Bursting Bead Freeze-Dried Integrated Pet Food Structure

Abstract

This utility model discloses an integrated freeze-dried pet food structure with popping beads, relating to the field of pet food technology. It includes: a freeze-dried body having at least one positioning groove; and popping beads, with at least one set, each set of popping beads being positioned in one of the at least one positioning groove. This solves the technical problems of monotonous taste in existing pet food and the difficulty in synergistically releasing functional components.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of pet food technology, and more specifically, to an integrated freeze-dried pet food structure with popping beads. Background Technology

[0002] Pet food, as a crucial component of pet nutrition, directly impacts a pet's health and quality of life through its nutritional value, palatability, and functionality. Currently, most pet foods on the market are freeze-dried or designed as individual products, such as popping beads. Freeze-drying technology, through dehydration in a low-temperature vacuum environment, maximizes the retention of core nutrients in raw materials, such as protein, vitamins, and unsaturated fatty acids, avoiding nutrient loss caused by high-temperature processing. For example, freeze-dried chicken breast can retain over 90% of its protein. However, feeding pets freeze-dried food alone can result in a monotonous taste, and long-term consumption may lead to loss of appetite, especially for picky eaters. Popping bead technology, on the other hand, encapsulates liquid nutrients or flavor components in an edible colloid, releasing the contents as the pet chews, providing precise nutrient supplementation and enhanced flavor. However, when used alone, it lacks the crispy texture of freeze-dried food, and its contents are susceptible to oxidation or leakage during storage due to external environmental factors, limiting its application. Utility Model Content

[0003] To address this issue, this invention provides a freeze-dried pet food structure with popping beads to solve the technical problems of monotonous taste and difficulty in synergistic release of functional components in existing pet food.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model provides the following technical solution:

[0005] A freeze-dried pet food structure with popping beads includes:

[0006] The freeze-dried body has at least one positioning groove;

[0007] The bursting beads are provided in at least one set, and each of the at least one set of bursting beads is positioned in one of the at least one positioning slot.

[0008] Based on the above technical solution, the present invention is further described as follows:

[0009] As a further embodiment of this utility model,

[0010] The freeze-dried body includes a freeze-dried main body and a positioning groove formed in the freeze-dried main body;

[0011] The bursting bead is fixed to the bottom inner side of the positioning groove.

[0012] As a further aspect of this utility model, it also includes:

[0013] A bottom adhesive layer is attached between the bottom of the positioning groove and the bursting bead body.

[0014] As a further embodiment of this utility model,

[0015] The freeze-dried body includes a freeze-dried main body and a positioning groove formed in the freeze-dried main body;

[0016] The bursting bead body is fixed to the positioning groove;

[0017] Furthermore, one-fifth to one-third of the bursting bead protrudes from the outside of the freeze-dried body.

[0018] As a further embodiment of this utility model,

[0019] The positioning groove is configured as a trapezoidal groove that is narrow at the top and wide at the bottom, or a barbed groove.

[0020] As a further embodiment of this utility model,

[0021] The edge of the positioning groove is set to a rounded edge.

[0022] As a further aspect of this utility model, it also includes:

[0023] An outer adhesive layer surrounds the positioning groove edge of the freeze-dried body and the outer periphery of the bursting bead body.

[0024] As a further embodiment of this utility model,

[0025] The outer surface of the bursting bead is coated with a gel layer.

[0026] As a further embodiment of this utility model,

[0027] The bursting bead body is configured as a layered bursting bead body;

[0028] The layered bursting bead body includes an inner coating layer and an outer coating layer arranged sequentially from the center to the outer side, and the inner coating layer and the outer coating layer each have built-in component spaces.

[0029] As a further embodiment of this utility model,

[0030] The bursting bead body is configured as a partitioned bursting bead body;

[0031] The partitioned bursting bead body includes an inner partition and an outer partition arranged sequentially from the inside to the outside based on the positioning groove, and the inner partition and the outer partition each have built-in component spaces.

[0032] This utility model has the following beneficial effects:

[0033] This invention innovatively proposes a solution combining freeze-drying and popping beads. By integrating at least one popping bead into the groove left in the freeze-drying process, and employing an edible adhesive layer or other fixing methods to enhance the bonding stability between the popping bead and the freeze-dried product, the integrity of the product during storage and use is ensured. Simultaneously, through techniques such as the exposed design of the popping bead, improvements to the groove shape, and double-layer gel encapsulation, the palatability, functionality, and visual appeal of the product are further optimized to meet the personalized needs of different pets. This solution not only enhances the overall performance of pet food but also provides pet owners with more differentiated and attractive product choices, aligning with the current trend in the pet food market towards high-end and refined products, and has broad application prospects. Attached Figure Description

[0034] To more clearly illustrate the embodiments of this utility model or the technical solutions in the prior art, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. The structures, proportions, sizes, etc., drawn in this specification are only used to complement the content disclosed in the specification, so that those skilled in the art can understand and read them. Any modifications to the structure, changes in the proportional relationships, or adjustments to the size, without affecting the effects and purposes that this utility model can produce, should still fall within the scope of the technical content disclosed in this utility model.

[0035] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the integrated freeze-dried pet food structure with popping beads provided in Embodiment 1 of this utility model.

[0036] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the integrated freeze-dried pet food structure with popping beads provided in Embodiment 2 of this utility model.

[0037] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the integrated freeze-dried pet food structure with popping beads provided in Embodiment 3 of this utility model.

[0038] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the integrated freeze-dried pet food structure with popping beads provided in Embodiment 4 of this utility model.

[0039] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the integrated freeze-dried pet food structure with popping beads provided in Embodiment 5 of this utility model.

[0040] Figure 6 The diagram shows the layered structure of the freeze-dried pet food structure corresponding to the burst beads provided in Embodiment 6 of this utility model.

[0041] Figure 7 The diagram shows the partitioned structure of the freeze-dried pet food structure corresponding to the burst beads provided in Embodiment 6 of this utility model.

[0042] The attached diagram lists the components represented by each number as follows:

[0043] Freeze-dried body 1: Freeze-dried body 11, positioning groove 12;

[0044] Bursting bead body 2: inner coating layer 21, outer coating layer 22, inner partition 23, outer partition 24;

[0045] 3. Bottom adhesive layer; 4. Outer adhesive layer; 5. Encapsulating colloid layer. Detailed Implementation

[0046] The following specific embodiments illustrate the implementation of this utility model. Those skilled in the art can easily understand other advantages and effects of this utility model from the content disclosed in this specification. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this utility model. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of this utility model.

[0047] The terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and "middle" used in this specification are merely for clarity of description and are not intended to limit the scope of implementation of this utility model. Any changes or adjustments to their relative relationships, without substantially altering the technical content, shall also be considered within the scope of implementation of this utility model.

[0048] Example 1

[0049] like Figure 1 As shown in the figure, this utility model embodiment provides an integrated freeze-dried pet food structure with popping beads, including an integrated freeze-dried body 1 and a popping bead body 2, which combines freeze-drying and popping bead technology in pet food, and can improve nutritional synergy and palatability through functional complementarity and superposition. The specific settings are as follows:

[0050] exist Figure 1 In the overall schematic diagram shown, the freeze-dried product 1 includes a freeze-dried body 11 and a positioning groove 12 formed in the freeze-dried body 11, with the bursting beads 2 fixed inside the positioning groove 12. The freeze-dried body 11 is prepared using a low-temperature vacuum dehydration process, and its moisture content is strictly controlled to not exceed 7%. This low moisture content reduces the possibility of microbial growth and significantly extends the product's shelf life. The freeze-dried body 11 can be designed in geometric shapes such as spheres, hearts, or cylinders to adapt to the chewing habits of different pets and enhance visual appeal. In practical applications, the maximum width of the freeze-dried body 1 is adjusted according to the pet's body size, typically set between 5 mm and 20 mm, while the diameter of the bursting beads 2 ranges from 2 mm to 10 mm. The size ratio between the two is maintained at 1:0.4 to 1:0.8 to ensure structural stability and safety in use.

[0051] In this embodiment, fixing the bursting beads 2 inside the positioning groove 12 helps to prevent the bursting beads 2 from breaking during storage, avoids leakage of contents affecting freeze-drying quality, extends shelf life, and the freeze-drying drying environment can isolate the bursting beads 2 from contact with external air and moisture to a certain extent, which is especially suitable for encapsulating oxidation-sensitive components such as unsaturated fatty acids, thus improving the functional stability of the bursting beads 2.

[0052] Example 2

[0053] In Example 2, the same symbols are used for the same structures as in Example 1, and the same descriptions are omitted. Example 2 is an improvement on Example 1. Please refer to [link / reference needed]. Figure 2 , Figure 2 The bonding method between the freeze-dried body 11 and the bottom adhesive layer 3 is demonstrated. The bottom adhesive layer 3, located between the bottom of the positioning groove 12 and the popping beads 2, is composed of edible materials such as carrageenan and pumpkin powder, with a thickness ranging from 0.1 mm to 0.3 mm. The main function of the bottom adhesive layer 3 is to enhance the adhesion between the popping beads 2 and the freeze-dried body 11, while preventing the popping beads 2 from falling off during storage or transportation. In actual operation, the bottom adhesive layer 3 is precisely filled into the bottom of the positioning groove 12 using automated equipment, ensuring that each popping bead 2 is firmly embedded in the freeze-dried body 11. This design significantly improves the stability of the product during long-term storage and transportation.

[0054] Example 3

[0055] In Example 3, the same symbols are used for structures identical to those in Examples 1-2, and the same descriptions are omitted. Example 3 differs from Examples 1 and 2 in that, please refer to... Figure 3 , Figure 3 This illustration demonstrates a specific implementation of a partially protruding burst bead design. In this design, one-fifth to one-third of the burst bead 2 protrudes from the freeze-dried body 11 to enhance the pet's eating motivation through the color and taste stimulation of the burst bead 2. Specifically, the color of the exposed portion of the burst bead 2 can be adjusted using natural pigments; for example, meat juice beads are orange-red to attract the pet's attention. When the pet bites, it preferentially contacts the burst bead 2, instantly releasing a rich flavor and enhancing its eating motivation, making it especially suitable for picky eaters.

[0056] Furthermore, the popping sensation of the capsules provides pets with immediate sensory feedback, enhancing the enjoyment of feeding. This design is particularly suitable for adding functional ingredients that require immediate action, achieving efficient absorption through rapid bursting. In practical applications, some protruding designs can be tailored to specific health needs, such as adding probiotics to pets with gastrointestinal upset or providing soothing remedies for pets in emergency situations.

[0057] As a preferred embodiment, the positioning groove 12 is preferably a trapezoidal groove or a barbed groove that is narrower at the top and wider at the bottom, in order to further prevent the bursting bead 2 from falling off. In addition, the edges of the positioning groove 12 are rounded to reduce the risk of wear and breakage when the bursting bead is inserted, thereby improving the stability of the overall structure.

[0058] Example 4

[0059] In Example 4, the same symbols are used for structures identical to those in Examples 1-3, and the same descriptions are omitted. Example 4 differs from Examples 1-3 in that, please refer to... Figure 4 , Figure 4 The design of the outer adhesive layer 4 is demonstrated. The outer adhesive layer 4 surrounds the positioning groove 12 of the freeze-dried body 11 and the periphery of the bursting bead 2, using pumpkin powder, dietary fiber, or other functional ingredients as materials, with a thickness ranging from 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm. The main function of the outer adhesive layer 4 is to improve the fixation of the bursting bead 2 while providing additional nutritional value. For example, pumpkin powder not only increases the fixation of the bursting bead 2 but also provides dietary fiber, allowing the pet to first taste the sweetness of pumpkin when chewing, followed by the bursting of the bead 2 releasing a fishy aroma, achieving a progressive flavor profile. This design further enhances the pet's eating experience through a multi-layered flavor release mechanism. In practical applications, the composition of the outer adhesive layer 4 can be adjusted according to the pet's nutritional needs, such as adding antioxidants or prebiotics to meet specific health requirements.

[0060] Example 5

[0061] In Example 5, the same symbols are used for the same structures as in Examples 1-4, and the same descriptions are omitted. Example 5 differs from Examples 1-4 in that, please refer to... Figure 5 , Figure 5 This demonstrates a specific implementation of the double-layer gelatinous encapsulation design. Specifically, the outer layer of the bursting bead 2 is coated with a gelatinous layer 5. The bursting bead 2 is made of gelatin with a thickness ranging from 0.3 mm to 0.6 mm, used to protect liquid nutrients or functional ingredients from leakage or oxidation during storage. The gelatinous layer 5 is made of sodium alginate with a thickness ranging from 0.4 mm to 0.8 mm, used to significantly enhance toughness and balance the requirements of fragility and leak-proofness, while ensuring rapid rupture to release the contents when a pet bites.

[0062] Example 6

[0063] In Example 6, the same symbols are used for structures identical to those in Examples 1-5, and the same descriptions are omitted. Example 6 differs from Examples 1-5 in that, please refer to... Figure 6 and Figure 7 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 The specific implementation of the layered or partitioned release design is demonstrated. Specifically, the layered bursting bead 2 includes an inner coating layer 21 and an outer coating layer 22 arranged sequentially from the center to the outer side, and the partitioned bursting bead 2 includes an inner partition section 23 and an outer partition section 24 arranged sequentially from the inside to the outside based on the positioning groove 12. In this design, the outer coating layer 22 or the outer partition section 24 encapsulates palatable ingredients, such as meat gravy or chicken liver pâté, with a content ranging from 30% to 50% of the total volume of the bursting bead, to enhance the pet's eating interest; the inner coating layer 21 or the inner partition section 23 embeds functional ingredients, such as joint health factors or antioxidants, with a content ranging from 10% to 20% of the total volume of the freeze-dried body, to achieve precise functional supplementation.

[0064] Specifically, the outer coating 22 or outer section 24 breaks first when the pet bites, releasing palatability-enhancing components to attract the pet to continue eating; subsequently, the functional components of the inner coating 21 or inner section 23 are gradually released, achieving a dual effect of "first palatability, then function." This design, through a step-by-step release mechanism, allows the pet to experience the effects of palatability-enhancing and functional components sequentially during the eating process. In practical applications, this design is particularly suitable for scenarios that require simultaneously meeting the pet's palatability and health needs, such as joint health foods designed for senior pets or immune-boosting foods designed for puppies.

[0065] In the actual preparation process, the combination of the freeze-dried body 1 and the bursting beads 2 is completed using automated equipment. First, the freeze-dried body 11 is prepared using a low-temperature vacuum dehydration process to ensure that its moisture content is strictly controlled within the range of no more than 7%. Then, positioning grooves 12 are machined on the surface of the freeze-dried body 11. The shape of the positioning grooves 12 is adjusted according to specific design requirements, either as a trapezoidal groove (narrower at the top and wider at the bottom) or a hook-shaped groove. Next, the bottom adhesive layer 3 is precisely filled into the bottom of the positioning groove 12 using automated equipment, and the bursting beads 2 are embedded into the positioning groove 12. For partially protruding designs, the protruding parts of the bursting beads 2 are precisely controlled in size and position to ensure that their color and shape attract the pet's attention. Finally, an outer adhesive layer 4 is sprayed onto the periphery of the bursting beads 2 using a spraying device to ensure the fixation of the bursting beads 2 and impart additional nutritional value.

[0066] The technical effects of this invention are mainly reflected in the following aspects.

[0067] First, from a nutritional perspective, freeze-drying technology maximizes the preservation of core nutrients in the raw materials, such as protein, vitamins, and unsaturated fatty acids. Combined with popping beads as a nutrient carrier, liquid nutrients are precisely encapsulated, allowing for targeted nutrient supplementation during pet chewing. Second, in terms of palatability, freeze-drying itself provides a crisp, dry texture. The popping sensation of the beads creates a rich flavor profile, preventing loss of appetite due to a monotonous taste. Third, popping beads allow for the flexible addition of functional ingredients that are difficult to incorporate using conventional processes, such as antioxidants, joint health factors, and hydration supplements, meeting the specific health needs of pets. Finally, this invention aligns with the trend towards premium and refined pet food, focusing on nutritional preservation and functional customization. It pioneers a new field in pet food, combining nutrition, palatability, and functionality, and has broad application prospects.

[0068] Although the present invention has been described in detail above with general descriptions and specific embodiments, some modifications or improvements can be made to it, which will be obvious to those skilled in the art. Therefore, all such modifications or improvements made without departing from the spirit of the present invention fall within the scope of protection claimed by the present invention.

Claims

1. A freeze-dried pet food structure with popping beads, characterized in that, include: The freeze-dried body has at least one positioning groove; The bursting beads are provided in at least one set, and each of the at least one set of bursting beads is positioned in one of the at least one positioning slot.

2. The integrated freeze-dried pet food structure with popping beads according to claim 1, characterized in that, The freeze-dried body includes a freeze-dried main body and a positioning groove formed in the freeze-dried main body; The bursting bead is fixed to the bottom inner side of the positioning groove.

3. The integrated freeze-dried pet food structure with popping beads according to claim 2, characterized in that, Also includes: A bottom adhesive layer is attached between the bottom of the positioning groove and the bursting bead body.

4. The integrated freeze-dried pet food structure with popping beads according to claim 1, characterized in that, The freeze-dried body includes a freeze-dried main body and a positioning groove formed in the freeze-dried main body; The bursting bead body is fixed to the positioning groove; Furthermore, one-fifth to one-third of the bursting bead protrudes from the outside of the freeze-dried body.

5. The integrated freeze-dried pet food structure with popping beads according to claim 4, characterized in that, The positioning groove is configured as a trapezoidal groove that is narrow at the top and wide at the bottom, or a barbed groove.

6. The integrated freeze-dried pet food structure with popping beads according to claim 5, characterized in that, The edge of the positioning groove is set to a rounded edge.

7. The integrated freeze-dried pet food structure with popping beads according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, Also includes: An outer adhesive layer surrounds the positioning groove edge of the freeze-dried body and the outer periphery of the bursting bead body.

8. The integrated freeze-dried pet food structure with popping beads according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer surface of the bursting bead is coated with a gel layer.

9. The integrated freeze-dried pet food structure with popping beads according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bursting bead body is configured as a layered bursting bead body; The layered bursting bead body includes an inner coating layer and an outer coating layer arranged sequentially from the center to the outer side, and the inner coating layer and the outer coating layer each have built-in component spaces.

10. The integrated freeze-dried pet food structure with popping beads according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bursting bead body is configured as a partitioned bursting bead body; The partitioned bursting bead body includes an inner partition and an outer partition arranged sequentially from the inside to the outside based on the positioning groove, and the inner partition and the outer partition each have built-in component spaces.

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