Method for preparing tobacco products and tobacco liquid solutions

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for preparing a tobacco product (21), the method comprising the steps of providing raw tobacco (2) having a reducing sugar content of at least 4% by weight, mixing (7) the raw tobacco (2) with a first solvent (9) and infusing (10) the raw tobacco (2) with the first solvent (9), removing tobacco material (2a) to obtain an infused tobacco liquid (14), heating the infused tobacco liquid (14) to thereby evaporate the first solvent (9a) and caramelize (18) the reducing sugars, thereby forming a pre-caramelized tobacco product (20), drying (3) the removed tobacco material (2a) to form a cured tobacco material (5), and adding the cured tobacco material (5) to the pre-caramelized tobacco product (20) to form the tobacco product (21). The present invention also relates to a tobacco product (21), an aerosol-generating device comprising the tobacco product (21), a smoking article comprising the tobacco product (21), and an aerosolizable product for snus or chewing articles comprising the tobacco product (21).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for preparing a tobacco product, a tobacco product, an aerosolizable product for an aerosol generating device containing the tobacco product, a smoking article containing the tobacco product, and a snus or chewing article containing the tobacco product.

Background Art

[0002] In nicotine-containing consumer products such as aerosolizable products for aerosol generating devices (e.g., e-cigarettes), snus, chewing articles or conventional smoking articles, artificial flavorants are often used. Such artificial flavorants often have the drawback of delivering an unnatural and thus unsatisfactory taste experience.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a multi-purpose tobacco product that can be used in a variety of nicotine-containing consumer products, which eliminates this drawback and provides a natural and pleasantly sweet tobacco taste.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] This object is achieved by a method for preparing a tobacco product according to claim 1. This method comprises · providing raw tobacco having a reducing sugar content of at least 4% by weight, preferably, the reducing sugar content of the raw tobacco is measured in a separate measuring step, · mixing the raw tobacco with a first solvent and leaching with the first solvent, · removing the tobacco material to obtain a leached tobacco liquid, · heating the leached tobacco liquid, thereby evaporating the first solvent and caramelizing the reducing sugar, thereby forming a preliminary caramelized tobacco product, · drying the removed tobacco material to form a dried tobacco material, The process includes a step of forming a tobacco product by adding dried tobacco material to a preliminary caramelized tobacco product.

[0005] The preliminary tobacco product preferably has a syrup-like, jam-like, and / or honey-like texture.

[0006] Raw tobacco is defined as raw because it is derived from the reduced portion of dried tobacco (iron pipe drying, air drying, sun drying, or heat drying). It can be a tobacco blend containing different tobacco varieties without casing or flavoring.

[0007] A reducing sugar content of at least 4% by weight of raw tobacco ensures sufficient reducing sugars in the liquid tobacco product for the caramelization reaction. Preferably, the reducing sugar content of raw tobacco is measured in a separate, additional measurement step. The caramelization reaction converts reducing sugars from raw tobacco into caramelized sugars. The caramelized sugars achieve the desired sweetness of the tobacco product. During the mixing of raw tobacco with the first solvent and leaching with the first solvent, soluble substances such as nicotine, other alkaloids, flavorings, sugars, and reducing sugars are released from the raw tobacco and dissolve in the first solvent. With the removal of the tobacco material, only the remaining solid components are removed, along with substances that do not dissolve in the first solvent. The remaining liquid is the leached tobacco liquid.

[0008] When the leached tobacco liquid is heated, at least a portion of the first solvent evaporates. After the evaporation of the first solvent, the preliminary tobacco product may still contain a certain level of the first solvent. Preferably, the content of the first solvent in the preliminary tobacco product after evaporation is 0-20% by weight. During the heating process, the leached tobacco liquid thickens and becomes concentrated. This gives the preliminary tobacco product a honey-like or liquid viscosity. The taste is also enhanced. This is achieved by caramelizing the reducing sugars that are naturally present in the raw tobacco material. Due to the natural tobacco components and caramelized sugars, the desired natural sweet taste profile is achieved without any additives.

[0009] The removed tobacco material is dried. During drying, any remaining solvent of the first solvent in the removed tobacco material evaporates. Drying is preferably carried out immediately after the removal of the tobacco material. Drying is preferably carried out in parallel with the heating and caramelization of the leached tobacco liquid. After drying, the dried tobacco material is added to the preliminary tobacco product and preferably mixed. By adding the dried tobacco material to the preliminary tobacco product, the resulting final tobacco product contains an improved tobacco aroma. In addition, the removed tobacco material, which would otherwise have been discarded, is further utilized, thereby reducing the overall amount of waste.

[0010] The dried tobacco material may be ground before being mixed with the preliminary tobacco product. Grounding further reduces the particle size of the dried tobacco material. The reduction in particle size after grounding may be less than 2 mm, preferably less than 1.75 mm, and more preferably less than 1.2 mm. It is also conceivable to further reduce the particle size toward tobacco dust having a particle size of preferably 90-100 μm.

[0011] For example, before the dry tobacco material is mixed with the preliminary caramelized tobacco product, the preliminary caramelized tobacco product may be mixed with a second solvent to obtain a diluted preliminary caramelized tobacco product. This mixing can be carried out together with the mixing of the dry tobacco material into the preliminary caramelized tobacco product. It is also possible to first mix the preliminary caramelized tobacco product with the second solvent, and then subsequently mix the diluted preliminary caramelized tobacco product with the dry tobacco material. In other words, preferably, the second solvent is added to the mixture before, after, or simultaneously with the addition of the dry tobacco material to the preliminary caramelized tobacco product. Preferably, the solvent may be a polyhydric alcohol such as PG, VG, or water, or a combination thereof. In other words, the second solvent preferably includes water, or propylene glycol, or glycerol, or a combination thereof. The ratio of preliminary caramelized tobacco product to solvent may be 1:1 to 1:20, preferably 1:1 to 1:10 (by weight). This facilitates the mixing of the dry tobacco material and the diluted preliminary caramelized tobacco product.

[0012] Preferably, in this embodiment, the mixture comprises a preliminary caramelized tobacco product, dried tobacco material, and a second solvent. The total sugar content of the tobacco product is at most 5% by weight, preferably 0.1 to 2% by weight, and more preferably 0.2 to 1.5% by weight. These values ​​are wet-based results.

[0013] Preferably, the reducing sugar content of raw tobacco can be detected by a measurement step. The measurement step may include weighing the raw tobacco provided for a method of preparing a tobacco product. Preferably, a carbonization step is required after weighing the raw tobacco. More preferably, the carbonized raw tobacco is compatible with the extractant. During the mixing step, the carbonized raw tobacco can be diluted in the extractant. The mixing step can preferably be performed for at least 30 minutes. The ratio of raw tobacco, preferably carbonized raw tobacco, to the extractant may be 1:8 to 1:12, preferably 1:10 (by weight). The carbonized raw tobacco diluted with the extractant may be heated to a maximum of 50°C in a separate heating step. Preferably, the carbonized raw tobacco diluted with the extractant may be pre-filtered with a material having micropores. The pre-filtered carbonized raw tobacco diluted with the extractant is preferably analyzed by chromatography, preferably by high-performance liquid chromatography. In addition, the carbonized raw tobacco diluted with an extractant is preferably treated with ultrasound. Ultrasound has been found to be advantageous in providing a homogeneous liquid of diluted and carbonized raw tobacco. Preferably, the homogeneous liquid of diluted and carbonized raw tobacco is particularly suitable for chromatographic analysis. A calibration step is preferably required for the analytical step. Therefore, it is conceivable to calibrate the analytical instruments used for the analysis to a range of at least 4% to 9% with respect to the reducing sugar content. Preferably, the analytical step provides the total reducing sugar content of the raw tobacco. The analytical step may also provide the content of individual sugars in the raw tobacco, preferably such as disaccharides, oligosaccharides, and polysaccharides.

[0014] When the second solvent is added, the tobacco product has a honey-like or liquid texture, depending on the dilution ratio with respect to the second solvent.

[0015] A honey-like or liquid texture may be desirable for easier processing of several different products. Furthermore, tobacco products with this honey-like texture, and even preliminary tobacco products, refer to concentrated products that allow for more effective storage and transport.

[0016] According to one aspect of the present invention, the water content of the dried tobacco material may be 0 to 15% by weight, preferably 0 to 13% by weight. At this water content, the dilution of the tobacco product is not significantly affected by the dried tobacco material, and the dilution may be controlled by a taste-neutral solvent, thereby achieving the desired taste profile.

[0017] The removed tobacco material is preferably completely dried and added to the (diluted) preliminary tobacco product. The dried tobacco material may be mixed with the (diluted) preliminary tobacco product using a blender or mixer before being filled into containers (e.g., packaging containers, capsules, cartridges, sachets, etc.) or before being filled separately into containers without being mixed.

[0018] The preliminary tobacco product and the dried tobacco material may be mixed in a ratio of 1:6 to 3:1 (by weight), preferably 1:5 to 1:1. The given mixing ratio allows for the selection of a suitable viscosity and taste profile of the tobacco product, depending on the desired use of the tobacco product.

[0019] The removed tobacco material is roasted during or after drying. Roasting the removed tobacco material affects its aroma. In particular, roasting creates novel or additional aromatic compounds. During the roasting process, the removed tobacco material is also dried. Preferably, drying is carried out in a single process but precedes roasting. The aroma from roasting enhances the overall taste profile of the tobacco product, resulting in a stronger tobacco flavor.

[0020] Roasting may be performed at a temperature of 180°C to 260°C. This given roasting temperature ensures the proper formation of aroma by roasting. Preferably, the removed tobacco material undergoes at least partially the Maillard reaction and / or lignin pyrolysis during roasting. In contrast to roasting, drying is preferably performed at a temperature below 180°C. As an example, drying may be carried out at 116°C for 30 minutes.

[0021] The first solvent may be water, and the leached tobacco liquid may be heated to 100°C to 190°C. Since this given temperature is equal to or higher than the boiling point of water (100°C), water can evaporate. Depending on the reducing sugar type contained in the leached tobacco liquid, different temperatures may be required to promote the caramelization reaction, causing browning of the sugar and the progression of polymers such as caramelan, caramelene, and caramelin.

[0022] The reducing sugars that may be contained in the tobacco material at various concentrations, and their caramelization temperatures are as follows: · Fructose 110°C (reducing sugar) · Galactose 160°C (reducing sugar) · Glucose 160°C (reducing sugar) · Sucrose 160°C (non-reducing sugar) · Maltose 180°C (reducing sugar).

[0023] Preferably, the leached tobacco liquid is heated to at least 110°C. Alternatively, the leached tobacco liquid is heated to at least 160°C. The leached tobacco liquid is also heated to at least 180°C. The latter enables all the sugars contained in the liquid tobacco product to be caramelized, while the other two embodiments only enable the caramelization of some sugars. By selecting the heating temperature, the taste profile can be adjusted. During the heating process, the Maillard reaction may occur in parallel with the caramelization reaction of reducing sugars. This typically occurs at a temperature of 140 - 165°C.

[0024] Raw tobacco may contain up to 30% by weight of reducing sugars. This reducing sugar content ensures a desired amount of sweetness in the manufactured tobacco product. Preferably, raw tobacco contains a reducing sugar content of 7-10% by weight. This reducing sugar content provides an optimal taste profile. If the reducing sugar content in raw tobacco is less than 4% by weight, a significantly lower caramel sweetness is perceptible in the final product, which is undesirable as the sweetness of the final product is very important to achieve the desired taste profile.

[0025] A preferred embodiment of the preliminary tobacco product contains at least 1.5-6% by weight of nicotine, 6-15% of sugar and 14-20% of water.

[0026] Preferably, the raw tobacco is Virginia tobacco or an American blend tobacco mixture. American blend tobacco mixtures typically contain flue-dried Virginia tobacco, Oriental tobacco and Burley tobacco. Virginia tobacco contains a high sugar level. American blend tobacco contains a medium sugar level. Thus, both provide the desired sugar content in raw tobacco. By using different tobacco types or blends, different taste profiles of the tobacco product can be achieved. By using Virginia tobacco or its blends, a tobacco product with a caramel sweetness profile can be obtained. By using an American blend tobacco mixture, a spicier and licorice-like taste profile can be obtained. However, any tobacco type or blend having a reducing sugar content of at least 4% by weight is applicable to the present invention. Preferably, the tobacco can be Virginia tobacco, Burley tobacco, Oriental tobacco, shade tobacco, white Burley tobacco, wild tobacco, Latakia tobacco, brightleaf tobacco, fire-dried tobacco, flue-dried tobacco, air-dried tobacco, sun-dried tobacco, Perique tobacco, Cavendish tobacco, Criollo tobacco and / or Doha tobacco. Most preferably, the tobacco type or blend contains a reducing sugar content of 20% by weight or more, for example 24% by weight.

[0027] Raw tobacco may contain different parts of the tobacco plant material. Raw tobacco may include whole tobacco leaves, cut tobacco leaves, tobacco stems, tobacco pieces, tobacco scraps, tobacco fragments, tobacco powder, and tobacco dust, the latter of which may be by-products of tobacco cut filler production. This increases the yield from the tobacco plant material.

[0028] The raw tobacco may have a maximum particle size of 20 mm. Preferably, the maximum particle size is 2 mm, most preferably 1 mm. This upper limit on particle size ensures optimal extraction of soluble substances during leaching. This is because smaller particle sizes increase the overall surface area of ​​the raw tobacco, promoting interaction between the raw tobacco and the first solvent and increasing extraction efficiency. Preferably, the raw tobacco is crushed to obtain the desired particle size.

[0029] The mixture of raw tobacco and the first solvent preferably contains at least 10% by weight of raw tobacco. By using at least 10% by weight of raw tobacco, a sufficient concentration of soluble substances is provided in the leached tobacco liquid. Preferably, the mixture contains 11-17% by weight of raw tobacco. The resulting mixture preferably has a pulpy consistency. This is the optimal value for the leaching process.

[0030] The leaching of raw tobacco in the first solvent preferably lasts for at least 10 minutes, preferably 20 minutes, and especially preferably 1 hour, before the tobacco material is removed. This time interval ensures sufficient extraction of soluble substances from the raw tobacco into the first solvent. Preferably, the raw tobacco is leached in the first solvent at a warm temperature. Preferably, the warm temperature is 65°C. By leaching at a warm temperature, the leaching time can be reduced while obtaining the same extraction efficiency as with longer leaching times at room temperature.

[0031] Tobacco material may be removed by filtration. Filtration is a very easy process to apply. Filtration can be easily adjusted to specific processes. The pore size of the filter is selectable. This allows for adjustment of the filtration results according to process requirements.

[0032] The viscosity of the caramelized preliminary tobacco product may be between 10 Pa·s and 100 Pa·s at 60°C. This viscosity was measured using a Rheometer MCR 101 (Anton Paar) at a shear rate of 50 l / s. These viscosity values ​​provide a syrup-like, jam-like, and / or honey-like texture.

[0033] As already mentioned, the second solvent is preferably added to the mixture before, after, or simultaneously with the addition of the dry tobacco material to the preliminary caramelized tobacco product. By adding the second solvent, the viscosity of the tobacco product can be adapted to suit different manufacturing processes. The mixing with the second solvent can be carried out independently of the tobacco product production and adjusted to suit any subsequent manufacturing process. This ensures the versatile properties of the tobacco product. The tobacco liquid solution thus obtained is aerosolizable, except for the dry tobacco material. To promote the dispersion of tobacco particles in the liquid, the second solvent is preferably mixed with the preliminary tobacco product before the preliminary tobacco product is mixed with the dry tobacco material. In an alternative form of this embodiment, the tobacco liquid solution may be prepared by mixing the second solvent and the dry tobacco material with the preliminary tobacco product simultaneously. The resulting mixture is equivalent to the mixture obtained in the first alternative form. The latter alternative form is advantageous over the first alternative form when a complete production batch of the preliminary tobacco product is used to prepare the tobacco liquid solution. In this case, the manufacturing process can be accelerated due to the simultaneous execution of the two production steps. If the entire production batch of preliminary tobacco products is not used to prepare the tobacco liquid solution, the first alternative form is advantageous because the tobacco product batch can be easily divided into smaller batches, which then undergo their respective further processing.

[0034] Preferably, the viscosity of the tobacco liquid solution, i.e., the preliminary tobacco product mixed with the dry tobacco material and the second solvent, is 110 to 175 mPa·s at 20°C, preferably 120 to 165 mPa·s at 20°C.

[0035] The tobacco liquid solution, i.e., the preliminary tobacco product mixed with the dry tobacco material and the second solvent, may contain up to 5% by weight, preferably 0.1-2% by weight, and more preferably 0.2-1.5% by weight of sugar (wet-based results).

[0036] A preferred embodiment of the tobacco liquid solution, i.e., the preliminary tobacco product mixed with the dry tobacco material and the second solvent, contains 0.5-2% by weight of nicotine, 0.1-2% of sugar, and 5-15% of water (wet-based result).

[0037] Typically, about 70% by weight (dry basis) of nicotine content originates from the preliminary tobacco product during extraction, with about 5-10% by weight potentially lost during processing, and the remainder originating from the dry pulp material when incorporated into the preliminary tobacco product. Similarly, about 70% by weight (dry basis) of sugars originates from the preliminary tobacco product during extraction, with about 20% by weight potentially lost during processing.

[0038] Preferably, the second solvent includes water, propylene glycol, glycerol, or a combination thereof. Such a type of second solvent does not impair the natural properties and taste of the tobacco product.

[0039] The caramelized preliminary tobacco product may be diluted with the second solvent in a ratio of 1:1 to 1:20, preferably 1:2 to 1:10, for example, 1:5, 1:55, or 1:6, and preferably further mixed with the previously removed dry tobacco material after particle size reduction. This dilution yields a tobacco liquid solution. When the tobacco liquid solution is used in an aerosol generating device, the dilution ratio may be adjusted to obtain an optimal atomizing effect. The tobacco liquid solution is aerosolized when used in an aerosol generating device. This also means that the contained tobacco product, along with all its components except the dry tobacco material, is aerosolized. The second solvent may have a propylene glycol to glycerol ratio of 1:0 to 1:1. In one example, the second solvent contains 60% by weight of propylene glycol and 40% by weight of glycerol. In another example, the second solvent contains 100% by weight of propylene glycol. Preferably, in this embodiment, where the second solvent is mixed with the caramelized tobacco product, the amount of preliminary tobacco product in the tobacco liquid solution is a maximum of 20% by weight. Thus, the solubility limit is not exceeded. Preferably, the tobacco liquid solution contains 5-15% by weight of preliminary tobacco product.

[0040] Mixing 5% by weight of preliminary tobacco product with 40% by weight of propylene glycol and 60% by weight of glycerol produces a pleasant taste with a large smoking volume. The smoking taste texture is mild with an almond undertone. No leakage occurs in the aerosol generating device. Mixing 10% by weight of tobacco product with a solution of 40% by weight of propylene glycol and 60% by weight of glycerol produces a stronger taste. The taste is reminiscent of a dark roast espresso with a sweet undertone. The smoking taste texture is creamy, rich, and may have a slight throat irritation.

[0041] The total sugar content may be 15-75% by weight of the preliminary tobacco product diluted as a liquid solution (i.e., the preliminary tobacco product mixed with the second solvent before adding the dry tobacco material). Only at this sugar content in the tobacco liquid solution can the desired taste be achieved. If the sugar content in this solution is less than 15% by weight, a significantly low caramel sweetness will be perceptible in the final product, which is undesirable as the sweetness of the final product is very important for achieving the desired taste profile. Preferably, the sugar content in this solution is greater than 25% by weight. This ensures sufficient sweetness in the final product.

[0042] This objective is also achieved by a tobacco product containing at least caramelized tobacco sugar and insoluble tobacco particles having a particle size of less than 2 mm. The tobacco product possesses all the advantages already mentioned, along with a superior sweet, natural tobacco flavor. The tobacco product contains no additives.

[0043] Preferably, the tobacco liquid solution further comprises one or more components selected from the group consisting of alkaloids, essential oils, and combinations thereof. Thus, nicotine is also included as an alkaloid. These substances are naturally derived from raw tobacco during the leaching process. Alternatively, such natural substances may also be added to the liquid tobacco solution to further adjust the taste profile.

[0044] Preferably, the tobacco product also contains a solvent. The solvent can be used to adjust the viscosity of the tobacco product. The solvent makes the tobacco product equivalent to the tobacco liquid solution described above. The tobacco product containing the solvent, i.e., the tobacco liquid solution, is aerosolizable except for the dry tobacco material. When the tobacco product is aerosolized in an aerosol generating device, it provides sufficient volume and an immediate vaping effect. The aerosolized tobacco liquid solution provides a strong roasted flavor as a natural and balanced tobacco.

[0045] Preferably, the tobacco product containing the solvent, i.e., the tobacco liquid solution, has a viscosity of 110 to 175 mPa·s at 20°C. This viscosity is preferable for aerosolization.

[0046] The objective can also be achieved by an aerosolizable product for an aerosol generating device, which contains a tobacco product, i.e., a tobacco liquid solution, obtained by any of the methods described above. The aerosol generating device may be a liquid atomizer that atomizes droplets at ambient temperature, or an atomizer that evaporates an aerosol at the volatilization temperature of a second solvent. The aerosolizable product makes it possible to use the excellent natural sweet tobacco flavor of the tobacco product in any aerosol generating device. In particular, there is a huge demand for natural tobacco flavor and natural products for aerosolizable products, in contrast to widely available aerosolizable products that contain artificial flavorings. Preferably, the aerosolizable product also further contains natural flavoring substances. Preferably, the natural flavoring substances are eugenol and / or menthol. In this way, the distinctive taste of eugenol or menthol-containing cigarettes can be mimicked by the aerosolizable product. Preferably, the eugenol content is 1 to 8% by weight, most preferably about 6% by weight.

[0047] The aerosol generating device in this embodiment may also be a heated non-combustion device (T-vape) for an aerosolizable product containing reconstituted tobacco (RTB) together with a certain amount of tobacco product or containing an aerosolizable product as a main component in a porous sachet. It can be used as an additive to RTB. Alternatively, tobacco mousse can be mixed with tobacco product in a ratio of preferably 10:1, most preferably 5:1. For example, tobacco mousse can be obtained by mixing 20 g of mousse with 5 g of tobacco product. Tobacco foams or mousses are described, for example, in International Publication No. 2018122375. They may include tobacco component-containing agents and / or inhalable agents, aerosol-forming agents, foam stabilizers, and foam-forming agents. The weight of the tobacco component may be 0.1 to 33% by weight of the foam, and the weight of the aerosol-forming agent may be 10 to 80% by weight, preferably 40 to 70% by weight of the foam.

[0048] The use of tobacco products in heated non-combustion thermal devices (T-Vape) offers significant advantages. It provides a sufficient volume and immediate vaping effect with a natural tobacco flavor. Furthermore, the nicotine-total particulate matter (TPM) per puff is higher compared to conventional cigarettes. Tobacco mousse containing tobacco products enhances both flavor and vape delivery.

[0049] The objective can also be achieved by a smoking article containing a tobacco product obtained by any of the methods described above. The smoking article containing the tobacco product has a superior taste profile of enhanced tobacco flavor and sweet aroma. By using the tobacco product, the smoking article can be effectively flavored without the use of artificial flavoring agents. The overall product, although flavored, remains entirely natural and does not contain any artificially made additives. The tobacco product may be applied to either a smoking article containing the (2) solvent or a smoking article not containing the (2) solvent.

[0050] This objective can also be achieved by snus or chewing articles containing tobacco products obtained by any of the methods described above. This again highlights the versatility of tobacco products. Using tobacco products, snus or chewing articles can also be flavored in a natural and effective way without the need for artificial flavorings that provide a natural sweet tobacco taste. Here again, the tobacco product may be applied to snus or chewing articles containing the (2) solvent, or to snus or chewing articles that do not contain the (2) solvent.

[0051] Tobacco products obtained by any of the methods described above may also be used in T-vape sticks, T-vape rings, T-vape tips, in heat-non-combustion products, as natural flavor enhancers for cigarettes or other tobacco materials, as natural flavor enhancers for non-tobacco materials, as insect repellents, in foams, in candies, in chewing gum, in smoking cessation sprays, or in lipstick. Tobacco products may also be used to flavor tobacco in a primary or secondary process.

[0052] Tobacco products as described above, containing caramelized sugar and having a syrup-like, jam-like, and / or honey-like texture, may also be used in aerosol generating devices. For example, this product can be wrapped in porous paper. Preferably, this configuration can be used in a heating-non-combustion device.

[0053] In this application, a reducing sugar is any sugar that can act as a reducing agent because it has a free aldehyde group or a free ketone group. A reducing sugar is a monosaccharide. Total sugars mean reducing sugars, disaccharides, oligosaccharides, and polysaccharides.

[0054] Caramelization refers to the browning reaction obtained by heating or cooking sugar, which produces polymers such as caramelane, caramelene, and caramelin, which are responsible for the caramel flavor, as well as volatile compounds such as diacetyl and hydroxymethylfurfural.

[0055] Further advantages, objectives, and features of the present invention will be described in the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings, merely as examples. In the drawings, similar components in different embodiments may have the same reference numerals. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0056] [Figure 1] A schematic diagram of the process flow for the preparation method of tobacco product 21 is shown. [Figure 2] A schematic diagram of an alternative process flow for the preparation of preliminary tobacco products 20 and liquid tobacco solution 22 is shown. [Figure 3] A schematic diagram of an alternative process flow for the preparation of tobacco products 21 and liquid tobacco solution 22 is shown. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0057] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of the process flow of the method for preparing tobacco product 21. Raw tobacco 2 contains a minimum content of 4% by weight of reducing sugars and preferably a maximum content of 30% by weight of reducing sugars. Preferably, the reducing sugar content of raw tobacco is measured in an additional measurement step. Preferably, raw tobacco has a maximum particle size of 20 mm, preferably 2 mm, and most preferably 1 mm.

[0058] In the first step, raw tobacco 2 is provided. In the subsequent mixing step 7, the raw tobacco 2 is mixed with a first solvent 9 to obtain a tobacco-solvent mixture 8. The first solvent 9 is preferably water. The tobacco-solvent mixture 8 preferably contains at least 10% by weight of raw tobacco 2.

[0059] The resulting tobacco-solvent mixture 8 is then leached in a leaching step 10 for at least 10 minutes. Preferably, the tobacco-solvent mixture 8 is leached for 20 minutes, and more preferably for 1 hour. The leaching step 10 may also include heating the tobacco-solvent mixture 8 to 65°C. The leaching step may also be carried out at ambient temperature or at a temperature between ambient temperature and 65°C.

[0060] Following the leaching step 10, in the removal step 12, tobacco material 2a is removed from the tobacco-solvent mixture 8. The removed tobacco material 2a mainly consists of insoluble solid components. The removal step may include filtering, for example, using pressure or centrifugation, to remove tobacco pulp from the leaching liquid. The removed tobacco material 2a then undergoes drying and an optional roasting step 3. During drying 3, any remaining first solvent 9 in the removed tobacco material 2a is preferably removed. Drying and / or roasting 3 of the removed tobacco material 2a yields dried tobacco material 5.

[0061] The soluble components of the raw tobacco 2, or at least a large portion thereof, dissolve in the first solvent 9. The removal step 12 yields the leached tobacco liquid 14. The leached tobacco liquid 14 basically consists of the first solvent 9 and the soluble components of the raw tobacco 2. The leached tobacco liquid may also contain unfiltered insoluble tobacco particles.

[0062] The leached tobacco liquid 14 is then heated in a subsequent heating step 16. The leached tobacco liquid 14 is heated to 100-190°C. In this way, the first solvent 9a can be evaporated. Naturally, this evaporation of the first solvent 9a does not necessarily involve the complete evaporation of the first solvent 9 present in the leached tobacco liquid. Preferably, in the heating step 16, only a portion of the first solvent evaporates, and the second portion of the first solvent remains unevaporated. Alternatively, it is also possible to completely evaporate the first solvent from the leached tobacco liquid 14. In this case, the second portion 9b of the first solvent is absent, and the evaporated portion 9a of the first solvent is equal to the total amount of the first solvent 9. By performing the heating step 16 along with the evaporation of the first solvent 9a, a concentrated tobacco liquid 17 is obtained.

[0063] The concentrated tobacco liquid 17 is then further heated in a caramelization step 18. In the caramelization step 18, the concentrated tobacco liquid 17 is heated until the caramelization reaction of the reducing sugars present in the raw tobacco material begins. The concentrated tobacco liquid 17 is then further heated until caramelization occurs to the desired degree. Depending on the temperature to which the concentrated tobacco liquid 17 is heated, only certain reducing sugars may undergo the caramelization reaction, while other sugars may remain uncaramelized. In this caramelization step 18, a preliminary tobacco product 20 is formed. The caramelization step 18 alters the taste profile of the preliminary tobacco product 20 compared to the concentrated tobacco liquid 17 in terms of adding caramel sweetness to the preliminary tobacco product 20. The caramelization step 18 further alters the texture of the preliminary tobacco product 20 compared to the concentrated tobacco liquid 17. The resulting preliminary tobacco product 20 has a syrup-like, jam-like, and / or honey-like texture. The preliminary tobacco product 20 has a viscosity of 10-100 Pa·s when measured at 60°C.

[0064] Finally, the dried tobacco material 5 is mixed with the preliminary tobacco product 20 to obtain the tobacco product 21, also called the final tobacco product 21. Preferably, the dried tobacco material 5 and the preliminary tobacco product 20 are mixed in a ratio of 1:6 to 3:1.

[0065] Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of an alternative process flow for the preparation of preliminary tobacco products 20 and liquid tobacco solution 22.

[0066] Raw tobacco 2 is obtained by selecting and / or mixing at least one tobacco type 2b, 2c, 2d, 2e. If two or more tobacco types 2b, 2c, 2d, 2e are selected, the different tobacco types are mixed in desired proportions to form raw tobacco 2. The different tobacco types 2b, 2c, 2d, 2e may include different species of the tobacco plant, different dried tobacco types, other different forms of tobacco types, and / or different parts of the tobacco plant.

[0067] Prior to step 7, in which the raw tobacco 2 is mixed with the first solvent 9, the raw tobacco 2 can be crushed in step 4. This yields crushed raw tobacco 6. The crushing step ensures that the desired maximum particle size is achieved. The crushed raw tobacco can then be subjected to the same method for producing the preliminary tobacco product 20 as the raw tobacco 2.

[0068] The removal step 12 may be a filtration step. The removal step 12 may be membrane filtration, saturation, and / or pressurization. The pressurization step can be performed, for example, by pressurized filtration or centrifugation.

[0069] When the caramelization process 18 is carried out on the concentrated tobacco liquid 17, the Maillard reaction 19 and / or the lignin thermal decomposition reaction may occur simultaneously.

[0070] A preliminary tobacco product 20 can be used to produce a tobacco liquid solution 22. To do so, the preliminary tobacco product 20 obtained by any of the processes described above is mixed with a second solvent 24 and dry tobacco material 5. In other words, the tobacco liquid solution 22 is a mixture of the tobacco product 21 and the second solvent 24. The second solvent 24 contains water, propylene glycol, and / or glycerol. The tobacco product 20 is diluted with the second solvent 24 in a ratio of 1:1 to 1:20. The resulting tobacco liquid solution 22 is aerosolizable. The tobacco liquid solution 22 contains a total sugar content of 15 to 75% by weight. The tobacco liquid solution 22 contains caramelized sugar. The alkaloids further include alkaloids (preferably nicotine) and / or essential oils.

[0071] Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram of an alternative process flow for the preparation of tobacco product 21 and liquid tobacco solution 22. In contrast to the process described above, the liquid tobacco solution 22 is not obtained by simultaneously mixing the second solvent 24 and the dry tobacco material 5 with the preliminary tobacco product 20. Rather, the dry tobacco material 5 is first mixed with the preliminary tobacco product 20 to form the tobacco product 21. The tobacco product 21 is then diluted with the second solvent 24 to form the liquid tobacco solution 22. In an alternative example, the preliminary tobacco product 20 may first be diluted with the second solvent 24 and then mixed with the dry tobacco material 5. This alternative example has the advantage that the dry tobacco material 5 is easier to mix with the diluted preliminary tobacco product 20 due to the decrease in viscosity upon mixing with the second solvent 24. Another alternative example is to first mix the dry tobacco material 5 with the second solvent 24 and then add the preliminary tobacco product 20.

[0072] The process shown in Figures 2 and 3 includes optional steps. The optional steps are as follows: obtaining raw tobacco 2 by mixing different tobacco types (2b-3); crushing raw tobacco 2 4 to obtain crushed raw tobacco 6; and Maillard reaction and / or lignin pyrolysis 19.

[0073] Figure 3 includes an additional optional step, which involves mixing the tobacco product 21 with a second solvent 24 to obtain a tobacco liquid solution 22. If this step is omitted, the process will produce a tobacco product 21 without any further solvents, instead of the tobacco liquid solution 22. By selecting at least one or all of the optional steps, the manufacturing process can be adjusted to meet the specifications of a particular product.

[0074] The applicant reserves the right to claim patents for all features disclosed in this specification as essential features of the present invention, provided that all such features are novel individually or in combination in light of the prior art. Furthermore, it should be noted that the drawings depict features that may be individually advantageous. A person skilled in the art will immediately recognize that certain features disclosed in the drawings may be advantageous without incorporating any further features from these drawings. Furthermore, a person skilled in the art will recognize that advantages may develop from combinations of various features disclosed in one or more drawings. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0075] 2. Raw tobacco 2a Tobacco materials 2b~2e Tobacco type 3. Drying / Roasting Process 4 Grinding process 5. Dried tobacco materials 6. Crushed raw tobacco 7 Mixing process 8. Tobacco-solvent mixture 9. First Solvent 10 Leaching process 12 Removal process 14. Extracted tobacco liquid 16 Heating process 9a Part of the first solvent 9b Second part of the first solvent 17 Concentrated Tobacco Liquid 18 Caramelization 19 Maillard and / or lignin pyrolysis reaction 20 Preliminary tobacco products 21 Tobacco products 22 Tobacco liquid solution 24. Second Solvent

Claims

1. A method for preparing tobacco products (21), A step of providing raw tobacco (2) having a reducing sugar content of at least 4% by weight, The raw tobacco (2) is mixed with a first solvent (9) (7), and then leached with the first solvent (9) (10). A step of removing the tobacco material (2a) to obtain the extracted tobacco liquid (14), A step of heating the extracted tobacco liquid (14) to evaporate the first solvent (9a) and caramelize the reducing sugar (18), thereby forming a preliminary caramelized tobacco product (20), Step (3) to dry the removed tobacco material (2a) to form dried tobacco material (5), A step of forming a tobacco product (21) by adding the dried tobacco material (5) to the preliminary caramelized tobacco product (20), Includes, During drying (3), the removed tobacco material (2a) is roasted (3a), a method.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the moisture content of the dried tobacco material (5) is 0 to 15%, preferably 0 to 13%.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the dried tobacco material (5) and the preliminary tobacco product (20) are mixed in a weight ratio of 1:6 to 3:

1.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the roasting (3a) is carried out at a temperature of 180°C to 260°C.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the raw tobacco (2) contains a maximum content of reducing sugars at 30% by weight.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the viscosity of the caramelized preliminary tobacco product (20) is 10 Pa·s to 100 Pa·s at 60°C.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that a second solvent (24) is added to the mixture before, after, or simultaneously with the addition of the dried tobacco material (5) to the preliminary caramelized tobacco product (20).

8. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that the second solvent (24) comprises water, propylene glycol, glycerol, or a combination thereof.

9. The method according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the total sugar content is a maximum of 5% by weight, preferably 0.1 to 2% by weight, and more preferably 0.2 to 1.5% by weight, of the tobacco product (21) containing the second solvent (24).

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