ES2886799T3 - Oral smokeless tobacco product and preparation thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

A smokeless oral tobacco product comprising a tobacco material and a particulate material, the particulate material having the following properties: i) a mass median particle size as measured by sieve analysis of from about 0.3 mm to about 3mm; ii) a bulk density of less than about 0.6 g/cm3; and iii) a combined starch and sugar content of less than about 7% based on the weight of the particulate material, where the particulate material is a hydrophobic particulate material selected from the group consisting of cork, sawdust, millet hulls, polystyrene, microspheres of sodium alginate, foamed alginates and mixtures thereof, and where the tobacco material comprises tobacco or a tobacco substitute or substitute.

Description

DESCRIPTION

Oral smokeless tobacco product and preparation thereof

Country

The present invention relates to a smokeless oral tobacco product and methods of manufacturing the same.

Background

Oral smokeless tobacco products comprise smokeless materials, such as smokeless tobacco, that are designed to be placed in the oral cavity of a user for a limited period of time. Oral smokeless tobacco products include snuff, which can be provided in dry or wet form. Oral smokeless tobacco products may be provided in portion or loose format.

United States patent application 2013/298920 refers to a material similar to smokeless tobacco that comprises crushed sunflower seed hulls that are processed so that they are tasteless and have a similar or complementary consistency and touch to that of a tobacco product. smokeless tobacco.

In some embodiments, the present invention seeks to provide an improved oral smokeless tobacco product and a process for the production thereof.

Summary

In accordance with some embodiments described in this invention, there is provided a smokeless oral tobacco product comprising a tobacco material and a non-tobacco particulate material, the particulate material having the following properties:

i) a mass median particle size measured by sieve analysis of from about 0.3 mm to about 3 mm;

ii) an apparent density of less than about 0.6 g/cmi) *3; Y

iii) a combined starch and sugar content of less than about 7% based on the weight of the particulate material, where the particulate material is a hydrophobic particulate material selected from the group consisting of cork, sawdust, millet husks, polystyrene, alginate microspheres of sodium, foamed alginates and mixtures thereof, and wherein the tobacco material comprises tobacco or a tobacco substitute or substitute.

In accordance with some embodiments described in this invention, there is provided a process for the production of an oral smokeless tobacco product comprising a tobacco material and a non-tobacco particulate material, the particulate material having the following properties:

i) a mass median particle size measured by sieve analysis of from about 0.3 mm to about 3 mm;

ii) a bulk density of less than about 0.6 g/cm3; Y

iii) a combined starch and sugar content of less than about 7% based on the weight of the particulate material, where the particulate material is a hydrophobic particulate material selected from the group consisting of cork, sawdust, millet hulls, polystyrene, alginate microspheres sodium, foamed alginates and mixtures thereof, and where the tobacco material comprises tobacco or a tobacco substitute or substitute, the process comprising:

(a) providing a tobacco material;

(b) processing the tobacco material; Y

(c) adding the particulate material to the tobacco material before processing step (b), during processing step (b), or after processing step (b), wherein the tobacco material comprises tobacco or a substitute or tobacco substitute. In accordance with some embodiments described in this invention, there is provided a consumer package comprising the oral smokeless tobacco product according to the first aspect or produced by a method according to the second aspect of the invention.

According to some embodiments described in this invention, there is provided the use of a particulate material according to claim 1 which is not tobacco, the particulate material having the following properties:

i) a mass median particle size measured by sieve analysis of from about 0.3 mm to about 3 mm;

ii) a bulk density of less than about 0.6 g/cm3; Y

iii) a combined starch and sugar content of less than about 7% based on the weight of the particulate material to improve the mouthfeel of an oral smokeless tobacco product.

According to some embodiments described in this invention, there is provided the use of a particulate material according to claim 1 which is not tobacco, the particulate material having the following properties:

i) a mass median particle size measured by sieve analysis of from about 0.3 mm to about 3 mm;

ii) a bulk density of less than about 0.6 g/cm3; Y

iii) a combined starch and sugar content of less than about 7% based on the weight of the particulate material to reduce irritation in the back of a user's throat during use of an oral smokeless tobacco product.

According to some embodiments described in this invention, the use of a non-tobacco particulate material is provided, the particulate material according to claim 1 having the following properties:

i) a mass median particle size measured by sieve analysis of from about 0.3 mm to about 3 mm;

ii) a bulk density of less than about 0.6 g/cm3; Y

iii) a combined starch and sugar content of less than about 7% based on the weight of the particulate material to maintain the structure of an oral smokeless tobacco product in use.

Brief description of the figures

Embodiments of the present invention are described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows a graph that includes the measured densities for several different materials. The weight of the materials is represented on the y-axis, where the weight per cm3 of product was measured.

Figure 2 shows an example of test sieving equipment for measuring the mass average particle size of particulate material.

Figure 3 shows exemplary settings of test screening equipment for measuring the mass average particle size of particulate material.

Figure 4 shows a plot of percent cumulative mass of cork versus mesh size of sieves in an exemplary sieve analysis procedure of Example 1a for measuring the mass average particle size of cork.

Figure 5 shows a plot of percent cumulative mass of millet hulls versus mesh size of sieves in an exemplary sieve analysis procedure of Example 1b for measuring mass average particle size of millet hulls.

Figure 6 shows a comparison of an oral smokeless tobacco product which is a can comprising 20g of standard white snus alongside the bagged products shown above (right), and a sample comprising cork which is a tin comprising 10g of cork snus next to the bagged products shown above (left).

Detailed description

The present invention relates to a smokeless tobacco product for oral use.

The "particulate material" for use in the present invention is a particulate material that is not tobacco. Thus, as will be understood by one skilled in the art, oral smokeless tobacco product includes tobacco and particulate matter as defined herein, wherein the particulate matter is a hydrophobic particulate matter selected from the group consisting of cork, sawdust , millet hulls, polystyrene, sodium alginate microspheres, foamed alginates and mixtures thereof.

"Smokeless tobacco product" is used in this invention to designate any tobacco product that is not intended for combustion.

"Oral smokeless tobacco product" is used in this invention to designate any smokeless tobacco product designed to be placed in the oral cavity of a user for a limited period of time, during which there is contact between the saliva of the user and product. The term "smokeless oral tobacco product" as used in this invention does not include heating tobacco products.

An oral smokeless tobacco product may be provided to the user in a portioned or loose format. Portioned smokeless oral tobacco products can reduce or eliminate user handling of tobacco, which can offer significant benefits in terms of improved hygiene, convenience, and/or ease of use.

In some embodiments, the oral smokeless tobacco product of the present invention is a portioned product.

The oral smokeless tobacco product comprises a tobacco material.

"Tobacco material" as used in this invention includes a material comprising tobacco and/or a tobacco substitute or substitute. In some embodiments, the tobacco material comprises tobacco. In some embodiments, the tobacco material is tobacco. In some embodiments, the tobacco material comprises a tobacco substitute or substitute. In some embodiments, the tobacco material is a tobacco substitute or substitute.

"Tobacco" as used in this invention includes any part, such as the leaves, flowers, or stems of any member of the genus Nicotiana and reconstituted materials thereof. In some embodiments, treated tobacco is included. In some embodiments, derivatives such as specific compounds found in natural tobacco, such as nicotine, whether extracted or synthesized, as well as structural derivatives such as the fibrous portion of a tobacco leaf, are included. The term "tobacco" as used in this invention includes tobacco extract. The term "tobacco substitute or substitute" as used in this invention includes tobacco substitutes comprising individual chemicals and/or complex chemical entities that, when properly prepared, physically resemble natural tobacco. Alternatively or in addition, the term "tobacco substitute" as used herein includes materials that deliver nicotine to the user and provide a tobacco-like mouthfeel.

When the tobacco comprises plant material, certain amounts of the different parts of the plant can be used. For example, the amount of stem in the tobacco blend can be up to 50%, up to 60%, or up to 70% of the weight of the tobacco. In some embodiments, the amount of stem in the tobacco is from 5% to 70% by weight of the tobacco, such as from 10% to 65% by weight of the tobacco, such as from 15% to 65% by weight of the tobacco, such as such as 20% to 60% by weight of tobacco, such as 25% to 55% by weight of tobacco, such as 30% to 50% by weight of tobacco.

The tobaccos used in the present invention may include types of tobaccos such as dark air-cured tobacco, smoke-cured tobacco, Burley tobacco, oriental tobacco, Maryland tobacco, dark tobacco, dark fire-cured tobacco, and rustic-type tobaccos, as well as others. rare or special tobaccos.

In some embodiments, the tobacco is ground tobacco and/or is in particulate form. In some embodiments, the tobacco is not in the form of cut strands or sheets.

In some embodiments, the tobacco may be snuff in dry or moist form. "Snuff" is used in this invention to generally describe a class of smokeless tobacco product that typically comprises cured tobacco that has been dried and ground to have an average mass particle size, as measured by sieve analysis, of between 0.01 to 5mm, such as 0.01 to 3mm, such as 0.01 to 1.0mm.

In some embodiments, the tobacco may be dry snuff. In some embodiments, the moisture content of the tobacco is less than 16% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as less than 12% by weight of the total oral smokeless tobacco product, such as less than 10% by weight of the total oral smokeless tobacco product, such as less than 5% by weight of the total oral smokeless tobacco product, such as less than 3% by weight of the total oral smokeless tobacco product total smoke, such as less than 2% by weight of the total oral smokeless tobacco product, such as less than 1% by weight of the total oral smokeless tobacco product.

In some embodiments, some or all of the tobacco is in wet form. The moist tobacco may be in any form that is suitable for incorporation into an oral smokeless tobacco product. In some embodiments, the moist tobacco comprises moist snuff.

In some embodiments, the moist snuff comprises Swedish-style snuff, which may also be referred to as snus or snus-style tobacco. In some embodiments, the wet snuff is Swedish-style snuff (snus).

Snus is a moist powdered tobacco product that originates from a variant of dried snuff. As used in this invention, snus is an oral tobacco product that is not fermented, but rather heat treated, such as by pasteurization. Snus is typically used by placing it under the upper lip for extended periods of time.

In some embodiments, the moisture content of the tobacco is at least 20% by weight of the total oral smokeless tobacco product, such as at least 25% by weight of the total oral smokeless tobacco product, such as as at least 30% by weight of the total oral smokeless tobacco product, such as at least 35% by weight of the total oral smokeless tobacco product, such as at least 40% by weight of the product of total oral smokeless tobacco product, such as at least 45% by weight of the total oral smokeless tobacco product, such as at least 50% by weight of the total oral smokeless tobacco product, such as at least 60% by weight of the total oral smokeless tobacco product.

In embodiments where the oral smokeless tobacco product comprises snus, the snus may comprise salt and/or other flavorings. Alternatively or additionally, the snus may be pasteurized or subjected to a process similar to pasteurization and may optionally be aged to achieve the desired pH and/or moisture content of the snus. Suitable methods and apparatus for pasteurization and aging are known to those skilled in the art.

Alternatively or additionally, the moist snuff may be in the form of dipping tobacco. In embodiments where the oral smokeless tobacco product comprises dipping tobacco, the dipping tobacco may be treated by fermentation or may be subjected to a fermentation-like process and may optionally be subjected to one or more additional processes. such as aging. Methods and apparatus suitable for treating dipping tobacco are known to those skilled in the art.

Alternatively or additionally, the tobacco may be in the form of moist American snuff and/or chewing tobacco.

The amount of tobacco contained in the tobacco formulation can vary. In some embodiments, the amount of tobacco contained in the oral smokeless tobacco product is at least about 5% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as at least about 10% by weight of the product. of oral smokeless tobacco, such as at least about 15% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as at least about 20% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as at least about 25% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as at least about 30% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as at least about 40% by weight of the product of oral smokeless tobacco, such as at least about 50% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as at least about 55% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as at least about 60% by weight or the oral smokeless tobacco product.

In some embodiments, the amount of tobacco contained in the oral smokeless tobacco product is no more than about 90% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as no more than about 85% by weight. of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as not more than about 80% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as not more than about 75% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product smokeless, such as not more than about 70% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product.

In some embodiments, the amount of tobacco contained in the oral smokeless tobacco product is between about 20% and 90% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as between 20% and 85%. % by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as between about 20% and 80% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as between about 20% and 75% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as between about 20% and 70% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as between about 20% and 65% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product oral smokeless tobacco product, such as between about 20% and 60% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as between about 25% and 60% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product , such as between about 30% and 60% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product , such as between about 35% and 60% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product.

In some embodiments, the oral smokeless tobacco product may be provided to the user in a portioned format. In some known portioned smokeless oral tobacco products, the tobacco material is wrapped in a pouch. For example, a common method of providing moist snuff is to seal the tobacco material in a permeable bag.

A bag holds tobacco material in place, while allowing substances such as flavors and nicotine to diffuse through the bag and into the user's mouth for absorption through the user's mucous membranes.

In some embodiments, the oral smokeless tobacco product may be provided to the user in a non-portioned format. In one embodiment, the oral smokeless tobacco product is loosely packaged in a container, such as a jar, case, or can.

In some embodiments, the oral smokeless tobacco product may be provided to the user in a preformed format, such as described in EP 2649889. Such a format typically does not require the use of bags to contain the product, but can still be used. be in portions

In addition to a tobacco material, the oral smokeless tobacco product comprises a particulate material. The particulate material according to the present invention has the following properties:

i) a mass median particle size measured by sieve analysis of from about 0.3 mm to about 3 mm;

ii) a bulk density of less than about 0.6 g/cm3; Y

iii) a combined starch and sugar content of less than about 7% based on the weight of the particulate material.

As used herein, the term "particulate" means that the average length to width ratio of the material particles is less than 2:1, such as less than 1.5:1, such as about 1: one. In some embodiments, the particles of the particulate material are substantially spherical. In some embodiments, the particulate material is granular.

In some embodiments, the particulate material has a mass average particle size as measured by sieve analysis of from about 0.3 mm to about 2.5 mm, such as from about 0.3 mm to about 2 mm, such as from about 0.3mm to about 1.5mm, such as from about 0.3mm to about 1mm, such as from about 0.3mm to about 0.7mm.

In some embodiments, the particulate material has a mass average particle size as measured by sieve analysis of from about 0.4 mm to about 2.5 mm, such as from about 0.4 mm to about 2 mm, such as from about 0.4 mm to about 1.5 mm, such as from about 0.4 mm to about 1 mm, such as from about 0.4 to about 0.7 mm. As used in this invention, the term "mass median particle size" is defined as the size which, in one-half of the total mass of all particles in a sample, is contributed by particles with a size less than the median size. of particle by mass, and that one-half of the total mass of all particles in a sample is contributed by particles with a size greater than the average particle size by mass.

The mass average particle size of the particulate material can be measured by sieve analysis. As one skilled in the art will readily appreciate, sieve analysis (also known as gradation testing) is a method used to measure the particle size distribution of particulate material. Typically, sieve analysis consists of a nested column of sieves comprising sieves, preferably in the form of wire mesh cloths. A pre-weighed sample can be introduced into the top or highest sieve in the column, the one with the largest sieve opening or mesh size (ie, the largest sieve pore diameter). Each lower screen in the column has progressively smaller screen openings or mesh sizes than the previous screen. Typically, at the base of the column of sieves there is a receiving portion to collect any particles that have a particle size smaller than the screen opening size or the mesh size of the bottom or lowest sieve in the column (which has the smallest screen opening or mesh size).

In some embodiments, the column of sieves can be placed on or in a mechanical shaker. The agitator causes vibration of each of the sieves in the column. The mechanical agitator can be activated for a predetermined period of time to ensure that all particles are collected on the correct screen. In some embodiments, the column of sieves is stirred for a period of time from 0.5 minutes to 10 minutes, such as 1 minute to 10 minutes, such as 1 minute to 5 minutes, such as about 3 minutes.

After agitation of the sieves in the column is complete, the material collected on each sieve is weighed. The weight of each sample on each sieve can then be divided by the total weight to obtain a percentage of the mass retained on each sieve.

In some embodiments, the mass average particle size of the particulate material can be measured as follows:

• the accumulated mass of the particulate matter sample is measured before the sample is sieved;

• After sifting the sample using the procedure described above, the percentage of aggregate particulate matter retained on each sieve is calculated using the following equation:

m t .

^%Retained = xl00%

^□ M To,al

where Msieve is the mass of material added on the sieve, and Mtotai is the cumulative mass (or total mass) of the entire sample;

• the cumulative percentage of aggregate sample retained on each sieve is then calculated by summing the total amount of aggregate material retained on each of the previous sieves (ie each of the sieves above the corresponding sieve). The cumulative percentage of the aggregate sample retained on each sieve is obtained by subtracting the relative percentage retained on each of the previous sieves from 100%, as follows:

^{%oAccumulated} = 100% — ^{% Retained in previous sieves}

• Next, a plot of cumulative mass percentage on the opposite axis is plotted against sieve size on the x-axis;

• the mass median particle size is then determined by calculating the value of x when y = 50% (ie when the cumulative mass percentage is 50%).

As one skilled in the art will readily appreciate, the sieve opening sizes or mesh sizes for each sieve in the column used for sieve analysis can be selected based on the granularity or known maximum/minimum particle sizes of the sample to be analyzed.

In some embodiments, a column of sieves may be used for sieve analysis, where the column comprises 2 to 20 sieves, as well as 5 to 15 sieves. In some embodiments, a column of sieves may be used for sieve analysis, where the column comprises 10 sieves. In some embodiments, the screen opening or mesh sizes of the 10 screens may be as follows to determine the mass average particle size of the particulate material:

As used in this invention, the density of the particulate material is defined as the bulk density of the material. As used in this invention, bulk density is defined as the mass of a number of particles of particulate material divided by the total volume they occupy. As used in this invention, the term "bulk density" refers to untapped or free-setting bulk density. In other words, bulk density is measured as the untapped density (ie before any specified compaction process, which may involve vibration of the container).

In some embodiments, the particulate material has a bulk density of less than about 0.55 g/cm3 such as less than about 0.5 g/cm3 such as less than about 0.45 g/cm3 such as less than about 0.4 g/cm3 such as less than about 0.35 g/cm3 such as less than about 0.3 g/cm3 such as less than about 0.25 g/cm3 such as less than about 0.2 g/cm3 such as less at about 0.15 g/cm3.

As used in this invention, the term "starch" is defined as a carbohydrate comprising at least 200 glucose units linked by glycosidic bonds.

As used in this invention, the term "sugar" is defined as compounds selected from the group consisting of monosaccharides (such as glucose and fructose), disaccharides (such as sucrose and maltose), and oligosaccharides.

In some embodiments, the combined amount of sucrose, fructose, maltose, and glucose in the particulate material is less than about 7% based on the weight of the particulate material. Therefore, in a preferred aspect, there is provided a smokeless oral tobacco product comprising a tobacco material and a particulate material, according to claim 1, the particulate material having the following properties:

i) a mass median particle size measured by sieve analysis of from about 0.3 mm to about 3 mm;

ii) a bulk density of less than about 0.6 g/cm3; Y

iii) a combined sucrose, fructose, maltose and glucose content of less than about 7% based on the weight of particulate matter.

The particulate material has a combined starch and sugar content of less than about 7% based on the weight of the particulate material. In some embodiments, the particulate material has a combined starch and sugar content of less than about 6% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less than about 5.5% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less to about 5% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less than about 4.5% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less than about 4% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less to about 3.5% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less than about 3% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less than about 2.5% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as such as less than about 2% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less than about 1.5% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less than about 1% based on to the weight of the particulate material, such as less than about 0.5% based on the weight of the particulate material.

In some embodiments, the particulate material has a total sugar content of less than about 7% based on the weight of the particulate material. In some embodiments, the particulate material has a total sugar content of less than about 6% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less than about 5.5% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less than about 5% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less than about 4.5% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less than about 4% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less than about 3.5% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less than about 3% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less than about 2.5% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less to about 2% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less than about 1.5% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less than about 1% based on the weight of the m particulate material, such as less than about 0.5% based on the weight of the particulate material.

In some embodiments, the particulate material has a total starch content of less than about 7% based on the weight of the particulate material. In some embodiments, the particulate material has a total starch content of less than about 6% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less than about 5.5% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less than about 5% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less than about 4.5% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less than about 4% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less than about 3.5% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less than about 3% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less than about 2.5% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less to about 2% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less than about 1.5% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less than about 1% based on the weight of the particulate material, such as less than about 0.5% based on the weight of the particulate material.

In one embodiment, the particulate material has a mass average particle size measured by sieve analysis of from about 0.3 mm to about 1 mm, a bulk density of less than about 0.4 g/cm3, and a combined starch content. and less than about 7% sugar based on the weight of the particulate material.

In one embodiment, the particulate material has a mass average particle size measured by sieve analysis of from about 0.3 mm to about 0.7 mm, a bulk density of less than about 0.25 g/cm3, and a combined content starch and sugar less than about 5% based on the weight of the particulate material.

The particulate material is selected from the group consisting of cork, sawdust, millet hulls, polystyrene, sodium alginate microspheres, foamed alginates, and mixtures thereof.

Grain hulls or hulls can encapsulate the nutritious kernel of the grain and are typically a waste product of the food industry. In some embodiments, the grain hulls or hulls are millet hulls.

Such bean hulls or hulls are typically hydrophilic in nature, but can be rendered hydrophobic for the purposes of the present invention by surface treatment.

Foams are typically formed by trapping gas bubbles in a material. The foam can include open cell foam and/or closed cell foam. In some embodiments, the foam is formed from alginates. In some embodiments, the foam is selected from sodium alginate or polystyrene.

In some embodiments, the particulate material is a foamed alginate, such as that described in WO 2014/096816. In some embodiments, the foamed alginate is foamed sodium alginate.

Hollow particles and hemispheres can be formed from polymers that are filled with air to ensure a lighter density than the apparent material. The hollow particles and hemispheres can be selected from the group consisting of Expancel (AkzoNobel), Dualite® (Henkel), and Sunspheres™ (The DOW Chemical Company). Hydrophobic grades of each of these hollow particles and hemispheres are available. Hollow particles and hemispheres can also be formed from sodium alginate particles.

In some embodiments, the particulate material is a hydrophobic particulate material of wood or tree origin. For example, in some embodiments, the particulate material is sawdust. Sawdust (also known as wood dust) is a byproduct of cutting, grinding, drilling, sanding, or pulverizing wood. Typically, it is made up of fine wood particles. In some embodiments, the particulate material is cork. Cork is a major subset of bark tissue extracted primarily from Quercus suber. Cork comprises suberin, a hydrophobic substance.

In some embodiments, the particulate material is a hydrophobic particulate material selected from the group consisting of cork, millet husk, polystyrene, sodium alginate microspheres, foamed alginates, and mixtures thereof.

In some embodiments, the particulate material is cork. Cork is a material that has a lower density than tobacco. In some embodiments, the particulate material is cork, where the cork bulk density is 0.05 to 0.4 g/cm2, such as 0.05 to 0.3 g/cm3, such as 0.05 to 0.29 g/cm3, such as 0.05 to 0.28 g/cm3, such as 0.05 to 0.27 g/cm3, such as 0.05 to 0.26 g/cm3. In some embodiments, the density of the cork is from 0.05 to 0.1 g/cm3. In some embodiments, the density of the cork is from 0.17 to 0.26 g/cm3.

Figure 1 shows a graph that includes the measured densities for several different materials. The weight of the materials is represented on the y-axis, where the weight per cm3 of product was measured.

A suitable weight ratio of tobacco material to particulate material in the oral smokeless tobacco product depends on the desired properties of the oral smokeless tobacco product. For example, the weight ratio of tobacco material to particulate material will depend on the desired dryness and density of the oral smokeless tobacco product.

In some embodiments, the weight ratio of particulate material to tobacco material in the oral smokeless tobacco product is from 20:1 to 1:20, such as from 15:1 to 1:15, such as from 10:1 to 1:10, such as from 9:1 to 1:9, such as from 8:1 to 1:8, such as from 7:1 to 1:7, such as from 6:1 to 1 :6, such as 5:1 to 1:5, such as 4:1 to 1:4, such as 3:1 to 1:3, such as 2:1 to 1:2.

In some embodiments, the particulate material is cork. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of cork to tobacco material in the oral smokeless tobacco product is from 20:1 to 1:20, such as from 15:1 to 1:15, such as from 10:1 to 1:10, such as 9:1 to 1:9, such as 8:1 to 1:8, such as 7:1 to 1:7, such as 6:1 to 1: 6, such as 5:1 to 1:5, such as 4:1 to 1:4, such as 3:1 to 1:3, such as 2:1 to 1:2.

In some embodiments, the weight ratio of particulate material to tobacco material in the oral smokeless tobacco product is from 1:1.5 to 1:10, such as from 1:1.5 to 1: 9, such as 1:1.5 to 1:8, such as 1:1.5 to 1:7, such as 1:1.5 to 1:6, such as 1:1.5 to 1:5, such as 1:1.5 to 1:4, such as 1:1.5 to 1:3, such as 1:1.5 to 1:2.

In some embodiments, the particulate material is cork. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of cork to tobacco material in the oral smokeless tobacco product is from 1:1.5 to 1:10, such as from 1:1.5 to 1:9. such as 1:1.5 to 1:8, such as 1:1.5 to 1:7, such as 1:1.5 to 1:6, such as 1:1.5 to 1 :5, such as 1:1.5 to 1:4, such as 1:1.5 to 1:3, such as 1:1.5 to 1:2.

In some embodiments, the particulate material is included in an amount of 1 to 80% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as in an amount of 2 to 80% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product. , such as in an amount of 3 to 80% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as in an amount of 4 to 80% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as in an amount 5 to 80% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as in an amount of 5 to 75% by weight of the smokeless tobacco product oral smokeless tobacco, such as in an amount of 5 to 70% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as in an amount of 5 to 65% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product , such as in an amount of 5 to 60% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as in an amount of 5 to 55% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as in an amount 5 to 50% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as in an amount of 5 to 45% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as in an amount of 5 to 40% by weight weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as in an amount of 10 to 40% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product.

In some embodiments, the particulate material is cork. In some embodiments, the cork is included in an amount of 1 to 80% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as in an amount of 2 to 80% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as in an amount of 3 to 80% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as in an amount of 4 to 80% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as in an amount of 5 to 80% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as in an amount of 5 to 75% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as in an amount of 5 to 70% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as in an amount of 5 to 65% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as in an amount of 5 to 60% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product oral smokeless tobacco product, such as in an amount of 5 to 55% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as in an amount of 5 to 50% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product. weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as in an amount of 5 to 45% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, such as in an amount of 5 to 40% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product oral smokeless, such as in an amount of 10 to 40% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product.

In some embodiments, the particulate material does not interfere with the aroma/odor of the tobacco material. For example, the cork is advantageously aroma neutral and does not interfere with the aroma/odor of the tobacco material and thus does not negatively affect the user experience.

An advantage of the present invention is that the amount of tobacco used in oral smokeless tobacco products according to the present invention can be reduced while maintaining the organoleptic properties of the products.

Without wishing to be binding, the use of particulate material having the properties described herein in the present invention may advantageously increase the release of components of the tobacco material, such as flavor and/or nicotine, in the tobacco product. smokeless tobacco for oral use, which can improve the user experience. The inclusion of particulate material having the properties described in this invention results in a less dense oral smokeless tobacco product having a more open structure. This can result in a freer movement of fluid in the tobacco product and in the mouth, and can subsequently result in a greater release of components of the oral smokeless tobacco product.

The present inventors have surprisingly discovered that modifying the weight ratio of the particulate material included in the oral smokeless tobacco product results in a modification of the density and compactness of the product and therefore can allow the regulation of the extraction rate of flavor and nicotine. Another advantage of the present invention is the ability to regulate the amount of tobacco provided to the user without negatively affecting the user experience. In the case of oral smokeless tobacco products that are provided in portions (optionally in bags), it is not appropriate to reduce the portion size provided to the user because this may negatively affect their experience as they may be accustomed to use a certain serving size below your upper lip.

In some embodiments, in the case of oral smokeless tobacco products in loose form, it may be possible to vary the amount of tobacco that is provided to the user, while maintaining the amount of product that the user can take from the package (i.e. , a "pinch" of product). Furthermore, in the case of oral smokeless tobacco products in loose form, it has surprisingly been found that the user perceives the products to feel softer and more elastic to the touch when the user removes a "pinch" of product from the package. This results in an improved overall user experience, as products can be more tactile when removed loose from the package.

The use of particulate material having the properties described herein in the present invention allows for a decrease in the overall density of the oral smokeless tobacco product as compared to conventional oral smokeless tobacco products that do not comprise the particulate matter. Thus, it has surprisingly been found that the weight of a portion of the product can be varied while maintaining the overall size of the portion provided to the user. For example, the weight of the product can be reduced without reducing the corresponding volume of the product.

An additional advantage of the present invention is the ability to decrease the degree of irritation perceived by the consumer in the back of the throat during use of the product. A problem associated with oral smokeless tobacco products is that a nerve in the back of the mouth is sensitized during use. from a user's throat. This can result in irritation at the back of the throat, commonly referred to by consumers as "drip." It has surprisingly been found that the inclusion of the particulate material in accordance with the present invention results in a product perceived to be drier by the consumer compared to standard oral tobacco products that do not comprise the particulate material, and also reduces the perceived level of irritation in the back of the throat of a user of the oral smokeless tobacco product.

Therefore, in one embodiment, the use of the particulate material is provided which is a hydrophobic particulate material selected from the group consisting of cork, sawdust, millet hulls, polystyrene, sodium alginate microspheres, foamed alginates, and mixtures thereof. , which have the following properties:

i) a mass median particle size measured by sieve analysis of from about 0.3 mm to about 3 mm;

ii) a bulk density of less than about 0.6 g/cm3; Y

iii) a combined starch and sugar content of less than about 7% based on the weight of the particulate material to reduce irritation in the back of a user's throat during use of an oral smokeless tobacco product.

In one embodiment, use of the particulate material is provided which is a hydrophobic particulate material selected from the group consisting of cork, sawdust, millet hulls, polystyrene, sodium alginate microspheres, foamed alginates, and mixtures thereof having the following properties:

i) a mass median particle size measured by sieve analysis of from about 0.3 mm to about 3 mm;

ii) a bulk density of less than about 0.6 g/cm3; Y

iii) a combined starch and sugar content of less than about 7% based on the weight of the particulate material to decrease mouth harshness during use of an oral smokeless tobacco product.

Furthermore, it has been discovered that the oral smokeless tobacco products of the present invention leave a better mouthfeel compared to oral smokeless tobacco products that do not comprise the particulate material having the properties described in this invention.

Without wishing to be binding, it is believed that the better mouthfeel is due to the better flexibility and better shape retention during use of the products of the present invention.

Therefore, the amount of tobacco in oral smokeless tobacco products can be varied without any adverse effect on the total volume of the product provided to the user and with an improvement in the mouthfeel of the product.

In this case, the oral smokeless tobacco product may comprise a high nicotine content tobacco. Therefore, the overall nicotine content of the oral smokeless tobacco product can be maintained despite the use of lower amounts of tobacco by weight.

In some embodiments, the nicotine content of the tobacco material is from 0.02% to 7.5% by weight of the tobacco material. In some embodiments, the nicotine content of the tobacco material is from 0.03% to 7.5% by weight of the tobacco material, such as from 0.04% to 7.5% by weight of the tobacco material, such such as 0.05% to 7.5% by weight of the tobacco material, such as 0.06% to 7.5% by weight of the tobacco material, such as 0.07% to 7.5% in weight of the tobacco material, such as 0.08% to 7.5% by weight of the tobacco material, such as 0.09% to 7.5% by weight of the tobacco material, such as 0.1 % to 7.5% by weight of the tobacco material, such as 0.1% to 7% by weight of the tobacco material.

The oral smokeless tobacco product may further comprise other components. These components can be included, for example, to alter the organoleptic properties of the formulation, contributing to the sensory perception of the consumer. The particular components and amounts in which they are included in the oral smokeless tobacco product of the present invention will vary depending on the flavor, texture and other characteristics desired.

For example, flavoring agents, preservatives, binders, humectants, buffering agents, disintegration aids, and/or coloring agents may be included in the oral smokeless tobacco product.

The terms "flavor" and "flavorant" as used in this invention refer to materials that, where local regulations permit, can be used to create a desired flavor or aroma in a product for adult consumers. These may include extracts (for example, licorice, hydrangea, Japanese whitebark magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, menthol, Japanese mint, aniseed, cinnamon, herb, wintergreen, cherry, berry, peach, apple, Drambuie, bourbon , scotch whiskey, whiskey, peppermint, mint, lavender, cardamom, celery, husk, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, oil of orange, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, paprika, ginger, anise, coriander, coffee or a peppermint oil of any species of the mint genus), flavor enhancers, blockers of bitterness receptor area, sensory receptor area activators or stimulators, sugars and/or sugar substitutes (for example, sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharin, cyclamates, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol) and other additives such as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, botanicals, or breath fresheners. They can be imitation, synthetic or natural ingredients or mixtures thereof. They may be in any suitable form, for example oil, liquid or powder.

The present invention also provides a consumer package comprising the oral smokeless tobacco product as described in this invention. In some embodiments, the oral smokeless tobacco product is portionless and the consumer package comprises a container, such as a box or case. In some embodiments, the oral smokeless tobacco product is portioned. The portioned smokeless oral tobacco product may be provided in a pouch.

Therefore, in one embodiment, a pouch comprising the oral smokeless tobacco product as described in this invention is provided.

The present invention also provides a method of manufacturing an oral smokeless tobacco product comprising a tobacco material and a particulate material, wherein the particulate material is a hydrophobic particulate material selected from the group consisting of cork, sawdust, shells of millet, polystyrene, microspheres of sodium alginate, foamed alginates and mixtures thereof, the particulate material having the following properties:

i) a mass median particle size measured by sieve analysis of from about 0.3 mm to about 3 mm;

ii) a bulk density of less than about 0.6 g/cm3; Y

iii) a combined starch and sugar content of less than about 7% based on the weight of the particulate material, wherein the tobacco material comprises tobacco or a tobacco substitute or substitute comprising the steps of:

(a) providing a tobacco material;

(b) processing the tobacco material and;

(c) adding the particulate material to the tobacco material before processing step (b), during processing step (b), or after processing step (b).

To produce a tobacco formulation for snus, the mixture of tobacco particles can be mixed with water and, typically, salt. The residual moisture from the tobacco and the added water combine to raise the moisture levels of the blend by at least 20%, and in some embodiments at least 25%, and in some embodiments from about 20 to about 60%. %, and in some embodiments from about 25 to about 60%. Salt is a type of flavoring; optionally it can be excluded and/or another flavor can be added at this stage. The tobacco mixture can be mixed with water and/or salt before processing step (b), during processing step (b), or after processing step (b). In one embodiment, the tobacco blend is mixed with water, and optionally salt, prior to processing step (b).

In one embodiment, the tobacco formulation is particulate, comprising tobacco particles having a mass average particle size measured by sieve analysis of about 0.01 to 1 mm, for example, a mass average particle size of about 0.1 to 0.5 mm or a mass average particle size of about 0.25 to 0.4 mm.

In one embodiment, the particulate tobacco comprises a mixture of tobacco stem particles and tobacco flake particles. In some embodiments, the particulate tobacco comprises tobacco stem particles in an amount from 5% to 70% by weight of the combined amount of tobacco stem particles and tobacco flake particles.

In embodiments where the tobacco comprises particulate snus, the particulate snus tobacco may be moistened to 20 to 50% moisture and/or may be salted. In embodiments where the tobacco comprises particulate snus, the particulate snus tobacco may be moistened to about 50% moisture and/or may be salted.

The amount of tobacco contained in the tobacco formulation can vary. In some embodiments, the amount of tobacco contained in the tobacco formulation is at least about 25% wet weight, such as at least about 30% wet weight, such as at least about 40% wet weight. In some embodiments, the tobacco blend (along with the water and salt) is heat treated for a long enough period of time and at a high enough temperature to meet pasteurization requirements. The tobacco blend is typically heat treated for one hour to meet pasteurization requirements. As tobacco is a natural product, it is expected that there is some degree of presence microbial in the mixture. The heat treatment can be carried out in any manner that is sufficient to produce a product having an acceptably low level of spoilage microorganisms. The heat treatment can meet the pasteurization requirements and can therefore be carried out in a way that results in the sterilization of the product. Examples include high or low temperatures; for example, heat treatment at about 80-140°C for at least about 30 minutes by hot air, steam, microwave or other means, or cold pasteurization. Other examples include irradiation and chemical treatment. A limitation of the selected heat treatment method is that it is appropriate for use with a product intended for human oral consumption. Another is that it must not have an undue adverse effect on the taste, consistency or other organoleptic properties of the final smokeless oral tobacco product.

The heat treatment also gives texture and color to the mix.

It should be apparent to skilled workers that while the present invention is practiced using tobacco substitutes or substitutes, the heat treatment step will comprise ensuring that the tobacco substitute or substitute is not contaminated with microorganisms, and that this step may not require no other manipulation of the product.

After heat treatment, it may be desirable to check and potentially adjust the pH of the mix. To achieve the desired characteristics of certain commercial blends of oral smokeless tobacco products, a pH of about 7 to 12 may be preferred at this stage of the process.

The heat treated mixture can optionally be aged. This can be done by slowly mixing the mixture while maintaining a constant temperature, for example about 40-75°C, preferably about 50°C. Mild agitation may continue for about 1 to 24 hours, particularly about 3 to 15 hours. This step can be effective in lowering the pH and possibly reducing the moisture to about 20-55% based on the weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product, depending on the type of tobacco used and the particular snus product being manufactured.

A flavoring can be added during the maturation stage. Typically, the flavoring added at this stage is in liquid form and is added to about 0.1-5% by weight of the oral smokeless tobacco product. Liquid flavoring is often sprinkled on top of the tobacco mix. When used, humectants are also usually added at this stage.

However, in some embodiments, flavorings and other additives (such as preservatives, binders, humectants, buffering agents, disintegration aids, and colorants) may be added to the tobacco blend before or after pasteurization and/or aging. In some embodiments, flavorings and other additives (such as preservatives, binders, humectants, buffering agents, disintegration aids, and colorants) may be added to the tobacco blend before or after the pasteurization and/or aging step. According to the present invention, the particulate material can be added to the tobacco material before, during or after the heat treatment. In some embodiments, the particulate material is added prior to the heat treatment step. In some embodiments, the particulate material is added during the heat treatment step. In some embodiments, the particulate material is added after the heat treatment step.

Preferably, the particulate material is mixed with the tobacco material prior to heat treatment so that the particulate material is heat treated in the same manner as the tobacco material.

examples

Example 1: Measurement of the mass average particle size of the sample

Described herein is a sieve analysis method in accordance with the present invention.

Example 1a: Measurement of the mass average particle size of cork

A sample of cork particles was sieved using a test sieve set (Haver EML 200 digital plus N) using Haver & Boecker sieves, from Haver & Boecker OHG, Partikelanalyse presse, Ennigerloher St. 64, D-59302 Oelde, Germany. This equipment was used to mechanically separate cork fractions according to particle size. The test sieving kit identified above is shown in Figure 2, and comprises 10 sieves having the following mesh sizes:

The sieves were shaken using a mechanical shaker for 3 minutes using the following settings (shown in Figure 3):

• 2.4mm amplitude adjustment

• Interval: 5 seconds on and 1 second off

Sieve balls were not used in the process according to this example.

Three samples of cork particles were tested using the procedure described above. The following results were obtained for the analyzed cork particles:

The average cumulative mass of the samples was calculated to be 49.77 g.

Therefore, the cumulative mass percent of aggregate collected on each sieve was calculated as follows:

Figure 4 shows a graph that represents the percentage of accumulated mass (Y axis) against the mesh size or each sieve (X axis). A rectilinear line of best fit was drawn through several data points.

The equation for this diagram was calculated as y = 0.1526x - 36.534. Therefore, when y = 50%, the mass average particle size of the cork is calculated as 567.06 pm (equivalent to 0.567 mm).

Example 1b: Measurement of the mass median particle size of millet hulls

The same procedure as described in Example 1a was used to determine the mass median particle size of a sample of millet hulls.

The results were the following:

The average cumulative mass of the samples was calculated to be 50.17g.

Therefore, the cumulative mass percent of aggregate collected on each sieve was calculated as follows:

Figure 5 shows a graph in which the percentage of accumulated mass (y-axis) is plotted against the mesh size (x-axis). A rectilinear line of best fit has been drawn through several data points.

The equation for this plot was calculated as y = 0.1371 x - 23.841. Therefore, when y = 50%, the mass average particle size of the cork is calculated as 538.59 pm (equivalent to 0.539 mm).

Example 2

A batch of snus with a 60:40 weight ratio (tobacco:cork) of pretreated materials was made by adding 3,600 g of tobacco and 2,400 g of cork (cork granules with a bulk density of 0.055 - 0.060 g/cm3; size bulk particle medium of about 0.55-0.65 mm, supplied by Cork Link, Portugal), water, sodium chloride and other ingredients to a cylindrical, horizontal rack-type mixer. The mixture of ingredients was then stirred and heat applied for a time long enough to ensure a safe microbiological state of the snus. After heat treatment, the product had a maturation period of several hours at elevated temperature with continuous low speed intermittent stirring of the mixer blades within the mixer. Processing was concluded by adding flavor, adjusting the pH to about 8.5 by adding soda ash, and measuring the water content to ensure the final moisture content was 45%. (w/w).

The finished snus containing cork was then transferred to plastic bags and aged in a cold room for one week. After this, the snus was packed into bags using a Mertz snus packer (Merz Verpackungsmaschinen GmbH, Bahnhofstrape 25, D-35423 Lich, Germany) and the bulk density was measured. Bulk density was measured using an Engelsmann STAV II stirring volumeter. Bulk density was calculated before shaking, for a given volume of a given mass of particulate material. As a final stage, the sensory properties of cork-containing snus were evaluated.

Example 3

A batch of snus with a tobacco:cork weight ratio of 80:20 was prepared and analyzed using the procedure of Example 2, in which 4,000 g of tobacco and 1,000 g of cork were added to the mixture.

Example 4

A batch of snus with a tobacco:cork weight ratio of 95:5 was prepared and analyzed using the procedure of Example 2, in which 4750g of tobacco and 250g of cork were added to the mix.

Example 5 (comparative)

A batch containing no cork (i.e. tobacco:cork weight ratio of 100:0) was prepared and analyzed using the procedure of Example 2, in which 5,000 g of tobacco was added to the mix and 0 g of cork.

Results

Oral smokeless tobacco products according to the present invention (Examples 2 to 4) were analyzed for total starch and sugar content, and the following results were obtained:

• Glucose < 0.04 g/100 g

• Fructose < 0.04 g/100 g

• Sucrose < 0.04 g/100 g

• Maltose < 0.04 g/100 g

• Total starch and sugars < 1% w/w

The properties of the oral smokeless tobacco products prepared in Examples 2 to 5 are shown in Table 1.

Table 1: Measured bulk densities and weights of cork-containing snus bags of a standard white snus mix at 45% moisture, with different levels of cork

It should be noted that the indicated cork level does not refer to the cork ratio in the final snus product, as it depends on the moisture level and other ingredients. For a white snus blend containing 40% cork, at 45% final moisture, the final weight percentage of cork is approximately 18-20% w/w. However, in the examples and Table 1 above, the amount of cork is specified as a ratio of the total pre-treated and ground tobacco blend, before any other ingredients have been added. As shown in Table 1, the inclusion of cork in snus products results in a significant decrease in bulk density and resulting pouch mass of the oral smokeless tobacco product with a similar fill value.

The products of examples 2 and 5 are shown in figure 6, where the product comprising 40% w/w cork (example 2) is shown on the left hand side, and the product comprising 0% w/w cork (example 5) is shown on the right side.

In fact, the product comprising 40% w/w cork (example 2) had a bulk density 51.3% lower than the product comprising 0% w/w cork (example 5) for the same weight of product. .

A standard snus product contains 0.9g of tobacco. 0.9 g of snus product according to Example 5 having 0% w/w cork has a calculated volume of 1.8 cm3. With a bulk density of 0.207 g/cm3, the weight of the snus product according to Example 2 comprising 40% w/w cork required to fill a volume of 1.8 cm3 is 0.3726 g. This results in a 58.6% reduction in material weight for the same volume. Furthermore, the inventors surprisingly discovered that the samples comprising cork are very soft and flexible. The sample comprising 0% w/w cork (example 5) began to collapse and feel flat when tested, while the samples comprising cork (example 2) held their shape over an extended period of time. Furthermore, the samples comprising cork (example 2) were perceived as dry compared to the example 5 sample.

It was also found that cork has a neutral flavor and aroma and therefore does not add any noticeable aromas or flavors to tobacco products.

The various embodiments described in this invention are presented solely to help understand and teach the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as a representative sample of embodiments and are not exhaustive and/or exclusive. It should be understood that the advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and/or other aspects described in this invention are not to be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

Claims (15)

1. An oral smokeless tobacco product comprising a tobacco material and a particulate material, the particulate material having the following properties: i) a mass median particle size measured by sieve analysis of from about 0.3 mm to about 3 mm; ii) a bulk density of less than about 0.6 g/cm3; Y iii) a combined starch and sugar content of less than about 7% based on the weight of the particulate material, where the particulate material is a hydrophobic particulate material selected from the group consisting of cork, sawdust, millet hulls, polystyrene, sodium alginate microspheres, foamed alginates and mixtures thereof, and wherein the tobacco material comprises tobacco or a tobacco substitute or substitute. 2. An oral smokeless tobacco product according to claim 1, wherein the mass average particle size as measured by sieve analysis of the particulate material is from about 0.3 mm to about 1 mm. 3. An oral smokeless tobacco product according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the bulk density of the particulate material is less than about 0.4 g/cm3, such as less than about 0.26 g/cm3. 4. An oral smokeless tobacco product according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the combined starch and sugar content of the particulate material is less than about 5% based on the weight of the particulate material. 5. An oral smokeless tobacco product according to any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the particulate material is present in an amount from about 1 to about 80% by weight of the total oral smokeless tobacco product. . 6. A smokeless oral tobacco product according to any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the particulate material is cork. 7. A smokeless oral tobacco product according to any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the tobacco material is or comprises tobacco. 8. A smokeless oral tobacco product according to claim 7, wherein the tobacco is snus. 9. An oral smokeless tobacco product according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the moisture content of the tobacco is at least 25% by weight of the total oral smokeless tobacco product. 10. A process for producing an oral smokeless tobacco product comprising a tobacco material and a particulate material, the particulate material having the following properties: i) a mass median particle size measured by sieve analysis of from about 0.3 mm to about 3 mm; ii) a bulk density of less than about 0.6 g/cm3; Y iii) a combined starch and sugar content of less than about 7% based on the weight of the particulate material, where the particulate material is a hydrophobic particulate material selected from the group consisting of cork, sawdust, millet hulls, polystyrene, sodium alginate microspheres, foamed alginates and mixtures thereof, understanding the procedure: (a) providing a tobacco material; (b) processing the tobacco material; Y (c) adding the particulate material to the tobacco material before processing step (b), during processing step (b), or after processing step (b), wherein the tobacco material comprises tobacco or a tobacco substitute or substitute. 11. The process according to claim 10, wherein processing step (b) comprises a heat treatment. The process according to claim 10 or 11, wherein water and salt are added to the tobacco material before processing step (b), during processing step (b) or after processing step (b). 13. A consumer package comprising the oral smokeless tobacco product as defined in claims 1 to 9. 14. Use of a particulate material according to claim 1 to improve the mouthfeel of an oral smokeless tobacco product. 15. Use of a particulate material according to claim 1 to maintain the structure of an oral smokeless tobacco product in use.