WO2008055296A1

WO2008055296A1 - Functional filter for drinking straw

Info

Publication number: WO2008055296A1
Application number: PCT/AU2007/001698
Authority: WO
Inventors: Peter Baron
Original assignee: Unistraw Patent Holdings Limited
Priority date: 2006-11-06
Filing date: 2007-11-06
Publication date: 2008-05-15
Also published as: TW200841847A; CL2007003199A1; AR063571A1; PE20081149A1

Abstract

A dispensing system including an elongate tube (9A), a receptacle (1) containing a first active ingredient (4), a filter (10) incorporating a membrane (42), and a second active ingredient contained within the tube between the receptacle and the filter. A carrier liquid (not shown) is drawn through the straw by oral suction, whereby the first and second active ingredients are progressively dispersed into the carrier liquid within the straw at the point of consumption.

Description

TITLE: FUNCTIONAL FILTER FOR DRINKING STRAW

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to a method and apparatus for the addition of soluble agents or ingredients to a carrier liquid, at the point of consumption, for oral administration through a straw.

The invention has been developed primarily for use in the administration of nutritional or pharmaceutical formulations, including vitamin or mineral supplements, probiotics or energy enhancing agents, with a carrier liquid. It will be appreciated, however, that the invention is not limited to this particular use, and may also be used in connection with other additives including colouring or flavouring agents, and other forms of natural or medicinal health formulations, active ingredients and supplements whether soluble or transportable in suspension.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The following discussion of the prior art is provided as technical background, to enable the features and benefits of the invention to be fully appreciated in an appropriate technical context. However, any reference to the prior art should not be taken as an express or implied admission that such art is widely known or forms part of common general knowledge in the field.

It is known in the art to use soluble pellets or granules, retained by perforated end caps within an elongate tubular body in the form of a straw, to progressively disperse flavouring agents or other ingredients into a carrier liquid drawn through the straw by oral suction, at the point of consumption. Application WO 98/15187 discloses one such device.

High-speed manufacturing, filling, sealing and packing of such straws in commercial quantities, in a mass production environment, requires relatively large- scale machinery. Most pharmaceuticals, probiotics, medicines, nutritional supplements and the like are required by law to be manufactured and packaged under carefully controlled laboratory or "cleanroom" conditions. This allows ambient temperature, pressure, humidity and airborne contaminants to be closely monitored and tightly regulated, and appropriate levels of hygiene and security to be maintained. However, such facilities are costly to build, maintain and staff, particularly in large scale.

Consequently, the need to apply tightly controlled conditions to a large-scale manufacturing operation for the production of active ingredients such as pharmaceuticals, probiotics and nutritional supplements, the incorporation of such formulations into straws, and the subsequent sealing and packing operations, have a significant impact on the cost of the overall production process and in some circumstances may seriously compromise its commercial viability. Moreover, there are other practical or commercial reasons why it may be advantageous to encapsulate the active ingredients in one location or under one set of controlled conditions, and to manufacture, fill or pack the straws themselves in another location or under another set of conditions requiring less stringent environmental and security controls. This has not hitherto been feasible using known devices and techniques. It has also hitherto not been possible to incorporate multiple active ingredients in accurately controlled proportions, using known devices and techniques.

It is an object of the present invention to overcome or substantially ameliorate one or more of the limitations of the prior art, or at least to provide a useful alternative.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, in a first aspect, the invention provides a receptacle containing a predetermined measure of a soluble first active ingredient for dispersion into a carrier liquid, said receptacle including a body adapted to contain the first active ingredient, and a pair of first filters disposed in spaced apart relationship and adapted substantially to retain first active ingredient within the body prior to dissolution while permitting relatively unimpeded passage of the carrier liquid therethrough, said receptacle being a part of, or adapted for connection to, an elongate tube adapted for use as a straw, thereby enabling the carrier liquid to be drawn through the receptacle by oral suction and the active ingredient to be dispersed into the carrier liquid within the tube at the point of consumption. The terms "dissolved", "soluble" and the like as used herein are intended to be construed sufficiently broadly to encompass not only dissolution in the strict chemical sense, but also suspensions, slurries and mixtures formed with the carrier liquid.

The term "active ingredient" as used herein is intended to be construed broadly, as encompassing any form of flavouring agent, colouring agent, sweetening agent, viscosity modifier, vitamin or mineral supplement, electrolytic formulation, sporting performance supplement, protein, herbal extract, pharmaceutical, probiotic microorganism, or any other agent, formulation or ingredient that in any way modifies the colour, flavour, texture, nutritional content, medicinal efficacy or any other quality or characteristic of a carrier liquid.

The term "filter" as used herein is also intended to be interpreted broadly, as encompassing any form of porous or other barrier mechanism that functions to allow relatively unimpeded passage of a carrier liquid, while retaining the active ingredient in whatever form substantially within the receptacle, prior to dispersion or dissolution into the carrier liquid. Suitable filters may take a wide variety of forms including sieves, screens, grates, mesh materials, woven or non-woven fabrics, porous solids, granular beds, sponges, perforated plates, perforated or porous membranes, tortuous passageways, suitably dimensioned one-way or multi-way valves, and the like, or any combination of such forms, in any suitable shape or configuration, whether integrally formed, releasably connected or permanently secured in position. In particular, it should be understood that one or more filters may be integrally moulded or otherwise formed in conjunction with a side wall or other portion of the body of the receptacle and/or the straw.

Moreover, the term "pair" as used in connection with filters is not intended to imply that such filters are necessarily identical or even similar in form or structure to one another, or to other filters that may be used in combination therewith.

In some embodiments, the first filters are disposed at, on or adjacent opposite ends of the body. In other embodiments, however, one or both of the first filters may be disposed at intermediate positions within or along the length of the body. In some embodiments, the first active ingredient is in the form of, or is incorporated within, a plurality of discrete pellets. In one embodiment, the pellets are generally spherical in shape. In other embodiments, however, the pellets may take - A -

different shapes including prolate spheroids, oblate spheroids, cylinders, rods, prisms or other regular geometric, or irregular, shapes,

In some embodiments, the receptacle is formed as an integral part of, or is defined by, the tube that forms the straw. For example, in one embodiment, the receptacle is defined as a chamber, compartment or region within the straw itself, noting that the chamber may be defined in part by one or more filters and/or valves. In other embodiments, however, the receptacle is formed as a separate and discrete component, adapted for connection to or integration with the straw as part of a subsequent process step, manufacturing operation or assembly procedure. In one form of the invention, the receptacle is connected to the straw as part of a downstream manufacturing process, to form in an integrated assembly. In an alternative form, however, the receptacle may be adapted to be packaged and sold as a discrete sub-assembly, for subsequent connection to the straw by the user at the point of consumption. In one embodiment, the receptacle has an effective external diameter approximately equal to or marginally greater than an internal diameter of the tube, whereby the receptacle is adapted for insertion into one end of the straw, with a close or interference fit. In this way, after assembly, the receptacle is substantially housed within and adjacent one end of the straw. In other embodiments, the receptacle is attached to one end of the straw, so as to form an extension of the straw. In this case, the external diameter of the receptacle is preferably approximately equal to, but may also be less or greater than, an external diameter of the straw. In a further alternative form, the receptacle may be adapted for partial insertion into the straw, and as a partial extension of the straw. It will also be appreciated that a pair of the receptacles, optionally of different configurations, or containing different active ingredients, may be installed in opposite ends of the straw. Three or more receptacles may also be installed.

In some embodiments, the receptacle is attached to the straw by thermoplastic welding. It will be appreciated, however, that other fastening techniques such as gluing, crimping, ultrasonic welding, interference fitting, screwing or mechanical interlocking may also be used. In one embodiment, the body of the receptacle takes the form of a basket, being substantially open at one end and incorporating one of the first filters at the other end. The other of the first filters is preferably adapted for attachment to the open end of the basket to form a pellet containment region substantially within the body of the receptacle, after the basket has been filled with the predetermined measure of the first active ingredient. The other first filter is preferably attached by thermoplastic welding or another suitable fastening technique.

In some embodiments, both the receptacle and the tube are substantially circular in cross-sectional profile. In other embodiments, the receptacle has a lower peripheral edge that is substantially circular, and an upper peripheral edge that is substantially elliptical. In this context, the term "lower" refers to the edge that is innermost with respect to the tube and the term "upper" refers to the edge that is outermost with respect to the tube. In this way, upon insertion of the receptacle into the tube, the upper edge of the tube is flexibly deformed into a corresponding elliptical cross-sectional profile, thereby rendering the straw more comfortable to drink from, while providing a clear visual and tactile indication of the intended drinking end of the straw. In one preferred embodiment, this form of receptacle is adapted for use with a tube which is substantially larger in diameter than a conventional drinking straw, and which may otherwise be uncomfortable to drink from. It will be appreciated that an oversized straw of this type may be particularly advantageous in embodiments where relatively larger quantities of active ingredient are required to be administered.

In some embodiments, the tube is formed with a substantially constant oval- shaped or other non-circular cross-sectional profile and the receptacle is formed with a complementary substantially constant non-circular cross-sectional profile. In some embodiments, the carrier liquid is an un-flavoured beverage such as water or milk. It will be appreciated, however, that any suitable consumable liquid, beverage or mixture may be used.

According to a second aspect, the invention provides a dispensing system including: an elongate tube adapted for use as a straw; a receptacle substantially as previously defined, containing a predetermined measure of a first active ingredient for dispersion into a carrier liquid, the receptacle being formed integrally with or connected to the straw; a second filter connected with the straw; and a predetermined measure of a second active ingredient contained within the straw between the receptacle and the second filter; thereby enabling the carrier liquid to be drawn through the straw by oral suction, whereby the first and second active ingredients are progressively dispersed into the carrier liquid within the straw at the point of consumption, In this way, it will be appreciated that the receptacle operates as a multifunctional filter, performing a dual role. Firstly, it captively retains the first active ingredient within the filter basket between the first filters. Secondly, the receptacle operates as a discrete filtration element, acting in concert with the second filter to captively retain the second active ingredient within the straw. In some embodiments, the receptacle is connected at or adjacent one end of the straw, and the second filter is connected at or adjacent to the opposite end of the straw.

In one embodiment, the first and second active ingredients are respectively in the form of first and second soluble pellets of predetermined average size. It should be appreciated, however, that the average size of the first pellets may be different from the average size of the second pellets. The shapes and colours may also be different.

In some embodiments, the first and second filters preferably include perforations being sufficiently small in size to retain the first pellets within the receptacle and to retain the second pellets within the straw until they have substantially dissolved, and being sufficiently large in size to permit relatively unimpeded flow of the carrier liquid through the straw under moderate levels of oral suction.

In some embodiments, the pellets are generally spherical in shape, having an average diameter that is preferably between 10% and 90%, in other embodiments between 20% and 80%, and in other embodiments between 25% and around 75%, of the internal diameter of the straw, which in some embodiments is between 3 mm and

15 mm, and in some embodiments between 7 mm and 9 mm. In some embodiments, the pellets have an average diameter of between 1 mm and 5 mm, and ideally between 1.5 mm and 3 mm.

In some embodiments, the pellets are formed as "nonpareil" pellets, each pellet having a plurality of layers. Nonpareil is a term of art in food and confectionary manufacturing to indicate a structure formed by building up successive layers of material. As used herein, the term is intended to embrace a similar meaning in terms of the accumulation of successive layers formed from flavouring, nutritional or pharmaceutical formulations, in the context of the present invention.

Since each pellet is formed layer by layer, the composition of each layer may be varied as required. Advantageously, this enables the dissolution characteristics of the pellets to be controlled so that as they are progressively reduced in size during the dissolution process, the shape of each pellet tends to be substantially retained.

In some embodiments, the innermost layers of at least some of the pellets contain active ingredients at concentrations greater than those in the outermost layers. Advantageously, this increase in concentration offsets the reduction in surface area of the pellets as they progressively dissolve, thereby imparting a relatively uniform concentration of active ingredient during consumption.

In some embodiments, the active ingredients in the receptacle dissolve more rapidly than the ingredients in the straw between the receptacle and the second filter. In some embodiments, the first filter is used to close the receptacle after filling with the first active ingredient and is substantially the same as the second filter, which is subsequently used to close the straw after filling with the second active ingredient. In other embodiments, the filters are different.

In some embodiments, each filter has a generally conical sieve section and a generally cylindrical mounting section. In the case of the receptacle, the mounting section of the first filter forming part of the filter basket, may be effectively integral with the basket. Preferably, the sieve section of each filter includes apertures in the form of circumferentially extending elongate slots, configured to be sufficiently small to retain the flavouring pellets or granules within the straw, and sufficiently large to allow relatively unimpeded passage of liquid through the straw.

Advantageously, the conical configuration of each sieve section provides an increased surface area for the apertures or slots, and hence a greater cross-sectional flow area for the liquid to pass through the straw, relative to a notional flat circular filtration surface of corresponding diameter. In one embodiment, the slots are around lmm in width and the internal diameter of the straw is around 8mm.

According to a third aspect, the invention provides a method of dispensing active ingredients, said method including the steps of: providing an elongate tube adapted for use as a straw; forming a receptacle substantially as previously defined, filling the receptacle with a predetermined measure of a first active ingredient for dispersion into a carrier liquid; securing the receptacle to the straw; filling the straw with a predetermined measure of a second active ingredient; and securing a second filter to the straw, such that the second active ingredient is contained within the straw between the receptacle and the second filter; thereby enabling the carrier liquid to be drawn through the straw by oral suction, whereby the first and second active ingredients are progressively dispersed into the carrier liquid within the straw at the point of consumption.

In some embodiments, the receptacle is secured at or adjacent one end of the straw and the second filter is secured at or adjacent to the opposite end of the straw. Each filling step may involve complete or partial filling of the available containment volume.

In some embodiments, the step of filling the receptacle with the first active ingredient is performed under a first set of controlled conditions at a first location, and the steps of filling the straw and securing the second filter are performed under a second set of controlled conditions, at a second location.

In some embodiments, the first active ingredient includes a pharmaceutical formulation and the first set of controlled conditions corresponds to a pharmaceutical- grade production and packaging environment. In some embodiments, the second active ingredient includes a flavouring or nutritional formulation and the second set of controlled conditions corresponds to a food-grade manufacturing and packaging environment. It will be appreciated, however, that for each of the first and second active ingredients, any desired combination of pharmaceuticals, probiotics, vitamins, minerals, nutritional supplements, health tonics, colouring agents or flavouring agents may be used, and the respective first and second sets of controlled conditions determined accordingly. In this regard, as previously noted, the term "active ingredient" is intended to be interpreted broadly, as including any additive or combination of additives, mixed with, dissolved in, added to or conferring some discernible change in the carrier liquid.

In some embodiments, a second receptacle incorporating a corresponding pair of first filters may be used as the second filter. In that case, three active ingredients may be incorporated into a single straw, the first two active ingredients being contained within the respective receptacles at opposite ends of the straw, and the third active ingredient being contained within the straw, between the receptacles. The active ingredients may be the same or different. Where the active ingredients are different, they are preferably each individually manufactured and packaged. In some embodiments, three or more receptacles may be used in a single straw in order, for example, to allow discretely variable dosage levels of pharmaceuticals or other active ingredients to be administered. A further variation comprises one or more receptacles secured centrally within the straw and a pair of the second filters secured at opposite ends, again affording the option of three or more different active ingredients being discretely contained within the straw. In this way, a wide variety of combinations of filters, receptacles and intermediate chambers may be positioned along the length of the straw, providing a wide variety of combinations of independent or synergistic colourings, flavourings, pharmaceuticals and/or other ingredients.

In some embodiments, the receptacle containing the first active ingredient is hygienically sealed at the first location in packaging, adapted to permit safe transportation in bulk quantities to the second location, and adapted to facilitate efficient unpacking at the second location, to enable incorporation of the receptacles into respective straws as part of a downstream manufacturing and repackaging operation.

According to a further aspect, the invention provides a method of forming a pharmaceutical delivery apparatus comprising the step of adding at a first manufacturing location a second active ingredient to a straw containing a first active ingredient, the first active ingredient having been placed within the straw at a second manufacturing location different from the first manufacturing location.

In one embodiment, the first active ingredient is contained within a first portion of the straw, and the second active ingredient is added to a second portion of the straw. In other embodiments, however, the second active ingredient is added to the first active ingredient in the first portion of the straw. In some preferred embodiments, either or both of the first and second portions of the straw are formed by one or more receptacles, of the type previously defined.

In some embodiments, the concentration and/or dissolution rate of one or more active ingredients are selected such that such that substantially all of the active ingredient is dissolved and delivered upon consumption of a predetermined volume of an intended carrier liquid. In one such embodiment, the straw is packaged and sold in combination with a complementary container, which includes or is adapted to contain the predetermined volume of the intended carrier liquid. In some preferred embodiments, the pellets are composed and structured so as to provide relatively uniform dissolution, and hence concentration, of the active ingredient in the carrier liquid, until it has been consumed, so as to provide a relatively consistent taste sensation and/or a relatively progressive rate of ingestion.

In a further aspect, the invention provides a delivery apparatus for an active ingredient adapted for indigestion with a carrier liquid, said apparatus including an elongate tube adapted for use as a straw and an active ingredient contained within the straw whereby the active ingredient is dispersed into the carrier liquid when drawn through the straw, the apparatus further including a one-way valve adapted to permit flow of the carrier liquid through the straw in a first direction in response to oral suction applied to the straw and to prevent back- flow of the carrier liquid through the straw in a second opposite direction, in the absence of oral suction. Advantageously, this aspect of the invention prevents the loss of any significant quantity of active ingredient in back-flow through the straw, and thereby helps to ensure that the intended measure of active ingredient, once dispersed, has been fully ingested. In one preferred form of this aspect of the invention, the active ingredient is a pharmaceutical in pellet or granular form, and the one-way valve is positioned in a lower portion of the straw. Advantageously, the one-way valve is configured to function as a lower filter, to retain the active ingredient within the straw, prior to use. In one embodiment, an upper filter is additionally disposed in an upper portion of the straw such that the active ingredient is retained within the straw, between the one-way valve and the upper filter, until the active ingredient has been progressively dissolved or otherwise dispersed into the carrier liquid.

In some embodiments, the one-way valve is positioned at or near the bottom of the straw. It should be appreciated, however, that in other embodiments, the oneway valve may be positioned at or near the top of the straw, or at any intermediate position along the length of the straw. Moreover, in some embodiments, a plurality of one-way valves are positioned at different locations, so as to divide the interior of the straw into one or more chambers, compartments or regions. In such embodiments, one or more of the one-way valves may be configured also to function as a filter, retaining active ingredients, in granular or other form, within the straw or within particular chambers within the straw, while simultaneously operating to prevent backflow of the carrier liquid through the straw.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:-

Figure 1 is a cutaway perspective view of a filter basket containing a first active ingredient, according to the invention;

Figure 2 is a plan view of the filter basket of figure 1, as seen from above;

Figure 3 is a perspective view of a first filter;

Figure 4 is a plan view of the first filter of Figure 3;

Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view showing a receptacle formed from the filter basket of Figures 1 and 2 and the first filter of Figures 3 and 4, encapsulating the first active ingredient, according to the invention;

Figure 6 is a perspective view showing the receptacle of figure 5, in the assembled configuration;

Figure 7 is a cutaway side elevation of a straw incorporating the receptacle of Figure 6 and a second active ingredient contained between the receptacle and a second filter, according to the invention; Figure 8 is a cutaway side elevation similar to Figure 7, showing an alternative embodiment of a straw incorporating a receptacle at each end, with the second active ingredient contained between the receptacles;

Figure 9 is a pictorial view of a flow control valve in accordance with the invention;

Figure 10 is a cutaway side elevation of the flow control valve shown in figure 9;

Figure 1 1 is a pictorial view of another flow control valve in accordance with the invention; Figure 12 is a cutaway side elevation of the flow control valve shown in figure 11 ;

Figures 13 and 14 are pictorial views of another flow control valve in accordance with the invention in closed open and positions respectively;

Figures 15 and 16 are cutaway side elevations of the flow control valve shown in figures 13 and 14 respectively;

Figure 17 is a cutaway front elevation showing a receptacle incorporated into a tube to form a straw according to a further embodiment of the invention;

Figure 18 is a cutaway side elevation showing the straw of figure 17;

Figure 19 is an exploded view of the straw shown in figures 17 and 18; Figure 20 is an exploded view of the straw shown in figures 17 to 19, with the receptacle also shown in exploded view;

Figure 21 is a top view of the receptacle;

Figure 22 is a front elevation view of the receptacle;

Figure 23 is an underside view of the receptacle; Figure 24 is a side elevation view of the receptacle;

Figure 25 is a cross-sectional view of the one-way valve at the bottom of the straw shown in figures 17 to 20;

Figure 26 is an underside view of the one-way valve shown in figure 25;

Figure 27 is a front elevation view of the tube of the straw shown in figures 17 to 20;

Figure 28 is an enlarged exploded perspective view showing the components of the straw illustrated in figures 17 to 27; Figure 29 is a cross-sectional side elevation showing a receptacle incorporated into a tube for use as a straw according to a further embodiment of the invention;

Figure 30 shows a variation of the embodiment of the invention shown in figure 29; Figure 31 shows another variation of the embodiment shown in figure 29; and

Figure 32 shows yet another variation of the embodiment of the invention as shown in figure 29.

PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

Referring to the drawings, the invention provides a receptacle 1 for containing a predetermined measure of a first active ingredient 2 for dispersion into a carrier liquid (not shown). The receptacle includes a body 3 adapted to contain the first active ingredient in the form of discrete pellets 4. Respective lower and upper first filters 5 and 6 are disposed at opposite ends to retain the pellets within the body, while permitting relatively unimpeded passage of the carrier liquid therethrough. The body 3 of the receptacle or part thereof forms a generally cylindrical filter basket, being initially open at one end and integrally incorporating the lower first filter 5 at the other. The basket may have a solid side wall 7 as shown, or may alternatively be perforated or be formed as an open skeleton or frame. The upper first filter 6 is adapted for attachment to the open end of the basket to form a pellet containment region 8 within the receptacle, after the basket has been filled with the predetermined measure of the first active ingredient, in the form of pellets 2. The upper first filter 6 is preferably attached by thermoplastic welding, or another suitable fastening technique such as gluing, bonding, crimping, ultrasonic welding, interference fitting, screwing, hinging, clipping or mechanical interlocking. As best seen in figure 7, the receptacle 1 is adapted for connection to an elongate tube 9 in the form of a straw, whereby in use the carrier liquid is drawn through the receptacle by oral suction and the pellets 2 constituting the first active ingredient are thereby progressively dissolved or otherwise dispersed into the carrier liquid within the straw, at the point of consumption. In the embodiment as shown in figure 7, the receptacle has an effective external diameter approximately equal to the internal diameter of the straw 9, whereby the receptacle is adapted for insertion into one end of the straw, ideally with an interference fit. In this way, after assembly, the receptacle is substantially housed within and adjacent one end of the straw. Once in position, the receptacle is attached to the internal surface of the straw by thermoplastic welding, or one or more other suitable fastening techniques such as gluing, bonding crimping, ultrasonic welding, interference fitting, screwing, clipping or mechanical interlocking. In alternative embodiments (not shown), the receptacle may be attached to one end of the straw, so as effectively to form an extension of the straw. Hybrid arrangements are also envisaged, in which the receptacle is adapted for partial insertion into the straw, and as a partial extension of the straw.

The first active ingredient preferably includes one or more pharmaceutical formulations, probiotics, vitamins, minerals, or nutritional supplements, manufactured, incorporated into the receptacle and packaged under a first set of appropriately controlled conditions. In one form of the invention, as illustrated in figure 7, a second filter 10 is positioned at or adjacent the opposite end of the straw, to contain a predetermined measure of a second active ingredient within the straw, between the receptacle 1 and the second filter 10. The second active ingredient is in the form of pellets 11. Both the first and second active ingredients are thereby progressively dissolved or dispersed into the carrier liquid, as the liquid is drawn through the straw by oral suction at the point of consumption.

It will be appreciated that the receptacle synergistically performs a dual role. Firstly, it functions to captively retain the pellets 4 incorporating the first active ingredient within the containment region 8 of the filter basket, between the first filters 5 and 6. Secondly, the receptacle functions collectively as a discrete filtration element at one end of the straw, acting in cooperation with the second filter 10 at the opposite end of the straw, to captively retain the pellets 1 1 incorporating the second active ingredient between the receptacle and the second filter, within the main body of the straw. The pellets 4 and 11 incorporating the first and second active ingredients respectively are generally spherical in shape and have an average diameter that in some embodiments is preferably between 10% and around 90%, more preferably between 20% and around 80%, and most preferably between 25% and around 75%, of the internal diameter of the straw. The pellets have an average diameter that in some embodiments is preferably between lmm and 5mm, and more preferably between 1.5 mm and 3 mm, while in some embodiments the internal diameter of the straw is preferably between 3 mm and 15 mm, more preferably between 7 mm and 9 mm, and ideally around 8 mm. In this regard, it will be appreciated that for some applications, such as where relatively small volumes of carrier liquid and/or active ingredient are involved, a relatively narrow straw in the order of 3 mm in diameter may be preferred, while in other applications, such as where relatively larger volumes of carrier liquid and/or active ingredient are involved, a relatively larger straw in the order of 10 mm to 15 mm in diameter may be preferred.

In this embodiment, each of the filters 5, 6 and 10 has a generally conical sieve section 15 and a generally cylindrical mounting section 16. However, it will be appreciated that the filters may be of any form, including spherical, semi-spherical linear or oblique.

In the case of the receptacle 1, the mounting section 16 of the first filter 5 is effectively integral with the cylindrical body 3 of the filter basket. As with the main body of the filter basket, the cylindrical mounting section 16 of the first filters 5, 6 and 10 may have a solid side wall as shown, or may alternatively be perforated or take the form of a substantially open frame. The external diameter of the mounting section 16 of each filter is approximately equal to, or marginally greater than, the internal diameter of the straw, so that each filter is adapted for insertion into the straw with a snug or interference fit. A plurality of mounting protrusions, shown here as longitudinally extending stiffening ribs 17, is disposed on the mounting section to engage the circumference of the straw. The longitudinally extending stiffening ribs 17 on the mounting sections assist in stabilising the fit between the mounting sections and the straw, before the respective mounting sections are attached to the straw by thermoplastic welding or other suitable fastening means.

The sieve section 15 of each filter includes apertures in the form of circumferentially extending arcuate slots 18. These slots are sized to be sufficiently small to retain the respective first and second pellets within the straw until they have substantially dissolved, and sufficiently large to allow relatively unimpeded flow of the carrier liquid through the straw under moderate oral suction. To this end, the slots are ideally around 1 mm in width. Advantageously, the conical configuration of each sieve section provides an increased surface area for the associated slots, and hence a greater cross-sectional flow area for the liquid to pass through the straw, relative to a notional flat planar filtration surface of corresponding diameter. In this way, the invention achieves significant advantages over the prior art in balancing the need for adequate mixing and infusion of the active ingredients with acceptably low levels of oral suction. Advantageously also, the stiffening ribs 17 on the mounting section of each filter extend across the sieve section, to provide structural support and dimensional stability around the apertures.

The first filter 6 and the second filter 10 are substantially identical in shape, in order to minimise manufacturing costs and streamline inventory control. The first filter 5 is also substantially identical as the other filters, save for the longer mounting section associated with the main body 3 of the filter basket. It will be appreciated, however, that filters of different size, shape, aperture size, aperture density and material composition may be used within the same straw for particular purposes, or to suit particular pellet sizes or active ingredients.

The pellets are optionally formed as "nonpareil" balls, by building up successive layers of material, to enable the composition or concentration of each layer to be varied as required. Advantageously, this enables the dissolution characteristics of the pellets to be controlled, and facilitates shape retention as the pellets progressively diminish in size during the dissolution process. In particular, the inner layers of at least some of the pellets can contain active ingredients at concentrations greater than those in the outer layers. Advantageously, this increase in concentration offsets the reduction in combined surface area as the pellets are progressively dissolved, thereby tending to maintain a relatively uniform concentration of active ingredient during consumption. In terms of flavouring agents, this can be important because of the desirability for the user to experience a relatively uniform, sustained flavour as the beverage is progressively consumed, so as to simulate the taste experience of a uniformly pre-mixed beverage. In terms of some pharmaceuticals, this functionality can be important because of the desirability of relatively uniform ingestion from a medicinal perspective. In one variation, designed particularly for dispensing pharmaceuticals, the pharmaceutical formulation is confined to the outer layers of the associated pellets. One advantage of this variation is that the pharmaceutical is consumed first so that the user is more likely to receive the full required dosage even if they do not completely finish the drink and dissolve all the pellets. In addition, the layers may be coloured or flavoured to indicate when the pharmaceutical has been dissolved. For example, one colouring agent may be confined to an outer pharmaceutical containing layer and another colouring agent may be confined to an inner layer which does not contains a pharmaceutical formulation. hi this way, once the pharmaceutical has been dissolved, the colour of the carrier liquid passing through the straw markedly changes, to provide a clear visual indication that the prescribed dosage of the pharmaceutical compound has been fully dispensed. The colouring agent may also be mixed with a non-pharmaceutical flavouring agent, to provide a pleasant or unique aftertaste, following consumption of the medication. The pleasant aftertaste may be used to both alert the user that the medication has been consumed, and/or provide encouragement and incentive to achieve full consumption and correct dosage.

Another aspect of the invention designed to minimise risk of incorrect dosage is shown in figures 9 to 16. One will appreciate that it is commonplace to drink through a straw in sips. Between sips, suction pressure is removed so that liquid drawn into the straw but not into the mouth will back flow through the straw into the vessel from which it was drawn. In fact children often delight in drawing up liquid, even as far as the mouth and forcibly pressuring it back through the straw into the vessel.

Use of the straw in this manner may present a problem with the administration of pharmaceuticals, because 'dosed' carrier liquid containing pharmaceutical agents may find its way back into the vessel. In cases where the dosage amount must be exact, unless the user is forced to consume the entire vessel of fluid, the correct and full dosage may not be administered.

One solution to this problem is to fit the straw with a one-way flow control valve as shown in figures 9 to 16. These figures show three alternative designs of flow control valve. Figures 9 and 10 show a ball type valve 20, figures 11 and 12 show a flap type valve 21 and figures 13 to 16 show an expanding orifice type valve 22. The ball type valve 20 includes a cage 23, a ball 24 and a valve seat 25, This valve operates in the manner known in the art of such valves whereby the ball seals on the valve seat to prevent back flow. In this embodiment pictured, the cage 23 which loosely captivates the ball, also functions as a filter for containing the flavouring and/or pharmaceutical pellets.

The flap type valve 21 shown in figures 11 and 12 includes a pair of hinged flaps 26 and 26'. In this embodiment, two flaps are provided. However, any number of flaps may be suitably arranged to a similar effect.

The orifice type valve 22 shown in figures 13 to 16 includes a flexible membrane 27 that is able to stretch and collapse to directionally regulate fluid flow. Figures 13 and 15 show the membrane in a collapsed position, preventing the back flow of fluid, represented by arrows 28. Figures 14 and 16 show the membrane expanded and open to allow fluid upflow.

It will be appreciate by one skilled in the art that the above described one-way valves may be replaced by other forms and configurations of one-way or non-return valves known and used in the art, without departing from this aspect of the invention. It will also be appreciated that the one-way valve may be used in conjunction with separate and distinct filter elements or alternatively, in some embodiments, one or more one-way valves may be configured simultaneously to perform the filtering function.

Regardless of the exact form of the valve, when installed in the straw below the pharmaceutical pellets, the valve will allow the uptake of carrier liquid into the straw but prevent back-flow of liquid drawn above the valve thereby ensuing that the full and correct dosage is delivered to the user. The valve will also prevent the dosed liquid being forcibly blown back down the straw into the vessel. An incidental advantage of many one-way valves of this type is that they require a minimum threshold suction pressure in order initially to open the valve, which can help to prevent unwanted spillage or overflow, while at the same time assisting in the sucking motion. Although nonpareil pellets may be desirable for some applications, it will be appreciated that appropriately sized pellets, tablets or pills manufactured in a more homogenous form, by any suitable techniques including extrusion, tabletising or freeze drying, would also fulfil the intended purpose of the device.

A further embodiment of the invention is illustrated in figures 17 to 28, wherein similar features are denoted by corresponding reference numerals. This embodiment makes use of an oversized tube 9A to form the body of the straw. This tube is preferably between 8 mm and around 16 mm in diameter, and ideally between 10 mm and around 15 mm in diameter. Advantageously, a tube of this type can be used where relatively larger quantities of active ingredient, flavouring agent or other additives are required. There may also be some novelty value in this embodiment, with particular aesthetic and tactile appeal for children.

Notwithstanding its functional benefits in some applications, an oversized straw of this type can be somewhat uncomfortable or unergonomic to use and therefore, to ameliorate this problem, the receptacle 1 of this embodiment is shaped to provide a relatively smooth transition from a substantially circular cross-sectional profile at the lower peripheral edge 30 to a somewhat flattened generally elliptical profile at the upper peripheral edge 32, which is adapted to be retained between the user's lips. As best seen in figure 20, the body 3 of the receptacle in this embodiment incorporates a pair of diametrically opposed retaining slots 33, adapted for engagement by a corresponding pair mutually opposed retaining lugs 34 extending inwardly from respective arms 35 formed on a top cap 36. This top cap also includes perforations 38 forming part of the upper first filter 6. Similarly, the bottom surface of the receptacle body 3 includes perforations 40 forming part of the lower first filter 5. In this case, the second filter 10 incorporates a curved flexible diaphragm or membrane 42, which is perforated by intersecting cruciform slits 43 (as best seen in figure 26). The curvature of the membrane 42 is designed to allow this second filter unit 10 simultaneously to function as a one-way valve, permitting liquid to flow relatively freely upwardly into the straw (in the orientation as shown in the drawings) through the slits, while preventing back-flow downwardly through the straw.

In this embodiment, the perimeters of the respective lower and upper peripheral edges 30 and 32 are substantially equal to one another, and are also approximately equal to the internal circumference of the tube, thereby to facilitate insertion of the receptacle during assembly. Upon insertion, the tube progressively and flexibly deforms around the tapered outer sidewall of the receptacle, so as to adopt substantially the same external profile, being substantially circular adjacent the lower end and substantially elliptical adjacent the upper end of the receptacle.

In another embodiment (not shown), the tube in its relaxed configuration is again substantially circular in cross-sectional profile while the receptacle has a substantially constant elliptical or otherwise flattened cross-sectional profile, so as to induce a relatively sharp transition at the interface between the lower edge of the receptacle and the tube, upon assembly. This relatively sharp transition is accommodated by the flexibility and/or resilience of the plastics material of which the tube is composed.

In some embodiments, as previously described, the receptacle is inserted fully into the tube such that the user's lips in use wrap around the top of the tube itself, whereas in other embodiments, the receptacle is only partially inserted such that an upper portion of the receptacle forms a mouthpiece. In these various embodiments, advantageously, the flattened end profile of the straw, defined or induced by the profile of the receptacle, provides a clear visual and tactile indication of the intended drinking end of the straw. This is significant, because in some embodiments, particularly those with one-way flow valves, the straw will only function correctly in one orientation and yet simple printed markings on packaging or even on the straw itself to indicate the intended orientation may easily be misunderstood or overlooked. Forming the straw with a relatively flattened profile at the intended drinking end makes the correct orientation much more intuitively obvious to the user, even in circumstances where the user is unfamiliar with the product, unable to read, vision-impaired, or simply inattentive to directions marked on the product packaging.

In another embodiment, the tube itself is formed with an elliptical or otherwise flattened cross-sectional profile, which is substantially constant along the entire length of the tube. In this case, the receptacle is preferably also formed with a corresponding substantially constant elliptical cross-sectional profile. This embodiment similarly confers the advantage of allowing a relatively large volume of active ingredient(s) to be contained within the receptacle and/or the tube, while allowing the straw to be held relatively comfortably between the user's lips. This embodiment also allows the tube to be extruded with the desired cross-sectional profile, in a relatively cost-effective manner.

Although these various embodiments as described make use of elliptical profiles, either at the drinking end of the straw or along its entire length, it should be appreciated that a variety of other generally flattened profiles may alternatively be used, including but not limited to oval-shaped and even rectangular profiles. It should also be understood that in some embodiments, both the tubular body and the receptacle may be formed with circular cross-sectional profiles, in oversized dimensions.

A further series of preferred embodiments of the invention are illustrated in figures 29 to 32, where again similar features are denoted by corresponding reference numerals. Referring firstly to figure 29, the receptacle 1 is inserted into the tube 9 with an interference fit. It may also be glued, welded or otherwise secured in place by supplementary retaining means, if required. In this case, for the sake of clarity, the active ingredient within the receptacle is not shown. The lower end of the receptacle (in the orientation as shown in the drawings) incorporates the lower first filter 5, in conjunction with a one-way flap or diaphragm valve 50, to prevent back-flow through the straw. The upper end of the receptacle includes a top-cap 52, incorporating perforations such that the top cap functions as the upper first filter 6.

The embodiment shown in figure 30 is similar to that shown in figure 29. In this case, however, a second filter 10 is positioned at the bottom of the straw, so as to retain a second active ingredient (not shown), preferably in pellet or granular form, in the space within the tube between the receptacle and the second filter, as previously described.

The embodiment of the invention shown in figure 31 is similar to that shown in figure 30. In this case, however, the top cap 52 incorporates an integral connecting rim 54, to facilitate the connection of a mouthpiece 56, which is preferably detachable. In this case, the mouthpiece tapers inwardly to provide a comfortable drinking formation for the user, which can be particularly advantageous in connection with larger diameter straws, as previously described. The mouthpiece may taper to an outlet that is elongate, circular or otherwise shaped, as required.

The embodiment shown in figure 32 is also somewhat similar to that shown in figure 30. In this case, however, the upper marginal end of the straw is moulded inwardly, over and around the upper end of the receptacle, to form an integral mouthpiece formation 58 from the material of the tube itself. The mouthpiece formation 58 is preferably formed by thermoplastic softening and shaping of the end of the straw, after the receptacle has been installed. Again, the mouthpiece formation may be shaped to provide an elongate, circular or other suitable outlet shape as required, depending upon the diameter of the straw and other design considerations. In this embodiment, the integral mouthpiece formation performs a number of important functions. Firstly, it retains the receptacle within the straw, to avoid any possibility of it being inadvertently sucked into the user's mouth. Secondly, it provides a comfortable mouthpiece formation from which to drink, the reduced cross-sectional area of which can be particularly ergonomically beneficial in the context of larger diameter straws. Thirdly, it provides a clear and unambiguous visual indication as to the intended drinking end of the straw. Fourthly, it obviates the need for, and hence the cost and complexity of, an additional mouthpiece component. It will be appreciated, however, that in various embodiments, the receptacle may be over-inserted into the straw, so as to be fully contained within the straw, fully inserted, so that a marginal end of the receptacle is substantially flush with a corresponding marginal end of the straw, partially inserted so that a marginal end of the receptacle protrudes beyond a corresponding marginal end of the straw, or attached by suitable means in end to end relationship with the straw, such that the receptacle protrudes substantially entirely beyond the corresponding end of the straw. In yet another embodiments, the receptacle may be formed integrally with the straw, as previously discussed. In each case, it will be appreciated that the various interlocking components will ideally be sized and profiled in a complementary manner, to facilitate interconnection and interaction as intended, and to provide an aesthetically pleasing product. In further embodiments (not shown), either the lower first filter 5, or the upper first filter 6, may be secured to or formed integrally with the tubular body of the straw, rather than the body 3 of the receptacle, provided each filter is nevertheless retained in a suitable spatial relationship with respect to the receptacle, so as to effectively function in the intended manner.

In some embodiments of a further aspect of the invention (also not shown), the receptacle is essentially omitted and the straw simply includes a one-way valve adapted to permit flow of the carrier liquid upwardly through the straw in response to oral suction and to prevent back-flow of the carrier liquid through the straw, in the absence of oral suction. As previously discussed, this aspect of the invention prevents the loss of any significant quantity of active ingredient in back-flow through the straw, and thereby helps to ensure that the intended measure of active ingredient, once dispersed, has been fully ingested. In one preferred form of this aspect of the invention, the active ingredient is a pharmaceutical in pellet or granular form, and the one-way valve is positioned in a lower portion of the straw. Advantageously, the oneway valve is thus configured to function as a lower filter, retaining the active ingredient within the straw, prior to use. Optionally, an upper filter may additionally be disposed in an upper portion of the straw such that the active ingredient in pellet form is retained within the straw, between the lower one-way valve and the upper filter, until it has been progressively dissolved or otherwise dispersed into the carrier liquid. In one embodiment, the upper filter takes the form of a second one-way valve. However, it should be appreciated that in some embodiments, even the upper filter may be omitted, so that there is no impediment to the active ingredient, in whatever form, being drawn directly into the user's mouth with the carrier liquid. In one form, for example, the active ingredient takes the form of a powder contained within a soluble or porous sachet positioned within the straw. In one form of the invention, the receptacle 1 is filled with the first active ingredient 2, under a first set of controlled conditions, at a first location. This allows the receptacle to be fitted to the straw, the second active ingredient added, and the second filter secured, under a second set of controlled conditions, at a different location. To this end, the receptacle containing the first active ingredient is hygienically sealed at the first location in packaging designed to permit safe transportation of the receptacles in bulk quantities to the second location, and to facilitate efficient unpacking at the second location, to enable incorporation of the receptacles into straws as part of the downstream manufacturing and repackaging operation. In another embodiment (not shown), the straw includes at least two separate chambers, one of which functions as a "receptacle" but is formed integrally with the straw itself, In this embodiment, the first active ingredient is deposited into a first chamber of the straw at a first location under a first set of controlled conditions, and the second active ingredient is deposited into a second chamber of the straw at a second location, under a second set of controlled conditions. In variations of these embodiments, the first and second locations may be physically the same as or in close proximity to one another, although different sets of controlled conditions may be applied, or the sets of controlled conditions may be substantially the same, but the first and second locations may be different.

In some embodiments, the straw is filled in sterile conditions and/or subsequently sterilised, and hygienically sealed in sterile packaging. In some embodiments, where a first filling phase involving the receptacle and/or the straw occurs at a first location, the receptacle and/or the straw is hygienically sealed in sterile packaging, for intermediate storage and/or transportation to a second location at which final filling and packaging takes place.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the first active ingredient includes a pharmaceutical formulation and the first set of controlled conditions corresponds to a pharmaceutical-grade production and packaging facility, such as a GMP-compliant facility, with appropriate quality controls for all relevant parameters including management, personnel, premises and equipment, documentation, production, analysis, complaints and product recall. The second active ingredient includes a flavouring formulation and the second set of controlled conditions corresponds to a food-grade manufacturing and packaging environment, such conditions being suitably hygienic but subject to relatively less stringent constraints and controls than the first environment.

It should be appreciated, however, that any desired combination of pharmaceuticals, probiotics, vitamins, minerals, nutritional supplements, health tonics, colouring agents or flavouring agents may be used for each of the first and second active ingredients, and that any number and arrangement of receptacles, active ingredients and filters may be incorporated into a straw. It should also be understood that the receptacles may be incorporated into the straws as part of the manufacturing process as described, prior to distribution and sale. Alternatively, however, the receptacles and straws may be supplied separately and/or sold as a kit, for final assembly by the end user at the point of consumption, so as to provide maximum flexibility and interchangeability in terms of formulations, dosage levels, flavourings and the like.

Advantageously, it will be appreciated that the separation of the various manufacturing and filling process steps allows the conditions for each to be optimised, whereby the significant additional costs required to maintain a tightly controlled environment suitable for production of pharmaceutical-grade compounds are limited to those processes requiring such an environment. Other process steps can be performed more cost effectively under appropriately relaxed conditions, thereby significantly improving the overall efficiency and flexibility of the production process. In these and other respects, the invention represents a practical and commercially significant improvement over the prior art. A further advantage of the invention, at least in some preferred forms, is the relatively high level of filling accuracy that can be achieved using the receptacle mechanism, since there are typically less variables to regulate, and more accurate filling and metering equipment available, in more tightly controlled manufacturing and packaging environments.

By using transparent or translucent sidewalls for the receptacle and/or the straw, or alternatively by providing suitably positioned transparent or translucent observation ports or windows, some embodiments of the invention provide enhanced aesthetics, as well as a clear visual indication when all of the active ingredient has been consumed. This indication may be, for example, when all of the active granules within the receptacle have disappeared or alternatively, when the carrier liquid and/or the granules change colour as a result of the active outer layers having been consumed, and subsequent inner "indicator layers" containing strong differential colouring agents having been thereby exposed. In these and other respects, the invention represents a practical and commercially significant improvement over the prior art.

Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms.

Claims

THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS:-

1. A receptacle containing a predetermined measure of a soluble first active ingredient for dispersion into a carrier liquid, said receptacle including a body adapted to contain the first active ingredient, and a pair of first filters disposed in spaced apart relationship and adapted substantially to retain first active ingredient within the body prior to dissolution while permitting relatively unimpeded passage of the carrier liquid therethrough, said receptacle being a part of, or adapted for connection to, an elongate tube adapted for use as a straw, thereby enabling the carrier liquid to be drawn through the receptacle by oral suction and the active ingredient to be dispersed into the carrier liquid within the tube at the point of consumption.

2. A receptacle according to claim 1 wherein the first filters are disposed at or adjacent opposite ends of the body.

3. A receptacle according to claim 1 wherein one or both of the first filters are disposed at intermediate positions along the length of the body.

4. A receptacle according to any one of the preceding claims wherein one or more of the filters is integrally formed in conjunction with a portion of the body of the receptacle and/or the straw.

5. A receptacle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first active ingredient is in the form of, or is incorporated within, a plurality of discrete pellets.

6. A receptacle according to claim 5 wherein the pellets are generally spherical in shape.

7. A receptacle according to claim 5 wherein the shape of the pellets is selected from at least one of the following group: prolate spheroids, oblate spheroids, cylinders, rods, prisms or other regular geometric, or irregular, shapes.

8. A receptacle according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the receptacle is formed as a separate and discrete component, adapted for connection to the straw as part of a subsequent process step.

9. A receptacle according to claim 8 wherein the receptacle is connected to the straw as part of a downstream manufacturing process, to form an integrated assembly.

10. A receptacle according to claim 8 wherein the receptacle is adapted to be packaged and sold as a discrete sub-assembly, for subsequent connection to the straw by the user at the point of consumption.

11. A receptacle according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the receptacle has an effective external diameter approximately equal to or marginally greater than an internal diameter of the tube, whereby the receptacle is adapted for insertion into one end of the straw, with an interference fit.

12. A receptacle according to any one of claims 1 to 7 wherein the receptacle is formed as an integral part of the tube that forms the straw.

13. A receptacle according to claim 12 wherein the receptacle is defined as a compartment within the straw itself.

14. A receptacle according to any one of claims 1 to 10 wherein the receptacle is adapted for partial insertion into the straw, and as a partial extension of the straw.

15. A receptacle according to any one of claims 1 to 10 wherein the receptacle is attached to one end of the straw, so as to form an extension of the straw.

16. A receptacle according to claim 15 wherein the external diameter of the receptacle is approximately equal to an external diameter of the straw.

17. A receptacle according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the receptacle is attached to the straw by thermoplastic welding.

18. A receptacle according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the body of the receptacle or part thereof forms a basket.

19. A receptacle according to claim 18 wherein the basket is substantially open at one end and incorporates one of the first filters at the other end.

20. A receptacle according to claim 18 or claim 19 wherein the basket includes a solid side wall.

21. A receptacle according to claim 18 or claim 19 wherein the basket is formed as an open framework.

22. A receptacle according to any one of claims 19 to 21 wherein the other of the first filters is adapted for attachment to the open end of the basket to form a pellet containment region substantially within the body of the receptacle, after the basket has been filled with the predetermined measure of the first active ingredient.

23. A receptacle according to claim 22 wherein the other first filter is attached to the open end of the basket by thermoplastic welding.

24. A receptacle according to any one of claims 19 to claim 23 wherein said one of the first filters includes a mounting section disposed to engage the straw.

25. A receptacle according to claim 24 wherein the mounting section is integral with the basket.

26. A receptacle according to claim 24 or claim 25 including a plurality of mounting protrusions disposed on the mounting section to engage the circumference of the straw.

27. A receptacle according to claim 26 wherein the mounting protrusions include a plurality of longitudinally extending ribs.

28. A receptacle according to any one of the preceding claims wherein each of the filters includes a sieve section.

29. A receptacle according to claim 28 wherein the sieve section is a generally conical sieve section.

30. A receptacle according to claim 28 or claim 29 including stiffening ribs which extend across the sieve section for providing structural support and dimensional stability to the sieve section.

31. A receptacle according to any one of claims 28 to 30 wherein the sieve section of eat least one filter includes apertures in the form of circumferentially extending elongate slots, configured to be sufficiently small to retain the flavouring pellets within the straw, and sufficiently large to allow relatively unimpeded passage of liquid through the straw.

32. A receptacle according to claim 31 wherein the slots are around lmm in width and the internal diameter of the straw is around 8mm.

33. A receptacle according to any one of the preceding claims wherein both the receptacle and the tube are substantially circular in cross-sectional profile.

34. A receptacle according to any one of claims 1 to 13 wherein the receptacle has a lower peripheral edge that is substantially circular, and an upper peripheral edge that is substantially elliptical.

35. A receptacle according to claim 34 wherein upon insertion of the receptacle into the tube, the upper edge of the tube is flexibly deformed into a corresponding elliptical cross-sectional profile, thereby rendering the straw more comfortable to drink from, while providing a clear visual and tactile indication of the intended drinking end of the straw.

36. A receptacle according to claim 34 or claim 35 wherein the receptacle is adapted for use with a tube which is substantially larger in diameter than a conventional drinking straw, and which may otherwise be uncomfortable to drink from.

37. A receptacle according to any one of claims 34 to 36 wherein the body of the receptacle incorporates a pair of diametrically opposed retaining slots, adapted for engagement by a corresponding pair of mutually opposed retaining lugs extending inwardly from a top surface of the receptacle body.

38. A receptacle according to claim 37 wherein a bottom surface of the receptacle body includes perforations forming at least part of one of the first filters.

39. A receptacle according to claim 38 wherein the top surface includes perforations forming at least part of the other first filter.

40. A receptacle according to any one of claims 1 to 32 wherein the tube is formed with a substantially constant non-circular cross-sectional profile and the receptacle is formed with a complementary substantially constant non-circular cross-sectional profile.

41. A receptacle according to claim 40 wherein the tube is formed with a flattened elliptical cross-sectional profile, which is substantially constant along the entire length of the tube and the receptacle is formed with a corresponding substantially constant elliptical cross-sectional profile.

42. A receptacle according to any one of claims 32 to 41 wherein the receptacle is inserted fully into the tube such that the user's lips in use wrap around the top of the tube itself.

43. A receptacle according to any one of claims 32 to 42 wherein the receptacle is only partially inserted such that an upper portion of the receptacle forms a mouthpiece.

44. A receptacle according to claim 42 or claim 43 wherein the profile of the receptacle defines or induces a flattened end profile of the straw, which provides a clear visual and tactile indication of the intended drinking end of the straw.

45. A receptacle according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the carrier liquid is an un-flavoured beverage such as water or milk.

46. A receptacle according to any one of the preceding claims wherein at least one of the receptacle and the straw include at least one feature from the group including transparent side walls, translucent sidewalls, transparent observation ports, and translucent observation ports, for providing a clear visual indication when all of the active ingredient has been dispensed.

47. A dispensing system including: an elongate tube adapted for use as a straw; a receptacle according to any one of claims 1 to 46, containing a predetermined measure of a first active ingredient for dispersion into a carrier liquid, the receptacle being formed integrally with or connected to the straw; a second filter connected with the straw; and a predetermined measure of a second active ingredient contained within the straw between the receptacle and the second filter; thereby enabling the carrier liquid to be drawn through the straw by oral suction, whereby the first and second active ingredients are progressively dispersed into the carrier liquid within the straw at the point of consumption.

48. A dispensing system according to claim 47 wherein the receptacle is connected at or adjacent one end of the straw, and the second filter is connected at or adjacent the opposite end of the straw.

49. A dispensing system according to claim 47 or claim 48 wherein the first and second active ingredients are respectively in the form of first and second soluble pellets of predetermined average size.

50. A dispensing system according to claim 47 wherein the first and second filters include perforations are sufficiently small in size to retain the first pellets within the receptacle and to retain the second pellets within the straw until they have substantially dissolved, and are sufficiently large in size to permit relatively unimpeded flow of the carrier liquid through the straw under moderate levels of oral suction.

51. A dispensing system according to claim 47 wherein the pellets are generally spherical in shape.

52. A dispensing system according to claim 51 wherein the pellets have an average diameter that is between 10% and 90% of the internal diameter of the straw.

53. A dispensing system according to claim 52 wherein the pellets have an average diameter that is between 20% and 80% of the internal diameter of the straw

54. A dispensing system according to claim 53 wherein the pellets have an average diameter that is between 25% and around 75% of the internal diameter of the straw.

55. A dispensing system according to any one of claims 47 to 54 wherein the internal diameter of the straw is between 3 mm and 15 mm.

56. A dispensing system according to claim 55 wherein the internal diameter of the straw is between 7 mm and 9 mm.

57. A dispensing system according to any one of claims 47 to 56 wherein the pellets have an average diameter of between 1 mm and 5mm.

58. A dispensing system according to claim 57 wherein the pellets have an average diameter between 1.5 mm and 3 mm.

59. A dispensing system according to any one of claims 47 to 58 wherein the pellets are formed as "nonpareil" pellets, each pellet having a plurality of layers.

60. A dispensing system according to claim 59 wherein the layers are formed from any one of flavouring, nutritional or pharmaceutical formulations.

61. A dispensing system according to claim 59 or 60 wherein the composition of one of said layers is different from another of said layers.

62. A dispensing system according to any one of claims 59 to 61 wherein at least one of the inner layers of at least some of the pellets contain active ingredients at a different concentration than those in at least one of the outer layers.

63. A dispensing system according to claim 62 wherein the concentration of active ingredients in the inner layers is greater than those in the outer layers.

64. A dispensing system according to any one of claims 59 to 63 wherein at least one of the layers contains a pharmaceutical formulation.

65. A dispensing system according to claim 64 wherein the outermost layer contains a pharmaceutical formulation.

66. A dispensing system according to any one of claims 59 to 65 wherein at least one first layer is a first colour or shade and at least one second layer is a second colour or shade.

67. A dispensing system according to claim 66 wherein the at least one first layer is at least one inner layer and the at least one second layer is at least one outer layer containing a pharmaceutical formulation.

68. A dispensing system according to any one of claims 47 to 67 wherein the active ingredients in the receptacle dissolve more rapidly than the ingredients in the straw between the receptacle and the second filter.

69. A dispensing system according to any one of claims 47 to 68 wherein the first filter is used to close the receptacle after filling with the first active ingredient and is substantially the same as the second filter, which is subsequently used to close the straw after filling with the second active ingredient.

70. A dispensing system according to any one of claims 47 to 69 wherein the first filter is used to close the receptacle after filling with the first active ingredient and is different from the second filter, which is subsequently used to close the straw after filling with the second active ingredient.

71. A dispensing system according to any one of claims 47 to 70 wherein the second filter incorporates a curved flexible membrane.

72. A dispensing system according to claim 71 wherein the membrane is perforated by intersecting cruciform slits.

73. A dispensing system according to claim 71 or claim 72 wherein the curvature of the membrane is designed to allow the second filter simultaneously to function as a one-way valve.

74. A dispensing system according to any one of claims 47 to 73 wherein the upper marginal end of the straw is moulded inwardly, over and around the upper end of the receptacle, to form an integral mouthpiece formation from the material of the tube itself.

75. A dispensing system according to claim 74 wherein the mouthpiece formation is preferably formed by thermoplastic softening and shaping of the end of the straw, after the receptacle has been installed.

76. A dispensing system according to claim 74 or 75 wherein the mouthpiece formation is shaped to provide an elongate or circular outlet shape.

77. A method of dispensing active ingredients, said method including the steps of: providing an elongate tube adapted for use as a straw; forming a receptacle substantially as previously defined, at least partially filling the receptacle with a predetermined measure of a first active ingredient for dispersion into a carrier liquid; securing the receptacle to the straw; at least partially filling the straw with a predetermined measure of a second active ingredient; and securing a second filter to the straw, such that the second active ingredient is contained within the straw between the receptacle and the second filter; thereby enabling the carrier liquid to be drawn through the straw by oral suction, whereby the first and second active ingredients are progressively dispersed into the carrier liquid within the straw at the point of consumption.

78. A method according to claim 77 wherein the receptacle is secured at or adjacent one end of the straw and the second filter is secured at or adjacent to the opposite end of the straw.

79. A method according to claim 77 or claim 78 wherein the step of filling the receptacle with the first active ingredient is performed under a first set of controlled conditions at a first location, and the steps of filling the straw and securing the second filter are performed under a second set of controlled conditions, at a second location.

80. A method according to claim 19 wherein the first active ingredient includes a pharmaceutical formulation and the first set of controlled conditions corresponds to a pharmaceutical-grade production and packaging environment.

81. A method according to claim 79 or claim 80 wherein the second active ingredient includes a flavouring or nutritional formulation and the second set of controlled conditions corresponds to a food-grade manufacturing and packaging environment.

82. A method according to any one of claims 79 to 81 wherein the receptacle containing the first active ingredient is hygienically sealed at the first location in packaging, adapted to permit safe transportation in bulk quantities to the second location, and adapted to facilitate efficient unpacking at the second location, to enable incorporation of the receptacles into respective straws as part of a downstream manufacturing and repackaging operation.

83. A method according to any one of claims 77 to 82 wherein a second receptacle incorporating a corresponding pair of first filters is used as the second filter.

84. A method according to claim 83 wherein three active ingredients are incorporated into a single straw.

85. A method according to claim 84 wherein the first two active ingredients are contained within the respective receptacles at opposite ends of the straw, and the third active ingredient is contained within the straw, between the receptacles.

86. A method according to claim 84 or claim 85 wherein the three active ingredients are different from each other.

87. A method according to claim 86 wherein the three active ingredients are individually manufactured and packaged.

88. A method according to any one of claims 77 to 87 wherein three or more receptacles are used in a single straw.

89. A method according to any one of claims 77 to 88 wherein one or more receptacles are secured centrally within the straw and a pair of the second filters are secured at opposite ends.

90. A method of forming a pharmaceutical delivery apparatus comprising the step of adding at a first manufacturing location, a second active ingredient to a straw containing a first active ingredient, the first active ingredient having been placed within the straw at a second manufacturing location different from the first manufacturing location.

91. A method according to claim 90 wherein the first active ingredient is contained within a first portion of the straw, and the second active ingredient is added to a second portion of the straw.

92. A method according to claim 90 wherein the first active ingredient is contained within a first portion of the straw, and the second active ingredient is added to the first active ingredient in the first portion of the straw.

93. A method according to claim 91 or claim 92 wherein either or both of the first and second portions of the straw are formed by one or more receptacles, of the type according to any one of claims 1 to 46.

94. A method according to any one of claims 90 to 93 wherein the concentration and/or dissolution rate of one or more active ingredients are selected such that such that substantially all of the active ingredient is dissolved and delivered upon consumption of a predetermined volume of an intended carrier liquid.

95. A method according to claim 94 wherein the straw is packaged and sold in combination with a complementary container, which includes or is adapted to contain the predetermined volume of the intended carrier liquid.

96. A method according to any one of claims 90 to 95 wherein each of the active ingredients are in the form of, or is incorporated within a plurality of discrete pellets, the pellets being composed and structured so as to provide relatively uniform dissolution, and hence concentration, of the active ingredient in the carrier liquid, until it has been consumed, so as to provide a relatively consistent taste sensation and/or a relatively progressive rate of ingestion.

97. A delivery apparatus for an active ingredient adapted for indigestion with a carrier liquid, said apparatus including an elongate tube adapted for use as a straw and an active ingredient contained within the straw whereby the active ingredient is dispersed into the carrier liquid when drawn through the straw, the apparatus further including a one-way valve adapted to permit flow of the carrier liquid through the straw in a first direction in response to oral suction applied to the straw and to prevent back-flow of the carrier liquid through the straw in a second opposite direction, in the absence of oral suction.

98. A delivery apparatus according to claim 97 wherein the one-way valve includes a ball and a valve seat.

99. A delivery apparatus according to claim 97 wherein the one-way valve includes at least one movable flap.

100. A delivery apparatus according to claim 97 wherein the one-way valve includes a flexible orifice.

101. A delivery apparatus according to any one of claims 97 to 100 wherein the active ingredient is a pharmaceutical in pellet form.

102. A delivery apparatus according to claim 101 wherein the one-way valve is positioned in a lower portion of the straw.

103. A delivery apparatus according to claim 102 wherein the one-way valve is configured to function as a lower filter, for retaining the active ingredient within the straw, prior to use.

104. A delivery apparatus according to claim 103 wherein an upper filter is disposed in an upper portion of the straw such that the active ingredient is retained within the straw, between the one-way valve and the upper filter, until the active ingredient has been progressively dissolved or otherwise dispersed into the carrier liquid.

105. A delivery apparatus according to claim 104 wherein the upper filter takes the form of a second one-way valve.

106. A delivery apparatus according to any one of claims 91 to 105 including a plurality of one-way valves positioned at different locations, so as to divide the interior of the straw into one or more chambers.

107. A delivery apparatus according to claim 106 wherein one or more of the oneway valves is configured to function as a filter, retaining active ingredients, in granular or other form, within the straw or within particular chambers within the straw, while simultaneously operating to prevent backflow of the carrier liquid through the straw.

108. A delivery apparatus according to any one of claims 97 to 100 wherein the active ingredient takes the form of a powder contained within a soluble or porous sachet positioned within the straw.