Packaged articles and packaged food products

Abstract

The present invention relates to a packaged article (1) comprising a cylindrical container (2) made of a multilayer oxygen-moisture barrier laminate comprising cardboard and an organic or inorganic barrier layer. The container has a supply opening (8). The packaged article further comprises at least one sliding closure element (11) having at least one sliding closure element periphery wall (12), the sliding closure element being configured to slide on at least the upper end of the container periphery wall (4), and made of a multilayer oxygen-moisture barrier laminate comprising cardboard and an organic or inorganic barrier layer. The present invention further relates to packaged food.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This invention relates to packaged articles and packaged food products. [Background technology]

[0002] Packaging articles for packaging various types of contents are available in a variety of different shapes, sizes, and materials. For example, paper packaging articles are known from prior art and are often encouraged as being environmentally friendly and more sustainable compared to, for example, plastic.

[0003] However, existing paper packaging often does not provide the same level of protection for its contents as other materials such as plastic or glass. This can negatively impact one or more properties of the contents, for example, by shortening their shelf life.

[0004] Typically, oxidation and / or moisture absorption of packaged contents leads to a deterioration of the product's sensory properties, which is, of course, undesirable. In some cases, the movement of gases and / or moisture through the packaging walls can compromise food safety. Therefore, ensuring a packaging barrier against gases, especially oxygen, and moisture is of paramount importance, at least for sensitive food products.

[0005] Furthermore, existing packaging materials made of paper often have the disadvantage of lower structural stability compared to packaging materials made of other materials, such as plastic or glass. This can negatively affect the handling characteristics of the packaging materials.

[0006] Therefore, particularly in consideration of the above-mentioned drawbacks, an object of the present invention is to provide a packaging article that provides better protection for the contents within the package. A further object of the present invention is to provide a packaging article with improved handling characteristics. [Overview of the project]

[0007] In a first aspect, the present invention relates to a packaging article as described in the appended claims.

[0008] More precisely, the present invention relates to a packaged article, At least one core container made of a multilayer oxygen-moisture barrier laminate comprising cardboard and an organic and / or inorganic barrier layer, wherein the cardboard is 120-600 g / m² 2 It has a basis weight and a cellulose content of over 90%, preferably over 95%, and more preferably over 99%, and as a result, the oxygen transmission rate (OTR) is such that when measured at 23°C and relative humidity (RH) of 50%, it is 1 cm². 3 / m 2 Less than 0.5 cm per day, preferably 0.5 cm 3 / m 2 The water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) is less than 1 g / m² when measured at 23°C and RH85%. 2 Less than 0.5 g / m² per day, preferably 0.5 g / m² 2 The minimum of one core container is less than one day, and the core container includes at least one core container peripheral wall and core container bottom wall defining at least one compartment for packaging contents, and at least one supply opening configured to allow packaged contents to be supplied from the core container, At least one sliding closure element having at least one sliding closure element periphery wall and a sliding closure element top wall, configured to slide on at least the upper end of the core container periphery wall (4) such that when the packaged article is in a fully closed configuration, the sliding closure element periphery wall at least partially overlaps and surrounds the container periphery wall, and the sliding closure element at least partially covers the supply opening of the core container, wherein the sliding closure element is made of a multilayer oxygen and moisture barrier laminate comprising cardboard and organic and / or inorganic barrier layers, the cardboard being 120-600 g / m² 2having a basis weight and a cellulose content of more than 90%, preferably more than 95%, more preferably more than 99%, whereby the oxygen transmission rate (OTR) is 1 cm when measured at 23 °C and 50% relative humidity (RH). 3 / m 2 / day or less, preferably 0.5 cm 3 / m 2 / day or less, and the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) is 1 g / m when measured at 23 °C and 85% RH 2 / day or less, preferably 0.5 g / m 2 / day or less, and at least one sliding closure element. The present invention relates to a packaging article comprising the same.

[0009] [[ID=十六]]Advantageously, the core container element comprises an edge located at the open distal end of the peripheral wall, and when the sliding closure element is slid over the core container element in the fully closed configuration of the packaging article, the edge is configured to at least partially abut against the inner surface of the ceiling wall of the sliding closure element.

[0010] In a highly preferred embodiment of the present invention, when the packaging article is in the fully closed configuration, 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 at least 30%, preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 70% of the peripheral wall of the core container element.

[0011] In another highly preferred embodiment of the present invention, the functional play between the sliding closure element and the core container (i.e., the difference between the inner diameter of the sliding closure element of the package and the outer diameter of the container element) is 50 - 500 μm, preferably 100 - 300 μm.

[0012] Such functional play is sufficient to ensure that the two elements are securely and properly attached in the packaging closure configuration, and as a result, complex capping such as threads or clipping mechanisms is not required. By selecting a functional play of preferably 50 to 500 μm, preferably 100 to 300 μm, the possibility of easily sliding the upper sliding closure element onto the core container element is ensured, while the adhesive force between the two elements is high enough to prevent one element from sliding against the other without the application of an external force.

[0013] Importantly, the combination of functional play and overlap between the sliding closure element and the container element ensures the airtightness of the packaging in the closure configuration, which enables the so-called "shelf life after opening." The shelf life after opening means that the packaging can be resealed after the first use once it has been opened, ensuring that the absorption of moisture and oxygen by the contents is severely limited.

[0014] Preferably, the core container includes a container lid configured to close the supply opening, and the container lid is at least partially removable from the container.

[0015] Advantageously, the core container lid is a removable sealed membrane attached to the upper edge of the core container, and this membrane is made of a material that provides a barrier to oxygen and moisture, thereby achieving an oxygen permeability (OTR) of 1 cm when measured at 23°C and 50% relative humidity (RH). 3 / m 2 Less than 0.5 cm per day, preferably 0.5 cm 3 / m 2 The value is less than 1 g / m³, and the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) is 1 g / m³ when measured at 23°C and RH85%. 2 Less than 0.5 g / m² per day, preferably 0.5 g / m² 2 It is less than one day.

[0016] Importantly, several cardboard-based packaging material structures can be used to manufacture various elements of the packaging. The various components of the packaging may be made from the same or different packaging materials. However, generally and preferably, the packaging material used is a laminate containing a high cellulose content to achieve recyclability in the paper stream processes, and also includes at least one layer that provides barrier properties against oxygen and / or moisture transfer.

[0017] Preferably, at least one of the core container or sliding closure element is 120g / m 2 ~600g / m 2 A paperboard layer having the basis weight, 0.5~10g / m 2 An optional adhesive layer having the basis weight, 30-120g / m 2 A paper layer having the basis weight, 0.5~20g / m 2 Amount, preferably 1-10 g / m 2 Amount, more preferably 2-8 g / m 2 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 combinations thereof, in an amount equal to, A minimum of one inorganic barrier layer selected from the list of metals, metalloids, or combinations thereof, having a thickness of 1 to 100 nm, Made from polyolefins grafted with acrylic acid or methacrylic acid polymer, or ionomer, at a density of 2-20 g / m². 2 Amount, preferably 4-9 g / m 2 At least one organic heat seal layer coated by an aqueous dispersion coating in an amount of, It is manufactured from multilayer cellulose materials containing [the specified element].

[0018] Alternatively, at least one of the core container or sliding closure element is: 120g / m 2~600g / m 2 A paperboard layer having the basis weight, 0.5~10g / m 2 An optional adhesive layer having the basis weight, 30-120g / m 2 A paper layer having the basis weight, 0.5~20g / m 2 Amount, preferably 1-10 g / m 2 Amount, more preferably 2-8 g / m 2 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 combinations thereof, in an amount equal to, A minimum of one inorganic barrier layer selected from the list of metals, metalloids, or combinations thereof, having a thickness of 1 to 100 nm, 0.5~20g / m 2 Amount, preferably 1-10 g / m 2 Amount, more preferably 2-8 g / m 2 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 combinations thereof, in an amount equal to, 2-20g / m 2 Amount, preferably 4-9 g / m 2 In this quantity, at least one organic heat seal layer made of polyolefin applied by extrusion molding, It is manufactured from multilayer cellulose materials containing [the specified element].

[0019] The components of the packaging article according to the present invention can be selected from one of two alternative material structures, and these can be made from either the same material or different materials selected from these alternative materials.

[0020] In one preferred embodiment, the packaged contents are Food products intended for consumption by humans and / or animals, and / or It is configured to produce food products for consumption by humans and / or animals.

[0021] Advantageously, when the sliding closure element is slid over the container, the sliding closure element and the core container are configured to be frictionally connected, preferably by friction at least between the container periphery and the sliding closure element periphery.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the core container and / or sliding closure element is composed of at least 50 volume% paper, more preferably at least 60 volume% paper, more preferably at least 70 volume% paper, more preferably at least 80 volume% paper, more preferably at least 90 volume% paper, and more preferably at least 95 volume% paper.

[0023] Advantageously, at least one opening is defined in the peripheral wall of the sliding closure element, and the opening has a diameter of 5 mm to 30 mm. The opening is configured to function as a vent that allows gas to enter and exit the packaged article through the vent while the sliding closure element is open and / or before it is opened, and / or After the sliding closure element is slid upward and / or away from the base element, the opening is configured as a spout that allows the packaged contents to be supplied through the spout.

[0024] Preferably, the container is free of printing and / or labels, although optionally the sliding closure element is printed.

[0025] The container preferably includes at least one supply opening, which is configured to allow the packaged contents to be supplied from the container through the supply opening. The supply opening may be of a type that requires the packaging to be fully opened (typically by removing at least one element from the rest of the packaging). Alternatively or additionally, the packaging may include a second type of supply opening that does not require the packaging to be fully opened, in particular a type that requires only displacing one element relative to the rest of the packaging, for example by twisting, rotating, or basculating a part of the packaging relative to the rest of the packaging, in order to open and close the packaging.

[0026] A multilayer oxygen-moisture barrier laminate comprising cardboard and organic and / or inorganic barrier layers increases the resistance of the container to oxygen and moisture movement, and therefore the resistance of the packaged article, compared to, for example, paper packaging articles known from the prior art. This improves the protection, preservation, and / or shelf life of the contents inside the container.

[0027] Cross-section of a component of a packaged article. As understood in the context of the present invention, a “cylinder” preferably has a circular cross-section (i.e., “baseline”). However, other baselines (i.e., cross-sections), such as polygonal or elliptical, may also be considered “cylindrical” within the framework of the present invention. Preferably, the cylinder is an upright cylinder. However, an inclined cylinder is also conceivable.

[0028] As understood in the context of this invention, "cardboard" means 120 g / m² 2 ~600g / m 2 It is a cellulose-based flat structure consisting of one or more paper layers having a basis weight.

[0029] Improved protection of the contents inside the container is provided by configuring the sliding closure element to slide on at least the upper end of the core container wall such that the sliding closure element's periphery at least partially surrounds the container wall and the sliding closure element at least partially covers the supply opening. In particular, this provides double-wall protection of at least the packaged contents through the container wall and the sliding closure element's periphery. Furthermore, this makes it possible to re-close the supply opening of the container using the sliding closure element after the initial opening, so as to maintain oxygen and moisture barrier properties.

[0030] Alternatively or additionally, such sliding closure elements 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 primarily configured to protect and / or preserve the contents of the packaged article in a particularly hygienic and / or food-safe manner. For example, the container may not include printing, adhesives, etc. This minimizes the risk of printing colors or adhesives diffusing, for example, into the packaged contents (even if, for example, the barrier layer is very thin and / or the packaged contents are stored for a long period of time). This also makes it possible for the container and sliding closure elements to be manufactured from different materials and / or different material compositions and / or different thicknesses. The periphery of the sliding closure element may completely surround the container periphery in a circumferential direction along a particular portion of the length of the container.

[0031] By constructing cardboard to have a relatively high cellulose content, for example, more than 90%, preferably more than 95%, and more preferably more than 99%, the density and / or manufacturing cost of the packaged article is reduced, and / or biodegradability and / or recyclability are improved, compared to materials with a lower cellulose content.

[0032] A packaged article, more specifically a container, is configured to contain and / or store food material within its compartment, i.e., any material used as food, such as food / drinking ingredients, or used to make / produce food, for at least a certain period of time. The packaged material, e.g., food material, may be a liquid and / or solid substance. Preferably, the packaged material is solid and in a fluid form, particularly in powder form. The powder may have a range of particle size values, from small diameter particles to coarse diameter particles, or it may be a mixture of large and small diameter powder particles. The packaged material may also take the form of kibble or solid particle articles of various shapes and sizes, which may or may not be individually pre-packaged food. The types of food products can be wide-ranging, for example, coffee particles or solids, potato chips, chocolate solids, pet food kibble, compressed food articles such as compressed single-serving coffee, etc.

[0033] The components of the packaging article, such as the core container and the sliding closure element components, as identified above, may be provided in a range of dimensions. Preferably, the container may have a width / diameter in the range of 20 mm to 200 mm. Preferably, the container may have a length in the range of 50 mm to 500 mm, preferably 75 mm to 250 mm.

[0034] Preferably, the diameter of the element is such that it can be comfortably handled by the user's hand. The diameter is advantageously 20 to 200 mm, preferably 40 to 100 mm.

[0035] The supply opening may be located at the end of the container, for example, at the top end of the container. Alternatively, or additionally, the supply opening may be defined at least partially on the periphery of the container.

[0036] The container bottom lid is a film and / or foil of a metallized material, such as a metal like aluminum, or a metallized plastic such as metallized paper or metallized polyolefin, preferably metallized polypropylene. Alternatively or additionally, the container bottom lid may be made of a plastic, such as a polymer like polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0037] The content of the aforementioned materials, such as the cellulose content, is determined as a weight percentage of the total weight of each material.

[0038] Preferably, the sliding closure element and the core element are "cylindrical." More preferably, the sliding closure element and the core element are formed as cylinders having a circular baseline (i.e., "cross-section"). The inner and / or outer diameters of the cylinder forming the sliding closure element and the cylinder forming the core element may be the same. Within the framework of this specification, "cylindrical" means that the container, sliding closure element, and core element may be formed as cylinders having an elliptical or polygonal cross-section.

[0039] Preferably, the sliding closure element and the core container are configured such that the sliding closure element can be removed from the container and slid over the container multiple times. This makes it possible to open and close the container multiple times using the sliding closure element.

[0040] Preferably, the packaging article further includes at least one container lid, preferably configured to seal so as to close the supply opening at the upper edge of the core container, in order to prevent the packaged contents from being supplied through the supply opening. Preferably, the container lid is at least partially removable and preferably peelable from the supply opening. The container lid may be a film and / or foil of a metallized material, such as a metal, such as aluminum, or a metallized plastic, such as metallized paper or metallized polyolefin, preferably metallized polypropylene. Alternatively or additionally, the container lid may be made of a plastic, such as a polymer, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0041] In other words, the container lid can provide a moisture and oxygen barrier, which is removable when the consumer first opens the packaged item (for example, after removing the sliding closure element). The container opening may then be reclosed by sliding (or re-sliding) the sliding closure element onto the container.

[0042] Generally, the components of the packaging according to the present invention are selected from a plurality of packaging materials that contain a high content of cellulose and have barrier properties against oxygen and moisture. Such barrier properties are measured at 23°C and 50% relative humidity (RH) when an organic and / or inorganic layer is incorporated into the packaging material structure, and the barrier properties are measured at 1 cm 3 / m 2 Less than 0.5 cm per day, preferably 0.5 cm 3 / m 2 The oxygen permeability (OTR) value is less than 1 g / m² when measured at 23°C with 85% RH. 2 Less than 0.5 g / m² per day, preferably 0.5 g / m² 2 This is achieved by providing a water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) value of less than 1 / day, among other things.

[0043] Preferably, the packaged contents are a bulk solid, preferably a fluid bulk solid, preferably a fluid powder. The powder may contain granules and / or particles. Preferably, the packaged contents are coffee powder, preferably soluble and / or freeze-dried coffee powder, or milk powder.

[0044] Preferably, the packaged contents are an edible product for human and / or animal consumption, and / or the packaged contents are configured to produce an edible product for human and / or animal consumption.

[0045] Preferably, the sliding closure element and the core container are configured to be frictionally connected, preferably by friction between at least the container periphery and the sliding closure element periphery, when the sliding closure element is slid over the container. This provides a relatively robust connection and / or seal between the sliding closure element and the container. This extends the shelf life of the contents within the packaged article. Furthermore, this prevents the sliding closure element from accidentally detaching from the container, for example, when a user grasps only the sliding closure element and lifts the packaging by the sliding closure element.

[0046] Preferably, when the sliding closure element slides over the container, the peripheral wall of the sliding closure element overlaps the container peripheral wall axially along at least 50%, preferably at least 60%, and more preferably at least 70% of the axial length of the container. This length is thought to provide a proper frictional connection between the sliding closure element and the container, and adequate moisture-oxygen barrier properties for keeping the packaged contents fresh.

[0047] Preferably, at least one opening is defined within the upper sliding closure element, preferably on the periphery of the sliding closure element, more preferably adjacent to the upper end of the periphery of the sliding closure element. The opening may be configured to function as a vent, allowing gas to enter and exit the packaged article through the vent while the sliding closure element is open. This allows the pressure inside the packaged article to be at least partially equalized with the environment, thereby facilitating the removal of the sliding closure element. Alternatively, or additionally, after the sliding closure element has been slid upward and / or away from the base element, the opening may be configured as a spout, allowing the packaged contents to be supplied through the spout.

[0048] In the context of the present invention, any of the barrier layers may be provided as organic barrier layers, for example, the barrier layer may be made from a polyethylene vinyl alcohol type polymer or a compound thereof (PVOH, EVOH, BVOH, or a compound thereof). The thickness of the organic layer, for example the thickness of the PVOH layer, may be less than 20 μm, preferably less than 10 μm, or more preferably less than 8 μm. Any organic layer in the structure, if present, is preferably deposited by an aqueous dispersion process, thereby reducing the thickness and allowing for easy separation of molecules in the recycling process, thus providing high compatibility with the processes of the paper recycling stream. Any inorganic barrier layer, if present in the packaging material structure, may contain a metal such as aluminum and / or a metalloid such as SiOx (silicon oxide) or AlOx (aluminum oxide). The barrier layer may be made from various combinations of layers, for example, a combination of at least one organic layer (e.g., PVOH) and at least one inorganic layer (e.g., aluminum).

[0049] In a second aspect, the present invention also relates to a packaged food product comprising at least one packaged article according to any embodiment described herein, and at least one food ingredient contained within a container of the packaged article.

[0050] Preferably, the food material is a bulk solid, preferably a fluid bulk solid, and preferably a fluid powder. The powder may contain granules and / or particles. Preferably, the packaged contents are coffee or milk powder, preferably soluble coffee powder. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0051] Additional features and advantages of the present invention are described below with reference to the drawings in the description of the current preferred embodiments and will become apparent therefrom. [Figure 1] This is a schematic cross-section of a packaged article in an assembled state according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the upper sliding element for a packaged article according to the present invention. [Figure 3] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a core container element for a packaged article according to the present invention. [Figure 4A] This is a schematic diagram showing how one packaging element is partially lifted relative to the other packaging element in order to open a distribution opening. [Figure 4B] This is a schematic diagram showing how one packaging element is partially lifted relative to the other packaging element in order to open a distribution opening. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0052] Figures 1, 2, and 3 show a packaged article 1, which includes a cylindrical core container 2 made of a multilayer oxygen-moisture barrier laminate. The multilayer oxygen-moisture barrier laminate includes cardboard, an organic barrier layer containing PVOH and / or EVOH for the oxygen barrier, an inorganic barrier layer for the moisture barrier, and an internal heat seal layer. In this exemplary embodiment, all organic layers are deposited by aqueous dispersion coating. The inorganic layer is vacuum-deposited aluminum. The cardboard is 120-600 g / m². 2 It has a basis weight and a cellulose content higher than 90%, preferably more than 95%, and more preferably more than 99%.

[0053] The core container 2, shown in detail in Figure 3, includes a core container perimeter wall 4 and a container bottom lid (or "container bottom wall") 5 defining at least one compartment 7 for packaging contents such as food materials. The core container 2 further includes a supply opening 8, which is configured to allow packaged contents to be supplied from the core container 2 through the supply opening 8.

[0054] The packaged article 1 further comprises a sliding closure element 11 having a sliding closure element peripheral wall 12. The sliding closure element 11 is shown alone in Figure 2 and further comprises a sliding closure element top wall 13 that at least partially closes the upper end of the sliding closure element 11.

[0055] The sliding closure element 11 is configured to slide on the core container perimeter wall 4 such that, as shown in Figure 1, the sliding closure element perimeter wall 12 at least partially surrounds the core container perimeter wall 4 and the sliding closure element 11 at least partially covers the supply opening 8. The sliding closure element 11 may be made of a multilayer oxygen-moisture barrier laminate comprising cardboard and an organic barrier layer. The cardboard may be 120-600 g / m². 2 The basis weight and / or cellulose content may be greater than 90%, preferably greater than 95%, and more preferably greater than 99%.

[0056] In addition to the two components described above, the packaged article 1 may further comprise additional structural elements. This structure may include any number of elements as needed, but obviously two elements are sufficient to provide a suitable oxygen and moisture barrier to protect the contents.

[0057] The packaged article 1 further includes a container lid 16, preferably configured to be airtight, to close the supply opening 8 of the core element 2 in order to prevent the packaged contents from being supplied through the supply opening 8. The container lid 16 may be sealed to the upper end (i.e., upper edge) portion 14 of the container perimeter wall, particularly around the supply opening 8 (e.g., by heat sealing, adhesive, and / or welding). The container lid 16 is at least partially removable from the supply opening 8, for example, when the core container 2 is first opened. Once the container lid 16 is at least partially removed from the supply opening 8, the core container 2, more specifically the supply opening 8, may be reopened and closed, preferably multiple times, by sliding a sliding closure element 11 over the core container 2 and removing it therefrom.

[0058] The packaged article 1 further includes a second opening 17 defined in the peripheral wall 12 of the sliding closure element. The second opening 17 may be configured to be reclosed at least partially, preferably multiple times. The second opening 17 is closed by the container peripheral wall when the sliding closure element 11 is slid over the core container 2, for example, when it is fully slid, and / or the second opening 17 may be opened and reclosed by the rotation of the sliding closure element 11 relative to the core container 2 (for example, by providing a notch along a portion of the core container peripheral wall 4 configured to overlap the second opening 17 when the second opening 17 is open).

[0059] The second opening 17 may be configured to function as a vent, allowing gas to enter and exit the packaged article 1 through the vent while the sliding closure element 11 is being opened and / or before it is being opened. Alternatively, or additionally, preferably, after the sliding closure element 11 has been slid upward and / or away from the core container 2, the second opening 140 may function as a spout, allowing contents to be supplied through the spout.

[0060] As shown in Figure 1, when the packaged article is in a fully closed configuration, the contact between the inner surface of the sliding element top wall and the upper edge of the core element peripheral wall ensures the mechanical resistance of the packaged article to upper loads (i.e., vertical loads) because this vertically applied force is held in place by this contact point at the interface between the upper edge of the cylindrical core container element and the inner surface of the sliding closure element top wall.

[0061] In this way, the stacking capacity of the entire packaged goods is guaranteed, ensuring that the integrity of each individual package is not affected when such a large number of packages are stacked on top of each other for transport or storage.

[0062] As shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the package may have a dispensing opening 170 on the side of the sliding closure element 11. By lifting the sliding closure element 11 (without removing it from the rest of the packaging), a passage is formed between the internal compartment of the packaging and the dispensing opening 170, creating a passage for the product. The diameter of the dispensing opening (5 mm to 30 mm) is sufficient to dispense some product in a measured quantity and flow rate, thereby allowing for convenient dispensing of the product as shown in Figure 4B. After dispensing, the sliding closure element 11 is pushed back onto the rest of the packaging to close the packaging.

[0063] Various aspects and embodiments of the present invention have been described for illustrative purposes. However, the present invention should not be unduly limited by any of the details of the above disclosure, and those skilled in the art will understand that modifications and alterations not inconsistent with the principles of the present invention may be made and still fall within the scope of the invention. In particular, the present invention should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments described above with reference to the drawings. Rather, the scope of protection of the present invention is determined solely by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0064] In general, the packaging according to the present invention provides users with several advantages and benefits, as follows:

[0065] This packaging offers a unique structural design using cardboard packaging with a distinctive tube shape and size, and its structure is made from recyclable cardboard throughout the paperstream process.

[0066] This packaging features a tube packaging with an innovative closure system, namely a novel "lift and push" mechanism for the closure that allows for user-friendly opening, closing, and resealing (easy to seal and reseal, and at the same time safe and protective). In particular, the sole attachment of the upper sliding closure element to the core container is performed by sliding one over the other. The functional play between the two is sufficient to ensure proper attachment, so that complex capping such as threads or clipping mechanisms is not required. By selecting a functional play of preferably 50 to 500 μm, preferably 100 to 300 μm, the possibility of easily sliding the upper sliding closure element over the core container element is ensured, while the adhesive force between the two elements is high enough that one element will not slide against the other unless an external force is applied. "Functional play" refers to 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 shown in Figures 2 and 3.

[0067] The innovative packaging according to the present invention provides a so-called "shelf life after opening" capability, meaning that after the packaging is first opened for use, in a closed configuration, it maintains a high level of barrier that extends the shelf life of the contents. This shelf life after opening is made possible by the fact that the movement of moisture and oxygen is minimal when the upper sliding closure element completely closes the container element. Even in such a closed position, the packaging has a barrier of 1 cm when measured at 23°C and 50% relative humidity (RH). 3 / m 2 Less than 0.5 cm per day, preferably 0.5 cm 3 / m 2 Oxygen permeability (OTR) values ​​of less than / day, and 1 g / m³ when measured at 23°C and RH 85%. 2 Less than 0.5 g / m² per day, preferably 0.5 g / m² 2A water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of less than 1 / day is maintained. This is due to the fact that the functional play (i.e., space) between the inner surface of the sliding closure element and the outer surface of the container element is sufficiently small, and at the same time, the overlap between the sliding closure element and the container element is sufficiently large, so that movement between the two is possible by the application of sliding force, while the movement of moisture and gases is largely prevented.

[0068] The packaging according to the present invention may, advantageously, be provided with holes / through-holes in the cardboard structure as “distributors” or “dose dispensers,” that is, mechanisms that enable accurate and user-friendly dispensing of contents, allowing the user to dispense a specific amount of product from the packaging for typically accurate and convenient use.

[0069] This packaging is made from sustainable materials, consisting of cardboard packaging for tubes made from environmentally friendly / biodegradable / recyclable and / or compostable materials, which have built-in barrier properties to ensure a long shelf life and product freshness without significantly affecting sensory characteristics.

[0070] This packaging features customizable characteristics, particularly in terms of size, shape, or color, which can be customized to suit different product types and customer needs, including cardboard tube packaging.

[0071] This packaging possesses exceptionally high barrier properties against the movement of gases and moisture through its walls. The developed packaging material offers high barrier functional properties that improve food protection and usability, including oxygen permeability (OTR), moisture resistance (WVTR), and odor blocking properties.

[0072] While optional, preferably the packaging material is UV resistant or light-blocking, and is therefore particularly useful for packaging certain food categories that are susceptible to UV light.

[0073] This tube packaging uses cardboard material that is flexible enough to be folded or crushed, while withstanding the mechanical stress of stacking forces and top loads (which the packaging experiences when stacked for transport and storage), thus taking up less space when discarded after use.

[0074] The packaging according to the present invention is a shock-absorbing / cushioning system in which the mechanical elasticity of the existing tube material and the headspace integrated into the packaging cavity form an air pocket feature, protecting products susceptible to mechanical shock during transport or handling.

[0075] The simple shape of this packaging allows for a stackable design that minimizes product movement and optimizes transportation.

[0076] The fact that cardboard material with a very high cellulose content is used provides a sound-dampening effect, reducing noise during transport, as well as during opening, closing, and resealing. In this respect, this packaging is very user-friendly to use.

[0077] The preferred shape and diameter of the tube are selected to adapt to the human hand for an ergonomically superior and easy-to-grip design.

Claims

1. Packaged article (1), At least one core container (2) made of a multilayer oxygen and moisture barrier laminate comprising cardboard and an organic and / or inorganic barrier layer, wherein the cardboard is 120 to 600 g / m² ２ It has a basis weight and a cellulose content of over 90%, preferably over 95%, and more preferably over 99%, and as a result, the oxygen permeability (OTR) is such that when measured at 23°C and 50% relative humidity (RH), it has a basis weight of over 90% ３ / m ２ Less than one day, preferably 0.5 cm ３ / m ２ The amount is less than 1 g / m³, and the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) is 1 g / m³ when measured at 23°C and RH 85%. ２ Less than 0.5 g / m² per day, preferably 0.5 g / m². ２ / day less, and the core container (2) includes at least one core container (2) comprising at least one core container peripheral wall (4) and core container bottom wall (5) defining at least one compartment (7) for packaging contents, and at least one supply opening (8) configured to allow the packaged contents to be supplied from the core container, At least one sliding closure element (11) having at least one sliding closure element peripheral wall (12) and a sliding closure element top wall (13), wherein when the packaged article (1) is in a fully closed configuration, the sliding closure element peripheral wall (12) at least partially overlaps and surrounds the container peripheral wall (4), and the sliding closure element (11) is configured to slide over at least an upper end portion of the core container peripheral wall (4) so as to at least partially cover the supply opening (8) of the core container (2), the sliding closure element (11) being made of a multilayer oxygen and moisture barrier laminate comprising paper and organic and / or inorganic barrier layers, the paper having a basis weight of 120 to 600 g / m ２ and a cellulose content of more than 90%, preferably more than 95%, more preferably more than 99%, whereby the oxygen transmission rate (OTR) is less than 1 cm ３ / m ２ / day, preferably less than 0.5 cm ３ / m ２ / day, and the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) is less than 1 g / m ２ / day, preferably less than 0.5 g / m ２ / day, a packaged article (1) comprising at least one sliding closure element (11).

2. The packaged article (1) according to claim 2, wherein the core container element (2) has an edge (14) located at the open distal end of the peripheral wall (4), and the edge (14) is configured to at least partially contact the inner surface (15) of the top wall (13) of the sliding closure element (11) when the sliding closure element (11) is slid on the core container element (2) in the fully closed configuration of the packaged article (1).

3. The packaged article (1) according to claim 2, wherein the functional play between the sliding closing element (11) and the core container (2) is 50 to 500 μm, preferably 100 to 300 μm.

4. When the packaged article (1) is in a fully closed configuration, the peripheral wall (12) of the sliding closure 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 the peripheral wall (12) of the sliding closure element (11) overlaps the peripheral wall (4) of the core container element (2) by at least 30%, preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 70%, according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The packaged article (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the core container (2) comprises a container lid (16) configured to close the supply opening (8), and the container lid (16) is at least partially removable from the container (2).

6. The container lid (16) is a membrane that is removably sealed to the upper edge of the core container (2), and the membrane is made of a material that provides a barrier to oxygen and moisture, thereby having an oxygen permeability (OTR) of 1 cm when measured at 23°C and 50% relative humidity (RH). ３ / m ２ Less than one day, preferably 0.5 cm ３ / m ２ The amount is less than 1 g / m³, and the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) is 1 g / m³ when measured at 23°C and RH 85%. ２ Less than 0.5 g / m² per day, preferably 0.5 g / m². ２ The packaged article (1) according to claim 5, which is less than one day.

7. At least one of the core container (2) or the sliding closing element (11) is 120 g / m ２ ~600g / m ２ A paperboard layer having the basis weight, 0.5–10 g / m ２ An optional adhesive layer having the basis weight, 30-120 g / m ２ A paper layer having the basis weight, 0.5–20 g / m ２ Amount, preferably 1 to 10 g / m ２ Amount, more preferably 2 to 8 g / m ２ 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 combinations thereof, in an amount thereof, A minimum of one inorganic barrier layer selected from the list of metals, metalloids, or combinations thereof, having a thickness of 1 to 100 nm, Made from polyolefins grafted with acrylic acid or methacrylic acid polymer, or ionomer, at a density of 2-20 g / m². ２ Amount, preferably 4 to 9 g / m ２ At least one organic heat seal layer coated by an aqueous dispersion coating in an amount of, A packaged article (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, manufactured from a multilayer cellulose material containing the above.

8. At least one of the core container (2) or the sliding closing element (11) is 120 g / m ２ ~600g / m ２ A paperboard layer having the basis weight, 0.5–10 g / m ２ An optional adhesive layer having the basis weight, 30-120 g / m ２ A paper layer having the basis weight, 0.5–20 g / m ２ Amount, preferably 1 to 10 g / m ２ Amount, more preferably 2 to 8 g / m ２ 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 combinations thereof, in an amount thereof, A minimum of one inorganic barrier layer selected from the list of metals, metalloids, or combinations thereof, having a thickness of 1 to 100 nm, 0.5–20 g / m ２ Amount, preferably 1 to 10 g / m ２ Amount, more preferably 2 to 8 g / m ２ 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 combinations thereof, in an amount thereof, 2-20 g / m ２ Amount, preferably 4 to 9 g / m ２ In this quantity, at least one organic heat seal layer made of polyolefin applied by extrusion molding, A packaged article (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, manufactured from a multilayer cellulose material containing the above.

9. The contents of the aforementioned package are Food products intended for consumption by humans and / or animals, and / or A packaged article (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, configured to produce an edible product for consumption by humans and / or animals.

10. The packaging article (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein when the sliding closing element is slid over the container, the sliding closing element (11) and the core container (2) are configured to be frictionally connected, preferably by friction between at least the peripheral wall of the container and the peripheral wall of the sliding closing element.

11. The packaging article (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the core container (2) and / or the sliding closing element (11) are composed of at least 50 volume% of paper, more preferably at least 60 volume% of paper, more preferably at least 70 volume% of paper, more preferably at least 80 volume% of paper, more preferably at least 90 volume% of paper, and more preferably at least 95 volume% of paper.

12. At least one opening (20) is defined in the peripheral wall (12) of the sliding closing element, and the opening has a diameter of 5 mm to 30 mm. The opening is configured to function as a vent that allows gas to enter and exit the packaged article through the vent while the sliding closing element is open and / or before it is opened, and / or The packaged article (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein after the sliding closing element is slid upward and / or away from the base element, the opening is configured as a spout that allows the packaged contents to be supplied through the spout.

13. The packaged article (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the container is not printed and / or labeled, and optionally the sliding closure element is printed.

14. Packaged food products, A packaged article (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, A packaged food product comprising at least one food ingredient contained within the container of the packaged article.

15. The packaged food product according to claim 14, wherein the food material is a bulk solid, preferably a fluid bulk solid, and preferably a fluid powder.

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