GB2620123A

GB2620123A - Smoking product formulation

Info

Publication number: GB2620123A
Application number: GB2209402.3A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Ali Ebdah Mohammad
Original assignee: Air IP Holdings Ltd
Current assignee: Air IP Holdings Ltd
Priority date: 2022-06-27
Filing date: 2022-06-27
Publication date: 2024-01-03
Also published as: GB202209402D0; WO2024003733A1

Abstract

A smoking product comprises a substrate, at least one flavouring, a mist-maker, and an absorbent plant-based material dispersed within the smoking product. The absorbent plant-based material is Saccharum or sugarcane. The absorbent material makes up less than 20wt%, preferably less than 10wt%, of the smoking product. The substrate may be tobacco or a tobacco substitute, such as tea. The smoking product is well suited for use in hookahs and may be provided in a capsule format, the capsule preferably comprising an inert bead.

Description

Smoking product formulation The present disclose relates to a smoking product formulation and more particularly, although not exclusively, to a smoking product formulation that can be provided in a capsule for use in a hookah device.

Backaround of the invention

A prior art hookah device is shown in WO 2017/080545. The device comprises a heating chamber configured to receive a capsule containing a smoking product, for example, a shisha product. The capsule is heated using the heating chamber to produce a vapour, which is then inhaled through a hose. The capsule provides a pre-packaged and easy to handle shisha portion.

The inventor has found numerous problems with prior art capsules. The capsules typically contain a shisha or Mucassel product, which comprises a mixture of tobacco, molasses and glycerol. The shisha product is sticky, syrupy or otherwise viscous. During transit or storage of the product, the viscous or liquid components of the shisha product may separate from the solid components of the shisha product. The liquid component may then escape the capsule.

The capsule may become sticky or otherwise difficult/awkward to handle. The liquid may coalesce at the lower end of the capsule, and therefore may not be adequately vaporised during use. Additionally, the flavouring of the product is often contained (e.g. dissolved) within the liquid component of the shisha. Thus, loss or separation of the liquid components may result in a suboptimal smoking experience.

Alternatively, when the capsule is heated, the liquid component of the shisha product can become separated from the solid component to a greater extent and can drain through apertures in the lower end of the capsule. The liquid can enter the heating chamber or other portions of the device. This can cause the device to malfunction and/or requires the device to be cleaned after use.

The temperature of the heating chamber may be greater than that inside the capsule, causing any liquid component present on the heating chamber walls to burn at a higher temperature than is optimal. This may cause a burnt taste/smell for the user, reducing the smoking experience and can cause more harmful substances to released.

It is an aim of the present invention to overcome or ameliorate one or more of the above problems.

Statement of Invention

According to the invention, there is provided a smoking product formulation comprising: a substrate, at least one flavouring, and a mist-maker provided on the substrate; and an absorbent plant-based material, where the absorbent material comprises less than or equal to 20wt% of the smoking product.

The absorbent plant-based material is distinct from the substrate, e.g. being a different material from the substrate. The absorbent material may comprise 20 Saccharum or sugarcane.

The substrate may comprise tobacco, e.g. tobacco leaf or a product derived therefrom. The substrate may comprise tea, e.g. a tea leaf or a product derived therefrom.

The absorbent plant-based material is beneficial in preventing excessive egress of liquid from the smoking product during handling/storage and in use within a water pipe. The relatively low wt% of the absorbent plant-based material is beneficial in reducing any adverse impact on the flavour/taste of the smoking product to the end user, e.g. to the point that the user would not recognise or appreciate the presence of the absorbent plant-based material during use of the water pipe.

Further optional features are defined in the dependent claims.

The smoking product may be provided in a capsule format, e.g. with a predetermined portion of the smoking product contained in the capsule.

The further product may comprise tobacco. The coating may comprise a tobacco-free composition. The substrate may be provided in a layer. The layer may comprise a plurality of beads. The layer of beads may be coated with a smoking product. The layer of beads may be coated or uncoated.

The capsule may comprise a metallic material. The capsule may comprise one or more metallic wall.

The capsule may define an enclosure for the smoking product. The capsule may comprise a base and a lid and a side wall surrounding the smoking product.

The tobacco may comprise less than or equal to 50wt% or 30wt°/o of the smoking product; preferably, less than or equal to 25wt%.

According to a further aspect there is provided: a capsule containing a smoking product comprising: a substrate, at least one flavouring, and a mist-maker; wherein capsule the comprises one or more aperture to allow ingress or egress of air therefrom, and at least one inert bead is provided within the capsule, the bead overlying or at least partially obscuring at least one aperture.

The bead may be provided at a base of the capsule. A plurality of beads may be provided. The plurality of beads may or may not be adjacent one or more aperture of the capsule. The beads may be provided in a layer. The layer may be provided at the base of the capsule. The layer/beads may overlie or obscure a plurality of apertures. A plurality of layers of beads may be provided.

Optionally, the smoking product comprises an absorbent plant-based material According to a further aspect there is provided: a smoking product formulation comprising: a substrate, at least one flavouring, and a mist-maker; and an absorbent non-tobacco, plant-based material.

Optionally, the absorbent material comprises less than or equal to 30wr/0 of the smoking product. Optionally, the absorbent material comprises less than or equal to 20wr/o. Optionally, the absorbent material comprises less than or equal to 15wt%; optionally, less than or equal to 10wV/0.

Optionally, the absorbent material comprises moss. Optionally, the absorbent material comprises sphagnum moss. Optionally, the absorbent material comprises Saccharum or sugarcane.

According to a further aspect there is provided: a smoking product formulation comprising: a tea-based substrate, at least one flavouring, and a mist-maker.

Optionally, the formulation comprises an absorbent non-tobacco, plant-based material.

The tea may comprise one or more of: black tea; green tea; herbal tea; oolong tea; 20 or matcha tea.

Any of the optional features defined above or in the following detailed description may be applied to any of the above aspects where practicable.

Detailed Description

Workable embodiments of the invention are described below by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings Figure 1 shows a perspective view of the hookah device; Figure 2 shows a perspective view of first smoking product capsule; Figure 3 shows a perspective view of second smoking product capsule; Figure 4 shows a schematic view of a tobacco-based smoking product; Figure 5 shows a schematic view of smoking product comprising an inert bead; Figure 6 shows a schematic view of a capsule comprising a plurality of inert beads; Figure 7 shows a schematic view of a smoking product comprising a granule or powder substrate; Figure 8 shows a schematic view of a plurality of inert beads embedded within a shisha smoking product; Figure 9 shows a schematic view of a plurality of inert beads forming a layered arrangement within a capsule; Figure 10 shows a schematic view of a plurality of coated inert beads forming a layered arrangement within a capsule; Figure 11 shows a schematic view of a plurality of coated inert beads embedded within a shisha smoking product.

Figure 1 shows an example of a water pipe 2, referred to herein as a hookah device, although it will be appreciated that the pipe may otherwise be referred to as a shisha pipe. The hookah device 2 in this example is electrically heated and/or electronically controlled.

The hookah 2 comprises a base 4. The base 4 may provide a wide portion or area to prevent toppling of the device 2. An electronics compartment 6 is provided. The device 2 comprises a tank 8 configured to be filled with a liquid coolant (e.g. water). The tank 8 thus provides a container/reservoir. The electronic compartments 6 and tank 8 may be separatable/detachable. This allows access to an opening in the tank 8 to provide filling thereof.

The electronics compartment 6 comprises a lid 12 to provide an opening thereto. A heater is mounted within the electronics compartment 6. The heater is configured to receive a capsule 10 comprising a smoking product. The heater heats the capsule 10 to vaporise or otherwise disperse one or more ingredient of smoking product. The heater thus forms a heating chamber or container. One or more heating elements may be provided on, within and/or integral with the wall of the heating chamber.

As best seen in figures 2 and 3, a plurality of apertures 16 are provided on the capsule 10 to allow air into the capsule in use and/or to allow the vaporised product to escape therefrom. The apertures 16 are typically less than 2mm in diameter.

Vaporised product can thus exit the capsule in use due to a flow of ambient air into/through the capsule. The vapourised product may enter the heating chamber during heating of the capsule 10 or may pas directly from the capsule outlet to a pipe leading to the water tank 8.

The hookah, e.g. lid 12, comprises one or more air inlet 14 to allow air into the heating chamber and/or capsule. This air then mixes with the vaporised product for delivery to via a pipe to the water tank.

A suction hose 20 is provided in communication with a portion of the tank 8 above the coolant/water level. The suction hose comprises a mouthpiece 22. The mouthpiece 22 may be detachable/removable. Air can be drawn through the heated capsule and the vapourised product in the capsule can be carried by the airflow through the conduit to exit the hookah 2 at the mouthpiece 22. The user can therefore inhale to draw the vaporised product through the device 2 and out through the hose 20. Such a system emulates a conventional non-powered shisha/hookah pipe.

It can be appreciated that the device 2 shown in figures 1 and 2 is merely exemplary and any suitable such device may be used or heating a capsule containing a smoking product, or loose smoking product in a conventional bowl. A conventional water pipe relying on the combustion of a fuel source (e.g. coal) as a heating means may also be used in conjunction with the smoking product of the invention instead of an electric heater if desired.

In some embodiments, the electronics compartment 6 may be provided below the coolant tank 8 such that the vaporised smoking product in use passes up through the device 2. The electronics compartment 6 may therefore form a base portion of the device 2. A conduit may extend from the heater and up into the coolant to pass the vaporised product thereinto. A capsule 10 may be inserted into the base of the device 2.

Examples of suitable electronic hookahs 2 and associated heaters 10 can be found in earlier published patent applications WO 2017/080545 Al and WO 2015/172224 Al, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Such details will not be repeated herein for brevity.

Referring to figures 2 and 3, the capsule 10 comprises a top wall 24 and a bottom wall/base 26. The top wall 24 and the bottom wall 26 are connected via a side wall 28. The side wall 28 is substantially continuous. The top, bottom and side walls thus provide an enclosure/cavity for a smoking product 30. It can be appreciated that the term "top", "bottom" and "side" are merely used to aid in description the capsule, and the capsule may be used in any suitable orientation in use. The top wall 28 may provide a closure or lid. The lid may be deformed or crimped onto the side wall 28.

A plurality of apertures 16 are provided in the top wall 24 and the bottom wall 26 respectively. During use, air passes through the apertures in the top wall 24 and into/through the smoking product 30. The smoking product 30 is heated and vaporised. The air entrains the vaporised product in the capsule 10, and passes out from the apertures in the bottom wall 26. Such an arrangement provides a prepackaged or prefilled capsule. A peelable seal may overlie the apertures 16 on the top wall 24 and/or bottom wall 26.

In some examples, the entire capsule may be retained in a sealed pouch, package or sleeve so as to provide a retail article that can maintain the capsule in a fresh condition for extended periods of time. The pouch may be filled with an inert gas, such as nitrogen. Thus either or both of the capsule and pouch can be filled with a gas to help preserve the smoking product therein until use. Even if the capsule itself is air filled, it has been found that flushing the pouch with a suitable gas can be sufficient, e.g. if the gas in the pouch and the air inside the capsule can mix over time such that the overall oxygen content within the pouch is low.

The capsule 10 comprises a top wall 24 of greater area in plan than the bottom wall 26 such that the capsule is tapered/narrowed in form. The capsule 10 is tapered toward the bottom wall 26. This helps with release from the heating chamber 10. The capsule 10 is thus trapezoidal in cross-section (from a side view). The taper shown in the figures is merely illustrative, and the side wall 28 may be tapered at any suitable angle.

The capsule 10 comprises a circular profile (from a top view). The capsule 10 is thus frustoconical. However, it can be appreciated that the shape of capsule 10 is merely exemplary and the capsule may comprise any suitable shape for the intended purpose. Different shapes of capsule can be provided to achieve the desired contact with the interior of the device 2, e.g. a being shaped for good thermal contact with the heater 10. For example, capsules that are ovoid or polygonal in plan could be accommodated.

The capsule 10 comprises a heat-resistant material. The capsule 10 is therefore stable at the heating temperatures of the device 2. The capsule 10 comprises a metallic material, for example, aluminium. The metallic material ensures adequate heat conduction into the capsule. In other embodiments, the capsule 10 may comprise a ceramic material. The capsule 10 may comprise a coating. The coating my comprise a coloured pigment or the like. The coating is temperature-stable (i.e. does not decompose at high temperatures).

A second embodiment of the capsule 10 is shown in figure 3. The base/lower wall 30 26 of the capsule 10 comprises a domed base. The base comprises a plurality of apertures 16 extending through the wall thereof. The apertures allow air/vapour to through the capsule 12 in use (i.e. to provide unidirectional airflow). In use, the smoking product 30 filled to a position below the recess apertures 16, such that liquid or other smoking product does not flow therethrough.

In general terms, the capsule comprises a thin-walled enclosure for the smoking product that provides openings for the flow of gas/vapour to/from the capsule during heating thereof, whist maintaining the smoking product therein.

The smoking product will now be described. In general terms, the smoking product 30 comprises a consumable product configured to be heated by the hookah device 2 and inhaled by the user. The smoking product comprises a "mist-maker. The mist-maker is configured to create a cloud when vapourised. The mist-maker comprises a volatile material configured to provide a light-scattering cloud in a vaporised state. The mist-maker comprises a polyol. The polyol may comprise one of more of: glycerin/glycerine/glycerol; 1,2-propylene glycol; 1,3-propylene glycol; 1,2-butylene glycol; 1,3-butylene glycol; 1,4-butylene glycol; 2,3-butylene glycol; 1,2,4-butanetriol; triethylene glycol; triacetin; mannitol; sorbitol; xylitol; inositol; isosorbide; polydextrose; or dianhydro-D-glucitol. The polyol may comprise a "sugar alcohol" (hydrogenated sugar).

The mist-maker comprises less than or equal to 70wt% of the smoking product; preferably, less than or equal to 60wt% of the smoking product. The mist-maker comprises greater than or equal to 10wt% of the smoking product; preferably, greater than or equal to 25wrin of the smoking product. The mist-maker typically comprises between 25wt% and 60wV/0 of the smoking product.

The product may comprise a sweetener. The sweetener may comprise a carbohydrate sweetener (e.g. monosaccharides of 5 or 6 carbon atoms), for example, one or more of: arabinose; xylose; ribose; glucose; mannose; galactose, fructose; dextrose; or sorbose. The sweetener may comprise a disaccharide, for example, one or more of: sucrose, such as cane or beet sugar; lactose; maltose; or cellobiose. The sweetener may comprise a polysaccharide, for example, one or more of: partially hydrolyzed starch or dextrin; polyols, such as sorbitol, mannitol, xylitol; and mixtures with one or more of the above sugars. The sweetener may comprise a complex sugar/carbohydrate mixture (e.g. a natural sugar product). The sweetener may comprise one or more: molasses; invert syrup; corn (maize) syrup; maple syrup; golden syrup; treacle etc. In some embodiments, the sweetener comprises high-fructose corn syrup (also known as glucose-fructose isoglucose and glucose-fructose syrup). In some embodiments, the sweeteners comprise artificial sweeteners. The artificial sweeteners may comprise one or more of: sodium, calcium or ammonium saccharin salts; dihydrochalcones; rebaudiosides; mogrosides; glycyrrhizin; dipotassium glycyrrhizin; glycyrrhizic acid ammonium salt; L-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine methyl ester (aspartame); the sodium or potassium salt of 3,4-dihydro-6-methyl-I,2,3-oxathiazine-4-one-2,2-dioxide (Acesulfame-K); extracts of Stevia rebaudiana (Stevioside); extracts of Richardella dulcifica (Miracle Berry); orextracts of Dioscoreophyllum cumminsii (Serendipity Berry).

It can be appreciated that any of the above sweeteners may be combined with any of the other above sweeteners or classes of sweeteners.

The sweetener comprises less than or equal to 70wt% of the smoking product; preferably, less than or equal to 60wt% of the smoking product. The sweetener comprises greater than or equal to 10wt°/o of the smoking product; preferably, greater than or equal to 25wrio of the smoking product. The sweetener comprises between 25wt% and 60wrici of the smoking product.

The product comprises a flavouring. The flavouring may comprise, inter alia, one or more of: mint; such as peppermint and spearmint; chocolate; liquorice; citrus and other fruit flavours; gamma octalactone; vanillin; ethyl vanillin; or breath freshener flavours. The above-described sweeteners may comprise an example of a flavouring but typically both a sweetener and a further flavouring are provided.

The flavouring may comprise spice flavours, for example, one or more of: cinnamon; methyl salicylate; linalool; bergamot oil; geranium oil; lemon oil; or ginger oil. The flavouring may comprise plant extracts or essential oils. The flavouring may comprise a food-based flavouring, for example, one or of: apple flavouring; blueberry flavouring; coconut flavouring; grape flavouring; guava flavouring; pomegranate flavouring; or lemon flavouring etc. The flavouring may comprise a fruit or plant flavour. The flavouring may comprise one or more of: an acid; an alcohol; an ester; an aldehyde; a ketone; or a pyrazine.

The flavouring typically comprises less than or equal to 30wr/0 of the smoking product; preferably, less than or equal to 20wt%; preferably, less than or equal to 15wt%.

The product, (e.g. the flavouring thereof), may comprise a stimulant. The stimulant has a stimulatory effect on the central nervous system and may induce alertness in a subject. The stimulant may comprise one or more: caffeine (1,3,7-trimethylxanthine); taurine (2-aminoethanesulfonic acid); theobromine (3,7-dimethylxanthine); or their derivatives.

In some embodiments, the stimulant is provided by a plant-based extract forming part of the flavouring. The plant extract may comprise one or more of: coffee; black tea; green tea; matcha; mate; kola nut; cocoa; ginseng; guarana; or a cannabinoid such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabidiol (CBD). In other embodiments, the stimulant may comprise an additive provided in addition to the flavouring. For example, a coffee flavouring may be enhanced with additional caffeine.

The product may comprise a colourant. The colourant may provide a coloured product 30 and/or smoke. The colourant comprises a food, pharmaceutical or cosmetic safe colourant. The colourant comprises a water-soluble colourant. The colourant comprises a plant-based colourant, for example, one or more of: beet juice; brazilwood; caramel; carminic acid; litmus; logwood; orchil; or saffron. In some embodiments, the colourant comprises an artificial colourant.

In a specific embodiment, the smoking product comprises a shisha or Mu'assel. The shisha comprises tobacco. Tobacco leaf may be shredded, cut/chopped or otherwise particulated. Discrete leaf elements may be present in the smoking product. The tobacco is typically coated or contained within the other component(s) of the smoking product, e.g. where the flavouring and mist-maker are provided in a liquid form.

The tobacco is mixed with a sweetener (e.g. molasses) and a mist-maker (e.g. glyercol). The shisha is thus provided as a viscous mixture of liquid and solid components or as a semi-solid. In some embodiments, the shisha may be tobacco free. The shisha may comprise a nicotine additive and/or substitute. The shisha may comprise a tobacco substitute. The tobacco substitute may comprise an organic substrate.

The tobacco comprises less than or equal to 40wt% of the smoking product; preferably, less than or equal to 40wt%; preferably, less than or equal to 30wV/0; preferably, less than or equal to 25wt%; preferably, less than or equal to 20wr/o.

The tobacco comprises greater than or equal to lwt% of the smoking product; preferably, greater than or equal to 5wt%; preferably, less than or equal to lOwt%.

The tobacco may comprise between 1wr/0 and 30wt% of the smoking product; preferably, between 5wt% and 25wV/0.

In order to provide improved absorption or retention of the liquid/viscous components of the smoking product 30, an absorbent is used. The absorbent may provide a binder or the like. The absorbent comprises a plant-based material. The plant-based material is provided raw or unaltered (i.e. the chemical and/or physical structure of the plant is substantially intact). For example, the plant-based material is not reconstituted, cooked and/or otherwise irreversibly altered. Using a plant-based material allows combustion of the absorbent without generating harmful gases. The plant-based material may be dried such that is moisture content is lowered prior to being provided in the smoking product.

In a first embodiment, the plant-based material comprises a grass-based material. The plant-based material comprises a plant from the genus Saccharum. The plant-based material comprises sugarcane. The plant-based material comprises material from the stalk or "cane" of the sugar cane plant. The plant-based material comprises bagasse. Bagasse is the residual dry fibre after the cane juice (i.e. sugar) has been extracted. Bagasse typically comprises a mixture of cellulosic material and lignin.

The inventor has surprisingly found that sugarcane provides good absorption properties without causing an adverse effect on the smoking experience of the user.

The sugarcane material comprises fibrous material. The fibrous material provides a high effective surface area for the absorption of the liquid shisha component to bind thereto. The fibres are generally elongate. The fibres are generally clustered or bundled to form a bulk material. The fibres are cut to length suitable for use with a smoking product. The fibres comprise a maximum or average length less than or equal to 50mm; preferably, less than or equal to 20mm; preferably, less than or equal to lOmm; preferably, less than or equal to 5mm. The fibres may comprise a length greater than or equal to 1mm; preferably, greater than or equal to 2mm. The fibres may have non-uniform length. The fibre may comprise a length between 1mm and 30mm; preferably between 2mm and 25mm; preferably, between 3mm and 20mm. The fibres are cut/chopped to length using any suitable process.

The sugarcane material is typically dried before used. This ensures the material comprises sufficient absorption properties. The sugarcane may be dried using any suitable process. The sugarcane material comprises a moisture less than or equal to 40wV/c.; preferably, less than or equal to 30wt%; preferably, less than or equal to 20wt%; preferably, less than or equal to 15wt%. The sugarcane material comprises a moisture greater than or equal to 3wt%; greater than or equal to 5wt%. The sugarcane material comprises a moisture between 2wt% and 25wr/o; preferably, between 5wt% and 20wr/o; preferably, between 5wt% and 15wt%.

The sugarcane material comprises less than or equal to 30wt% of the smoking product; preferably, less than or equal to 20wr/o; preferably, less than or equal to 15wt%; preferably, less than or equal to 10wr/o; preferably, less than or equal to 5wt%. The sugarcane material comprises greater than or equal to 0.5wt% of the smoking product; preferably, greater than or equal to 1wt%; preferably, greater than or equal to 1.5wr/o. The sugarcane material comprises between 0.5wt% and 15wr/0 of the smoking product; preferably, between lwt% and lOwt%. This provides good absorbing properties without negatively affecting the smoking experience.

The sugarcane is mixed with the smoking product. The sugarcane may be homogenously or evenly distributed within the smoking product. This ensures the absorbent can act throughout the body of the smoking product. Where tobacco is provided, the mass ratio of moss:tobacco is 1:2-20; preferably, 1:2-12; preferably, 1:2-8.

In a second embodiment, the plant-based material comprises a plant from the Bryophyta division (i.e. a moss). The moss may comprise a sphagnum or "peat" moss. The inventor has surprisingly found that the branched nature and cellular structure of sphagnum provides good absorption properties without causing an adverse effect on the smoking experience of the user when used at relatively low wt% of the overall smoking product. The absorbent material typically comprises the leaves of the moss.

The leaves are cut to length suitable for use with a smoking product. The leaves/fibres comprise a length less than or equal to 50mm; preferably, less than or equal to 20mm; preferably, less than or equal to lOmm; preferably, less than or equal to 5mm. The leaves/fibres may comprise a length greater than or equal to 1mm; preferably, greater than or equal to 2mm. The leaves/fibres may have nonuniform length. The leaves are cut/chopped to length using any suitable process.

The moss material is typically dried before used. This ensures the material comprises sufficient absorption properties. The moss may be dried using any suitable process. The moss material comprises a moisture less than or equal to 50wt%; preferably, less than or equal to 40wr/o; preferably, less than or equal to 35wt%; preferably, less than or equal to 30wr/o. The moss material comprises a moisture greater than or equal to 5wt%; greater than or equal to lOwt%. The moss material comprises a moisture between 5wt% and 35wV/0; preferably, between 10wt% and 30wt%; preferably, between 15wr/o and 25wr/o.

The moss material comprises less than or equal to 20wr/0 of the smoking product; preferably, less than or equal to lOwt%; preferably, less than or equal to 7wr/o; preferably, less than or equal to 5wt%; preferably, less than or equal to 3wt%. The moss material comprises greater than or equal to 0.1wt% of the smoking product; preferably, greater than or equal to 0.5wr/o; preferably, greater than or equal to 0.7wr/o. The moss material comprises between 0.5wt% and 5wt% of the smoking product; preferably, between 0.7wt% and 3wr/o. This provides good absorbing properties without negatively affecting the smoking experience.

The moss is homogenously or evenly distributed into the smoking product. The moss is therefore mixed with the smoking product. Where tobacco is provided, the mass ratio of moss:tobacco is 1:5-25; preferably, 1:10-20; preferably, 1:12-17 In some embodiments, the absorbent material comprises both moss and sugarcane.

The sugarcane material comprises less than or equal to 20wt% of the smoking product; preferably, less than or equal to 15w1%; preferably, less than or equal to lOwt%; preferably, less than or equal to 5wt%.

The sugarcane material comprises greater than or equal to 0.5wt% of the smoking product; optionally, greater than or equal to 1wt%; optionally, greater than or equal to 1.5wt%.

The sugarcane material comprises between 0.5wt% and 15wt°/o of the smoking product; preferably, between 1wt% and 1Owt%.

The moss material comprises less than or equal to 10wV/0 of the smoking product; preferably, less than or equal to 5wrio; optionally, less than or equal to 3wrici; possibly, less than or equal to 1wt%.

The moss material comprises greater than or equal to 0.1wt% of the smoking product; optionally, greater than or equal to 0.3wt%. The moss material may comprise between 0.1wt% and 3wt% of the smoking product; preferably, between 0.3wt% and 1wr/ci in the examples herein.

The mass ratio of moss:sugarcane may be 1:4-16; optionally, 1:6-10.

The moss and sugarcane may collectively comprise less than or equal to 30wric, of the smoking product; preferably, less than or equal to 20wt%; preferably, less than or equal to 15wt%; preferably, less than or equal to 10wrio; preferably, less than or 15 equal to 5wr/o. The moss and sugarcane may be as previously described.

The moss and/or sugarcane are homogenously or evenly distributed in the smoking product. The moss and sugarcane are therefore mixed with one another and with the smoking product.

In some embodiments, the smoking product 30 comprises a second absorbent. The second absorbent typically comprises a powdery substance made of particles characterized by finer grain size than the granular material, resulting in a high specific surface area. The second absorbent particles have an average diameter of between 2.5pm and 100pm; preferably, between 5pm and 60pm. The further absorbent particles have an average diameter less than or equal to 100pm; preferably, less than or equal to 60pm.

The second absorbent comprises silicia in this example. The silica comprises fumed silica. Fumed silica provides a powdery substance, also known as pyrogenic silica, Fumed silica is made of primary particles of amorphous silica fused into branched, chainlike, three-dimensional secondary beads which then agglomerate into tertiary beads. Again, without wishing to be bound to any particular theory, it is believed that the three-dimensional structure and high surface area of fumed silica render it an excellent absorbent. The structure of the silica further helps to provide a binder or the like. Typical BET specific surface areas of fumed silica range from 50 to 400 m2/g.

The second absorbent may comprise other inert, mineral powders, for example, one or more of: amorphous silica; talc; clay mineral; and other powdery materials or silicates.

The second absorbent or binder may comprise less than or equal to 10wt% of the smoking product; preferably, less than or equal to 5wr/o; preferably, less than or equal to 3wr/o. The further absorbent may comprise greater than or equal to 0.1wt% of the smoking product; preferably, greater than or equal to 0.2wt%. The second absorbent may comprise between 0.1wt% and 5wV/0 of the smoking product; preferably, between 0.2wt% and 2wr/o.

In some embodiments, the smoking product 30 comprises a third absorbent. The third absorbent may comprise a cereal grain. The third absorbent may comprise the hard outer layer of a cereal grain. The third absorbent may comprise bran. The bran may comprise bran from one or more of: rice; maize (corn); wheat; oats; barley; rye; or millet.

The bran is provided as a powder. The bran is provided as a fine powder. The bran comprises an average particle size less than or equal to 2mm; preferably, less than or equal to 1mm.

The bran may comprise less than or equal to 20wt% of the smoking product; preferably, less than or equal to lOwt%; preferably, less than or equal to 5wt%; preferably, less than or equal to 3wr/o. The further absorbent may comprise greater than or equal to 0.1wt% of the smoking product; preferably, greater than or equal to 0.5wt%. The second absorbent may comprise between 0.2wt% and 10wt% of the smoking product; preferably, between 0.5wt% and 5wtYo; preferably, between 0.5wt% and 3wt%

Specific examples:

A first specific example of the smoking product is described below: Incredient wt% Tobacco 15 Sweetener 25 Glycerine 55 Flavouring 2 Sphagnum Moss 1 Bran 1.5 Silica 0.5 The sphagnum moss is dried to around 20wt% moisture. The moss is then cut to an appropriate size. The sphagnum moss is mixed with tobacco, which is prepared in a conventional fashion. The liquid elements of the smoking product (fructose, glycerine, and flavouring) are added to the moss/tobacco mixture. The complete mixture is then mixed together to provide a generally homogenous mixture. The smoking product may then be divided and placed into individual capsules or packages.

Specific example 2:

Ingredient wt% Tobacco 15 Sweetener 44.5 Glycerine 35 Flavouring 2 Sugar cane 2 Bran 1 Silica 0.5 The sugarcane is dried to around 10wt% moisture. The sugarcane is then cut to an appropriately size fibres or bundles or fibres. The sugarcane is mixed with the tobacco to form a shisha product as described above. The sugarcane comprises 5 an average length of 9mm.

Specific example 3:

Ingredient wt% Tea 11 Sweetener 35 Glycerine 42 Flavouring 7 Sphagnum Moss 0.5 Sugar cane 4 Silica 0.5 The sugarcane and moss are dried to around 20wrio and 10wt% moisture respectively. The sugarcane and moss are then cut to size. The sugarcane and moss are mixed with the tea to form a shisha product as described above. The moss comprises an average length of 5mm.

It can be appreciated that the specific examples provided above are merely exemplary, and smoking product composition may be provided in any suitable form to help prevent separation of the liquid components thereof. The proportion of moss/sugarcane may be adjusted in accordance with how absorbent the other components are and/or how much liquid component is present in the composition.

For example, where the tobacco is particularly absorbent, the amount of moss/sugarcane may be reduced. Conversely, where more liquid component is used (e.g. a liquid flavouring or increase glycerine content), then more sugarcane/moss may be used.

The smoking product comprises a substrate 32 configured to support or disperse the flavouring and/or mist-maker. In some embodiments, the substrate 32 comprises tobacco and/or a tobacco substitute (e.g. such as tea). The smoking product thus comprises a conventional shisha type product as previously described. The tea may comprise any suitable tea product, for example, one or more of: black tea; green tea; herbal tea; oolong tea; or matcha tea. The tea typically comprises leaves or other plant portion to provide the tea flavour and/or substrate.

As shown schematically in figure 4, the smoking product 30 covers, coats or envelopes the substrate 32. The solid components of the formulation are mixed with the liquid components to provide a viscous suspension/mixture.

In some embodiments, the substrate 32 comprises an inert material. The substrate comprises a safe material for exposure to the usual elevated temperatures in a hookah bowl or heating chamber. The inert material is configured to not to melt, combust, decompose or otherwise deteriorate when exposed to heat. For example, the inert material is temperature stable to at least 200°C; at least 300°C; or at least 350°C or 400°C.

The inert substrate may comprise an inorganic or mineral material. In some embodiments, the inert material comprises a non-crystalline amorphous material, such as glass. The glass may comprise a silica (Si02) based glass. The glass may comprise one or more of: fused quartz (also known as fused-silica or vitreous silica); soda-lime-silica glass; sodium borosilicate glass; lead-oxide glass; foamed glass; or aluminosilicate glass.

In some embodiments, the inert material comprises a mineral. For example, the mineral may comprise one or more of: silica; limestone (calcium carbonate); feldspar (tectosilicate minerals); gypsum; magnetite (Fe304); chlorite ((Mg,Fe)3(Si,A1)4010(OH)2.(Mg,Fe)3(OH)6); glauconite ((K,Na)(Fe3+,AI,Mg)2(Si,A1)4010(OH)2); or alumina.

In some embodiments, the inert material comprises a stone/rock material (i.e. a natural substance containing one or more minerals or mineraloids). For example, the stone material may comprise one or more of: granite; basalt; marble; quartz; pumice; obsidian; jet; biotite; or the like.

In some embodiments, the inert material may comprise a ceramic. The ceramic may be semi-crystalline, vitrified or amorphous. The ceramic may be clay and/or alumina based.

In some embodiments, the inert materials comprises one or more of: activated carbon powder; graphite powder; graphene; carbon fibre or the like.

In some embodiments, the inert material may comprise an agglomeration or composite of one or more inert material. For example, inert material may comprise a cementitious material or mixture of liquid phase and solid phase (e.g. granular) materials.

In a specific embodiment, the substrate comprises: stone; glass; ceramic; pumice or sand.

As shown in figure 5, the smoking product 30 is provided on the surface of the substrate 32 (e.g. provides a coating on the substrate). The substrate 32 may therefore provide a core. The coating may cover substantially the whole surface of the substrate, thus maximising the surface area of the product. The coating 30 may comprise a uniform thickness across the surface of substrate 32. The substrate 32 may comprise rounded/spherical shape. The product and the substrate define a bead like arrangement. The substrate core may have a diameter between 0.5 mm and 20 mm. Although the beads are shown as circular, it can be appreciated the beads may take any suitable form or shape.

As shown in figure 6, a plurality of beads may be provided in a capsule. The beads may be stacked/piled in any suitable fashion, e.g. to partially or completely fill a capsule 10. The beads may be provided in conjunction with other capsule contents, e.g. a tobacco or non-tobacco smoking product provided in the capsule. Thus, the beads may partially fill the capsule 10 and the other smoking product may also partially fill the capsule. The combination of components may substantially fill the capsule or may leave some headspace within the capsule to allow suitable airflow in use.

In the embodiment shown in figure 7, the inter filler may comprise a powder, sand or granules (e.g. a crushed or fine particulate). The average particle size of the granules is such that the filler has a grainy/sandy consistency and does not form suspensions in the air in the manner of finer particulates such as powders and dust. This may reduce the health risks associated with fine powders. Such an arrangement provides a smoking product forming a paste, gel or the like. The inert filler is mixed with the smoking product 30 (e.g. to produce a homogenous product).

As shown in figure 8, the inert cores 32 (without the coating) may be embedded within the smoking product 30. This may help to prevent clumping of the smoking product. The smoking product 30 may comprise a conventional shisha type product, as described above. The cores 32 are spread, submerged or otherwise dispersed within the smoking product 30.

In the embodiment shown in figure 9, The cores 32 may be provided in a layered arrangement. The cores 32 are provided adjacent the base 26 of the capsule 14. The cores 32 therefore overlie the apertures 16 in the base of the capsule 14. This helps to prevent the smoking product 30 passing into/through the apertures. The smoking product 30 is provided on the core layer. In the present embodiment, the smoking product comprises a shisha product. A plurality of core layers may be provided. The smoking 30 may be or may not be interposed between each layer. The cores 32 may be pressed into the shisha. Alternatively, the shisha product may be pressed onto the cores 32.

A similar arrangement is shown in figure 10. In this embodiment, the cores 32 are coated with a first smoking product 30A. A second smoking product 30B is placed on the core layer. In some embodiments, the first and second smoking product 30A,30B may be substantially the same.

In some embodiments, the first and second smoking product 30A,30B may comprise a different composition/formulation. For example, the first smoking product 30A may comprise a hard coating on the core. The coating may be tobacco free. The second smoking product 30B may comprise a shisha product. The second smoking product 30B may comprise a tobacco.

As shown in figure 11, in some embodiments, the coated cores 32 are embedded within the smoking product, in a similar fashion, to that described in figure 6. The coating 30A may comprise a different composition to the second smoking product 30B as previously described.

Any of the described embodiments by be provided in a capsule. The smoking product 30 and/or any substrate 32 provided therewith occupies a volume less than the total volume of the capsule. The smoking 30 comprise a volume less than or equal to 95% of the volume of the capsule 14; preferably, less than or equal to 90%; preferably, less than or equal to 80%; preferably, less than or equal to 70%; preferably, less than or equal to 60%. The smoking occupies at least 5% of the volume of the capsule 14; preferably, at least 10%; preferably, at least 15%.

In some embodiments, the smoking product may be used without a capsule. The smoking product may be placed into a bowl or the like on a shisha device. Thus, the smoking product may be used in a conventional or electronic hookah device.

The smoking product may be provided in a pouch, packet, can or other conventional container and removed therefrom to be handled and loosely inserted into a shisha bowl for conventional use.

The absorbent material helps to prevent separation of the liquid components of the smoking product during handling and at elevated temperatures in a hookah device. This may help to prevent leakage from the capsule or bowl, improving the smoking experience, and reducing the need to clean the shisha pipe. The inert substrates help to increase airflow through the smoking product, and may help to prevent leakage from the aperture in the capsule, for example by obscuring the apertures in the capsule. Liquid components of the smoking product may be caught on the surface area of the inert substrate during heating to prevent dripping, pooling or other unwanted liquid flow during use.

Claims

Claims 1. A smoking product formulation comprising: a substrate, at least one flavouring, and a mist-maker; and an absorbent plant-based material, the absorbent material comprising Saccharum or sugarcane, where the absorbent material comprises less than or equal to 20wr/0 of the smoking product.
2. A smoking product according to claim 1, where the absorbent material 10 comprises less than or equal to lOwt%; 8w1%; or 6wt% of the smoking product.
3. A smoking product according to any preceding claim, where the absorbent material comprises greater than or equal to 0.5wt%; or 1wt% of the smoking product.
4. A smoking product according to any preceding claim, where the sugarcane material comprises a moisture less than or equal to less than or equal to 30wt%; preferably, less than or equal to 20wr/o.
5. A smoking product according to any preceding claim, where the absorbent material comprises fibrous material.
6. A smoking product according to claim 5, where the fibres comprise an average length less than or equal to 20mm; preferably, between 3mm and 20mm.
7. A smoking product according to any preceding claim, where the absorbent material is mixed or dispersed within the smoking product.
8. A smoking product according to any preceding claim, where the absorbent 30 material comprises sphagnum moss.
9. A smoking product according to claim 8, where the sphagnum moss comprises less than or equal to 5wV3/0 of the smoking product.
10. A smoking product according to any preceding claim, comprising a first absorbent material and a further, different absorbent material.
11. A smoking product according to claim 10, where the further absorbent comprises silica or a silicate.
12. A smoking product according to claim 11, where the further absorbent comprises fumed silica.
13. A smoking product according to any of claims 10-12, where the further absorbent comprises a cereal bran
14. A smoking product according to claim 13, where the cereal bran comprises less than or equal to 10wt% of the smoking product; preferably, less than or equal 15 to 5wr/o.
15. A smoking product according to any preceding claim, where the substrate comprises tobacco and/or tea.
16. A smoking product according to any preceding claim, where the substrate comprises an inert material.
17. A smoking product according to claim 16, where the substrate comprises a bead, granule and/or powder.
18. A smoking product according to claim 17, where the smoking product forms a coating on the bead.
19. A smoking product according to claim 17, where bead is uncoated.
20. A smoking product according to any of claims 8-12, where the bead is embedded or dispersed within the smoking product and the bead is coated in further smoking product.
21. A smoking product according to claim 20, where the further smoking product comprises a tobacco-free smoking product.
22. A capsule comprising the smoking product of any preceding claim.
23. A capsule according to claim 22, where capsule comprises one or more aperture to allow ingress or egress of air therefrom, and at least one inert bead is provided within the capsule, the bead overlying or at least partially obscuring at least one aperture.
24. A capsule according to claim 23, wherein a plurality of beads are provided in a layer, and the smoking product or the further smoking product is placed on or overlies the plurality beads, such that the beads space the smoking product or further smoking product from the apertures.
25. A capsule comprising a smoking product comprising: a substrate, at least one flavouring, and a mist-maker; and where capsule the comprises one or more aperture to allow ingress or egress of air therefrom, and at least one inert bead is provided within the capsule, the bead overlying or at least partially obscuring at least one aperture.