal diameter of the sleeve element and the external diameter of the container element of the package.

The innovative packaging according to the present invention provides so- called "open shelf life" capabilities, which means that after the package is first open for use, its closed configuration allows to preserve a high level of barrier, which prolongs the shelf life of the contents. This open shelf life is made possible by the fact that moisture and oxygen transfer are minimal when the top sleeve element fully closes the container element. In such closed position, the package still has values of Oxygen Transmission Rate (OTR) below 1, preferably below 0.5 cm³/m²/day measured at 23°C and 50% relative humidity (RH), and values of water vapour transmission rate (WVTR) below 1, preferably below 0.5 g/m²/day measured at 23°C and 85% RH. This is due to the fact that the functional play (i.e. the space) between the internal surface of the sleeve element and the external surface of the container element is sufficiently small, and simultaneously, the overlap between the sleeve and container elements is sufficiently high, to ensure that - while allowing movement between the two by application of a sliding force - the transfer of moisture and gases is largely prevented.

The package according to the invention can advantageously comprise holes/perforations in the cardboard structure that enables precise and user-friendly dosing of its contents, as a "doser" or "dosage dispenser", a mechanism that allows the userto dispense a specific amount of product from the packaging, typically for precise and convenient usage.

It is manufactured out of sustainable material: a tube cardboard packaging made from eco-friendly / biodegradable / recyclable and/or compostable materials, that have built-in barrier capabilities in order to ensure long shelf-life and product freshness without noticeable impact on organoleptic properties.

It comprises customizable features, especially a tube cardboard packaging that can be customized to fit different product types and customer needs, such as size, shape, or color.

It comprises special high barrier functionality against transfer of gases and moisture through its walls. The packaging material that was developed provides high barrier functional properties that enhances the food protection and usability, such as oxygen transmission rate (OTR), moisture resistance (WVTR), odor-blocking properties.

Optionally, but preferably, the packaging material is UV-resistant or lightblocking, hence of particular interest for packing certain food categories which are UV sensitive.

While being resistant to stacking forces and top load mechanical stress (to which packages are subject when transported and stored in piles), the tube packaging uses a cardboard material that is sufficiently flexible so that it can be folded or collapsed, and therefore takes less space after use when it is discarded.

The packaging according to the present invention is a shock-absorbing / cushioning system: the mechanical resilience of the current tube material and the headspace that is integrated into the packaging cavity creates an air pocket feature, so that it protects sensitive products during shipping or handling, against mechanical shocks.

The simple shape of this packaging creates a stackable design that minimizes product movement / optimizes shipping.

The fact that cardboard material is used with a very high contents in cellulose creates a sound dampening effect and reduces noise during transport and while opening closing and reseal. This packaging is very user-friendly to use in that regard.

The preferred shape and diameter of the tubes are chosen such that they adapt to a human hand for high ergonomic and easy-grip design. The invention includes the following aspects:

1. A packaging item comprising:

- at least one container, which is preferably cylindrical, made of a multilayer oxygen and moisture barrier laminate comprising a cardboard and an organic barrier layer, the cardboard having a grammage comprised between 120 and 600 g/m² and a cellulose content higher than 90%, preferably higher than 95%, more preferably higher than 99%, the container including at least one container peripheral wall and a container bottom closure, which define at least one compartment for packaging contents, and at least one dispensing opening configured to allow the packaged contents to be dispensed from the container through the dispensing opening,

- at least one sleeve element with at least one sleeve element peripheral wall, the sleeve element being configured to be slid over at least a top end portion of the container peripheral wall such that the sleeve element peripheral wall at least partially encloses the container peripheral wall and the sleeve element at least partially covers the dispensing opening, said sleeve element preferably being made of a multilayer oxygen and moisture barrier laminate comprising a cardboard and an organic barrier layer, the cardboard preferably having a grammage comprised between 120 and 600 g/m² and a cellulose content higher than 90%, preferably higher than 95%, more preferably higher than 99%, and

- optionally, at least one base element with at least one base element peripheral wall, the base element at least partially enclosing and preferably immovably attached to a bottom end portion of the container peripheral wall, said base element being made of a cardboard having a grammage comprised between 120 and 600 g/m² and a cellulose content higher than 90%, preferably higher than 95%, more preferably higher than 99%, preferably wherein the base element is made of a multilayer oxygen and moisture barrier laminate comprising said cardboard.

2. The packaging item according to aspect 1, wherein at least a section of the base element protrudes from the container beyond the container bottom closure. 3. The packaging item according to any of the preceding aspects, further including at least one ledge, wherein the sleeve element, preferably a distal end of the sleeve element, is configured to abut at least partially against the ledge, when the sleeve element is slid over the container, the ledge preferably being defined at an interface between the base element and the container.

4. The packaging item according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the ledge is defined at least partially by a distal end of the base element, preferably at least partially by a distal end of a wall of the base element.

5. The packaging item according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the sleeve element and/or the container is/are configured such that the sleeve element can be removed from and slid over the container multiple times.

6. The packaging item according to any of the preceding aspects, further including at least one container top closure configured to close, preferably sealingly close, the dispensing opening to prevent the packaged contents from being dispensed through the dispensing opening, wherein the container top closure is at least partially removable from the dispensing opening.

7. The packaging according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the base element comprises a base element bottom closure.

8. The packaging according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the packaged contents is a bulk solid, preferably a flowable bulk solid, preferably a flowable powder.

9. The packaging item according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the packaged contents: is an edible product for human and/or animal consumption; and/or is configured for producing an edible product for human and/or animal consumption.

10. The packaging item according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the sleeve element peripheral wall and the container peripheral wall overlap axially, preferably along a longitudinal axis of the container, by at least 4 cm, more preferably at least 5 cm, more preferably at least 7.5 cm, more preferably at least 10 cm, more preferably at least 12.5 cm, more preferably at least 15 cm, when the sleeve element is slid onto the container.

11. The packaging item according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein, when the sleeve element is slid onto the container, the sleeve element peripheral wall overlaps the container peripheral wall in an axial direction along at least 50%, preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, of an axial length of the container.

12. The packaging item according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the sleeve element and the container are configured to be frictionally connected, preferably at least by friction between the container peripheral wall and the sleeve element peripheral wall, when the sleeve element is slid over the container.

13. The packaging item according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the container and/or the sleeve element and/or the base element is/are composed of at least 50 vol% paper, more preferably at least 60 vol% paper, more preferably at least 70 vol% paper, more preferably at least 80 vol% paper, more preferably at least 90 vol% paper, more preferably at least 95 vol% paper.

14. The packaging item according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein at least one opening is defined in the sleeve element, preferably in the sleeve element peripheral wall, wherein: the opening is configured to function as a vent that allows gas to pass through the vent into and/or out of the packaging item during and/or prior to opening of the sleeve element; and/or wherein the opening is configured as a pouring opening that allows the packaged contents to be dispensed therethrough, preferably after sliding the sleeve element upwards and/or away from the base element.

15. The packaging item according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the container is free of printing and/or labels, and optionally wherein the sleeve element is printed.

16. A packaged food product, including: at least one packaging item according to any of the preceding aspects; and at least one food material contained within the container of the packaging item.

17. The packaged food product according to aspect 16, wherein the food material is a bulk solid, preferably a flowable bulk solid, preferably a flowable powder.

Claims

1. A packaging item (100) comprising: at least one container (102) made of a multilayer oxygen and moisture barrier laminate comprising a cardboard and an organic and/or inorganic barrier layer, the cardboard having a grammage comprised between 120 and 600 g/m² and a cellulose content higher than 90%, preferably higher than 95%, more preferably higher than 99%, the container including at least one container peripheral wall (104) and a container bottom wall (106), which define at least one compartment (108) for packaging contents, and at least one dispensing opening (110) configured to allow the packaged contents to be dispensed from said container (102), at least one sleeve element (114) with at least one sleeve element peripheral wall (116), and a sleeve element top wall (150) the sleeve element (114) being configured to be slid over at least a top end portion of the container peripheral wall such that the sleeve element peripheral wall at least partially overlaps and encloses the container peripheral wall and the sleeve element at least partially covers the dispensing opening, said sleeve element being made of a multilayer oxygen and moisture barrier laminate comprising a cardboard and an organic and/or inorganic barrier layer, the cardboard having a grammage comprised between 120 and 600 g/m² and a cellulose content higher than 90%, preferably higher than 95%, more preferably higher than 99%, and at least one base element (122) with at least one base element peripheral wall (124) and one bottom wall (160) that at least partially closes the lower extremity of said base element (122), the base element (122) at least partially enclosing a bottom end portion of the container peripheral wall (104), said base element (122) being made of a cardboard having a grammage comprised between 120 and 600 g/m² and a cellulose content higher than 90%, preferably higher than 95%, more preferably higher than 99%, wherein the base element (122) optionally comprises a multilayer oxygen and moisture barrier cardboard-based laminate.

2. The packaging item (100) according to claim 1, wherein at least a section of the base element (122) protrudes from the container (102) beyond the container bottom closure.

3. The packaging item (100) according to any of the preceding claims, further including at least one ledge (146), wherein the sleeve element (114), preferably a distal end (147, 148) of the sleeve element (114), is configured to abut at least partially against the ledge (146), when the sleeve element (114) is slid over the container element (102).

4. The packaging item (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the functional play between the sleeve element (114) and the container (102) is comprised between 50 and 500 pm, preferably between 100 and 300 pm.

5. The packaging item (100) according to any of the preceding claims, further including at least one container top closure (132) configured to close, preferably sealingly close, the dispensing opening (110), wherein the container top closure is at least partially removable from the dispensing opening.

6. The packaging item (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the packaged contents:

- is an edible product for human and/or animal consumption; and/or

- is configured for producing an edible product for human and/or animal consumption.

7. The packaging item (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the sleeve element peripheral wall (116) and the container peripheral wall (104) overlap axially, preferably along a longitudinal axis of the container, by at least 25mm, more preferably at least 50 mm, more preferably at least 75 mm, more preferably at least 100 mm, when the sleeve element is slid onto the container, when the packaging item (100) is in its fully closed configuration.

8. The packaging item (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, when the sleeve element (114) is slid onto the container, the sleeve element peripheral wall (116) overlaps the container peripheral wall (104) in an axial direction along at least 50%, preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, of an axial length of the container element (102), when the packaging item (100) is in its fully closed configuration.

9. The packaging item (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the sleeve element (114) and the container (102) are configured to be frictionally connected, preferably at least by friction between the container peripheral wall and the sleeve element peripheral wall, when the sleeve element is slid over the container.

10. The packaging item (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the container and/or the sleeve element and/or the base element is/are composed of at least 50 vol% paper, more preferably at least 60 vol% paper, more preferably at least 70 vol% paper, more preferably at least 80 vol% paper, more preferably at least 90 vol% paper, more preferably at least 95 vol% paper.

11. The packaging item (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least one opening is defined in the sleeve element, preferably in the sleeve element peripheral wall, wherein: the opening is configured to function as a vent that allows gas to pass through the vent into and/or out of the packaging item during and/or prior to opening of the sleeve element; and/or wherein the opening is configured as a pouring opening that allows the packaged contents to be dispensed therethrough after sliding the sleeve element upwards and/or away from the base element.

12. The packaging item (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the container is free of printing and/or labels, and optionally wherein the sleeve element is printed.

13. A packaged food product, including: at least one packaging item (100) according to any of the preceding claims; and at least one food material contained within the container of the packaging item.

14. The packaged food product according to claim 13, wherein the food material is a bulk solid, preferably a flowable bulk solid, preferably a flowable powder.