Item for packaging with fragrance diffuser and packaged food product

Description

1 / 25 ITEM FOR PACKAGING WITH FRAGRANCE DIFFUSER AND PACKAGED FOOD PRODUCT FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a packaging item and a packaged food product. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Packaging items for packaging various types of contents are supplied in a variety of different shapes, sizes and materials. For example, packaging items made of paper are known from the state of the art and are often promoted as being environmentally friendly and more sustainable, for example, compared to plastic.

[0003] However, existing paper packaging often does not provide the same protection to the contents as other materials such as plastic or glass. This can adversely affect one or more properties of the contents, for example, which may result in a reduced shelf life of the contents.

[0004] Typically, oxidation and / or moisture influx into the packaged contents leads to degradation of the organoleptic properties of said product, which is logically undesirable. In some cases, food safety may be compromised by the transfer of gases and / or moisture through the packaging walls. Therefore, it is of utmost importance, at least with sensitive food products, to ensure a packaging barrier against gases – in particular, oxygen – and moisture.

[0005] Furthermore, existing packaging items made of paper often suffer from reduced structural stability compared to packaging items made of other materials, for example, plastic or glass. This can adversely affect the handling properties of the packaging items.

[0006] In addition, although they are attractive to the consumer, the Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, page 8 / 51 2 / 25 of existing packaging designs on the market lack certain features to highlight or showcase the contents of the package and reinforce its attractiveness throughout the package's lifespan.

[0007] Therefore, in particular, in view of the disadvantages identified above, it is an objective of the present invention to provide a packaging item that provides greater protection to the contents within the packaging item. It is a further objective of the present invention to provide a packaging item that allows the organoleptic properties of the contents to be highlighted for the user throughout the shelf life of the packaging. SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM

[0008] In a first aspect, the invention relates to a packaging item as claimed in the appended claims.

[0009] More precisely, the invention relates to a packaging item comprising: (i) at least one three-dimensional inner packaging element having a perimeter wall closed at one end with a closing wall so as to define a cavity for a product, and (ii) at least one three-dimensional outer packaging element having a perimeter wall closed at one end with a closing wall so as to define a cavity having a shape that correlates to the outer shape of said inner packaging element, wherein the outer packaging element is slidingly connected to the inner packaging element in order to open or close the packaging item, and wherein the perimeter wall of the outer packaging element comprises at least one fragrance vent allowing the passage of volatile compounds trapped in the packaging contents together with gas contained within the product cavity, outside said packaging item,when the outer packaging element is slid over the inner packaging element during the closing of the packaged item. Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, page 9 / 51 3 / 25

[0010] In a highly preferred embodiment of the invention: - The inner packaging element is a core container made of a multilayer oxygen- and moisture barrier laminate comprising a paperboard and an organic and / or inorganic barrier layer, wherein the paperboard has a basis weight between 120 and 600 g / m2 and a cellulose content greater than 90%, preferably greater than 95%, more preferably greater than 99%, such that the oxygen transmission rate (OTR) is below 1, preferably below 0.5 cm3 / m2 / day measured at 23°C and 50% relative humidity (RH), and the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) is below 1, preferably below 0.5 g / m2 / day measured at 23°C and 85% RH, said core container including at least one perimeter wall of the core container and a bottom wall of the core container,that define at least one compartment for packaged contents and at least one dispensing opening configured to allow the packaged contents to be dispensed from said core container, - The outer packaging element is a sliding closure element with at least one perimeter wall of sliding closure element and one top wall of sliding closure element, wherein the sliding closure element is configured to slide over at least a top end portion of the perimeter wall of the core container such that, when the packaging item is in its fully closed configuration, the perimeter wall of the sliding closure element at least partially overlaps and encloses the perimeter wall of the container and the sliding closure element at least partially covers the dispensing opening of the core container, wherein said sliding closure element is made of a multilayer oxygen and moisture barrier laminate comprising a paperboard and an organic barrier layer and / or Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, page 10 / 51 4 / 25 inorganic, wherein the paperboard has a basis weight between 120 and 600 g / m2 and a cellulose content greater than 90%, preferably greater than 95%, more preferably greater than 99%, so that the oxygen transmission rate (OTR) is below 1, preferably below 0.5 cm3 / m2 / day measured at 23°C and 50% relative humidity (RH), and the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) is below 1, preferably below 0.5 g / m2 / day measured at 23°C and 85% RH.

[0011] Advantageously, the core container element comprises an edge that is located at the open distal end of the peripheral wall, said edge being configured to be at least partially contiguous against the inner surface of the top wall of the sliding closure element when the sliding closure element is slid over the core container element in the fully closed configuration of the packaged item.

[0012] In a highly preferred embodiment of the invention, the peripheral wall of the sliding closure element overlaps the peripheral wall of the core container element by at least 25 mm, preferably at least 50 mm, more preferably at least 80 mm, or the peripheral wall of the sliding closure element overlaps by at least 30%, preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 70% of the peripheral wall of the core container element, when the packaging item is in its fully closed configuration.

[0013] In another highly preferred embodiment of the invention, the functional clearance (i.e., the difference between the inner diameter of the sliding closure element and the outer diameter of the packaging container element) between the sliding closure element and the core container is comprised between 50 and 500 µm, preferably between 100 and 300 µm.

[0014] Such functional clearance is sufficient to ensure proper fixation. Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, page 11 / 51 5 / 25 of the two in the closed packaging configuration and in such a way that no complex capping is required, such as threads or cutting mechanisms. By selecting a functional clearance that is preferably between 50 and 500 µm, preferably between 100 and 300 µm, the possibility of easily sliding the top sliding closing element to the core container element is ensured, while the adhesion between the two elements is sufficiently high to prevent one element from sliding relative to the other without applying an external force.

[0015] Of equal importance, the combination of functional clearance and overlap between the sliding and container closure elements ensures the tightness of the packaging in its closed configuration, which allows for so-called shelf life after opening. Shelf life after opening means that when the packaging is first opened, it can be resealed after the first use, with the guarantee that moisture and oxygen influx from the contents are very limited.

[0016] Preferably, the core container comprises a container top closure configured to close its dispensing opening, wherein the container top closure is at least partially removable from said container.

[0017] Advantageously, the top closure of the core container is a removable membrane sealed at the upper edge of the core container, said membrane being made of a material that is a barrier to oxygen and moisture, such that the oxygen transmission rate (OTR) is below 1, preferably below 0.5 cm3 / m2 / day measured at 23°C and 50% relative humidity (RH), and the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) is below 1, preferably below 0.5 g / m2 / day measured at 23°C and 85% RH.

[0018] It is important to emphasize that various paperboard-based packaging material structures can be used to manufacture the various elements of this packaging. The various constituent elements of Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, p. 12 / 51 6 / 25 Packaging can be made from the same or different packaging materials. But generally and preferably, the packaging materials used are laminates comprising a high cellulosic content to achieve recyclability in paper flow processes and also contain at least one layer that provides barrier properties against oxygen and / or moisture transfer.

[0019] Preferably, at least one of the core container or sliding closure element is manufactured from a multilayer cellulosic material comprising: - a layer of cardboard with a basis weight between 120 g / m2 and 600 g / m2, - an optional adhesive layer with a basis weight between 0.5 and 10 g / m2, - a layer of paper with a basis weight between 30 and 120 g / m2, - at least one organic barrier layer of a polymer selected from the list of: polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), butenediol vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH) or a combination thereof, in an amount of 0.5 to 20 g / m2, preferably in an amount of 1 to 10 g / m2, more preferably in an amount of 2 to 8 g / m2, - at least one inorganic barrier layer selected from the list of: metals, metalloids or a combination thereof, said inorganic layer having a thickness between 1 and 100 nm, and - at least one layer of organic thermal sealing made of an acrylic or methacrylic acid polymer or polyolefin grafted with at least one type of ionomer, said thermal sealing layer being applied by aqueous dispersion coating in an amount between 2 and 20 g / m2, preferably in an amount between 4 and 9 g / m2.

[0020] Alternatively, at least one of the core container or sliding closure element is manufactured from a multilayer cellulosic material comprising: Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, page 13 / 51 7 / 25 - a layer of cardboard with a basis weight between 120 g / m2 and 600 g / m2, - an optional adhesive layer with a basis weight between 0.5 and 10 g / m2, - a layer of paper with a basis weight between 30 and 120 g / m2, - at least one organic barrier layer of a polymer selected from the list of: polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), butenediol vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH) or a combination thereof, in an amount of 0.5 to 20 g / m2, preferably in an amount of 1 to 10 g / m2, more preferably in an amount of 2 to 8 g / m2, - at least one inorganic barrier layer selected from the list of: metals, metalloids or a combination thereof, said inorganic layer having a thickness between 1 and 100 nm, and - at least one organic barrier layer of a polymer selected from the list of: polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), butenediol vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH) or a combination thereof, in an amount of 0.5 to 20 g / m2, preferably in an amount of 1 to 10 g / m2, more preferably in an amount of 2 to 8 g / m2, - at least one layer of organic thermal sealing made of a polyolefin applied by extrusion, wherein said thermal sealing layer is applied in an amount between 2 and 20 g / m2, preferably in an amount between 4 and 9 g / m2.

[0021] The constituent elements of the packaging item according to the invention can be selected from either of two alternative material structures and they can be made of the same material or of a different material chosen from these alternatives.

[0022] In a preferred configuration, the packaged content: - It is an edible product for human and / or animal consumption; and / or, - It is configured to produce an edible product for human and / or animal consumption. Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, page 14 / 51 8 / 25

[0023] Advantageously, the sliding closure element and the core container are configured to be connected by friction, preferably at least by friction between the peripheral wall of the container and the peripheral wall of the sliding closure element, when the sliding closure element is slid over the container.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the core container and / or the sliding closure element is / are composed of at least 50% by volume of paper, more preferably at least 60% by volume of paper, more preferably at least 70% by volume of paper, more preferably at least 80% by volume of paper, more preferably at least 90% by volume of paper, more preferably at least 95% by volume of paper.

[0025] Advantageously, at least one opening is defined in the perimeter wall of the sliding closing element, said opening having a diameter between 5 mm and 30 mm, wherein: - The opening is configured to function as a vent that allows gas to pass through the vent into and / or out of the packaged item during and / or before the opening of the sliding closure element; and / or - the opening is configured as a pouring opening that allows the packaged contents to be dispensed through it after sliding the sliding closure element upwards and / or in the opposite direction to the base element.

[0026] Preferably, the container is free of printing and / or labels and, optionally, the sliding closure element is printed.

[0027] The container preferably includes at least one dispensing opening configured to allow the packaged contents to be dispensed from the container through the dispensing opening. The dispensing opening may be of the type that requires full opening of the packaging. Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, page 15 / 51 9 / 25 (typically by removing at least one element from the rest of the packaging). Alternatively or additionally, the packaging may include a second type of dispensing opening that does not require the entire packaging to be opened, especially a dispensing opening that requires only the displacement of one element relative to the rest of the packaging, for example, by twisting, turning or tilting a portion of the packaging relative to the rest of the packaging in order to open / close the packaging.

[0028] The multilayer oxygen and moisture barrier laminate comprising paperboard and an organic and / or inorganic barrier layer increases the resistance of the container and thus of the packaging item against oxygen and moisture transfer, for example, compared to packaging items made of paper that are known in the prior art. This results in greater protection, preservation and / or longer shelf life of the contents within the container.

[0029] The cross-section of the constituent elements of the packaging item. As understood in the context of the present invention, a cylinder preferably has a circular cross-section (or baseline). However, other, for example, polygonal or elliptical baselines (i.e., cross-sections) may also be considered as cylindrical within the framework of the present invention. Preferably, the cylinder is a straight cylinder. However, oblique cylinders may also be considered.

[0030] As understood in the context of the present invention, a paperboard is a flat cellulosic structure of one or more layers of paper having a basis weight between 120 g / m2 and 600 g / m2.

[0031] The configuration of the sliding closure element to be slid over at least a portion of the top end of the perimeter wall of the core container so that the perimeter wall of the sliding closure element at least partially encloses the perimeter wall of the container and the sliding closure element at least partially covers the dispensing opening, provides greater protection to Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, page 16 / 51 10 / 25 contents inside the container. In particular, this provides at least double-wall protection of the packaged contents through the perimeter wall of the container and the perimeter wall of the sliding closure element. Furthermore, this allows the sliding closure element to be used to reseal the dispensing opening of the container after the initial opening in a way that maintains the oxygen and moisture barrier properties.

[0032] Alternatively or additionally, such a sliding closure element may be used for advertising and / or informational and / or aesthetic purposes, for example, by providing printing at least partially on the sliding closure element, while the container may be configured primarily to protect and / or preserve the contents of the packaged item, in particular, in a hygienic and / or food-safe manner. For example, the container may be free of printing, stickers, etc. This minimizes the risk of diffusion of color printing or stickers – for example – to the packaged contents (for example, even if the barrier layer is very thin and / or the packaged contents are stored for extended periods of time). This may also allow the container and the sliding closure element to be manufactured from different materials and / or different material compositions and / or different thicknesses.The perimeter wall of the sliding closure element can completely enclose the perimeter wall of the container in a circumferential direction along a certain portion of the container's length.

[0033] The configuration of paperboard to have a relatively high cellulose content, for example, greater than 90%, preferably greater than 95%, more preferably greater than 99%, reduces the density and / or production costs and / or increases the biodegradability and / or recyclability of the packaging item, for example, compared with materials that have a lower cellulose content.

[0034] The packaging item, more specifically the container, is Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, page 17 / 51 11 / 25 configured to house and / or preserve, at least for a certain period of time, food material in the compartment, i.e., any material used as food, for example, edible / drinkable material, or used to make / produce food. The packaged material, for example, food material, can be liquid and / or solid. Preferably, the packaged material is solid and in a flowable form, in particular, in powder form. The powder can have various granularity values, from small to coarse diameter particles, or be a mixture of large and small diameter powder particles. It can also take the form of feed pellets or solid particle items of various shapes and sizes, which are individually pre-packaged food items or not.The type of food product can be wide-ranging, such as, for example, coffee particles or solids, potato chips, chocolate solids, pet food pellets, compacted edible items, such as, for example, compacted coffee shots, etc.

[0035] The components identified above for packaging, for example, the core container and the sliding closure element, can be supplied in a range of different dimensions. Preferably, the container can have a width / diameter in a range of 20 mm to 200 mm. Preferably, the container can have a length in a range of 50 mm to 500 mm, preferably from 75 mm to 250 mm.

[0036] Preferably, the diameter of the elements is such that they allow comfortable handling with a user's hand. The diameter is advantageously between 20 and 200 mm, preferably between 40 and 100 mm.

[0037] The dispensing opening may be located at one end of the container, for example, at the top end of the container. Alternatively or additionally, the dispensing opening may be located at least partially on the perimeter wall of the container.

[0038] The bottom closure of the container is a membrane and / or a Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, page 18 / 51 12 / 25 metal foil, for example, a metal, for example, aluminum, or a metallized material, for example, metallized paper or a metallized plastic, such as a metallized polyolefin, preferably a metallized polypropylene. Alternatively or additionally, the bottom closure of the container may be made of plastic, for example, a polymer such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0039] The percentage(s) of content of the material(s) mentioned above^), for example, the cellulose content, are defined in %, by weight, in relation to a total weight of the respective material.

[0040] Preferably, the sliding closure element and the core element are cylindrical. More preferably, the sliding closure element and the core element are shaped as a cylinder having a circular baseline (i.e., cross-section). The inner and / or outer diameter of the cylinder forming the sliding closure element and the cylinder forming the core element may be the same. By cylindrical, it is understood – within the framework of this descriptive report – that the container, the sliding closure element and the core element may be shaped as a cylinder also having an elliptical or polygonal cross-section.

[0041] Preferably, the sliding closure element and the core container are configured so that the sliding closure element can be removed from and slid over the container multiple times. This may allow the container to be opened and closed again several times by the sliding closure element.

[0042] Preferably, the packaging item additionally includes at least one container top closure configured to seal, preferably in a sealing manner, the dispensing opening of the top edge of the core container, in order to prevent the packaged contents from being dispensed through the dispensing opening. Preferably, the container top closure is at least partially removable, Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, page 19 / 51 13 / 25 preferably, removable, from the dispensing opening. The top closure of the container may be a membrane and / or a metal foil, for example, a metal, for example, aluminum, or a metallized material, for example, metallized paper or a metallized plastic, such as a metallized polyolefin, preferably a metallized polypropylene. Alternatively or additionally, the top closure of the container may be made of plastic, for example, a polymer such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0043] In other words, the top closure of the container can provide a moisture and oxygen barrier that is removable after the initial opening of the packaging item by the consumer (e.g., after removing the sliding closure element). Subsequently, the container opening can be closed again by sliding (or sliding again) the sliding closure element into the container.

[0044] In general, the constituent elements of a packaging according to the present invention are chosen from packaging materials comprising a high cellulose content and having oxygen and moisture barrier properties. Such barrier properties are achieved by incorporating organic and / or inorganic layers into the structure of the packaging material, so as to provide oxygen transmission rate (OTR) values ​​below 1, preferably below 0.5 cm3 / m2 / day measured at 23°C and 50% relative humidity (RH), and water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) values ​​below 1, preferably below 0.5 g / m2 / day measured at 23°C and 85% RH.

[0045] Preferably, the packaged contents are a bulk solid, preferably a free-flowing bulk solid, preferably a free-flowing powder. The powder may include granules and / or particles. Preferably, the packaged contents are coffee powder, preferably soluble and / or freeze-dried coffee powder or milk powder.

[0046] Preferably, the packaged contents are an edible product for human and / or animal consumption and / or the packaged contents are configured Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, page 20 / 51 14 / 25 to produce an edible product for human and / or animal consumption.

[0047] Preferably, the top sliding closure element and the core container are configured to be connected by friction, preferably at least by friction between the peripheral wall of the container and the peripheral wall of the sliding closure element, when the sliding closure element is slid over the core container. This can provide a relatively strong connection and / or seal between the sliding closure element and the container. This can increase the shelf life of the contents in the packaged item. In addition, this can prevent the sliding closure element from inadvertently dislodging from the container, for example, when the user grasps only the sliding closure element and lifts the package by the sliding closure element.

[0048] Preferably, when the sliding closure element is slid into the container, the peripheral wall of the sliding closure element overlaps the peripheral wall of the container in an axial direction along at least 50%, preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, of an axial length of the container. These lengths are believed to provide adequate frictional connection between the sliding closure element and the container, as well as adequate moisture and oxygen barrier properties to keep the packaged contents fresh.

[0049] Preferably, at least one opening is defined in the top sliding closure element, preferably in the peripheral wall of the sliding closure element, more preferably adjacent to a top end of the peripheral wall of the sliding closure element. The opening may be configured to function as a vent that allows gas to pass through the vent into and / or out of the packaged item during the opening of the sliding closure element. This may equalize, at least partially, a pressure inside the Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, page 21 / 51 15 / 25 item for face-to-face packaging in an environment that can facilitate the removal of the sliding closure element. Alternatively or additionally, the opening can be configured as a pouring opening that allows the packaged contents to be dispensed through it after sliding the sliding closure element upwards and / or in the opposite direction to the base element.

[0050] In the context of the present invention, any of the barrier layers may be provided as an organic barrier layer, for example, a barrier layer made of a polyethylene vinyl alcohol-type polymer or a compound thereof (PVOH, EVOH, BVOH or compounds thereof). The thickness of the organic layer, for example, the thickness of a PVOH layer, may be less than 20 µm, preferably less than 10 µm or, more preferably, less than 8 µm. Any organic layers in the structure, if present, are preferably deposited by an aqueous dispersion process, which provides low thickness, easy separation of molecules in a recycling process and therefore high compatibility with paper recycling stream processes. Any inorganic barrier layer, if present, in the packaging material structure may comprise a metal, such as aluminum, and / or a metalloid, such as SiOx (silicon oxide) or AlOx (aluminum oxide).The barrier layer can also be made of a combination of several layers, for example, at least one organic layer (e.g., PVOH) and at least one inorganic layer (e.g., aluminum).

[0051] In a second aspect, the invention also relates to a packaged food product that includes at least one packaging item according to any of the embodiments described herein and at least one food material contained within the packaging item's container.

[0052] Preferably, the food material is a bulk solid, preferably a free-flowing bulk solid, preferably a free-flowing powder. The powder Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, p. 22 / 51 16 / 25 may include granules and / or particles. Preferably, the packaged contents are coffee or milk powder, preferably instant coffee powder. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0053] Additional features and advantages of the present invention are described in, and will become apparent from, the description of the present preferred embodiments, which are specified below with reference to the drawings, in which: Figure 1 schematically shows a cutaway view of a packaging item according to an embodiment of the invention in an assembled state; Figure 2 schematically shows a cutaway view of the top sliding element for a packaging item according to the invention; Figure 3 schematically shows a cutaway view of the core container element for a packaging item according to the invention; Figures 4A and 4B are schematic views showing the partial lifting of a packaging element relative to the others in order to open a dispensing opening. Figure 5 is a schematic view illustrating the various stages of diffusion of a fragrance associated with the contents during the closing of said packaging through the fragrance vent. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] Figures 1, 2 and 3 show a packaging item 1 comprising a cylindrical core container 2 made of a multilayer oxygen and moisture barrier laminate. The multilayer oxygen and moisture barrier laminate comprises a paperboard, an organic oxygen barrier layer – comprising a PVOH and / or an EVOH, and an inorganic moisture barrier layer, as well as an internal thermal sealing layer. All layers Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, page 23 / 51 17 / 25 organic layers are deposited by aqueous dispersion coating, in this exemplary embodiment. The inorganic layer is vacuum-deposited aluminum. The paperboard has a basis weight between 120 and 600 g / m2 and a cellulose content greater than 90%, preferably greater than 95%, and more preferably greater than 99%.

[0055] The core container 2, which is illustrated in more detail in Figure 3, includes a core container perimeter wall 4 and a container bottom closure (or container bottom wall) 5 that defines at least one compartment 7 for contents to be packaged, for example, a food material. The core container 2 further comprises a dispensing opening 8 configured to allow the packaged contents to be dispensed from the core container 2 through the dispensing opening 8.

[0056] The packaging item 1 further comprises a sliding closure element 11 with a perimeter wall of a sliding closure element 12. The sliding closure element 11 is shown alone in Figure 2 and further comprises a top wall of the sliding closure element 13 which at least partially closes the top end of said sliding closure element 11.

[0057] The sliding closure element 11 is configured to be slid over the perimeter wall of the core container 4, as shown in Figure 1, so that the perimeter wall of the sliding closure element 12 at least partially encloses the perimeter wall of the core container 4 and the sliding closure element 11 at least partially covers the dispensing opening 8. The sliding closure element 11 may be made of a multilayer oxygen and moisture barrier laminate comprising a paperboard and an organic barrier layer. The paperboard may have a basis weight between 120 and 600 g / m2 and / or a cellulose content greater than 90%, of Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, page 24 / 51 18 / 25 preference, greater than 95%, with more preference, greater than 99%.

[0058] Packaging item 1 may additionally comprise additional construction elements in addition to the two constituent parts described above. The construction may include as many elements as necessary, although two elements are definitely sufficient to provide an adequate oxygen and moisture barrier to protect the contents.

[0059] Packaging item 1 additionally includes a container top closure 16 configured to seal, preferably in a sealing manner, the dispensing opening 8 of the core element 2 to prevent the packaged contents from being dispensed through the dispensing opening 8. The container top closure 16 may be sealed (e.g., by a heat seal, an adhesive and / or welding) to the top end portion (i.e., upper edge) 14 of the container's perimeter wall, in particular, around the dispensing opening 8. The container top closure 16 is at least partially removable from the dispensing opening 8, for example, after the initial opening of the core container 2.Once the top closure of container 16 has been at least partially removed from the dispensing opening 8, the core container 2, more specifically the dispensing opening 8, can be closed and opened again, preferably multiple times, by sliding the sliding closure element 11 over the core container 2 and removing it from the same.

[0060] Packaging item 1 additionally includes a second opening 17 defined in the perimeter wall of the sliding closing element 12. The second opening 17 can be configured to be at least partially closeable, preferably closeable again, preferably multiple times. The second opening 17 is closed by the perimeter wall of the container when the sliding closing element 11 is slid, for example, fully slid, into the core container 2 and / or the second opening 17 can be opened and closed again by rotating the element. Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, page 25 / 51 19 / 25 sliding closure 11 in relation to core container 2 (for example, by providing a cutout along a portion of the perimeter wall of core container 4 that is configured to overlap the second opening 17 in the perimeter wall of the sliding closure element 12 when the second opening 17 is open).

[0061] The second opening 17 can be configured to function as a vent that allows gas to pass through it into and / or out of the packaging item 1 during and / or before the opening of the sliding closure element 11. Alternatively or additionally, the second opening 140 can function as a pouring opening that allows the contents to be dispensed through it, preferably after sliding the sliding closure element 11 upwards and / or in the opposite direction to the core container 2.

[0062] As illustrated in Figure 1, when the packaging item is in its fully closed configuration, a support between the inner surface of the top wall of the sliding element and the upper edge of the peripheral wall of the core element ensures that the mechanical resistance of the packaging item against a top load (i.e., in the vertical direction) is guaranteed, because the forces exerted in the vertical direction are maintained by this contact point at the interface between the upper edge of the cylindrical core container element and the inner surface of the top wall of the sliding closing element.

[0063] The stackability of the entire packaging item is thus guaranteed, ensuring that the integrity of each individual package is not affected when many of these packages are stacked on top of each other for transport or storage.

[0064] As shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the packaging may comprise a dispensing opening which is the secondary opening 17 on the side of the sliding closure element 11. By lifting the sliding closure element 11 (without detaching it from the rest of the packaging), a Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, page 26 / 51 A 20 / 25 passage is created between the inner compartment of the packaging and the dosing opening 17, so as to create a passage for the product. The diameter (between 5 mm and 30 mm) of the dosing opening is sufficient to allow some product to flow out in a measured quantity and flow, which allows convenient dosing of the product as illustrated in Figure 4B. After dosing, the sliding closing element 11 is pushed back into the rest of the packaging to close the latter.

[0065] Figure 5 illustrates the various stages of diffusion of a fragrance associated with the contents during the closing of said packaging through a fragrance vent 20, according to the principle of the invention.

[0066] In step one shown in Figure 5, the user opens the packaging by sliding the outer sliding closure element 11 out of the core container element 2.

[0067] In step two shown in Figure 5, on first use, the user completely detaches the outer sliding element 11 from the rest of the packaging and especially from the core container element 2. Then, the user removes the top closure of the container 16, for example, by peeling said top closure 16 off the core container element 2. The packaged contents are then accessible for dispensing.

[0068] In step three shown in Figure 5, after dispensing the contents of the package, the user closes the package again by sliding the outer sliding closure element 11 over the rest of the package and especially over the core container element 2. By doing so, and due to the functional gap between the two elements 2 and 11, which leaves very little space at the interface between the two for air to pass through, an overpressure is created in the cavity formed by the sliding of the outer sliding element 11 and the core container element 2. As the user slides the outer sliding element 11 over the core container element Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, page 27 / 51 21 / 25 core container 2, the volume of the cavity formed by the two is reduced, which creates an overpressure. The overpressure air mixed with volatile compounds from the package contents is evacuated through the fragrance vent 20 located on the peripheral wall side of the sliding closure element 12. The volatile components contained in the air inside the package carry a fragrance that has organoleptic properties attractive to the consumer, as illustrated by the arrows in step 4 of Figure 5.

[0069] The fragrance vent 20 is preferably positioned at a distance between 10 mm and 100 mm from the closed end of the external sliding closure element 11.

[0070] The shape of the fragrance vent 20 can be chosen according to aesthetic properties, but a preferred shape is a cylindrical shape with a preferred diameter between 1 mm and 10 mm (this is a preferred range, however, the diameter can be chosen with a slightly larger value).

[0071] In a preferred, but not mandatory, embodiment, fragrance breather 20 is the same opening used as secondary 17.

[0072] Fragrance can be generated by volatile compounds contained in edible or non-edible products, such as food products for human or animal consumption, or products for fabric care, pharmaceuticals or household care, such as detergents, laundry products, instant or roasted and ground coffee, candies and confectionery products, hair care products such as shampoo, personal care products, bath products, etc.

[0073] Various aspects and embodiments of the invention have been described for illustrative purposes. The invention, however, should not be unduly limited by any of the details of the above disclosure, since it will be recognized by those skilled in the art that alterations and modifications which do not contradict the principle of the invention may be made and still be used. Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, page 28 / 51 22 / 25 covered by the invention. In particular, the invention should not be interpreted as limited to the embodiments described above with reference to the drawings. Instead, the scope of protection of the invention is determined solely by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0074] In general, the packaging according to the present invention provides a number of advantages and benefits to a user as follows.

[0075] It provides a unique structural design, using a paperboard packaging with a unique tube size and shape; the construction is made of paperboard, which is recyclable in a paper flow process.

[0076] It comprises an innovative closure system: a tube-type packaging with an innovative lift-and-push mechanism for closure that enables easy-to-use repeated opening, closing, and resealing (easy to seal and reseal, while being secure and protective). In particular, the only fixation for the upper sliding closure element on the core container is made by sliding one over the other. The functional gap between the two is sufficient to ensure proper fixation, and so that no complex capping is required, such as threads or a cutting mechanism.By selecting a functional clearance that is preferably between 50 and 500 pm, or preferably between 100 and 300 pm, the possibility of easily sliding the top sliding closure element into the core container element is ensured, while the adhesion between the two elements is sufficiently high to prevent one element from sliding relative to the other without applying an external force. Functional clearance is understood to be the difference between the inner diameter D of the sliding closure element 11 and the outer diameter d of the core container element 2, as illustrated in Figures 2 and 3.

[0077] The innovative packaging according to the present invention provides the so-called shelf-life capabilities after opening, Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, page 29 / 51 23 / 25 means that, after the packaging is opened for the first time for use, its closed configuration preserves a high level of barrier, thus extending the shelf life of the contents. This shelf life after opening is possible because moisture and oxygen transfer are minimal when the sliding top closure element completely seals the container element. In this closed position, the packaging still has oxygen transmission rate (OTR) values ​​below 1, preferably below 0.5 cm³ / m² / day measured at 23°C and 50% relative humidity (RH), and water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) values ​​below 1, preferably below 0.5 g / m² / day measured at 23°C and 85% RH.This is due to the fact that the functional clearance (i.e., the space) between the inner surface of the sliding closure element and the outer surface of the container element is sufficiently small, and simultaneously, the overlap between the sliding closure and the container elements is sufficiently high, to ensure that – while allowing movement between the two by applying a sliding force – the transfer of moisture and gases is largely prevented.

[0078] The packaging according to the invention may advantageously comprise holes / perforations in the paperboard structure that allow for precise and easy-to-use dosing of its contents, such as a dosing dispenser or dosing mechanism that allows the user to dispense a specific quantity of product from the packaging, typically for precise and convenient use.

[0079] It is manufactured from sustainable material: a paperboard tube-type packaging made from ecological / biodegradable / recyclable and / or compostable materials, which have built-in barrier capabilities to ensure a long shelf life and product freshness without any perceptible impact on organoleptic properties.

[0080] It includes customizable features, especially a cardboard tube-type packaging that can be customized to Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, page 30 / 51 24 / 25 caters to different types of products and customer needs, such as size, shape, or color.

[0081] It features special high barrier functionality against gas and moisture transfer through its walls. The packaging material that was developed provides high functional barrier properties that enhance the protection and usability of food, such as oxygen transmission rate (OTR), moisture resistance (WVTR), and odor-blocking properties.

[0082] Optionally, but preferably, the packaging material is UV resistant or light-blocking, therefore of particular interest for packaging certain categories of food that are sensitive to UV.

[0083] Although resistant to stacking forces and mechanical stress from top loading (to which packages are subjected when transported and stored in stacks), tube-type packaging uses a paperboard material that is flexible enough to be folded or collapsed and therefore takes up less space after use when discarded.

[0084] The packaging according to the present invention is a shock absorption / damping system: the mechanical resilience of the current tube-type material and the free space that is integrated into the packaging cavity creates an air pocket feature, so that it protects sensitive products during transport or handling against mechanical shocks.

[0085] The simple shape of this packaging creates a stackable design that minimizes product movement / optimizes transport.

[0086] The fact that the paperboard material is used with a very high cellulose content creates a sound-dampening effect and reduces noise during transport and when opening, closing and resealing. This packaging is very easy to use in this respect.

[0087] The preferred shape and diameter of the tubes are chosen from Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, page 31 / 51 25 / 25 so that they adapt to a human hand for a highly ergonomic design and easy grip. Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, page 32 / 51

Claims

1 / 7 CLAIMS 1. Packaging item (1) characterized by comprising: (i) at least one three-dimensional inner packaging element (2) having a perimeter wall (4) closed at one end with a closing wall (5) so as to define a cavity (8) for a product, and (ii) at least one three-dimensional outer packaging element (11) having a perimeter wall (12) closed at one end with a closing wall (13) so as to define a cavity having a shape that correlates to the outer shape of said inner packaging element (2), wherein the outer packaging element (11) is slidingly connected to the inner packaging element (2) in order to open or close the packaging item (1),and wherein the peripheral wall (12) of the outer packaging element comprises at least one fragrance vent (20) allowing the passage of volatile compounds trapped in the packaging contents together with gas contained within the cavity (8), outside said packaging item (1), when the outer packaging element (11) is slid over the inner packaging element (2) during the closing of the packaging item (1).

2. Packaging item (1), according to claim 1, characterized by: - ​​the inner packaging element being a core container (2) made of a multilayer moisture and oxygen barrier laminate comprising a paperboard and an organic and / or inorganic barrier layer, wherein the paperboard has a basis weight between 120 and 600 g / m2 and a cellulose content greater than 90%, preferably greater than 95%, more preferably greater than 99%, such that the oxygen transmission rate (OTR) is below 1, preferably below 0.5 cm3 / m2 / day measured at 23 °C and 50% relative humidity (RH), and the rate of Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, page. 33 / 51 2 / 7 water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) is below 1, preferably below 0.5 g / m2 / day measured at 23°C and 85% RH, wherein said core vessel (2) includes at least one perimeter wall of core vessel (4) and a bottom wall of core vessel (5),defining at least one compartment (7) for packaging contents and at least one dispensing opening (8) configured to allow the packaged contents to be dispensed from said core container (2), - the outer packaging element being a sliding closure element (11) with at least one perimeter wall (12) of sliding closure element and a top wall (13) of sliding closure element, wherein the sliding closure element (11) is configured to slide over at least one top end portion of the perimeter wall (4) of the core container so that, when the packaging item (1) is in its fully closed configuration,the peripheral wall (12) of the sliding closure element at least partially overlaps and encloses the peripheral wall (4) of the container and the sliding closure element (11) at least partially covers the dispensing opening (8) of the core container (2), wherein said sliding closure element (11) is made of a multilayer oxygen and moisture barrier laminate comprising a paperboard and an organic and / or inorganic barrier layer, wherein the paperboard has a basis weight between 120 and 600 g / m2 and a cellulose content greater than 90%, preferably greater than 95%, more preferably greater than 99%, so that the oxygen transmission rate (OTR) is below 1, preferably below 0.5 cm3 / m2 / day measured at 23°C and 50% relative humidity (RH), and the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) is below 1. Ideally, below 0.5 g / m² / day measured at 23°C and 85% RH.

3. Packaging item (1), according to claim 2, characterized in that the core container element (2) comprises a Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, page 34 / 51 3 / 7 edge (14) that is located at the open distal end of the peripheral wall (4), said edge (14) being configured to be at least partially contiguous against the inner surface (15) of the top wall of the sliding closure element (13), when the sliding closure element (11) is slid over the core container element (2) in the fully closed configuration of the packaging item (1).

4. Packaging item (1), according to claim 2, characterized in that the functional clearance between the sliding closing element (11) and the core container (2) is between 50 and 500 pm, preferably between 100 and 300 pm.

5. Packaging item (1), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the peripheral wall (12) of the sliding closing element (11) overlaps the peripheral wall (4) of the core container element (2) by at least 25 mm, preferably at least 50 mm, more preferably at least 80 mm, or in that the peripheral wall (12) of the sliding closing element (11) overlaps at least 30%, preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 70% of the peripheral wall (4) of the core container element (2), when the packaging item (1) is in its fully closed configuration.

6. Packaging item (1), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said core container (2) comprises a container top closure (16) configured to close its dispensing opening (8), wherein the container top closure (16) is at least partially removable from said container (2).

7. Packaging item (1), according to claim 5, characterized in that the top closure of the container (16) is a removable membrane sealed at the upper edge of the core container (2), said membrane being made of a material that is a barrier to oxygen and moisture, such that the oxygen transmission rate (OTR) is below 1, preferably below 0.5 cm3 / m2 / day measured at 23°C and 50% relative humidity (RH), and the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) is below 1, preferably below 0.5 g / m2 / day measured at 23°C and 85% RH.

8. Packaging item (1), according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that at least one of the core container (2) or the sliding closure element (11) is manufactured from a multilayer cellulosic material comprising: - a cardboard layer having a basis weight between 120 g / m2 and 600 g / m2, - an optional adhesive layer with a basis weight between 0.5 and 10 g / m2, - a paper layer having a basis weight between 30 and 120 g / m2, - at least one organic barrier layer of a polymer selected from the list of: polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), butenediol vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH) or a combination thereof, in an amount of 0.5 to 20 g / m2, preferably in an amount of 1 to 10 g / m2, more preferably in an amount of 2 to 8 g / m2, - at least one inorganic barrier layer selected from the list of: metals, metalloids or a combination thereof,wherein said inorganic layer has a thickness between 1 and 100 nm, and - at least one organic thermal sealing layer made of an acrylic or methacrylic acid polymer or polyolefin grafted with at least one type of ionomer, wherein said thermal sealing layer is applied by aqueous dispersion coating in an amount between 2 and 20 g / m2, preferably in an amount between 4 and 9 g / m2.

9. Packaging item (1), according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that at least one of the core container (2) or the sliding closure element (11) is manufactured from a multilayer cellulosic material comprising: - a cardboard layer having a basis weight between 120 g / m2 and 600 g / m2, - an optional adhesive layer with a basis weight between 0.5 and 10 g / m2, - a paper layer having a basis weight between 30 and 120 g / m2, - at least one organic barrier layer of a polymer selected from the list of: polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), butenediol vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH) or a combination thereof, in an amount of 0.5 to 20 g / m2, preferably in an amount of 1 to 10 g / m2, more preferably in an amount of 2 to 8 g / m2, - at least one inorganic barrier layer selected from the list of: metals, metalloids or a combination thereof,wherein said inorganic layer has a thickness between 1 and 100 nm, and - at least one organic barrier layer of a polymer selected from the list of: polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), butenediol vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH) or a combination thereof, in an amount of 0.5 to 20 g / m2, preferably in an amount of 1 to 10 g / m2, more preferably in an amount of 2 to 8 g / m2, - at least one organic thermal sealing layer made of a polyolefin applied by extrusion, wherein said thermal sealing layer is applied in an amount between 2 and 20 g / m2, from Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, p. 37 / 51 6 / 7 preference, in an amount between 4 and 9 g / m2., 10. Packaging item (1), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the packaged contents: - are an edible product for human and / or animal consumption; and / or - are configured to produce an edible product for human and / or animal consumption.

11. Packaging item (1), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sliding closing element (11) and the core container (2) are configured to be connected by friction, preferably at least by friction between the peripheral wall of the container and the peripheral wall of the sliding closing element, when the sliding closing element is slid over the container.

12. Packaging item (1), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the core container (2) and / or the sliding closure element (11) is / are composed of at least 50% by volume of paper, more preferably at least 60% by volume of paper, more preferably at least 70% by volume of paper, more preferably at least 80% by volume of paper, more preferably at least 90% by volume of paper, more preferably at least 95% by volume of paper.

13. Packaging item (1), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one opening (20) is defined in the peripheral wall of the sliding closure element (12), said opening having a diameter between 5 mm and 30 mm, wherein: - the opening is configured to function as a vent that allows gas to pass through the vent into and / or out of the packaging item during and / or before the opening of the sliding closure element; and / or - the opening is configured as a pouring opening that allows the packaged contents to be dispensed through it after sliding the sliding closure element upwards and / or in the opposite direction to the base element.

14. Packaged food product characterized by including: at least one packaging item (1) as defined in any of the preceding claims; and at least one food material inside the packaging item's container.

15. Packaged food product according to claim 14, characterized in that the food material is a bulk solid, preferably a free-flowing bulk solid, preferably a free-flowing powder. Petition 870250093069, dated 10 / 10 / 2025, pp. 39 / 51

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