Paperboard-based packaging for infant nutrition powder products

Abstract

A paperboard-based package for an infant nutrition powder, the package comprising a container portion defining an interior space for receiving the infant nutrition powder and having a base and a side wall extending to an upper peripheral edge for receiving a removable seal, the removable seal is used to hermetically seal the container portion prior to use. The package further includes a collar portion and a lid portion. The collar portion is connected to and extends upwardly from the upper peripheral edge of the container portion and includes a connection section and an upper peripheral closure rim surrounding an access opening to the interior space. The cover portion includes a cover and a frame and forms a reclosable link with an upper peripheral closure rim of the collar portion, allowing repeated and selective opening and closing of the access opening. The container portion, the collar portion, and the lid portion all comprise a paperboard-based material.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to paperboard-based packaging and, in particular, to packaging suitable for packaging sensitive substances such as infant nutritional powders or formula milk. The present invention particularly relates to the structure of such packaging. BACKGROUND ART

[0002] All types of packaging are well known and have evolved historically to maximize the advantages of the latest material technologies. In the past half century, plastic materials have been developed that are very suitable for use in packaging, thus ensuring high barrier protection for sensitive substances. Such materials are also very versatile and allow for designs with functionality and ergonomic shapes.

[0003] However, compared to materials made from renewable materials (e.g., cellulose pulp), plastics and other petroleum-based materials used in packaging have a significantly greater impact on the environment. For this reason, the current trend in packaging consumer goods is towards using cellulose-based materials instead of petroleum-based materials. Unfortunately, consumers and producers are reluctant to sacrifice the benefits of functionality, and if recyclable or environmentally friendly packaging is accepted as a substitute, they must still meet consumer expectations and regulatory requirements.

[0004] Paperboard or cardboard is a preferred material that is very versatile in the context of packaging. High-quality laminates with good barrier properties have been produced and can be used to construct rigid or semi-rigid boxes, drums, tubes, and sleeves. These materials are even suitable for the long-term packaging of food and liquids, such as the now ubiquitous brick-shaped packaging and beverage cartons. Such paperboard-based materials are known from WO2011 / 003566, WO 2017 / 093125, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. These containers can be hermetically sealed after filling and can remain sterile for a long time before being opened for the first time. However, for subsequent closures, they typically rely on plastic-based materials to manufacture reclosable elements such as spouts and lids.

[0005] Boxes made only of paperboard-based materials are also known, for example, boxes of the type used for soap and washing powder. The reclosable lids of these boxes can be in the form of wings or flaps of paperboard material. This allows the box to be reclosed after the first opening and to be repeatedly opened and closed at each use to measure the product. Although such packaging may be very cost-effective and environmentally friendly, such closures are generally considered unsuitable for sensitive substances, especially foods such as infant nutrition. This is particularly important in countries with high humidity or where small insects may try to enter the packaging.

[0006] Accordingly, there is a desire to provide an improved package that at least partially overcomes some of the inconveniences of the prior art and meets the stringent standards required for infant nutrition products, which are readily achievable when using non-paper-based materials such as plastics and metals. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Accordingly, in a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a card-based package for infant nutritional powder, comprising: a container portion defining an internal space for receiving the infant nutritional powder and having a base and side walls extending to an upper outer peripheral edge for receiving a removable seal for hermetically sealing the container portion prior to use. The package further comprises a collar portion and a lid portion. The collar portion is connected to the upper outer peripheral edge of the container portion and extends upwardly therefrom, and includes a connecting section and an upper peripheral closure edge surrounding an access opening leading to the internal space. The lid portion includes a lid and a frame and forms a re-closable connection with the upper peripheral closure edge of the collar portion, thereby allowing repeated and selective opening and closing of the access opening. The container portion, the collar portion, and the lid portion are all formed of a card-based material. In this context, being formed of a card-based material is intended to mean that the respective components are predominantly cardboard and can be processed in existing recycling streams, particularly paper and cardboard waste streams. It should be understood that the exact requirements in terms of cellulose or paper content may vary from country to country and will be further detailed hereinafter. Additionally, card-based components can be understood to be distinct from components made predominantly of plastics or metals.

[0008] By providing a collar portion between the upper outer peripheral edge of the side wall and the lid portion, the respective functions can be spatially separated and better optimized. For the initial sealing of the internal space of the container portion, the removable seal must be able to form an airtight closure with the upper outer peripheral edge that meets the required performance level. Once opened, the required degree of closure achieved by the lid portion can be reduced, but still be high enough to apply strict tolerances. The collar portion of the card-based material also allows for the implementation of additional functions.

[0009] In an embodiment, the height of the collar portion is between 10 mm and 70 mm, preferably between 20 mm and 40 mm. The height of the collar portion defines an additional internal space at the upper end of the package. This further has the advantage of allowing additional elements to be present inside the package. For example, a scoop for extracting and measuring the product. The overall size (l×b×h) of the package itself can typically be in the range up to 130×120×200 mm, and the volume of its container portion can be in the range of 100 ml to 5 liters.

[0010] The collar portion may also include a functional insert that allows for the introduction of additional functionality between the container portion and the lid portion. It should be understood that the functional insert and its associated functionality will be present in a region of the package that is separated from the interior space prior to opening the package by removing the seal. A variety of functions can be envisioned, including but not limited to a spatula, a spoon holder, a latch for securing the lid portion, a reinforcing flange, an insect barrier, and a sealing surface. The insert is preferably also a card-based material and may include a plate having an aperture corresponding to the access opening. The insert can be connected to the collar portion at its periphery. In one embodiment, the insert is connected to the collar portion in a folded seam manner to form an upper outer peripheral closure edge.

[0011] The lid portion can have any suitable construction, including a molded or one-piece construction. In a preferred embodiment, the lid and the frame are separate elements that are joined together during manufacture. This can be achieved using a folded seam that is commonly used to close the base of a tubular cardstock container. Hereinafter, reference to a folded seam is intended to denote a connection between two layers of cardstock material that are adhered together, and where one or both layers are subsequently folded over the other to produce a fold of at least three layers. For the lid portion, the folded seam can form an upwardly extending outer peripheral edge that extends above the level of an adjacent portion of the lid. This edge can be referred to as a stacking edge, whether or not it actually participates in stacking, as will be further discussed below.

[0012] The lid can be planar, for example in the form of a flat disc, and folded together with the frame at its outer periphery to form an upwardly extending outer peripheral edge. In another embodiment, the lid itself can be non-planar and can have a contoured shape. In particular, the lid can be curved upwardly in the central region and / or have a cavity on its underside. The lid can be curved upwardly to a height that is close to the height of the stacking edge. The space created below the lid provides additional possibilities for storing objects such as spoons.

[0013] The frame can have a constant cross-sectional shape over its height. In one embodiment, the frame can extend downward to form a skirt that, in the closed position of the lid, covers at least a portion of the upper peripheral closure edge of the collar portion. The skirt can alternatively have a larger cross-section than the rest of the frame. This can allow the skirt to fit better over and around the outside of the upper peripheral closure edge of the collar portion. Generally, it should be understood that the connection between the upper peripheral closure edge of the collar portion and the lid portion can be arranged at the skirt, elsewhere on the frame, at the lower surface of the lid, or at the junction between the frame and the lid. Preferably, the upper peripheral closure edge is at least partially covered by the skirt extending downward from the frame. As mentioned above, a highly effective connection between these two components is required to ensure that the package can be properly reclosed after initial opening, for example to prevent powder from leaking out when pouring the container and to keep out harmful insects and other animals that might be attracted to the contents. The closure can ensure that there are no gaps greater than 150 microns, preferably no greater than 100 microns. It has been found that openings of 70 microns or greater can allow insects to enter, and the disclosed closure most preferably ensures an insect-proof seal during use of a package having openings no greater than 70 microns. Even after repeated opening and closing of the lid during use, the connection should remain within the required tolerance, e.g., 70 microns or less. Preferably, the connection should maintain the tolerance for more than 50 openings and closings or more than 70 openings and closings or even more than 100 openings and closings.

[0014] In another embodiment, further improved closure can be achieved at the connection between the lid portion and the collar portion by providing an additional elastic element. The lid portion can include a gasket that can elastically bear against a portion of the collar portion, particularly against the upper peripheral closure edge. The gasket is preferably also made of a cardboard-based material. The gasket can be located at the lower side of the lid and can have an elastically extending edge. In this context, elastic is intended to include both that the material is elastic or that the material is elastically mounted. The edge of the gasket can be a free-floating edge that can bear against the upper peripheral closure edge. Alternatively, the edge of the gasket can be limited, and a floating ring can perform the function of the connection. The edge of the gasket can be captured between the lid and the frame, which can together form a folding seam.

[0015] The gasket can extend across the entire extent of the lid or can be present only at the periphery. By providing the gasket to co-extend, the double-layer construction provides additional reinforcement to the lid portion. It can also be used to provide further functions, such as for supporting a latch or a spoon holder.

[0016] The upper outer peripheral edge of the container can have any suitable termination that allows it to perform one or more of its required functions. In principle, these functions include forming an airtight seal with a removable seal and connection to a collar portion. The reference to the upper outer peripheral edge is intended to denote a region rather than a specific point, namely the region where the sidewall terminates, including both the inner and outer surfaces. For the avoidance of doubt, the uppermost end of the sidewall is referred to as the uppermost edge.

[0017] The removable seal can be attached at any point on the upper outer peripheral edge, whether to the inner surface, the outer surface, or across the uppermost edge. In an embodiment, the upper outer peripheral edge includes a circumferential flange. This can be formed by rolling or folding the sidewall. Preferably, the circumferential flange extends outwardly from the container, i.e., the sidewall is rolled or folded outwardly. This ensures that the inner surface of the sidewall defining the internal space is available for attaching the seal. The circumferential flange advantageously provides a stable surface for receiving the removable seal, thus providing an additional area for attachment. Preferably, the flange extends outwardly to provide a connection structure for securing the collar portion to the outer peripheral edge of the container.

[0018] The connection to the collar portion occurs at a connection section. This connection is not as critical as the connection of the removable seal, since the connection is outside the region of the internal space and the connection does not need to have the same barrier properties. However, this connection should be strong enough to prevent separation during use and also avoid the intrusion of insects, etc., as discussed above. In an embodiment, the inner circumference of the connection section engages around the outer circumference of the upper outer peripheral edge of the container portion. Alternatively, the connection section can be connected at the uppermost edge of the container portion and can even be attached to the removable seal, thereby sandwiching the seal between the container portion and the collar portion. In this sense, it should be understood that the seal can not be integrally removable but can have a removable section.

[0019] In an embodiment, the connection section can include a circumferentially extending groove that can receive a portion of the upper outer peripheral edge of the container in an interference fit. Particularly advantageously, the upper outer peripheral edge is in the form of an outwardly extending circumferential flange that can enter the groove. This can allow these parts to snap fit together, thus allowing for simplified assembly. The groove can be formed by deforming the material of the connection section to form corrugations. Alternatively or additionally, the connection can be by welding, gluing, heat sealing, or as otherwise known in the art, including additional connection elements on the inner or outer surfaces of the container and collar portions.

[0020] According to a particular embodiment, the package may include a locking arrangement between the lid portion and the collar portion. The locking arrangement may prevent accidental opening of the lid portion. More importantly, it may help to keep the lid portion biased against the upper peripheral closure edge to ensure a sufficient connection. If a gasket is present, the locking arrangement may bias the gasket into engagement with a portion of the collar portion to maintain a high level of closure. This can greatly help to maintain the usability of the contents after the package is first opened. At least, biasing the gasket in this way can help to ensure that the closure is insect-proof sealed. In this sense, an insect-proof seal is intended to mean that there are no gaps greater than 70 microns.

[0021] The locking arrangement may include a first locking element disposed on the collar portion and a second locking element disposed on the lid portion. Advantageously, the locking elements may allow repeated opening and closing of the locking arrangement. Preferably, the locking arrangement is configured to be manipulated with one hand, which makes it easy for the user to access the product. The first locking element may be, for example, a snap formed on a functional insert. The second locking element may be a latch pivotally mounted in, on, below, or through the lid. Another advantage of the gasket mentioned is that it can be used to maintain the force on the locking arrangement between the first locking element and the second locking element. Closing the lid portion may require the user to apply force to sufficiently compress the elastic gasket so that the first locking element and the second locking element engage. Once engaged, the gasket holds the force, which helps to maintain a firm engagement between the first locking element and the second locking element. In an embodiment, the locking arrangement retains the gasket under a compression force of at least 0.5 N.

[0022] The lid portion may slide downwardly over the collar portion in a sliding fit and may be completely removed to access the contents. Preferably, a hinge is provided between the lid portion and the collar portion, whereby the lid portion may be pivotally opened and closed. The hinge provides an easier way for the user to selectively open and close the access opening by ensuring that the lid remains attached to the package during use.

[0023] In another embodiment, the package may be provided with a wrapper that may be removed prior to use and that surrounds at least a portion of the collar portion and the lid portion. The wrapper may be present prior to first use and may be completely or partially removed to access the interior of the package. Most preferably, the wrapper is made of paper or a cardboard-based material. However, it should be understood that if the wrapper is completely removed, it may be disposed of in a separate waste stream and thus need not be made of paper or cardboard.

[0024] The term "banderol" is generally used to refer to a wrapper that surrounds an article and is used hereinafter to refer to a narrow wrapper in the form of a strip that spans a collar portion and a part of a lid portion. This can ensure a seal between the collar portion and the lid portion during storage and transport packaging and can be used to provide evidence of tampering. In an embodiment, removal of the banderol or a part of the banderol can reveal a contrasting color thereunder. The removable portion can be a strip defined by one or more weakened lines.

[0025] In a particular embodiment, a hinge can be formed between the lid portion and the collar portion by removing a circumferentially extending section of the banderol while leaving a part of the banderol intact.

[0026] For use in the context of infant nutritional powder, all inner surfaces of the packaging preferably have a food-compatible surface. This should apply to all surfaces that normally come into contact with the contents. It should be understood that the sidewalls and base of the container portion are particularly important for maintaining the product in a sterile state and product characteristics during storage. However, once the packaging is opened and during use of the packaging, other parts of the packaging will come into contact with the contents. In particular, when scooping the infant nutritional powder, some powder will inevitably fall onto some parts of the collar portion and may fall into the interior space. Additionally, if the packaging is accidentally inverted or tipped over, the powder may come into contact with the lid portion. All such surfaces should be free of gaps and fibers that can trap and retain powder. For this reason, uncoated cardboard material is less preferred and the relevant inner surfaces can be coated with a food-compatible layer such as a polymer coating. The thickness of the polymer coating should be the minimum required to achieve food compatibility while not compromising the ability to process the packaging in the paper recycling stream.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment, the cardboard-based material of at least the collar portion and the frame of the lid portion is made of helically wound cardboard. Helically wound cardboard has the advantage of providing a stable and durable structure and can be easily provided with a smooth inner surface by conventional lamination and coating techniques. This further requires that there be no overlapping seals in the longitudinal direction of the packaging, thus facilitating a smooth fit between the collar portion and the frame of the lid portion for better closure, such as an insect-proof seal.

[0028] The described packaging may include elements that are not made entirely of cardboard, and the term "cardboard-based material" only means that cardboard constitutes the main component. In particular, there may be barrier layers and connection or joining parts that use other materials (not excluding metals or polymers). In this context, a cardboard-based material means a material formed from cellulose-based pulp, which may further include one or more non-cellulose materials, such as barrier layers, sealing layers, adhesive layers, and decorative layers. The cardboard-based material may include any suitable cardboard or paper construction in a single layer or multiple layers, including reinforced, corrugated, honeycomb, and foam constructions. The cardboard-based material may also have inclusions such as fillers, pigments, inks, etc. As is well known, different definitions and requirements may apply to the manufacture and processing of paper and cardboard, and when percentages of paper are mentioned below, these include all paper components, including cellulose fibers, mineral fillers, bound water, paper additives, sizing agents, volume pigments, and latex adhesives. The percentage of non-paper will apply to all other layers that are not normally considered paper, including printed layers, varnish layers, and non-water-soluble adhesive layers, as well as barrier layers as mentioned elsewhere.

[0029] In an embodiment, the cardboard-based material consists of at least 85 wt% paper or at least 90 wt% paper, preferably at least 95 wt% paper, more preferably at least 98 wt% paper, or even at least 99 wt% paper. The exact amount can also be adjusted according to local regulations regarding recycling.

[0030] It should be understood that the above values of paper content can apply to each of the individual components respectively, and the cardboard-based material of the collar part may have a different paper content from that of the container part and / or the lid part. In an embodiment, the overall packaging in the used state may have a total paper content of at least 85 wt% paper or at least 90 wt% paper, preferably at least 95 wt% paper, more preferably at least 98 wt% paper, or even at least 99 wt% paper.

[0031] The packaging may further include a removable seal that hermetically seals the container before use. Although it is desirable for the seal to also be a recyclable material and may also fall within the above percentage values of paper materials. However, since the seal is completely or at least partially removed when the packaging is initially opened, it can be processed in a separate stream, and for this reason, the seal does not need to be included in the determination of paper content in the state where the packaging has been used.

[0032] The packaging may further include a spoon located within the collar part under the lid. The spoon can also be made of materials other than cardboard and can thus be recycled separately. The spoon can also be excluded from the determination of the paper percentage. Alternatively, a cardboard-based spoon can be provided.

[0033] The package may also include a spoon holder. As described above, the functional insert may include the location or placement of the spoon. Alternatively, the spoon holder may be located on the underside of the lid, such as on a portion of the gasket.

[0034] The container portion may have a generally conventional construction. In particular, the sidewall may be a tube of a card-based laminate material (such as the well-known Cekacan material), which tube has longitudinal seams that are overlapped or butted. The known Cekacan material includes an aluminum layer, which is disadvantageous in terms of the recyclability of the material. The base and the sidewall may also be joined together preferably in a folded seam manner by conventional techniques. Such a construction is described in the co-pending application number PCT / EP 2022 / 057364, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Preferably, the container portion has light, oxygen, and water vapor barrier properties sufficient to store the product for more than 24 months. This package is particularly intended for infant nutritional powder, but will be equally applicable to similar products with the same requirements, such as other high-fat powdered nutritional products. It should be understood that the light, oxygen, and water vapor barrier properties are the main requirements for the sidewall, the base, and the removable seal, which together form a barrier to the internal space. The difference between the sidewall and the base may be, for example, only the absence of markings or branding. Lower requirements may be placed on the lid structure since it exists as a secondary barrier and only forms the primary barrier after the removable seal has been opened. Thus, from this point on, the storage time will be limited. However, it should be understood that the integrity of the lid structure may contribute to the overall barrier properties of the package during storage and after initial opening.

[0035] In an embodiment, the container portion is a tube having a constant first outer cross-section. The tube may be referred to as a cylinder, but it should be understood that its cross-section need not be circular. A preferred cross-section is a rectangle with rounded corners. This provides good visibility for the printing surface of the package while ensuring that the package can be manufactured using techniques for forming tubes. The base may include a downwardly extending rim, hereinafter referred to as the base rim. The base rim may have the same first outer cross-section as the rest of the container portion. This is particularly the case when the base is connected to the sidewall in an inwardly rolled folded seam manner. The lid portion may have a second outer cross-section that is larger than the first outer cross-section, such that the base of the first container can be stacked on the lid of the second container. In particular, for the construction discussed above of using a folded seam to connect the frame and the lid to form an upwardly extending stacking rim, the base rim may be stacked inside the stacking rim of another package. In the case where a latch is provided for releasing the lid portion from the collar portion, the latch may be located on the lid, at a position within the base rim.

[0036] The present invention also contemplates a package constructed of a cardboard-based material, the package including a longitudinally extending tubular body having at least four transverse elements which are sealingly connected to the tubular body at four joints and which in turn include: a first element forming a base; a second element forming a removable seal for enclosing an internal space; a third element serving as a functional insert; and a fourth element forming a lid. The longitudinally extending tubular body can be constructed as separate sections between the respective transverse elements, so that the container side walls can be located between the base and the removable seal, the connecting sections can be located between the removable seal and the functional insert, and the frame can be located between the functional insert and the lid. The outer cross-sections of these sections can be different from each other.

[0037] The transverse elements contribute to the manufacture of a package with sufficient strength and functionality. In particular, at each joint, the tubular body can be folded or rolled up into an edge or flange. As described above, the base and the side walls can be joined together in a folded seam manner to form a downwardly extending edge. The side walls can be rolled outwards or folded to form a circumferentially extending flange, and the removable seal can be attached to the flange by welding or the like. The functional insert can be joined to the collar portion in a folded seam manner to form an upper peripheral closure edge. The lid can be joined to the frame in a folded seam manner to form a stacking edge. The package can be provided with a certain amount of infant nutritional powder sealed within the internal space. The internal space can further contain an inert gas and less than 2% oxygen, preferably less than 1.5% oxygen, and more preferably less than 1% oxygen. This can be achieved by applying a vacuum during the filling process and gas flushing with an inert gas, and can ensure a sufficient shelf life for the infant nutritional product. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] Embodiments will now be described by way of example only with reference to the drawings, in which corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts.

[0039] Figure 1 A perspective view of a package according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0040] Figure 2 is Figure 1 a partially exploded view of the package.

[0041] Figure 3A Shows Figure 2 a cross-sectional view of the collar portion of taken along the sagittal plane X-Z.

[0042] Figure 3B Shows Figure 2 a top view of the collar portion of.

[0043] Figure 3C ShowsFigure 2 Top view of the collar part, where the collar part has a spoon and a functional insert according to an alternative configuration.

[0044] Figure 4A Shows Figure 2 Exploded view of the lid part of

[0045] Figure 4B Shows a cross-section of the lid part along the sagittal plane X-Z.

[0046] Figure 5A Shows Figure 1 Partial cross-section of the packaging of along the sagittal plane X-Z.

[0047] Figure 5B Shows Figure 5A Close-up of a part of the closure between the lid part and the collar part of

[0048] Figure 6 Shows Figure 1 Rear perspective view of the packaging of , where the lid part is partially open.

[0049] Figure 7 Shows Figure 1 Cross-sectional view of the upper part of the packaging of stacked with another packaging.

[0050] The drawings are only meant for illustrative purposes and do not limit the scope or protection defined by the claims. Detailed Description

[0051] The following is a description of certain embodiments of the present invention given by way of example only and with reference to the drawings.

[0052] Figure 1 Shows a cardboard-based packaging 10 for infant nutritional powder according to the present invention, the packaging comprising a container part 20, a collar part 30 and a lid part 40. The packaging 10 further comprises a sealing tape 50 surrounding the collar part 30 and a part of the lid part 40, which exists before first use to ensure sealing during storage and transportation.

[0053] Figure 2 Is Figure 1 Partial exploded view of the cardboard-based packaging 10 of , showing the arrangement of the various parts. The packaging 10 has a longitudinal axis X-X, through which a transverse plane X-Y and a sagittal plane X-Z can be defined. Hereinafter, upper, lower, top, bottom, etc. are given with reference to the packaging 10 being in an upright state (axis X-X is vertically arranged).

[0054] The container part 20 includes a container 21 having a tubular body, the container part having a base 22 and a side wall 23 which extends upwardly to an upper outer peripheral edge 24 to define an internal space S for receiving infant nutritional powder. The upper outer peripheral edge 24 includes a circumferential flange 25 extending outwardly from the container 21 to connect to the collar part 30 and to receive a removable seal 26. The removable seal 26 hermetically seals the container before use and can be partially or completely removed by the user to access the internal space S.

[0055] The collar part 30 includes a connecting section 31 at the bottom; and an upper outer peripheral closure edge 32 at the top, the upper outer peripheral closure edge defining an access opening O leading to the internal space S of the package 10 after the seal 26 is opened. In the illustrated embodiment, the height of the collar part 30 is about 35 mm, but it should be understood that this can be adapted according to requirements. The height of the collar part 30 defines an additional internal space above the container 21, which allows additional optional elements, such as instructions and / or a spoon, to be present inside the package 10.

[0056] In Figure 2 the presented package, the collar part 30 includes a functional insert 33. The insert 33 includes a spatula 34 and a snap-fit member 72. Two examples of the insert 33 configured to have different functions are described below Figure 3A and Figure 3B and shown.

[0057] The sealing tape 50 is a narrow paper tape less than 10 g / m2, having a height of about 35 mm, corresponding to the height of the collar part 30. In this view, two circumferential weakening lines 52 further including a defined removable strip 51 can be seen. When the package is to be used for the first time, the strip 51 can be removed to allow the lid part 40 to be opened. The strip 51 preferably has a color contrasting with the color of the underlying collar part 30, which serves as evidence of tampering and the strip includes a gripping tab 54 to facilitate its removal.

[0058] The lid part 40 provides closure for the package 10 and includes a locking element 71. Further details regarding the construction of the lid part 40 are described below with reference to FIG. 4.

[0059] Figure 3A Shown is Figure 2Cross-sectional view of the collar portion 30 along the sagittal plane X-Z. The collar portion 30 is formed of a helically wound cardboard material of approximately 540 gsm. The insert 33 includes a die-cut board of cardboard-based material having an orifice O corresponding to the packaging access opening. The insert is connected to the collar portion 30 by a folded seam forming the upper peripheral closure edge 32. As visible in this view, the outer cross-section of the upper peripheral closure edge 32 is slightly smaller than the rest of the collar portion 30. At the lower part of the collar portion 30, a groove 35 is formed between two corrugations of the cardboard material. The groove 35 and the corrugations extend circumferentially completely around the connecting section 31 of the collar portion 30. The engaging member 72 is formed by a part of the insert 33 that is folded upward from the plane of the insert 33 into a triangular or prismatic form. The insert 33 is also folded at the location of the spatula 34 to provide additional strength to the edge intended to be leveled.

[0060] Figure 3B and Figure 3C shows Figure 2 a top view of the collar portion 30 of Figure 3B in which the insert 33 has two possible configurations. In Figure 3C one configuration, the insert 33 includes two spatulas 34 that extend inwardly at two corners of the insert 33, on both sides of the engaging member 72. In

[0061] Figure 4A the case of the configuration shown in Figure 2 the insert 33 is provided with a spatula 34 and a spoon holder 61 for receiving the spoon 60.

[0062] shows an exploded view of the lid portion 40 of the packaging according to Figure 4B The lid portion 40 includes a frame 42 and a lid 41. The frame 42 is made of helically wound cardboard of a similar mass to the collar portion 30.

[0063] Figure 4BShows a cross-section of the lid portion along the sagittal plane X-Z. The frame 42 is connected to the lid 41 by a folding seam, and the frame forms an upwardly extending stacking edge 44 at the top of the lid portion. The frame 42 also extends downward to a closure skirt 43 that is larger in cross-section than the stacking edge 44. In this view, it can be seen that the upwardly curved central region 47 forms a cavity C having a height h that corresponds to the height of the frame 42. The cavity C created below the lid 41 provides additional space for storing elements such as spoons.

[0064] The central region 47 of the lid 41 is in direct contact with and adhesively connected to the supplementary plate 45. The elastic edge 48 of the supplementary plate 45 bends downward and floats relative to the edge of the lid 41. This configuration allows the elastic edge 48 to flex. On the region of the lid portion 40 between the stacking edge 44 and the cavity C, a locking element (in this case, a latch 71) is pivotally mounted to pass through the lid 41 and the supplementary plate 45. The upper portion 73 of the latch 71 extends upward from the lid 41, while the lower portion 74 has a slit 75 and extends downward under the supplementary plate 45. A lid piece 76 is adhesively connected to the upper portion 73 to secure it to the lid 41.

[0065] Figure 5A and Figure 5B Shows Figure 1 a partial cross-section of the package along the sagittal plane X-Z.

[0066] In Figure 5A is shown the container 21 of the container portion 20. The container 21 is made of a cardboard blank and is joined to itself in a longitudinal seam (not shown) to form a tube having a constant outer cross-section. The base 22 and the side wall 23 of the container 21 are joined together at the bottom of the container by a folding seam that closes the lowest part of the container 21 and forms a base edge 27 that extends downward and has the same outer cross-section as the container 21. At the top of the container portion 20, the side wall 23 is rolled outwards from the upper outer peripheral edge 24 of the container 21 to form a circumferential flange 25. In this embodiment, a seal 26 is placed on substantially the entire surface defined by the circumferential flange 25, which forms the uppermost edge of the side wall 23. The seal 26 ensures a proper airtight seal of the container 21 before use. Figure 5A Also shown is an alternative position of the seal 26', which can be located on the side wall 23, below the upper outer peripheral edge 24. This alternative position can allow for a slightly larger top space below the lid 41 and can allow for alternative joining techniques between the side wall 23 and the seal 26'.

[0067] The collar portion 30 is connected to the container portion 20 by a snap-fit connection formed between the circumferential flange 25 and the circumferentially extending groove 35. Additionally, the connection between the collar portion 30 and the container portion 20 can be glued together to ensure a proper permanent seal.

[0068] Figure 5A A spoon 60 is also shown, which is stored in the space formed by the collar portion 30 and the lid portion 40 above the seal 26 and is held in the supplementary plate 45 by a spoon holder 61. A sealing strip 50 extends circumferentially around the outer surface of the collar portion 30 and the skirt 43 of the closure of the lid portion 40.

[0069] In the closed position of the lid portion 40, as Figure 5B shown, the skirt 43 of the closure covers the outer circumferential surface of the upper peripheral closure edge 32, thereby forming a connection between the lid portion 40 and the collar portion 30. The folded seam between the skirt 43 of the closure and the upper peripheral closure edge 32 ensures that these elements are relatively rigid and can form a tight interference fit. Importantly, high manufacturing tolerances can be achieved, ensuring that any gap is less than 70 microns, thus ensuring sufficient protection against insects. The closure is further improved by the supplementary plate 45. The elastic edge 48 acts as a gasket and flexes to engage with the upper peripheral closure edge 32. The elastic edge 48 also extends to meet the skirt 43 of the closure, thereby providing additional support to the elastic edge 48 and further enhancing the gasket function.

[0070] In the locked position of the lid portion 40, as Figure 5B shown, the engaging member 72 is located in the slit 75 of the latch 71, thereby effectively retaining the lid portion 40. To unlock the lid portion 40, the upper part 73 of the latch 71 is pushed radially outward, acting as a lever arm, such that the slit 75 releases the engaging member 72. An upward pulling movement on the lid portion 40 allows the user to open the package 10.

[0071] Figure 6 Shown is Figure 1 a rear perspective view of the package, where the lid portion 40 is partially open after the removal of the strip 51. The removal of the strip 51 from the sealing strip 50 releases the connection between the lid portion 30 and the lid portion 40 and forms a hinge 53. After the seal 26 has been removed from the container portion 20, the hinge 53 secures the lid portion 40 to the collar portion 30.

[0072] Figure 7 Shown is Figure 1Cross-sectional view of the packaging stacked with another packaging. The stacking edge 44 of the first packaging 10 is radially assembled outside the base edge 27' of the second packaging 10', while the base 22' of the second packaging 10' is placed on top of the lid portion 40 of the first packaging. It can also be seen that there is enough space to radially assemble the latch 71 inside the base edge 27', and the upwardly curved central region 47 of the lid 41 is assembled below the base 22'. This requires the base edge 27' to also extend downward by a distance greater than h below the base 22'.

[0073] The present invention has been described with reference to certain embodiments discussed above. It will be recognized that various modifications and alternative forms well known to those skilled in the art can be readily made to these embodiments. In particular, both the locking arrangement and the spoon holder can be different from the designs shown schematically. Accordingly, although specific embodiments have been described, these are only examples and do not limit the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A card-based package for infant nutritional powder, comprising: A container portion that defines an interior space for receiving the infant nutritional powder and has a base and side walls that extend to an upper outer peripheral edge for receiving a removable seal for hermetically sealing the container portion prior to use; A collar portion that is connected to the upper outer peripheral edge of the container portion and extends upwardly from the upper outer peripheral edge and includes a connecting section and an upper outer peripheral closure edge surrounding an access opening leading to the interior space; And A lid portion that includes a lid and a frame and forms a re-closable connection with the upper outer peripheral closure edge of the collar portion, thereby allowing repeated opening and closing of the access opening, Wherein the container portion, the collar portion, and the lid portion are all formed of a card-based material.

2. The package according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein The height of the collar portion is between 10 mm and 70 mm, preferably between 20 mm and 40 mm.

3. The packaging according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The collar portion includes a functional insert that includes one or more functions selected from the group consisting of a spatula, a spoon holder, a latch, a reinforcing flange, an insect barrier, and a sealing surface.

4. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The lid and the frame are connected together, preferably by a folded seam.

5. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The frame extends downwardly to form a skirt that, in the closed position of the lid portion, covers at least a portion of the upper outer peripheral closure edge.

6. The packaging according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The lid portion further includes a gasket that is located on the underside of the lid and has an elastic edge.

7. The packaging according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The upper outer peripheral edge of the container includes a circumferential flange that extends outwardly from the container.

8. The packaging according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The inner circumference of the connecting section engages around the outer circumference of the container portion.

9. The package according to claim 8, wherein The connecting section includes a circumferentially extending groove that receives a portion of the upper outer peripheral edge of the container portion in an interference fit.

10. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a locking arrangement located between the lid portion and the collar portion.

11. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a hinge located between the lid portion and the collar portion.

12. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a paper seal strip that is disposed around at least a portion of the collar portion and the lid portion prior to use.

13. The package according to claim 12, wherein, The circumferentially extending section of the seal strip is removable to form a hinge between the lid portion and the collar portion.

14. The package according to claim 13, wherein, The circumferentially extending section of the seal strip is a strip defined by one or more weakened lines, and removal of the strip preferably reveals a contrasting color below the seal strip.

15. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The inner surface of the package has a food-compatible surface.

16. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, At least the card-based material of the collar portion and the frame is made of helically wound cardboard.

17. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The card-based material of the lid portion and / or the collar portion includes at least 90 wt% paper, preferably at least 95 wt% paper or at least 98 wt% paper.

18. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a removable seal for hermetically sealing the container prior to use.

19. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a spoon located within a collar portion beneath the lid.

20. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a spoon holder preferably located on the underside of the lid.

21. The packaging according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The base and the sidewall are joined together, preferably by a folded seam.

22. The packaging according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The container portion is a tube having a constant first outer cross-section.

23. The package according to claim 22, wherein, The base includes a downwardly extending rim having the first outer cross-section, and the lid portion has a second outer cross-section greater than the first outer cross-section such that the base of a first container can be stacked on the lid of a second container.

24. The package according to claim 23, wherein A latch for releasing the lid portion from the collar portion is located on the lid at a position within the downwardly extending rim.

25. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The reclosable connection has no gap greater than 150 microns, preferably less than 100 microns and more preferably less than 70 microns.

26. A package constructed from a cardboard-based material, the package comprising a longitudinally extending tubular body having at least four transverse elements that are sealingly connected to the tubular body at four joints and that sequentially comprise: A first element forming the base; A second element forming a removable seal for enclosing the internal space; A third element acting as a functional insert; And a fourth element forming the lid.

27. The package according to claim 26, wherein, At each joint, the tubular body is folded or rolled into a rim or flange.

28. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a quantity of infant nutrition powder sealed within the internal space.

29. The package according to claim 28, wherein, The internal space contains an inert gas and less than 2% oxygen.

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