Novel hollow oral nicotine products

Abstract

An oral nicotine product is provided that is formed of a nicotine composition comprising a water soluble fiber matrix, a gum binder, and a source of nicotine dispersed within the water soluble fiber matrix, the oral nicotine product being in the form of a hollow tube (10)(20) that defines a central longitudinal channel (14)(24) extending between opposite ends of the hollow tube (10)(20) and having a diameter of at least four millimeters.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to oral nicotine products and methods for making such oral nicotine products. [Background technology]

[0002] Smokeless oral tobacco products, such as snus and snuff, are well known in the art and have provided an oral alternative to traditional smoking products for many years. More recently, a new class of "modern" oral nicotine products has emerged that typically provide a tobacco-free source of nicotine. Oral nicotine products provide an alternative source of nicotine to e-cigarettes and aerosol generators that deliver aerosolized nicotine through heating of a nicotine source. One of the most common types of oral nicotine products is the tobacco-free nicotine pouch, which provides a nicotine powder composition inside a small sealed pouch. During use, the nicotine pouch is placed between the consumer's lips and gums so that the nicotine can be delivered into the body through the oral mucosal tissue. EP-A-1 617 823 discloses an oral pouch product containing a composition material that includes a bioactive agent, such as nicotine, ionically bound to an ionizable carbohydrate. The pouch is adapted to provide a rapid transmucosal delivery of nicotine in the consumer's mouth.

[0003] Oral nicotine products in the form of lozenges, chewable tablets, and chewing gum are also known. For example, WO-A-2017 / 182084 discloses an oral dosage form comprising nicotine-loaded cation exchange resin particles, which may be a chewing gum, tablet, or lozenge.

[0004] Oral nicotine products are generally not adapted to be swallowed, but are held in the mouth for a certain duration while nicotine is released. Thus, after use, consumers must remove the remaining product from their mouth and discard it. This handling of oral nicotine products after use may be considered unattractive or inconvenient by some consumers, especially when it is not possible to immediately discard the used product. In addition, during the removal of the product from the package and insertion into the consumer's mouth, problems of inconvenience or lack of hygiene may be perceived in the handling of oral nicotine products before use.

[0005] It would therefore be desirable to provide alternative forms of oral nicotine products that can be consumed in ways different from existing products, providing novel consumer experiences. For example, it would be particularly desirable to provide such oral nicotine products that can be used with reduced contact with the consumer's fingers, thereby providing potential improvements in hygiene and convenience. It would further be desirable to provide such products that offer consumers some flexibility regarding the way they can be consumed. It would also be desirable to provide such products that can be efficiently manufactured in large-scale manufacturing processes. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention relates to an oral nicotine product formed of a nicotine composition. The nicotine composition may include a water soluble fiber matrix. The nicotine composition may further include a gum binder. The nicotine composition may further include a source of nicotine dispersed within the water soluble fiber matrix. The oral nicotine product may be in the form of a hollow tube defining a central longitudinal channel extending between opposite ends of the hollow tube. The central longitudinal channel may have a diameter of at least 4 millimeters.

[0007] According to the present invention there is provided an oral nicotine product formed of a nicotine composition comprising a water soluble fibre matrix, a gum binder and a source of nicotine dispersed within the water soluble fibre matrix, the oral nicotine product being in the form of a hollow tube defining a central longitudinal channel extending between opposite ends of the hollow tube and having a diameter of at least 4 millimetres.

[0008] The present invention also relates to a method for producing an oral nicotine product. The method may include the step of forming a mixture including soluble fiber, a source of nicotine, and a gum binder. The method may include the further step of heating the mixture to a temperature below 100 degrees Celsius. The method may include the further step of pouring the mixture into a tubular mold. The method may include the further step of cooling the mixture in the tubular mold to solidify the mixture in the form of a hollow tube. The method may include the further step of removing the solidified hollow tube from the mold.

[0009] According to the present invention there is provided a method for producing an oral nicotine product according to any preceding claim, the method comprising the steps of forming a mixture comprising a soluble fibre, a source of nicotine and a gum binder, heating the mixture to a temperature below 100 degrees Celsius, pouring the mixture into a tubular mould, cooling the mixture in the tubular mould to solidify the mixture in the form of a hollow tube, and removing the solidified hollow tube from the mould.

[0010] Thus, the present invention provides an oral nicotine product with a novel hollow tubular form. This hollow tubular form allows the product to be mounted on and held on some type of "stick" during consumption of the oral nicotine product, instead of being directly inserted into the consumer's mouth. For example, the oral nicotine product according to the present invention can be conveniently attached to the end of a common object such as a straw, pencil, pen, or chopstick. The consumer can then suck, chew, or lick the oral nicotine product to achieve delivery of nicotine into the consumer's mouth.

[0011] This novel way of consuming the oral nicotine product of the present invention advantageously reduces contact between the oral nicotine product and the consumer's fingers. This in turn minimizes the risk of contamination of either the product itself or the consumer's hands. Once in place on the selected "stick", the product can be tailored to the consumer's individual and convenience, and the consumer is provided with complete control over the timing and duration of consumption. In this way, the consumer has greater flexibility over the use of the product.

[0012] As described below, certain embodiments of the present invention provide an oral nicotine product that can be held on the tip of a consumer's finger, which allows for a certain level of nicotine to be delivered transdermally in addition to the orally delivered nicotine, which optimizes the overall delivery of nicotine to the consumer. Such embodiments also provide increased flexibility to the consumer regarding the method of delivering nicotine.

[0013] Oral nicotine products according to the present invention can be readily manufactured using known molding techniques.

[0014] As defined above, the oral nicotine product according to the invention is in the form of a hollow tube. The hollow tube preferably has a cylindrical shape. The external transverse cross section of the hollow tube is preferably substantially circular.

[0015] Preferably, the outer diameter of the hollow tube is at least about 7 millimeters, more preferably at least about 8 millimeters, and more preferably at least about 10 millimeters.

[0016] Preferably, the outer diameter of the hollow tube is less than about 25 millimeters, more preferably less than about 15 millimeters, and more preferably less than about 12 millimeters. For example, the hollow tube may have an outer diameter of about 7 millimeters to about 25 millimeters, or about 8 millimeters to about 15 millimeters, or about 10 millimeters to about 12 millimeters.

[0017] The hollow tube provides a central longitudinal channel that defines a hole passing through the entire tube between two ends, thus allowing the oral nicotine product to be inserted onto a stick-like object such as a straw or a finger. The central longitudinal channel has a diameter of at least about 4 millimeters. The diameter is measured transverse to the longitudinal direction of the channel and corresponds to the "inner diameter" of the hollow tube. If the cross-sectional shape of the longitudinal channel is non-circular such that the diameter of the longitudinal channel varies with the angle of measurement, the minimum diameter is at least about 4 millimeters. This means that whenever the diameter is measured, the diameter is always at least about 4 millimeters. The provision of a longitudinal channel with a diameter of 4 millimeters or more allows the oral nicotine product to be effectively retained on a wider variety of common stick-like objects such as straws, pencils, etc.

[0018] Preferably, the diameter of the longitudinal channel of the hollow tube is at least about 5 millimeters, more preferably at least about 6 millimeters.

[0019] Preferably, the diameter of the longitudinal channel of the hollow tube is less than about 20 millimeters, more preferably less than about 15 millimeters, and more preferably less than about 10 millimeters. For example, the longitudinal channel may have a diameter of about 4 millimeters to about 20 millimeters, or about 5 millimeters to about 15 millimeters, or about 6 millimeters to about 10 millimeters.

[0020] The longitudinal channel of the hollow tube may have any suitable cross-sectional shape. Preferably, the longitudinal channel has a substantially circular transverse cross-section. This facilitates insertion of the oral nicotine product onto a "rounded" stick-like object such as a straw, pencil, or finger. Preferably, the longitudinal channel has a substantially constant transverse cross-section along its entire length.

[0021] In certain preferred embodiments, the longitudinal channel is specifically adapted to receive a drinking straw such that the oral nicotine product can be held over the end of the straw during use. In other preferred embodiments, the longitudinal channel is specifically adapted to receive the end of a consumer's finger such that the oral nicotine product can be held on the finger during use.

[0022] The hollow tube preferably has a wall thickness of at least about 2 millimeters, more preferably at least about 3 millimeters.

[0023] The hollow tube preferably has a length of at least about 8 millimeters, more preferably at least about 10 millimeters, and more preferably at least about 15 millimeters.

[0024] Preferably, the hollow tube has a length of less than about 30 millimeters, more preferably less than about 25 millimeters, and more preferably less than about 20 millimeters. For example, the length of the hollow tube can be from about 8 millimeters to about 30 millimeters, or from about 10 millimeters to about 25 millimeters, or from about 15 millimeters to about 20 millimeters.

[0025] The hollow tube is preferably elastically deformable up to an applied force of about 10 Newtons, meaning that the hollow tube can be compressed with an applied force of up to 10 Newtons and will substantially return to its original shape after the force is removed. This elastic property of the hollow tube allows for manipulation of the hollow tube to facilitate attachment of the oral nicotine product to a corresponding stick.

[0026] The nicotine composition forming the hollow tube, which will be described in more detail below, preferably has an elastic modulus of from about 1200 MPa to about 3800 MPa, more preferably from about 2100 MPa to about 3200 MPa.

[0027] In certain embodiments of the present invention, the hollow tube may be plastically deformed by applying a force of 12 Newtons or more. This means that when the hollow tube is compressed by applying a force of 12 Newtons or more, it does not return to its original shape, but remains in its compressed shape. This allows the oral nicotine product to conform to a flatter shape that is more similar to the shape of a traditional nicotine pouch. The compressed pouch can be conveniently inserted into the mouth in a manner similar to a nicotine pouch, as an alternative to mounting the oral nicotine product on an elongated object. Thus, consumers are provided with increased flexibility in how they can consume oral nicotine products.

[0028] In certain embodiments of the invention, the inner surface of the hollow tube, which corresponds to the surface of the longitudinal channel, may be smooth or flat. In alternative embodiments of the invention, the inner surface of the hollow tube may be adapted to improve the grip between the hollow tube and the outer surface of the stick to which the oral nicotine product is attached. This may advantageously allow the oral nicotine product to be held in place more effectively.

[0029] The inner surface of the hollow tube preferably includes a plurality of grooves or channels to provide improved grip. For example, the inner surface of the hollow tube may include a plurality of longitudinal grooves extending between opposite ends of the hollow tube. Alternatively, the inner surface of the hollow tube may include a plurality of axial grooves extending axially around the inner surface. In such embodiments where a plurality of grooves are provided, the inner diameter of the hollow tube should be measured between the grooves such that the inner diameter does not include the depth of the grooves.

[0030] Preferably, the grooves have a depth of at least about 1 mm, more preferably at least about 1.5 mm. Preferably, the grooves have a depth of about 3 mm or less, more preferably about 2 mm or less. For example, the grooves may have a depth of about 1 mm to about 3 mm, or about 1 mm to about 2 mm, or about 1.5 mm to about 3 mm, or about 1.5 mm to about 2 mm.

[0031] As defined above, the hollow tube of the oral nicotine product of the present invention is formed of a nicotine composition comprising a water soluble fiber matrix and a source of nicotine dispersed within the water soluble fiber matrix.

[0032] The fiber matrix may be provided by any suitable fiber material that can provide a matrix structure for holding the source of nicotine within the nicotine composition. Thus, the fiber material provides a structure with a network of internal pores or channels within which the source nicotine can be contained. The fiber material is water-soluble so that the oral product will gradually dissolve upon contact with saliva inside the consumer's mouth. Thus, the fiber matrix needs to be water-soluble under the conditions typically provided in the consumer's mouth.

[0033] The water-soluble fiber matrix preferably comprises cellulosic fibers. For example, the water-soluble fiber matrix may include cellulosic fibers derived from wood pulp, cotton, sugar beet, bran, citrus pulp, switchgrass, willow, tea, cottonwood, psyllium, arabinoxylan, or any combination thereof. Alternatively or additionally, the water-soluble matrix may include one or more polysaccharides, such as maltodextrin, inulin, starch, pectin, beta-glucan. Other suitable fibrous materials include oligosaccharides and lignin.

[0034] Preferably, the nicotine composition comprises at least about 20 weight percent, and more preferably at least about 30 weight percent, of the water soluble fiber matrix on a dry weight basis.

[0035] Preferably, the nicotine composition comprises about 60 weight percent or less, more preferably about 50 weight percent or less, of the water soluble fiber matrix on a dry weight basis. For example, the nicotine composition may comprise about 20 weight percent to about 60 weight percent, or about 30 weight percent to about 50 weight percent, of the water soluble fiber matrix on a dry weight basis.

[0036] The nicotine source contained within the water-soluble fiber matrix may take any suitable form. The nicotine source preferably comprises one or more nicotine salts. For example, the nicotine source may comprise one or more nicotine salts selected from the list consisting of nicotine lactate, nicotine citrate, nicotine pyruvate, nicotine monotartrate, nicotine bitartrate, nicotine bitartrate dihydrate, nicotine benzoate, nicotine pectinate, nicotine alginate, nicotine sulfate, nicotine hydrochloride, and nicotine salicylate. The nicotine source preferably comprises nicotine lactate or nicotine benzoate.

[0037] Alternatively, the source of nicotine may include liquid nicotine, nicotine gel, stabilized nicotine, or nicotine base.

[0038] Preferably, the nicotine composition comprises at least about 0.5 weight percent, more preferably at least about 1 weight percent, more preferably at least about 1.5 weight percent of a source of nicotine on a dry weight basis.

[0039] Preferably, the nicotine composition comprises about 10 weight percent or less of a source of nicotine on a dry weight basis, more preferably about 8 weight percent or less, more preferably about 6 weight percent or less of a source of nicotine. For example, the nicotine composition may have from about 0.5 weight percent to about 10 weight percent, or from about 1 weight percent to about 8 weight percent, or from about 1.5 weight percent to about 6 weight percent of a source of nicotine on a dry weight basis.

[0040] Each individual oral nicotine product preferably contains from about 1 mg to about 11 mg of nicotine. The amount of nicotine in the product can vary depending on the strength desired. For example, a "light" strength product may contain from about 1 mg to about 3 mg of nicotine, a "regular" strength product may contain from about 3 mg to about 7 mg of nicotine, and a "strong" product may contain from about 7 mg to about 11 mg of nicotine.

[0041] As defined above, the nicotine composition forming the hollow tube further comprises a gum binder. The gum binder is preferably water-soluble. The inclusion of a gum binder in the oral nicotine product of the present invention may advantageously provide a desired level of elasticity and texture that allows the product to be handled so that it can be inserted onto the desired "stick" by the consumer.

[0042] Suitable gum binders will be known to those skilled in the art and include, but are not limited to, natural gums such as gum arabic, xanthan gum, gellan gum, and combinations thereof.

[0043] Preferably, the nicotine composition comprises at least about 10 weight percent gum binder on a dry weight basis, and more preferably at least about 15 weight percent.

[0044] Preferably, the nicotine composition comprises no more than about 30 weight percent gum binder on a dry weight basis, more preferably no more than about 25 weight percent gum binder. For example, the nicotine composition may comprise from about 10 weight percent to about 30 weight percent, or from about 15 weight percent to about 25 weight percent gum binder on a dry weight basis.

[0045] Optionally, the nicotine composition may further comprise one or more flavoring agents. For example, it may be advantageous to provide one or more volatile flavors within the nicotine composition that are released to the consumer as the temperature of the oral nicotine product increases during use. This may enhance the sensory experience of the consumer. The one or more flavoring agents may be provided in liquid or gel form. The flavoring agent may be a natural flavoring agent of a synthetic flavoring agent. The one or more flavoring agents may be incorporated into the water-soluble fiber matrix together with the source of nicotine or may be applied to the nicotine-containing fiber matrix.

[0046] Suitable flavorings will be known to those skilled in the art and include, but are not limited to, licorice, wintergreen, cherry and berry type flavorings, Drambuie, bourbon, Scotch, whiskey, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, cinnamon, cardamom, celery (apium graveolents), cloves, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, peppermint, cinnamon, caraway, cognac, jasmine, chamomile, menthol, ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, pimenta, ginger, anise, chai, coriander, coffee, peppermint oil from Mentha species, cocoa, and combinations thereof.

[0047] The nicotine composition preferably contains no more than about 4 weight percent flavorant.

[0048] The level of flavorant can be adjusted below this level depending on the desired intensity of flavor. Preferably, the nicotine composition comprises at least about 0.5 weight percent flavorant.

[0049] Alternatively, or in addition to the inclusion of one or more flavoring agents, the nicotine composition may optionally further include one or more sweeteners. The inclusion of one or more sweeteners may advantageously enhance the flavor of the oral nicotine product.

[0050] Suitable sweeteners will be known to those skilled in the art and include, but are not limited to, saccharin, sucralose, aspartame, acesulfame potassium, and combinations thereof.

[0051] The nicotine composition preferably contains up to about 2 weight percent sweetener.

[0052] The sweetener level can be adjusted below this level depending on the sweetness desired. Preferably, the nicotine composition comprises at least about 0.25 weight percent sweetener.

[0053] The nicotine composition preferably further comprises a pH adjuster, which is a substance that adjusts the pH of an aqueous liquid, such as saliva, when the nicotine composition is dissolved in the aqueous liquid.Suitable pH adjusters include, but are not limited to, alkali metal or ammonium carbonates (including monocarbonates, bicarbonates, and sesquicarbonates), acetates, glycinates, gluconates, borates, glycerophosphates, or citrates, phosphates (including monohydrogen phosphates, dihydrogen phosphates, and trihydrogen phosphates), metal hydroxides (such as sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide), and mixtures thereof.Preferred pH adjusters are sodium bicarbonate and sodium carbonate, and mixtures thereof.

[0054] The nicotine composition may include one or more optional additives, for example, the nicotine composition may include one or more of non-nicotine alkaloids, minerals, vitamins, dietary supplements, colorants, amino acids, antioxidants, and botanicals.

[0055] In certain embodiments of the invention, the hollow tube may include a coating layer applied to at least one of its surfaces. Preferably, the coating layer is water-soluble and therefore dissolvable in water, such that it readily dissolves upon contact with saliva when the oral nicotine product is inserted into a consumer's mouth during use.

[0056] The coating layer is preferably applied to at least the outer surface of the hollow tube, and provides a barrier layer that protects the nicotine composition and may help prevent loss of active compounds, such as nicotine or flavorants, from the oral nicotine product prior to use.

[0057] Suitable coating materials for providing a coating layer on the hollow tube will be known to those skilled in the art and include, but are not limited to, carnauba wax, beeswax, gelatin, acetylated monoglycerides, starch (e.g., native potato starch, high amylose starch, hydroxypropylated potato starch), zein, shellac, ethyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, carboxy methyl cellulose, and combinations thereof.

[0058] One or more additives may be optionally added to the coating material to modify the properties of the coating layer. For example, the coating layer may include one or more of the following additives: miglycol, titanium dioxide, kaolin, bentonite to improve the barrier properties of the coating layer against moisture or oxygen. Alternatively or additionally, the coating layer may include one or more sugar alcohols, such as sorbitol, mannitol, xylitol, erythritol, isomalt, maltitol, lactitol, or combinations thereof. One or more sugar alcohols may be included to enhance the flavor of the coating material or to improve the texture of the coating material.

[0059] Alternatively, or in addition, the coating layer may include one or more plasticizers. Suitable plasticizers include, but are not limited to, propylene glycol, glycerol, vegetable oils, triglycerides, or combinations thereof.

[0060] Here, the intended use of the oral nicotine product according to the present invention will be described.As discussed above, the oral nicotine product of the present invention is provided in a hollow tubular form so that it can be easily mounted on a suitable stick and can be held on the stick during use.The appropriate choice of stick depends on the dimensions of the oral nicotine product, specifically the diameter of the longitudinal channel, but suitable examples may include a straw, a pencil, a pen, or a chopstick.Alternatively, the "stick" can be in the form of a consumer's finger.

[0061] During use, a selected "stick" of appropriate size is inserted by the consumer into the longitudinal channel of the hollow tube. The term "stick" is used herein to refer to any suitable elongated object of suitable proportions for the oral nicotine product to be mounted and held thereon. Preferably, the outer diameter of the stick substantially corresponds to the inner diameter of the hollow tube so that the hollow tube can be held in place during use by friction between the inner surface of the hollow tube and the outer surface of the stick. Once mounted on the stick, the consumer can insert the oral nicotine product into his or her mouth for a desired duration. Any coating layer present dissolves upon initial contact with saliva in the consumer's mouth. The water-soluble fiber matrix then begins to dissolve and decompose, thereby releasing the nicotine source and any other components that may be present, such as flavorants, into the consumer's mouth.

[0062] Oral nicotine products may be consumed completely during a single period or over multiple separate periods, providing consumers with greater flexibility over the timing and duration of consumption of the product.

[0063] When the oral nicotine product is placed on the consumer's finger, some delivery of nicotine may additionally be provided transdermally when the water-soluble matrix begins to break down due to insertion of the oral nicotine product into the consumer's mouth. In this manner, nicotine may be delivered both orally and transdermally through the skin.

[0064] The oral nicotine product according to the invention may be manufactured using any suitable method and equipment. The oral nicotine product is preferably formed using a molding process to achieve the desired hollow tubular shape. Extrusion or die casting processes may also be suitable to provide the tubular structure.

[0065] The present invention further provides a method for producing an oral nicotine product according to the present invention, as defined above. In the first step of the method, a mixture is formed that includes soluble fiber and a source of nicotine. The mixture is typically in the form of a solution that includes water. Any other optional components required for the oral nicotine product can be added to the mixture during this step. The resulting mixture is then heated to a temperature of less than 100 degrees Celsius. Preferably, the heating step is carried out at a temperature of about 45 degrees Celsius to about 75 degrees Celsius, more preferably about 50 degrees Celsius to about 60 degrees Celsius, the temperature being selected to achieve the desired viscosity of the mixture.

[0066] The heated mixture is then poured or injected into a tubular mold. Suitable molding equipment for this process will be known to those skilled in the art, but includes starch moulding equipment commonly used for molding confectionery products. In such a method, a tray of cornstarch is provided and a moulding die is used to stamp the desired shape (in this case tubular) into the cornstarch bed. Once the product has solidified, the starch can be removed and reused, as described below. This type of process is described in EP-A-2645885.

[0067] The mixture in the tubular mold is cooled to solidify the mixture in the form of a hollow tube, which may take up to 15-25 hours. During solidification, the soluble fibers will form a water-soluble matrix around the nicotine source.

[0068] Finally, the solidified hollow tube can be removed from the mold and packaged as desired.

[0069] Below is provided a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples, any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein. EXAMPLES

[0070] Example 1. An oral nicotine product comprising a water soluble fiber matrix and a source of nicotine dispersed within the water soluble fiber matrix, the oral nicotine product in the form of a hollow tube defining a central longitudinal channel extending between opposite ends of the hollow tube.

[0071] Example 2. An oral nicotine product according to Example 1, wherein the central longitudinal channel has a diameter of at least 4 millimeters.

[0072] Example 3. An oral nicotine product according to Example 1 or Example 2, wherein the hollow tube has a cylindrical shape.

[0073] Example 4. An oral nicotine product according to any preceding example, wherein the outer diameter of the hollow tube is less than 25 millimeters.

[0074] Example 5. An oral nicotine product according to any preceding example, wherein the outer diameter of the hollow tube is at least 7 millimeters.

[0075] Example 6. An oral nicotine product according to any preceding example, wherein the central longitudinal channel has a diameter of less than 20 millimeters.

[0076] Example 7. An oral nicotine product according to any preceding example, wherein the longitudinal channel has a substantially circular transverse cross-sectional shape.

[0077] Example 8. An oral nicotine product according to any preceding example, wherein the longitudinal channel is adapted to receive a drinking straw.

[0078] Example 9. An oral nicotine product according to any preceding example, wherein the hollow tube has a wall thickness of at least 2 millimeters.

[0079] Example 10. An oral nicotine product according to any preceding example, wherein the hollow tube has a length of at least 8 millimeters.

[0080] Example 11. An oral nicotine product according to any preceding example, wherein the hollow tube has a length of less than 30 millimeters.

[0081] Example 12. An oral nicotine product according to any preceding example, wherein the hollow tube is elastically deformable under an applied force of up to 10 Newtons.

[0082] Example 13. An oral nicotine product according to any preceding example, wherein the nicotine composition has an elastic modulus between 1200 MPa and 3800 MPa.

[0083] Example 14. An oral nicotine product according to any preceding example, wherein the hollow tube is plastically deformable at an applied force of 12 Newtons or greater.

[0084] Example 15. An oral nicotine product according to any preceding example, wherein the inner surface of the hollow tube is flat.

[0085] Example 16. An oral nicotine product according to any of Examples 1-14, wherein the inner surface of the hollow tube comprises a plurality of grooves.

[0086] Example 17. An oral nicotine product according to Example 16, wherein the inner surface of the hollow tube is provided with a plurality of longitudinal grooves extending between opposite ends of the hollow tube.

[0087] Example 18. An oral nicotine product according to Example 16, wherein the inner surface of the hollow tube is provided with a plurality of axial grooves extending axially around the periphery of the inner surface.

[0088] Example 19. An oral nicotine product according to any of Examples 16-18, wherein the grooves have a depth of at least 1 millimeter.

[0089] Example 20. An oral nicotine product according to any of Examples 16-19, wherein the grooves have a depth of 3 millimeters or less.

[0090] Example 21. An oral nicotine product according to any preceding example, wherein the water soluble fiber matrix of the nicotine composition comprises cellulosic fiber.

[0091] Example 22. An oral nicotine product according to Example 21, wherein the cellulosic fiber is derived from wood pulp, cotton, sugar beet, bran, citrus pulp, switchgrass, willow, tea, cottonwood, psyllium, arabinoxylan, or any combination thereof.

[0092] Example 23. An oral nicotine product according to any preceding example, wherein the nicotine composition comprises at least 20 weight percent of a water soluble fiber matrix.

[0093] Example 24. An oral nicotine product according to any preceding example, wherein the nicotine composition comprises no more than 60 weight percent of a water soluble fiber matrix.

[0094] Example 25. An oral nicotine product according to any preceding example, wherein the source of nicotine comprises one or more nicotine salts.

[0095] Example 26. An oral nicotine product according to any preceding example, wherein the nicotine composition comprises at least 0.5 weight percent of a source of nicotine.

[0096] Example 27. An oral nicotine product according to any preceding example, wherein the nicotine composition comprises 10 weight percent or less of a source of nicotine.

[0097] Example 28. An oral nicotine product according to any preceding example, containing between 1 mg and 3 mg of nicotine.

[0098] Example 29. An oral nicotine product according to any of Examples 1 to 27, comprising between 3 mg and 7 mg of nicotine.

[0099] Example 30. An oral nicotine product according to any of Examples 1-27, comprising between 7 mg and 11 mg of nicotine.

[0100] Example 31. An oral nicotine product according to any preceding example, wherein the nicotine composition further comprises one or more gum binders.

[0101] Example 32. An oral nicotine product according to example 31, wherein one or more gum binders are water soluble.

[0102] Example 33. An oral nicotine product according to Example 31 or Example 32, wherein the nicotine composition comprises at least 10 weight percent of one or more gum binders.

[0103] Example 34. An oral nicotine product according to Examples 31-33, wherein the nicotine composition comprises up to 30 weight percent of one or more gum binders.

[0104] Example 35. An oral nicotine product according to any of Examples 31-34, wherein the gum binder comprises gum arabic.

[0105] Example 36. An oral nicotine product according to any preceding example, wherein the nicotine composition further comprises one or more flavorants.

[0106] Example 37. An oral nicotine product according to Example 36, wherein the nicotine composition further comprises up to 4 weight percent of one or more flavoring agents.

[0107] Example 38. An oral nicotine product according to any preceding example, wherein the nicotine composition further comprises one or more sweeteners.

[0108] Example 39. An oral nicotine product according to Example 38, wherein the nicotine composition further comprises up to 2 weight percent of one or more sweeteners.

[0109] Example 40. An oral nicotine product according to any preceding example, wherein the hollow tube comprises a coating layer applied onto at least one of its surfaces.

[0110] Example 41. An oral nicotine product according to Example 40, wherein the coating layer is water-soluble.

[0111] Example 42. An oral nicotine product according to Example 40 or Example 41, wherein the coating layer further comprises one or more additives.

[0112] Example 43. An oral nicotine product according to Example 42, wherein the coating layer comprises one or more sugar alcohols.

[0113] Example 44. An oral nicotine product according to Example 42 or Example 43, wherein the coating layer comprises one or more plasticizers.

[0114] Example 45. A method for producing an oral nicotine product according to Example 1, comprising: forming a mixture comprising a soluble fiber, a source of nicotine, and a gum binder; heating the mixture to a temperature of less than 100 degrees Celsius; Pouring the mixture into a tubular mold; cooling the mixture in the tubular mold to solidify the mixture in the form of a hollow tube; and removing the solidified hollow tube from the mold.

[0115] Example 46. The method according to example 45, wherein the heating step is carried out at a temperature of about 45 degrees Celsius to about 75 degrees Celsius.

[0116] Example 47. The method according to example 45 or example 46, wherein the shaping step is carried out using a starch mogul fixture.

[0117] Example 48. The method according to any of Examples 45-47, wherein the mixture is allowed to solidify in the mold for up to 15-25 hours.

[0118] Specific embodiments will now be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0119] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of an oral nicotine product according to the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of an oral nicotine product according to the present invention. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 shows an end view of the oral nicotine product shown in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows a schematic representation of the oral nicotine product of FIGS. 2 and 3 in place on a drinking straw. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 shows the oral nicotine product of FIGS. 1 and 2 in a compressed form. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0120] The oral nicotine product shown in Figure 1 is in the form of a cylindrical hollow tube 10 having a peripheral wall 12 formed of a nicotine composition and a central longitudinal channel 14 extending between opposite ends of the hollow tube 10. The longitudinal channel 14 has a circular cross section and the surface of the central longitudinal channel is flat. The diameter of the central longitudinal channel 14, which corresponds to the inner transverse diameter of the hollow tube 10, is 8 millimeters. The outer diameter of the hollow tube 10 is 12 millimeters, whereby the peripheral wall 12 has a thickness of 2 millimeters. The hollow tube 10 has a length of 18 millimeters. The hollow tube 10 is suitable for mounting on a stick-like object such as a pen, chopstick, or straw.

[0121] The hollow tube 10 is formed of a nicotine composition including a water soluble cellulose fiber matrix, a nicotine salt, a natural gum binder, and flavorants. A dissolvable coating layer of beeswax (not shown) is provided on the outer surface of the hollow tube 10 to provide a barrier layer.

[0122] 2 and 3 show an oral nicotine product according to a second embodiment of the invention in the form of a hollow tube 20 comprising a peripheral wall 22 and a central longitudinal channel 24 between the opposing ends of the hollow tube 20. The hollow tube 20 is formed of a nicotine composition similar to that forming the hollow tube 10 shown in FIG. 1, as described above. The longitudinal channel 24 has a circular transverse cross-section, but in contrast to the hollow tube 10, the inner surface of the longitudinal channel 24 comprises a plurality of longitudinal grooves 26 spaced around the circumference of the longitudinal channel 24 which provide a gripping surface. Each longitudinal groove 26 extends between both ends of the hollow tube 24 and has a substantially rectangular cross-section with a transverse depth of 1.5 millimeters. The outer diameter (D ext ) is 12 mm, and the inner diameter of the hollow tube (D int The diameter of the longitudinal channel corresponding to the hollow tube (D int The inner diameter of D is measured at a location away from the longitudinal groove 26 and therefore does not take into account the depth of the longitudinal groove 26. intis the minimum inside diameter of the hollow tube. The hollow tube 20 has a length of 18 millimeters and is suitable for mounting onto a stick-like object such as a pen, chopstick, or straw.

[0123] Figure 4 shows the hollow tube 20 of Figures 2 and 3 mounted on the end of a drinking straw 30 ready for consumption. The grooved inner surface of the hollow tube 20 grips the outer surface of the straw 30 so that the hollow tube can be held in place on the straw without slipping during use. Thus, during use, the consumer does not need to touch the hollow tube 20 at all but can simply insert it into their mouth through the movement of the straw 30.

[0124] The hollow tube 20 has a degree of elasticity such that it can be elastically deformed to a certain extent as a result of compression applied by the consumer in order to fit onto a desired stick for consumption.

[0125] If desired, the hollow tube 20 can be compressed with greater compressive force by the consumer to provide a permanently flatter configuration, as shown in Figure 5, which more closely resembles the shape of an oral nicotine pouch. Compressive force should be applied by the consumer in the direction shown in Figure 5 at a level greater than 12 Newtons. In this flattened configuration, the hollow tube 20 can be inserted into the mouth and held between the gums and lips to release nicotine.

Claims

1. 1. An oral nicotine product formed of a nicotine composition comprising a water soluble fiber matrix, a gum binder, and a source of nicotine dispersed within the water soluble fiber matrix, wherein the oral nicotine product is in the form of a hollow tube extending between opposite ends of the hollow tube and defining a central longitudinal channel having a diameter of at least 4 millimeters.

2. 2. The oral nicotine product of claim 1, wherein the inner surface of the hollow tube comprises a plurality of longitudinal grooves extending between the ends of the hollow tube.

3. 3. The oral nicotine product of claim 2, wherein the longitudinal groove has a depth of at least 1 millimeter.

4. 4. An oral nicotine product according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the nicotine composition has an elastic modulus of 1200 to 3800 MPa.

5. An oral nicotine product according to any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the hollow tube is elastically deformable under an applied force of up to 10 Newtons.

6. An oral nicotine product according to any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the hollow tube has a wall thickness of at least 2 millimetres.

7. 7. An oral nicotine product according to any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the central longitudinal cavity has a diameter of between 6 millimeters and 10 millimeters.

8. An oral nicotine product according to any preceding claim, wherein the gum binder is water soluble.

9. 9. An oral nicotine product according to any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the nicotine composition further comprises at least one flavouring agent.

10. 10. The oral nicotine product of any of claims 1 to 9, wherein the source of nicotine in the nicotine composition comprises one or more nicotine salts.

11. An oral nicotine product according to any preceding claim, wherein the water-soluble fibre matrix comprises cellulosic fibres.

12. 12. An oral nicotine product according to any of claims 1 to 11, further comprising a dissolvable coating layer applied onto at least one surface of the hollow tube.

13. An oral nicotine product according to any preceding claim, wherein the hollow tube is adapted to receive a drinking straw within its longitudinal channel.

14. An oral nicotine product according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the hollow tube is adapted to be held on the end of a consumer's finger.

15. A method for producing an oral nicotine product according to any one of claims 1 to 14, comprising the steps of: forming a mixture comprising a soluble fiber, a source of nicotine, and a gum binder; heating the mixture to a temperature less than 100 degrees Celsius; pouring the mixture into a tubular mold; cooling the mixture in the tubular mold to solidify the mixture in the form of a hollow tube; and removing the solidified hollow tube from the mold.

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