US20190124971A1

US20190124971A1 - Smokeless oral tobacco product and preparation thereof

Info

Publication number: US20190124971A1
Application number: US16/083,127
Authority: US
Inventors: Joanna Dawn Soffe; Johan Robert Gustafson; Michele Mola
Original assignee: British American Tobacco Investments Ltd; Fiedler and Lundgren AB
Current assignee: British American Tobacco Investments Ltd; Fiedler and Lundgren AB
Priority date: 2016-03-07
Filing date: 2017-03-02
Publication date: 2019-05-02
Also published as: EP3426064B1; WO2017153718A1; EP3847904A1; UA126790C2; JP2020162618A; GB201603866D0; JP6725164B2; RU2698489C1; HUE055099T2; PL3426064T3; JP2019512219A; CA3016766A1; EP3426064A1; DK3426064T3; CA3016766C; ES2886799T3; JP6931110B2

Abstract

The present invention relates to a smokeless oral tobacco product including 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; and 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 replacement or substitute.

Description

FIELD

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

BACKGROUND

Smokeless oral 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. Smokeless oral tobacco products include snuff, which can be provided in dry or moist form. Smokeless oral tobacco products can be portioned or non-portioned.
In some embodiments, the present invention seeks to provide an improved smokeless oral tobacco product and a method for the production thereof.

SUMMARY

In accordance with some embodiments described herein, a smokeless oral tobacco product is provided comprising a tobacco material and a particulate material which is other than 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; and
iii) a combined starch and sugar content of less than about 7% based on the weight of the particulate material.
In accordance with some embodiments described herein, a method is provided for the production of a smokeless oral tobacco product comprising a tobacco material and a particulate material which is other than 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; and
iii) a combined starch and sugar content of less than about 7% based on the weight of the particulate material, the method comprising:

- (a) providing a tobacco material;
- (b) processing the tobacco material; and
- (c) adding the particulate material to the tobacco material either prior to the processing step (b), during the processing step (b) or after the processing step (b), wherein the tobacco material comprises tobacco, or a tobacco replacement or substitute.

In accordance with some embodiments described herein, a consumer package is provided comprising the smokeless oral tobacco product according to the first aspect or produced by a method according to the second aspect of the invention.
In accordance with some embodiments described herein, there is provided the use of a particulate material which is other than 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; and
iii) a combined starch and sugar content of less than about 7% based on the weight of the particulate material
for improving mouthfeel of a smokeless oral tobacco product.
In accordance with some embodiments described herein, there is provided the use of a particulate material which is other than 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; and
iii) a combined starch and sugar content of less than about 7% based on the weight of the particulate material
for reducing irritation at the back of the throat of a user during use of a smokeless oral tobacco product.
In accordance with some embodiments described herein, there is provided the use of a particulate material which is other than 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; and
iii) a combined starch and sugar content of less than about 7% based on the weight of the particulate material
for maintaining in use structure of a smokeless oral tobacco product.

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:

FIG. 1 shows a chart that includes the densities measured for a number of different materials. The weight of the materials is plotted on the y-axis, where the weight was measured per cm³of product.

FIG. 2 shows an exemplary test sieving equipment for measuring mass median particle size of the particulate material.

FIG. 3 shows exemplary settings for the test sieving equipment for measuring mass median particle size of the particulate material.

FIG. 4 shows a graph of percentage cumulative mass of cork against mesh size of the sieves in an exemplary sieve analysis method of Example 1 a for measuring mass median particle size of cork.

FIG. 5 shows a graph of percentage cumulative mass of millet husks against mesh size of the sieves in an exemplary sieve analysis method of Example 1b for measuring mass median particle size of millet husks.

FIG. 6 shows a comparison of a smokeless oral tobacco product which is tin comprising 20 g standard white snus together with the pouched products shown above (right), and a sample comprising cork which is a tin comprising 10 g cork snus together with the pouches products shown above (left).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention relates to a smokeless oral tobacco product.
The “particulate material” for use in the present invention is a particulate material which is other than tobacco. Thus, as will be understood by one skilled in the art, the smokeless oral tobacco product includes tobacco and particulate material as defined herein, wherein the particulate material is other than tobacco.
“Smokeless tobacco product” is used herein to denote any tobacco product which is not intended for combustion.
“Smokeless oral tobacco product” is used herein to denote 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 user's saliva and the product. The term “smokeless oral tobacco product”, as used herein, does not include tobacco heating products.
A smokeless oral tobacco product can be provided to the user in a portioned or a non-portioned format. Portioned smokeless oral tobacco products can reduce or eliminate the handling of the tobacco by the user, which can offer significant advantages in terms of better hygiene, convenience and/or ease of use.
In some embodiments, the smokeless oral tobacco product of the present invention is a portioned product.
The smokeless oral tobacco product comprises a tobacco material.
“Tobacco material” as used herein includes a material which comprises tobacco and/or a tobacco replacement 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 replacement or substitute. In some embodiments, the tobacco material is a tobacco replacement or substitute.
“Tobacco” as used herein includes any part, such as the leaves, flowers, or stems, of any member of the genus Nicotiana and reconstituted materials thereof. In some embodiments, it includes treated tobacco. In some embodiments, it includes derivatives such as specific compounds found in natural tobacco, such as nicotine, whether extract or synthesized, as well as structural derivatives such as the fibrous portion of a tobacco leaf. The term “tobacco” as used herein includes tobacco extract.
The term “tobacco replacement or substitute” as used herein includes tobacco substitutes which comprise individual chemicals and/or complex chemical entities which, when appropriately prepared, physically resemble natural tobacco. Alternatively or in addition, the term “tobacco replacement or substitute” as used herein includes materials which deliver nicotine to the user and provide a similar mouthfeel to tobacco.
When the tobacco comprises plant material, defined amounts of the different parts of the plant may be used. For example, the amount of stem in the tobacco blend may be up to 50%, up to 60%, or up to 70% by 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 from 20% to 60% by weight of the tobacco, such as from 25% to 55% by weight of the tobacco, such as from 30% to 50% by weight of the tobacco.
Tobaccos used in the present invention may include types of tobaccos such as dark air-cured tobacco, flue-cured tobacco, Burley tobacco, Oriental tobacco, Maryland tobacco, dark tobacco, dark-fired tobacco and Rustica tobaccos, as well as other rare or specialty tobaccos.
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 strands or cut lamina.
In some embodiments, the tobacco may be snuff in dry or moist form. “Snuff” is used herein to generally describe a class of smokeless tobacco product which typically comprises cured tobacco which has been dried and ground to have mass median particle size measured by sieve analysis of between 0.01 and 5 mm, such as between 0.01 and 3 mm, such as between 0.01 and 1.0 mm.
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 total smokeless oral tobacco product, such as less than 12% by weight of the total smokeless oral tobacco product, such as less than 10% by weight of the total smokeless oral tobacco product, such as less than 5% by weight of the total smokeless oral tobacco product, such as less than 3% by weight of the total smokeless oral tobacco product, such as less than 2% by weight of the total smokeless oral tobacco product, such as less than 1% by weight of the total smokeless oral tobacco product.
In some embodiments, some or all of the tobacco is in moist form. The moist tobacco may be in any form that is suitable for incorporation into a smokeless oral 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-style tobacco or snus. In some embodiments, the moist snuff is Swedish-style snuff (snus). Snus is a moist powder tobacco product originating from a variant of dry snuff. As used herein, snus is an oral tobacco product which is not fermented, but is rather heat-treated, such as by pasteurisation. 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 smokeless oral tobacco product, such as at least 25% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as at least 30% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as at least 35% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as at least 40% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as at least 45% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as at least 50% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as at least 60% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product.
In embodiments in which the smokeless oral tobacco product comprises snus, the snus may comprise salt and/or other flavourants. Alternatively, or in addition, the snus may be pasteurised or may undergo a process similar to pasteurisation and may optionally be matured, to reach the desired pH and/or moisture content of the snus. Methods and apparatus suitable for pasteurisation and maturation are known to the person skilled in the art.
Alternatively or in addition, the moist snuff may be in the form of dipping tobacco. In embodiments in which the smokeless oral tobacco product comprises dipping tobacco, the dipping tobacco may be treated by fermentation or may undergo a process similar to fermentation and may optionally undergo one or more further processes such as aging. Methods and apparatus suitable for the treatment of dipping tobacco are known to the person skilled in the art.
Alternatively or in addition, the tobacco may be in the form of US moist snuff and/or chewing tobacco.
The amount of tobacco within the tobacco formulation may vary. In some embodiments, the amount of tobacco within the smokeless oral tobacco product is at least about 5% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as at least about 10% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as at least about 15% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as at least about 20% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as at least about 25% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as at least about 30% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as at least about 40% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as at least about 50% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as at least about 55% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as at least about 60% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product.
In some embodiments, the amount of tobacco within the smokeless oral tobacco product is no greater than about 90% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as no greater than about 85% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as no greater than about 80% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as no greater than about 75% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as no greater than about 70% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product.
In some embodiments, the amount of tobacco within the smokeless oral tobacco product is between about 20% and 90% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as between 20% and 85% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as between about 20% and 80% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as between about 20% and 75% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as between about 20% and 70% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as between about 20% and 65% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as between about 20% and 60% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as between about 25% and 60% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as between about 30% and 60% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as between about 35% and 60% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product.
In some embodiments, the smokeless oral tobacco product can be provided to the user in a portioned format. In some known portioned smokeless oral tobacco products, the tobacco material is surrounded by a pouch. For example, a common method of providing moist snuff is to seal the tobacco material in a permeable pouch.
A pouch holds the tobacco material in place, while at the same time allowing substances such as flavours and nicotine to diffuse through the pouch and into the mouth of the user for absorption through the user's mucous membranes.
In some embodiments, the smokeless oral tobacco product can be provided to the user in a non-portioned format. In one embodiment, the smokeless oral tobacco product is packaged in loose form in a container, such as a can, sachet or tin.
In some embodiments, the smokeless oral tobacco product can be provided to the user in a preformed format, such as that described in EP 2649889. Such a format typically does not require the use of pouches to contain the product, but may still be portioned.
In addition to a tobacco material, the smokeless oral tobacco product comprises a particulate material. The particulate material in accordance with 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; and
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 particles of the material is less than 2:1, such as less than 1.5:1, such as about 1:1. 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 median particle size 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 0.3 mm to about 1.5 mm, such as from about 0.3 mm to about 1 mm, such as from about 0.3 mm to about 0.7 mm.
In some embodiments, the particulate material has a mass median particle size 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 herein, the term “mass median particle size” is defined as the size at which one half of the total mass of all particles in a sample is contributed by particles with a size smaller than the mass median particle size, and one half of the total mass of all particles in a sample is contributed by particles with a size larger than the mass median particle size.
The mass median particle size of the particulate material may be measured by sieve analysis. As the skilled person will readily appreciate, sieve analysis (otherwise known as a gradation test) is a method used to measure the particle size distribution of a particulate material. Typically, sieve analysis involves a nested column of sieves which comprise screens, preferably in the form of wire mesh cloths. A pre-weighed sample may be introduced into the top or uppermost sieve in the column, which has the largest screen openings or mesh size (i.e. the largest pore diameter of the sieve). Each lower sieve in the column has progressively smaller screen openings or mesh sizes than the sieve above. Typically, at the base of the column of sieves is a receiver portion to collect any particles having a particle size smaller than the screen opening size or mesh size of the bottom or lowermost sieve in the column (which has the smallest screen opening or mesh size).
In some embodiments, the column of sieves may be placed on or in a mechanical agitator. The agitator causes the vibration of each of the sieves in the column. The mechanical agitator may be activated for a pre-determined period of time in order to ensure that all particles are collected in the correct sieve. In some embodiments, the column of sieves is agitated for a period of time from 0.5 minutes to 10 minutes, such as from 1 minute to 10 minutes, such as from 1 minute to 5 minutes, such as for approximately 3 minutes.
Once the 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 may then be divided by the total weight in order to obtain a percentage of the mass retained on each sieve.
In some embodiments, the mass median particle size of the particulate material may be measured as follows:

- the cumulative mass of the sample of particulate material is measured before sieving of the sample;
- after sieving of the sample using the method described above, the percentage of aggregate particulate material retained in each sieve is calculated using the following equation:

$% Retained = \frac{M_{Sieve}}{M_{Total}} \times 100 %$
where M_sieveis the mass of the aggregate material in the sieve, and M_Totalis the cumulative mass (or total mass) of the whole sample;

- the cumulative percentage of aggregate sample retained in each sieve is then calculated by adding up the total amount of aggregate material that is retained in each of the previous sieves (i.e. each of the sieves above the relevant sieve). The cumulative percentage of the aggregate sample retained in each sieve is found by subtracting the relative percentage retained in each of the previous sieves from 100%, as follows:

% Cumulative=100%−% Retained on previous sieves

- a graph of percentage cumulative mass is then plotted on the y-axis against sieve size on the x-axis;
- the mass median particle size is then determined by calculating the value of x when y=50% (i.e. when percentage cumulative mass is 50%).

As the skilled person will readily appreciate, the screen opening sizes or mesh sizes for each sieve in the column used for sieve analysis may be selected based on the granularity or known maximum/minimum particle sizes of the sample to be analysed.
In some embodiments, a column of sieves may be used for sieve analysis, wherein the column comprises from 2 to 20 sieves, such as from 5 to 15 sieves. In some embodiments, a column of sieves may be used for sieve analysis, wherein the column comprises 10 sieves. In some embodiments, the screen opening or mesh sizes of the 10 sieves may be as follows for determining the mass median particle size of the particulate material:


	Sieve Number	Mesh Size (μm)

	1	1000
	2	900
	3	800
	4	710
	5	600
	6	500
	7	400
	8	180
	9	90
	10	<90

As used herein, the density of the particulate material is defined as the bulk density of the material. As used herein, bulk density is defined as the mass of a number of particles of the particulate material divided by the total volume they occupy. As used herein, the term “bulk density” refers to the untapped or freely settled bulk density. In other words, bulk density is measured as the untapped density (i.e. 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 than about 0.15 g/cm³.
As used herein, the term “starch” is defined as a carbohydrate comprising at least 200 glucose units joined by glycosidic bonds.
As used herein, 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. Thus, in a preferred aspect, a smokeless oral tobacco product is provided 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; and
- iii) a combined content of sucrose, fructose, maltose and glucose 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 median 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 and sugar content of less than about 7% based on the weight of the particulate material.
In one embodiment, the particulate material has a mass median 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 starch and sugar content of less than about 5% based on the weight of the particulate material.
In some embodiments, the particulate material is hydrophobic. In some embodiments, the particulate material is a hydrophobic particulate material selected from the group consisting of aerogels, hollow particles and semispheres, foams, textiles, materials of plant origin, materials of wood or tree origin, materials of animal origin, materials of mineral origin, and mixtures thereof.
In some embodiments, the particulate material is a hydrophobic material selected from the group consisting of husks or hulls of grains, materials of wood or tree origin, animal feathers, diatomaceous earth, perlite, foams, hollow particles and semispheres, aerogels, and mixtures thereof.
The husks or hulls of grains may encapsulate the nutritious seed of the grain and are typically a waste product of the food industry. In some embodiments, the husks or hulls of grains may be selected from buckwheat husk, millet husk, and mixtures thereof. Such husks or hulls of grains are typically hydrophilic in nature, but may be made hydrophobic for the purposes of the present invention by surface treatment.
In some embodiments, the animal feathers are selected from chicken feathers, down and a mixture thereof. Outer feathers of animals are typically hydrophobic in their natural state.
Down, however, is naturally hydrophilic; however, several treatments are available to make down hydrophobic as its natural hydrophilicity was a major drawback for use in outdoor clothing. Various outdoor companies now offer articles with treated down, which repels moisture. Brands include Rab Hydrophobic Down, The North Fact ProDown™, Berghaus HydroDown™ and Mountain Hardwear Q.Shield Down.
Diatomaceous earth (also known as diatomite or kieselgur/kieselguhr) is a naturally occurring soft, siliceous sedimentary rock. Diatomaceous earth typically comprises ˜80% silica, and ˜20% diatoms, which are a type of hard-shelled algae. Diatomaceous earth is naturally hydrophilic, but treatments are available to obtain hydrophobic grades.
Perlite is a light material of volcanic origin, principally comprising aluminium silicate. Perlite is often found in expanded form after heat treatment. As with diatomaceous earth, perlite is naturally hydrophilic, but treatments are available to obtain hydrophobic grades.
Foams are typically formed by trapping pockets of gas in a material. The foam may include open cell foam and/or closed cell foam. In some embodiments, the foam is formed from raw materials such as polymers, silicone, natural rubber, nanocellulose, alginates and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the foam is selected from sodium alginate, polyethylene, polystyrene, and low density chewing gums which are described in WO 2013/090653. The low density chewing gum may comprise at least 50% polymer and less than 40% of bulking agent and filler combined.
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.
The hollow particles and semispheres may be formed from polymers that are filled with air to ensure a lighter density than the bulk material. The hollow particles and semispheres may be selected from the group comprising Expancel (AkzoNobel), Dualite® (Henkel), and Sunspheres™ (The DOW Chemical Company). Hydrophobic grades of each of these hollow particles and semispheres are available. The hollow particles and semispheres may also be formed from sodium alginate particles.
An aerogel may be a dry, low-density, porous solid framework of a gel isolated intact from the gel's liquid component. Aerogels may be open-porous and have pores in the range of <1 to 100 nm in diameter. In some embodiments, the aerogels may be made from a wide variety of substances, including silica, metal oxides, organic polymers, biological polymers (such as gelatine, pectin and agar).
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 (otherwise referred to as wood dust) is a by-product of cutting, grinding, drilling, sanding or otherwise pulverising wood. It is typically composed of fine particles of wood. In some embodiments, the particulate material is cork. Cork is a prime subset of bark tissue harvested 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 having a lower density than tobacco. In some embodiments, the particulate material is cork, wherein the bulk density of cork is from 0.05 to 0.4 g/cm², such as from 0.05 to 0.3 g/cm³, such as from 0.05 to 0.29 g/cm³, such as from 0.05 to 0.28 g/cm³, such as from 0.05 to 0.27 g/cm³, such as from 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.
FIG. 1 shows a chart that includes the densities measured for a number of different materials. The weight of the materials is plotted on the y-axis, where the weight was measured per cm³of product.
A suitable weight ratio between the tobacco material and the particulate material in the smokeless oral tobacco product depends on the desired properties of the smokeless oral tobacco product. For example, the weight ratio between the tobacco material and the particulate material will depend on the desired dryness and density of the smokeless oral tobacco product.
In some embodiments, the weight ratio of the particulate material to tobacco material in the smokeless oral 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 from 5:1 to 1:5, such as from 4:1 to 1:4, such as from 3:1 to 1:3, such as from 2:1 to 1:2.
In some embodiments, the particulate material is cork. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of the cork to tobacco material in the smokeless oral 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 from 5:1 to 1:5, such as from 4:1 to 1:4, such as from 3:1 to 1:3, such as from 2:1 to 1:2.
In some embodiments, the weight ratio of the particulate material to tobacco material in the smokeless oral tobacco product is from 1:1.5 to 1:10, such as from 1:1.5 to 1:9, such as from 1:1.5 to 1:8, such as from 1:1.5 to 1:7, such as from 1:1.5 to 1:6, such as from 1:1.5 to 1:5, such as from 1:1.5 to 1:4, such as from 1:1.5 to 1:3, such as from 1:1.5 to 1:2.
In some embodiments, the particulate material is cork. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of the cork to tobacco material in the smokeless oral tobacco product is from 1:1.5 to 1:10, such as from 1:1.5 to 1:9, such as from 1:1.5 to 1:8, such as from 1:1.5 to 1:7, such as from 1:1.5 to 1:6, such as from 1:1.5 to 1:5, such as from 1:1.5 to 1:4, such as from 1:1.5 to 1:3, such as from 1:1.5 to 1:2.
In some embodiments, the particulate material is included in an amount of from 1 to 80% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as in an amount of from 2 to 80% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as in an amount of from 3 to 80% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as in an amount of from 4 to 80% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as in an amount of from 5 to 80% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as in an amount of from 5 to 75% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as in an amount of from 5 to 70% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as in an amount of from 5 to 65% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as in an amount of from 5 to 60% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as in an amount of from 5 to 55% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as in an amount of from 5 to 50% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as in an amount of from 5 to 45% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as in an amount of from 5 to 40% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as in an amount of from 10 to 40% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product.
In some embodiments, the particulate material is cork. In some embodiments, the cork is included in an amount of from 1 to 80% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as in an amount of from 2 to 80% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as in an amount of from 3 to 80% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as in an amount of from 4 to 80% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as in an amount of from 5 to 80% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as in an amount of from 5 to 75% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as in an amount of from 5 to 70% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as in an amount of from 5 to 65% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as in an amount of from 5 to 60% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as in an amount of from 5 to 55% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as in an amount of from 5 to 50% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as in an amount of from 5 to 45% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as in an amount of from 5 to 40% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, such as in an amount of from 10 to 40% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product.
In some embodiments, the particulate material does not interfere with the aroma/smell of the tobacco material. For example, cork is advantageously neutral in aroma, and does not interfere with the aroma/smell of the tobacco material, and therefore does not adversely affect the user experience.
An advantage of the present invention is that the amount of tobacco used in the smokeless oral tobacco products according to the present invention may be reduced whilst maintaining the organoleptic properties of the products.
Without wishing to be bound, the use of the particulate material having the properties described herein in the present invention may advantageously increase the release of components from the tobacco material, such as flavour and/or nicotine, in the smokeless oral tobacco product, which may enhance user experience. The inclusion of the particulate material having the properties described herein results in a less dense smokeless oral tobacco product, which has a more open structure. This may result in more free movement of fluid in the tobacco product and in the mouth, and subsequently may result in improved release of components from the smokeless oral tobacco product.
The present inventors have surprisingly found that modifying the weight ratio of the particulate material included in the smokeless oral tobacco product results in a modification of the density and compactness of the product, and thereby may enable regulation of the extraction rate of the flavour and nicotine.
Another advantage of the present invention is the ability to regulate the amount of tobacco provided to the user without adversely affecting the user experience. For smokeless oral tobacco products which are provided in portions (optionally in pouches), it is undesirable to decrease the size of the portion provided to the user because this can adversely affect their experience since they may be used to using a certain size of portion under their upper lip.
For smokeless oral tobacco products in loose form, in some embodiments, it may be possible to vary the amount of tobacco provided to the user, whilst still maintaining the amount of product which the user may take from the container (i.e. a “pinch” of product). Furthermore, for smokeless oral tobacco products in loose form, it has surprisingly been found that the products are perceived by the user as having a softer and springier feel when a “pinch” of product is taken by the user from the container. This results in an improved overall user experience as the products may be more pleasant to the touch when taken from the container in loose form.
The use of the particulate material having the properties described herein in the present invention enables a decrease in the overall density of the smokeless oral tobacco product compared to conventional smokeless oral tobacco products which do not comprise the particulate material. Therefore, it has surprisingly been found that the weight of a portion of the product may be varied whilst maintaining the overall size of the portion provided to the user. For example, the weight of the product may be reduced without any corresponding reduction in the volume of the product.
A further advantage of the present invention is the ability to reduce the amount of irritation at the back of the throat perceived by the consumer during use of the product. One problem associated with smokeless oral tobacco products is the sensitisation of a nerve at the back of the throat of a user which occurs during use. This may result in an 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 which is perceived by the consumer as being drier relative to standard oral tobacco products not comprising the particulate material, and also reduces the perceived extent of irritation at the back of the throat of a user of the smokeless oral tobacco product.
Therefore, in one embodiment, there is provided use of 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; and
iii) a combined starch and sugar content of less than about 7% based on the weight of the particulate material
for reducing irritation at the back of the throat of a user during use of a smokeless oral tobacco product.
In one embodiment, there is provided use of 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; and
iii) a combined starch and sugar content of less than about 7% based on the weight of the particulate material
for reducing oral harshness during use of a smokeless oral tobacco product.
In addition, it has been found that the smokeless oral tobacco products of the present invention have an improved mouthfeel compared with smokeless oral tobacco products which do not comprise the particulate material having the properties described herein. Without wishing to be bound, it is considered that the improved mouthfeel is due to the improved flexibility and improved shape retention during use of the products of the present invention.
Therefore, the amount of tobacco in the smokeless oral tobacco products may be varied without any adverse effect on the total volume of product provided to the user, and with an improvement in the mouthfeel of the product.
In this case, the smokeless oral tobacco product may comprise a high nicotine content tobacco. Therefore, the overall nicotine content of the smokeless oral tobacco product may be maintained despite 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 as from 0.05% to 7.5% by weight of the tobacco material, such as from 0.06% to 7.5% by weight of the tobacco material, such as from 0.07% to 7.5% by weight of the tobacco material, such as from 0.08% to 7.5% by weight of the tobacco material, such as from 0.09% to 7.5% by weight of the tobacco material, such as from 0.1% to 7.5% by weight of the tobacco material, such as from 0.1% to 7% by weight of the tobacco material.
The smokeless oral tobacco product may further comprise other components. These components may, for example, be included in order to alter the organoleptic properties of the formulation, contributing to the sensory perception by the consumer. The particular components and the amounts in which they are included in the smokeless oral tobacco product of the present invention will vary depending upon the desired flavour, texture, and other characteristics.
For example, flavouring agents, preservatives, binders, humectants, buffering agents, disintegration aids and/or colourants may be included in the smokeless oral tobacco product.
As used herein, the terms “flavour” and “flavourant” refer to materials which, where local regulations permit, may be used to create a desired taste or aroma in a product for adult consumers. They may include extracts (e.g., licorice, hydrangea, Japanese white bark magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, menthol, Japanese mint, aniseed, cinnamon, herb, wintergreen, cherry, berry, peach, apple, Drambuie, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, cardamom, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, piment, ginger, anise, coriander, coffee, or a mint oil from any species of the genus Mentha), flavour enhancers, bitterness receptor site blockers, sensorial receptor site activators or stimulators, sugars and/or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharine, cyclamates, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol or mannitol), and other additives such as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, botanicals, or breath freshening agents. They may be imitation, synthetic or natural ingredients or blends thereof. They may be in any suitable form, for example, oil, liquid or powder.
The present invention also provides a consumer package comprising the smokeless oral tobacco product as described herein. In some embodiments, the smokeless oral tobacco product is non-portioned, and the consumer package comprises a container, such as a box or a can. In some embodiments, the smokeless oral tobacco product is portioned. The portioned smokeless oral tobacco product may be provided in a pouch.
Therefore, in one embodiment, there is provided a pouch comprising the smokeless oral tobacco product as described herein.
The present invention also provides a method of manufacturing 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 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; and
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 replacement 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 either prior to the processing step (b), during the processing step (b) or after the processing step (b).

In order to produce a tobacco formulation for snus, the blend of tobacco particles may be mixed with water and, typically, salt. Residual moisture from the tobacco and the added water combine to raise the moisture levels of the mixture to at least 20%, and in some embodiments to at least 25%, and in some embodiments to about 20 to 60%, and in some embodiments to about 25 to 60%. Salt is one form of flavourant; optionally it may be excluded and/or another flavourant may be added at this stage. The tobacco blend may be mixed with water and/or salt either prior to the processing step (b), during the processing step (b) or after the processing step (b). In one embodiment, the tobacco blend is mixed with water, and optionally salt, prior to the processing step (b).
In one embodiment, the tobacco formulation is particulate, comprising tobacco particles having a mass median particle size measured by sieve analysis of from about 0.01-1 mm, for example, a mass median particle size of about 0.1-0.5 mm, or a mass median particle size of about 0.25-0.4 mm.
In one embodiment, the particulate tobacco comprises a mixture of tobacco stem particles and tobacco lamina particles. In some embodiments, the particulate tobacco comprises tobacco stem particles in an amount of from 5% to 70% by weight of the combined amount of tobacco stem particles and tobacco lamina particles.
In embodiments wherein the tobacco comprises particulate snus, the particulate snus tobacco may be humidified to 20 to 50% moisture, and/or may be salted. In embodiments wherein the tobacco comprises particulate snus, the particulate snus tobacco may be humidified to about 50% moisture, and/or may be salted.
The amount of tobacco within the tobacco formulation may vary. In some embodiments, the amount of tobacco within the tobacco formulation is at least about 25% on a wet weight basis, such as at least about 30% on a wet weight basis, such as at least about 40% on a wet weight basis.
In some embodiments, the tobacco blend (together with any water and salt) is heat treated for a period of time long enough and at a temperature high enough to meet the demands for pasteurisation. The tobacco blend is typically heat treated for one hour to meet the demands for pasteurisation. As tobacco is a natural product it can be expected that there is some degree of microbial presence in the blend. The heat treatment can take any form which is sufficient to produce a product having an acceptably low level of spoilage microorganisms. The heat treatment may meet the demands for pasteurisation, and thus may take a form that results in sterilisation of the product. Examples include high or low temperatures; e.g., heat treatment at about 80-140° C. for about at least 30 minutes via hot air, steam, microwaves, or other means, or cold pasteurisation. Other examples include irradiation and chemical treatment. One limitation on the heat treatment method selected is that it is appropriate for use with a product intended for human oral consumption. Another is that is should not present 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 colour to the mixture.
It should be apparent to skilled workers that, where the present invention is practised using tobacco replacements or substitutes, the heat treatment step will comprise ensuring the tobacco replacement or substitute is not contaminated with microorganisms, and that this step may not require any other manipulation of the product.
After the heat treatment, it may be desirable to check and potentially adjust the pH of the blend. To achieve the desired characteristics of certain commercial blends of smokeless oral tobacco products, a pH of approximately 7 to 12 may be preferred at this stage of the process.
The heat treated blend may optionally be matured. This may be done by slowly mixing the blend while holding it at a constant temperature such as approximately 40-75° C., preferably at about 50° C. The gentle stirring can continue for about 1 to 24 hours, particularly for about 3 to 15 hours. This stage may be effective at reducing pH and possibly reducing moisture to about 20-55% based on the weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product, depending on the type of tobacco used and the particular snus product being manufactured.
A flavourant may be added during the maturation stage. Typically the flavourant added at this stage is in a liquid form and is added to about 0.1-5% by weight of the smokeless oral tobacco product. The liquid flavourant is often sprayed onto the tobacco blend. Where employed, humectants are traditionally added at this stage as well.
However, in some embodiments, flavourants and other additives (such as preservatives, binders, humectants, buffering agents, disintegration aids and colourants) may be added to the tobacco blend before or after pasteurisation and/or maturation. In some embodiments, flavourants and other additives (such as preservatives, binders, humectants, buffering agents, disintegration aids and colourants) may be added to the tobacco blend before or after the stage of pasteurisation and/or maturation.
According to the present invention, the particulate material may be added to the tobacco material prior to, during or after 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 Mass Median Particle Size of Sample

A sieve analysis method in accordance with the present invention is described herein.

Example 1a

Measurement of Mass Median Particle Size of Cork

A sample of cork particles were sieved using a test sieving equipment (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 fractions of the cork according to particle size.
The above-identified test sieving equipment is shown in FIG. 2, and comprises 10 sieves having the following mesh sizes:


	Sieve Number	Mesh Size (μm)

	1	1000
	2	900
	3	800
	4	710
	5	600
	6	500
	7	400
	8	180
	9	90
	10	<90

The sieves were agitated using a mechanical agitator for 3 minutes using the following settings (which are shown in FIG. 3):

- 2.4 mm setting on amplitude
- Interval: 5 seconds on, and 1 second off

No sieve balls were used in the method according to this example.
Three samples of cork particles were tested using the method described above. The following results were obtained for the cork particles analysed:


		Total	Total	Total
		mass of	mass of	mass of
Mesh		sieve +	sieve +	sieve +	Mass of	Mass of	Mass of
Size	Mass of	sample 1	sample 2	sample 3	sample 1	sample 2	sample 3	Mean
(μm)	sieve (g)	(g)	(g)	(g)	(g)	(g)	(g)	mass (g)

1000	454.16	454.49	454.66	455.43	0.33	0.50	1.27	0.70
900	441.46	447.98	447.71	448.28	6.52	6.25	6.82	6.53
800	427.19	432.76	432.23	433.30	5.57	5.04	6.11	5.57
710	449.34	458.30	458.10	457.77	8.96	8.76	8.43	8.72
600	434.00	442.39	442.27	442.17	8.39	8.27	8.17	8.28
500	424.94	433.91	434.05	433.52	8.97	9.11	8.58	8.89
400	405.06	411.87	412.35	411.52	6.81	7.29	6.46	6.85
180	386.45	390.63	390.44	390.30	4.18	3.99	3.85	4.01
90	373.71	373.82	373.79	373.73	0.11	0.08	0.02	0.07
<90	287.32	287.78	287.32	287.32	0.46	0.00	0.00	0.15

The mean cumulative mass of the samples was calculated to be 49.77 g.
The cumulative percentage mass of aggregate collected on each sieve was thus calculated as follows:


		Mass retained on	Cumulative mass
Mesh Size (μm)	Mean mass (g)	sieve (%)	(%)

1000	0.70	1.41	100.00
900	6.53	13.12	98.59
800	5.57	11.20	85.47
710	8.72	17.52	74.27
600	8.28	16.63	56.76
500	8.89	17.86	40.13
500	6.85	13.77	22.27
180	4.01	8.05	8.50
90	0.07	0.14	0.45
<90	0.15	0.31	0.31

A graph plotting percentage cumulative mass (y-axis) against mesh size or each sieve (x-axis) is shown in FIG. 4. A linear line of best-fit has been drawn through a number of the data points.
The equation for this plot was calculated as y=0.1526x−36.534. Therefore, when y=50%, the mass median particle size of the cork is calculated as 567.06 μm (equivalent to 0.567 mm).

Example 1b

Measurement of Mass Median Particle Size of Millet Husks

The same method as described in Example 1 a was used to determine the mass median particle size of a sample of millet husks.
The results were as follows:

1000	454.16	459.25	458.8	460.08	5.09	4.64	5.92	5.22
900	441.46	443.3	443.36	443.35	1.84	1.9	1.89	1.88
800	427.19	433.91	433.98	434.35	6.72	6.79	7.16	6.89
710	449.34	455.01	454.98	454.74	5.67	5.64	5.4	5.57
600	434	442.37	442.7	442.6	8.37	8.7	8.6	8.56
500	424.94	431.71	431.79	431.43	6.77	6.85	6.49	6.70
400	405.06	411.1	411.21	410.73	6.04	6.15	5.67	5.95
180	386.45	394.29	394.41	393.65	7.84	7.96	7.2	7.67
90	373.71	374.93	374.96	374.96	1.22	1.25	1.25	1.24
<90	287.32	287.82	287.78	287.85	0.5	0.46	0.53	0.50

The mean cumulative mass of the samples was calculated to be 50.17 g.
The cumulative percentage mass of aggregate collected on each sieve was thus calculated as follows:


		Mass retained on	Cumulative mass
Mesh Size (μm)	Mean mass (g)	sieve (%)	(%)

1000	5.22	10.40	100.00
900	1.88	3.74	89.60
800	6.89	13.73	85.86
710	5.57	11.10	72.13
600	8.56	17.06	61.03
500	6.70	13.36	43.97
500	5.95	11.87	30.61
180	7.67	15.28	18.74
90	1.24	2.47	3.46
<90	0.50	0.99	0.99

A graph plotting percentage cumulative mass (y-axis) against mesh size (x-axis) is shown in FIG. 5. A linear line of best-fit has been drawn through a number of the data points.
The equation for this plot was calculated as y=0.1371x −23.841. Therefore, when y=50%, the mass median particle size of the cork is calculated as 538.59 μm (equivalent to 0.539 mm).

Example 2

A snus batch was made using a 60:40 weight ratio (tobacco:cork) of pre-treated materials by adding 3,600 g of tobacco and 2,400 g of cork (cork granules at 0.055-0.060 g/cm³bulk density; mass median particle size approximately 0.55-0.65 mm, supplied by Cork Link, Portugal), water, sodium chloride, and other ingredients to a horizontal, cylindrical, ploughshare mixer. The mix of ingredients was then stirred, and heat applied for a long enough duration to ensure safe microbiological status of snus. Following heat treatment, the product had a maturation period of several hours at elevated temperature with continuous intermittent stirring at low speed of mixer blades inside the mixer. The processing was finished by adding flavour, adjusting pH to about 8.5 by adding sodium carbonate, and water content measured to ensure that end moisture content was 45% (w/w).
Finished cork-containing snus was then transferred to plastic bags, and allowed to mature in a cold room for one week. Following this, snus was packed to pouches using a Mertz snus packer (Merz Verpackungsmaschinen GmbH, Bahnhofstraβe 25, D-35423 Lich, Deutschland), and bulk density was measured. Bulk density was measured using an Engelsmann Jolting Voltumeter STAV II. Bulk density was calculated pre-jolting, for a given volume of a certain mass of particulate material.
As a final step, sensory properties of the cork-containing snus were assessed.

Example 3

A snus batch containing an 80:20 tobacco:cork weight ratio was prepared and analysed using the method of Example 2, where 4,000 g of tobacco was added to the mixture, and 1,000 g of cork added.

Example 4

A snus batch containing a 95:5 tobacco:cork weight ratio was prepared and analysed using the method of Example 2, where 4,750 g of tobacco was added to the mixture, and 250 g of cork added.

Example 5 (Comparative)

A snus batch containing no cork (i.e. a tobacco:cork weight ratio of 100:0) was prepared and analysed using the method of Example 2, where 5,000 g of tobacco was added to the mixture, and 0 g of cork added.
Results
The smokeless oral tobacco products in accordance with the present invention (Examples 2 to 4) were analysed to determine total starch and sugar content, and the following results 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 & sugars<1% w/w

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

TABLE 1

Measured bulk densities and pouch weights of cork-containing
snus of a standard White snus blend at 45% moisture, with
varying levels of cork

Example	Cork (% w/w)	Bulk Density (g/cm³)	Mass of pouch (g)

2	40	0.207	0.4
3	20	0.260	0.5
4	5	0.350	0.6
5	0	0.425	0.8

It is noted that the stated level of cork does not refer to the ratio of cork in the final snus product as this depends on moisture level and other ingredients. In the case of a white snus mix containing 40% cork, at a finalmoisture of 45%, the final weight percentage of cork is around 18-20% w/w. However, in the Examples and Table 1 above, the amount of cork is specified as a ratio of total ground, pre-treated tobacco mix, prior to any other ingredients having been added.
As shown in Table 1, the inclusion of cork in the snus products results in a considerable decrease in bulk density and resulting pouch mass of the smokeless oral tobacco product at a similar fill value.
The products of Examples 2 and 5 are shown in FIG. 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 hand side.
Indeed, the product comprising 40% w/w cork (Example 2) had a bulk density 51.3% lower than the product comprising 0% w/w of cork (Example 5) for the same weight of product.
A standard snus product contains 0.9 g of tobacco. 0.9 g of the snus product according to Example 5 having 0% w/w cork has a volume calculated as 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 cm³is 0.3726 g. This results in a 58.6% reduction in material weight for the same volume.
In addition, the inventors surprisingly found that the samples comprising cork are very soft and flexible. The sample comprising 0% w/w cork (Example 5) started to collapse and feel flat when tested, whereas the samples comprising cork (Example 2) kept their shape over an extended period of time. In addition, the samples comprising cork (Example 2) were perceived as dry compared to the sample in Example 5.
It was also found that cork has a neutral aroma and taste, and thus did not add any noticeable aromas or tastes to the tobacco products.
The various embodiments described herein are presented only to assist in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided as a representative sample of embodiments only, and are not exhaustive and/or exclusive. It is to be understood that advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures and/or other aspects described herein are not to be considered limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or limitations on equivalents to the claims, and that other embodiments may be utilised and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the invention may suitably comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of appropriate combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc., other than those specifically described herein. In addition, this disclosure may include other inventions not presently claimed, but which may be claimed in future.

Claims

1. 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 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; and

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 replacement or substitute.

2. A smokeless oral tobacco product according to claim 1, wherein the mass median particle size measured by sieve analysis of the particulate material is from about 0.3 mm to about 1 mm.

3. A smokeless oral tobacco product according to claim 2, wherein the mass median particle size measured by sieve analysis of the particulate material is from about 0.3 to about 0.7 mm.

4. A smokeless oral tobacco product according claim 3, wherein the bulk density of the particulate material is less than about 0.4 g/cm³.

5. A smokeless oral tobacco product according to claim 4, wherein the bulk density of the particulate material is less than about 0.26 g/cm³.

6. A smokeless oral tobacco product according to claim 1, wherein the combined starch and sugar content of the particulate material is less than about 5% based on the weight of the particulate material.

7. A smokeless oral tobacco product according to claim 1, wherein the particulate material is present in an amount of from about 1 to about 80% by weight of the total smokeless oral tobacco product.

8. A smokeless oral tobacco product according to claim 7, wherein the particulate material is a hydrophobic material selected from the group consisting of husks or hulls of grains, materials of wood or tree origin, animal feathers, diatomaceous earth, perlite, foams, hollow particles and semispheres, aerogels, and mixtures thereof.

9. A smokeless oral tobacco product according to claim 8, wherein the particulate material is a hydrophobic particulate material selected from the group consisting of cork, sawdust, millet husks, polystyrene, sodium alginate microspheres, foamed alginates, and mixtures thereof.

10. A smokeless oral tobacco product according to claim 9, wherein the particulate material is cork.

11. A smokeless oral tobacco product according to claim 1, wherein the tobacco material is or comprises tobacco.

12. A smokeless oral tobacco product according to claim 11, wherein the tobacco comprises particulate tobacco.

13. A smokeless oral tobacco product according to claim 11, wherein the tobacco is snus.

14. A smokeless oral tobacco product according to claim 11, wherein the tobacco has a mass median particle size measured by sieve analysis of between about 0.01 mm and about 1.0 mm.

15. A smokeless oral tobacco product according to claim 11, wherein the moisture content of the tobacco is at least 25% by weight of the total smokeless oral tobacco product.

16. A smokeless oral tobacco product according to claim 1, wherein the tobacco material is or comprises a tobacco replacement or substitute.

17. A smokeless oral tobacco product according to claim 1, wherein the nicotine content of the tobacco material is from about 0.02% to about 7.5% by weight of the tobacco material.

18. A smokeless oral tobacco product according to claim 1, further comprising an additional component selected from flavouring agents, preservatives, binders, humectants, buffering agents, disintegration aids and colourants.

19. A method of producing a smokeless oral tobacco product comprising a tobacco material and a particulate material, the particulate material having the following properties:

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

the method comprising:

(a) providing a tobacco material;

(b) processing the tobacco material; and

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

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein the processing step (b) comprises heat treatment.

21. The method according to claim 19, wherein water and salt are added to the tobacco material either prior to the processing step (b), during the processing step (b) or after the processing step (b).

22. The method according to claim 19, wherein an additional component selected from flavouring agents, preservatives, binders, humectants, buffering agents, disintegration aids and colourants is added to the tobacco material either prior to the processing step (b), during the processing step (b) or after the processing step (b).

23. A consumer package comprising the smokeless oral tobacco product as defined by claim 1.

24. A consumer package according to claim 23, wherein the consumer package is a pouch.

25. Use of a particulate material according to claim 1 for improving mouthfeel of a smokeless oral tobacco product.

26. Use of a particulate material according to claim 1 for maintaining in use structure of a smokeless oral tobacco product.