Bag for mobile liquid supply to pets or people

Abstract

FIELD: packaging.SUBSTANCE: invention relates to a sachet for mobile supply of liquid to pets or people. The sachet has a shell and an internal medium enclosed in the shell. Moreover, the shell is formed from an edible membrane, and the internal environment is formed from a gelled liquid substance. Moreover, the maximum force for cutting the bag lies in the range from 1 to 24 N, and the total energy spent on cutting the bag lies in the range from 0.01 to 0.22 J.EFFECT: flexibility in use, ease of handling and transport.15 cl, 2 dwg, 2 tbl

Description

Field of technology

[0001] The invention relates to an edible sachet for mobile supply of liquid, in particular for dogs, according to the introductory part of independent claim 1 of the invention formula.

[0002] Often, the provision of dogs with fluids while on the move or in the mobile conditions of the dog owner's daily life, i.e., in particular, during walks and travels (vacation trips or day trips, including by car), as well as in other situations that require fluid intake (visiting a restaurant, city excursions, sporting activities with the dog owner, such as jogging, cycling or hiking, etc.), cannot be ensured sufficiently due to the lack of appropriate water sources or drinking bowls and / or due to the dog owner's ignorance of the problem of possible lack of water.

[0003] During walks, dogs are exposed to high levels of physical dehydration due to increased activity and strain on the musculoskeletal system, coupled with other limiting conditions, such as changing weather conditions. Furthermore, other stressful factors, such as the range of car rides, which may be associated with walking, also have a dehydrating effect on the dog's body.

[0004] Therefore, in addition to a stationary (main) water source (specifically, a water bowl or drinking bottle), it is essential to include a portable source of fluids in your dog's daily routine. Leaving a dog outdoors without a source of fluids can lead to significant dehydration, which can lead to poor health (physical and mental lethargy, fatigue), decreased vitality (both physiological and energetic), and symptoms of circulatory problems.

[0005] Very often, in the daily lives of dogs and their owners (the role of recognizing and satisfying needs), food intake is unconsciously more important than the equally important regular, constant, and sufficient fluid intake and consumption, both mobile and stationary. This can be explained, on the one hand, by a lack of education regarding the importance of both mobile and general, regular, and controlled fluid intake, and on the other hand, by the absence of a holistic, developed solution for mobile products that takes into account the correlation between the dog, the owner, and the environment, as well as the mobile environment. There is a close synergistic relationship between mobile and stationary fluid supply for dogs.This refers to the interconnected cycle of stationary fluid supply (the primary source of supply), which supports mobile fluid supply with preceding basic hydration, and mobile fluid supply (a situational additional source), which serves both for mobile hydrating quenching of acute thirst and as a supplement to stationary fluid supply in the sense of achieving daily quantitative requirements.

[0006] Furthermore, the problem of inadequate fluid supply is exacerbated by the rapidly growing number of first-time dog owners and their inexperience. Mobile provision of dogs with fluids using currently available methods for satisfying this need occurs, for example, in mobile settings, primarily in the form of conventional solutions, i.e., filled drinking bottles and / or portable (travel) dog bowls, and in some cases, using commercially available mobile transport containers, such as camping flasks and other combination systems. Prior Art

[0007] For example, document DE 202004 012452 U1 describes a drinking trough for holding and storing water that allows animals to drink without spilling in turbulent conditions. Two drinking troughs are installed one above the other, with the upper drinking trough having a shortened bottom for water combined with sloping side walls, through which the animal can reach the water at the bottom of the lower drinking trough with its tongue.

[0008] Furthermore, document US 10028484 B2 describes a portable travel mug and water tray combination used to store and dispense water for a dog to drink, allowing any unused water to be returned to the mug at a later date. For this purpose, the water container comprises an upper portion, a lower portion, and an internal recessed portion that allows the container to be compressed and water to be expelled from the container through a straw into the dog's bowl, while simultaneously providing sufficient rigidity to prevent the container from permanently deforming when compressed. Furthermore, this water container is designed to fit into a standard automobile beverage container and can be stored there.

[0009] However, such mobile transport containers, designed and offered as a combined system consisting of a portable water bottle, a drinking bowl, and an optional liquid dispenser, fail to meet the criteria of ease of use, encouragement, and a comprehensive understanding of the need for mobile hydration for dogs. Although these designs are fundamentally more functional and portable, the fundamental problem remains unsolved. Dogs must be accustomed to a new drinking vessel, and with this solution, a significant portion of the water may be splashed or swallowed, as with a stationary drinking bowl at home. This leads to water loss, and the remaining water / liquid must be poured out unused after a walk, leaving the dog without adequate hydration in a mobile environment.Thus, currently available mobile fluid intake is only marginally perceived as a reward by dogs due to the small difference and lack of need-based novelty.

[0010] Furthermore, when a dog is extremely thirsty, it may spit out more water / liquid than it can effectively absorb through the spoon-like drinking technique. Swallowing often occurs when drinking from such mobile transport containers, partly due to the fact that the aggregation state of "liquid (flowing)" or "too flowing / viscous (from slightly viscous to viscous)" is not optimally controlled, and due to the lack of pre-portioning in a specific quantitative ratio. Finally, the dog owner's efforts in preparation, transportation, and application on-site, as well as in hygienic cleaning of the container after use, are very significant, inconvenient, complex (labor-intensive), and time-consuming. Therefore, it can be argued that modern mobile solutions are not as mobile and not as solution-oriented as they initially appear.

[0011] This aspect is out of balance with the ever-increasing, emancipatory, and dynamic daily lives of many dog ​​owners, as well as with increasing urbanization, making the concept of "mobility" a must-have when walking dogs. Until now, the status quo of innovation hasn't integrated any existing product solutions for mobile hydration for dogs into the daily lives of dogs and their owners in a way that could be considered a solution that covers all areas of dog and owner needs, providing a basic product.

[0012] There is therefore a need for a mobile solution for supplying liquid that, in particular, also satisfies the sensory preferences of dogs and can be given as a reward treat in the form of a pre-prepared portion whole by hand and consumed by the dog.

[0013] Document XP055825015 describes a gel-like product for providing liquid to pets or dogs with a non-edible shell. It is a very hard gel, packaged in an 8-ounce (approximately 230 g) portion as a single gel block in a plastic tubular bag. For mobile use, the dog owner must first manually break the gel block into smaller mouth-sized portions. Without a directly attached edible shell, it is also impossible to use the low-gelling liquid, which can be crucial for rapid and complete release of the liquid from the three-dimensional gel network in the gastrointestinal tract. The low tensile strength of such a gel will cause it to rupture even under slight stress, potentially resulting in partial leakage.

[0014] On the other hand, a natural casing is mentioned in documents US 2020 / 0024044 A1 and XP055824539. Specifically, they describe a biodegradable, single-use packaging (container) made of plant-based bioplastic for the continuous consumption of energy gels, particularly viscous or flowable energy gels used in endurance sports (e.g., running or cycling). Generally, the packaging should contain 1-2 ounces (approximately 30-60 g) of a gel-like or other viscous liquid for immediate nutrient replenishment. Due to the corresponding viscosity, the filling material obviously always has predominantly flow properties. Such gel-like liquids, like most energy gels, are technically not gels, but rather liquids with a viscous consistency.

[0015] The objective of documents US 2020 / 0024044 A1 and XP055824539 is to improve the environmental friendliness of the material of single-use packaging for sports nutrition without special modification of the filler. The final product is ultimately comparable to the traditional single-use packaging method currently available on the market: tearing the side valve, squeezing out the liquid, and sucking it out before discarding. However, the package can be thrown onto the ground, where it decomposes under natural factors (e.g., rain) within a few days. Documents US 2020 / 0024044 A1 and XP055824539 do not specifically address the issue of complete consumption of the packaging and its contents. The use of an edible material is driven by the preferred use case, where the athlete tears off the valve with their teeth and can thus consume the torn valve without hesitation. An asymmetrical container shape would be less convenient for dogs.Similarly, the flexible, flexible texture of a filled package that is consistent with traditional administration will be less suitable for active ingestion and consumption by dogs.

[0016] As a result, dogs in their mobile daily lives are currently not getting enough healthy, refreshing, thirst-quenching, hydrating, tasty, nutrient- and mineral-rich liquid to meet their basic needs.

[0017] A dog's necessary fluid intake is especially important during the daily periods before bed and after waking due to the risk of dehydration at night, as well as before, during, and after morning, afternoon, and evening walks (as a preventative measure). Furthermore, it's important to consider the activity and strain on the musculoskeletal system, combined with environmental conditions, round-trip travel or long car journeys, as well as vacation trips or day excursions, which sometimes involve longer routes and, consequently, increased physical stress on the dog's body, which can lead to dehydration. Fluid intake is also necessary during and after feeding (depending on the type and composition of the main food and the frequency of feeding) to compensate for the amount of fluid lost and used by the body during digestion.

[0018] Seasonal variations in fluid intake should also be considered. Particularly on hot days, regular, adequate fluid intake is essential, regardless of location and time. Consideration should also be given to dogs that are constantly exposed to high levels of physical activity and have an active daily routine, such as working or service dogs. Dehydration caused by illness, such as diarrhea, fever, vomiting, kidney disease, or diabetes, should also be considered. Regular drinking throughout the day is essential, both in stationary and, especially, mobile settings, to achieve the minimum daily fluid requirement, in full consultation with the dog's owner. Indeed, adequate hydration has a positive effect on both the dog's physiological and energy status.

[0019] During the identification, discussion, and resolution of needs-related issues, it became clear that people perceive the satisfaction of a basic level of needs, regardless of time and place, according to Maslow's pyramid, as an automatic, natural process. As a result, dog owners, even if unconsciously or unintentionally, deprive their dogs of this need due to a lack of persistent explanations or a lack of shared solutions. Specifically, dog owners are unaware of how much fluid their dogs consume daily, whether stationary or mobile.

[0020] Therefore, the present invention is based on the problem of finding a solution for mobile supply of liquids to dogs, which is more flexible in use, easier to handle than in the case of known solutions, easier to transport, more satisfying, which is more responsive to the needs of both the dog and its owner, more integrated and positioned or controlled according to needs. Disclosure of the invention

[0021] According to the invention, the said object is achieved by means of an edible sachet for mobile liquid supply, in particular for dogs, which is defined in independent claim 1 of the invention. Preferred embodiments are specified in the dependent claims.

[0022] The essence of the invention is as follows: A pouch for mobile liquid supply, particularly to dogs. The pouch has a shell and an internal medium enclosed within the shell. The shell is formed of an edible membrane, and the internal medium is a gelled liquid substance.

[0023] The term "gelled liquid substance" covers in this case the textural properties of a non-flowing (i.e. no temperature-induced effect on rheological properties in terms of fluidity or viscosity), (firmly) held together, sometimes easily cut or retaining shape when cut, and also with a (soft) gel-like solid (hydrocolloid), provided, depending on the gelling agent used, with an individual molecular network.The molecular chains formed during the gelation process possess a high capacity to bind water or liquid. During the so-called phase transition from a "sol" (a two-phase system consisting of liquid and an added form of gelling agent) to a solid "gel phase" (a single-phase colloidal system formed at the individual gel solidification point), they enable the formation of a solid aggregate state that retains water or liquid while remaining firm, ranging from slightly mobile to immobile, and suitable for chewing and eating. Furthermore, the gelled liquid substance is capable, in particular, of releasing fluid in the gastrointestinal tract, as well as additives possibly present in the liquid substance, for additional functional resorption and absorption.

[0024] The term "sachet" in this document clearly refers to the entire product, i.e., the shell and the inner medium.

[0025] The term "edible" in this document means that dogs, in particular, can completely consume the sachet or (non)enzymatically digest it, i.e., without any harm to health. In principle, the sachet can also be used for other types of pets, particularly cats. However, its primary use is for dogs.

[0026] The edible membrane preferably has the functional characteristic of being insoluble in water. The term "insoluble in water" herein means, in particular, that the membrane does not dissolve or does not allow moisture to pass through when in contact with water or liquids or gels (containing moisture) (e.g., due to exposure to rain while walking), so that the moist contents inside it can be enclosed without damage, thereby achieving homogeneous adaptation of the gelled inner mass to the inner surface of the membrane shell in the process of so-called re-gelation (thermal post-treatment), i.e., repeated liquefaction (thermal reversibility) due to a heating step individually adapted to the gelling agent and subsequent repeated attainment of the gel solidification point.

[0027] However, the membrane should preferably be heat-resistant or thermally stable, such as resistant to boiling, baking, cooling, or freezing, so that it can withstand both hot summer and cold winter temperatures (during mobile applications), and should also withstand industrial stress. Furthermore, it is also desirable for the membrane to be biodegradable (i.e., a polysaccharide- or protein-based biopolymer).

[0028] Furthermore, the term "membrane" as used herein encompasses thin layers of material or fabric (such as a thin sheet, peel, film, or gel) that have a large surface area relative to their thickness and that separate two spaces (in this case, the internal volume of the sachet containing the internal medium from the external atmosphere). The membrane hermetically encloses the internal medium so that significant loss of the contents does not occur, which can be further ensured by the aggregation state of the (soft) gel-like solid enclosed within.

[0029] A gelled liquid substance, even in the form of low concentration spheres, due to its low water-binding and water-holding capacity, or gel strength, is surrounded by a membrane in a predominantly plastically stretched and stably cohesive manner and is brought into a uniform, unchangeable and dog-bite-resistant form suitable for the corresponding chewing load from the point of view of fracture mechanics.

[0030] The edible membrane preferably comprises a polymer, particularly preferably alginate. However, in principle, any other edible membrane substances based on plant (e.g. biopolymers (polysaccharides or proteins), such as plant-based synthetic casings), animal (e.g. animal proteins or polysaccharides or natural casings), synthetic or other edible and approved food sources and raw materials, sometimes formed using gelling agents used alone or in the form of synergistic stabilizer compositions (e.g. gelling agent / gelling agent, gelling agent / binder / thickener / starch, possibly also in combination with stabilizing additives) are also suitable. The membrane can also be formed using suitable thin sheets, films, gels or peels.

[0031] Thanks to the taut, durable, and stable texture of the polymer or alginate membrane, elastic in its original characteristics with respect to edible gelled liquids, the dog receives a bite-resistant product optimally adapted for the purposes of mobile liquid delivery in terms of its ability to absorb, control, chew, and consume it. In addition, the membrane provides a protective function, limited in time depending on the degree of disruption of diffusion openness, preventing possible drying out of the filled contents or the liquid bound in the gel network; this aspect is particularly effectively achieved through the use of a hydrocolloid, preferably a heat-stable stabilizer, such as the biopolymer agar-agar, in the form of a high-temperature gel melting point range of approximately 85°C and above.

[0032] Alginate-based membranes exhibit, for example, the property of diffusion openness. This means that if the membrane is exposed to oxygen and other environmental factors, this will directly impact the enclosed contents, as well as the overall textural characteristics. This can result in membrane looseness and a reduction in the amount of contents. This aspect is especially relevant when the contents are in a liquid or fluid state and, therefore, in a state where they can diffuse outward through the (alginate) membrane.Due to the fact that in the present invention a shell or encapsulation of a gelled liquid is selected as the internal medium, the membrane, despite its openness to diffusion, due to the physical stability of the internal medium, remains relatively taut under the active influence of oxygen and temperature (for example, outside the outer wrapper), while only a slight decrease in the amount of content occurs, less than would be the case in the case of a liquid or viscous content, given the limited incorporation of water or liquid into the molecular network (i.e., due to the physical stability of the internal medium).Furthermore, the "gelatinized" state of aggregation is a key technological parameter for the additional heat treatment associated with the production process to ensure the microbiological, physicochemical, and organoleptic stability of the product, given the high temperature barriers to achieving thermoreversibility in the sense of continuous liquefaction, as in the case of agar-agar, without significant volume loss, unlike runny or viscous liquids, without a significant loss of quantity, and without a decrease in pH, which is a distinguishing factor related to shelf life. Furthermore, if runny or viscous liquid substances are included in the composition, the elasticity prevalent in the basic texture of most membrane forms cannot be converted into a bite-resistant filling of the sachet shell and, accordingly, will be perceived by the dog as too soft, elastic, and flexible.

[0033] Due to the gelled internal environment and, among other things, the resulting strength and durability, the sachet according to the invention is technologically stable, taking into account its physical stability with respect to technological operations associated with the machine or production process, shelf life, logistics and use.

[0034] The membrane retains the introduced, preferably soft-brittle, gelled liquid substance with a high proportion of bound liquid (hydrocolloid), thereby significantly contributing to the resulting sachet texture. This ensures the dog owner flawless, sometimes hygienic (due to the preferably moist gelled coating of the hydrocolloid surface) dispensing of the sachet, without premature disintegration of the internal environment into individual, broken pieces of gel. Furthermore, the membrane ensures optimal oral absorption of the sachet without loss of contents due to the sharp structure of the teeth (particularly the incisors).

[0035] Finally, the membrane allows for a pre-measured (precise dosage) and dog-controlled volume of gelled liquid. The membrane's surface texture, taking into account the dog's eating and swallowing characteristics, is preferably designed to allow the dog to eat and swallow with minimal friction.

[0036] For alginate membranes, an agonist substance in the form of calcium chloride or calcium lactate (alginate gelled with calcium ions to form membrane networks (encapsulation)) is added to the alginate as a cross-linking solution during the membrane creation process. This allows for a particularly effective mesh structure to be achieved.

[0037] The alginate membrane is preferably based on an alginate paste, the properties of which depend on the mechanical application process and which contains a certain proportion of sodium alginate. Sodium alginate is the sodium salt of alginic acid and is extracted from brown algae (a type of seaweed). This alginate paste also contains a predominantly high proportion of bound water, which, given the percentage of the membrane in the sachet volume, can be excreted to a certain extent by the dog's gastrointestinal tract, i.e., in addition to the gelled liquid internal environment, and can then be resorbed and assimilated.

[0038] Sodium alginate is generally classified as a fermentable fiber and, in particular, does not have a negative impact on the health of dogs. Alginate as a raw material can, in principle, also exist in a state of aggregation other than paste. Alternative membrane materials with comparable properties can be used.

[0039] The edible membrane preferably has a thickness of about 0.05 mm to about 5 mm, preferably about 0.1 mm to about 2 mm, more preferably about 0.15 mm to about 1.5 mm, and even more preferably about 0.2 mm to about 1 mm. Thicknesses less than 0.05 mm may result in unwanted cracking or rupture of the membrane, and thicknesses greater than 5 mm will be less readily accepted by dogs. The membrane may be a single-, double-, or multi-layer casing.

[0040] The gelled liquid substance preferably comprises soups, broths or smoothies, as well as other variants of functional foods (Functional Foods), which in their initial aggregate state are fluid or viscous, animal-based, plant-based, vegetarian or vegan, or contains drinking water or food additives added to the liquid substance. In this document, a food additive means such additional products or raw materials that, regardless of their consistency, in combination with water or liquid are intended, in particular, to ensure fluid intake, in particular by dogs.This category also includes dietary supplements with naturopathic or homeopathic, vitalizing or nourishing, absorbent, healing, hygienic, or grooming effects for dogs, which are released gastrointestinally along with the fluid contained in the gel and are available for physiologically appropriate nutritional or targeted use (dissolution). Hydrogels, such as water-carbohydrate polymer composites, can be used as energy suppliers, as can oils, yogurt drinks, smoothies, juices, teas, or alternative liquid forms with comparable properties. Accordingly, both two-phase components (liquid and gelling agent) and three-phase components (liquid plus a functional substance, such as a homeopathic one, and a gelling agent) occupy a central position.

[0041] Preferably, the gelled liquid substance is converted into a gel using gelling agents, such as, in particular, agar-agar, gelatin, alginates, alginic acid, carrageenan, pectin, or tragacanth. However, in principle, any other gelling agents permitted for dogs (or gelling agents permitted for feed and feed additives) can also be used. The use of synergistic compositions of substances (i.e.,gelling agent as a base in combination with a binder and / or thickener, starches, emulsifiers, as well as gelling agents that can also be used as a binder and thickener (additive)), as well as the use of starches, binders and / or thickeners, such as, for example, locust bean gum, guar gum, arrowroot starch, psyllium, corn starch, potato starch, xanthan, gum arabic, tara gum, gellan gum, cellulose or casein, as well as any other starches, binders, thickeners and emulsifiers permitted for dogs (or permitted for food and feed additives).

[0042] These may be either individual substances from the gelling agent group or synergistic substances in the form of a "gelling agent / gelling agent" or "gelling agent / thickener / binder / starch" composition of substances, which are based on plant, animal, synthetic, or other edible and permitted food sources and raw materials. Regarding the structure of the inventive pouch for mobile liquid supply to dogs, it is particularly preferable to use agar-agar, a plant fiber, as a gelling agent stabilizing the hydrocolloid or (soft) gel-like solid.

[0043] Agar-agar is obtained from the outer cell walls of red algae. It is a fermentable plant fiber (cellulose) made from a colloidal group of biodegradable polysaccharides (biopolymer) and is not significantly digested or metabolized by the dog's body. Due to its fiber properties, the fiber does not directly penetrate the dog's metabolic and digestive system, thus allowing (mobile) fluid intake and supply to remain the focus of the product's intended function. Unlike other plant gelling agents that form a hydrocolloid, agar-agar does not exert any enzymatic or chemical (gastric juice, digestive enzymes) digestive effects on the release of fluid bound in the gel-like solid in the gastrointestinal tract. This is primarily due to the insensitivity of agar gels to pH and their acid resistance.Thus, the release efficiency is based on a low agar concentration (weight fraction based on the gelled liquid substance (internal medium), excluding the membrane) in the agar gel, which is retained and maintains its shape within the membrane, in combination with oral processing, corresponding to the mechanics of chewing in the dog's oral cavity (gel breakdown), and, in particular, with counteracting mechanical digestive or shearing forces in the gastrointestinal tract in the form of peristalsis, so that the liquid, which is (to a small extent) bound in the network, can be released during further continuous gel breakdown without repeated water-binding swelling during passage through the intestine. Agarose gels have the functional property of being able to release water or liquid under mechanical stress, for example, peristalsis of the digestive apparatus.Furthermore, one can also imagine other mechanisms of digestion and fluid release based on gelling agents that behave differently, such as gelatin (melting of gelatin gel fragments in the mouth; enzymatic breakdown and degradation of gelatin chains) or pectin (chemical but not enzymatic digestion, in terms of the destruction of the pH-sensitive network in the stomach with subsequent restoration of swelling capacity and water-binding activity in the intestinal tract).

[0044] The fibrous material exhibits the functional property of high-temperature thermoreversibility of the gelled internal environment, i.e., melting and liquefaction, only at temperatures above approximately 85°C. Conversely, the gel's solidification temperature is below approximately 40°C. This provides the optimal starting point for the criterion of maintaining (long-term) physical stability.

[0045] In addition, the internal media formed from agar-agar can be used in all temperature zones associated with daily life, which, above all, ensures flexible dynamic use while maintaining the texture of the bag in the mentioned mobile conditions, taking into account the (climatic) conditions of the environment.

[0046] The elasticity and strength of the gel in the context of the degree of twisting of the spirals to form aggregates (network) when using agar-agar also depend, in particular, on the concentration, temperature and duration of heating, as well as on the pH value of the added liquid substance that is to be converted into a solid gel. Therefore, the concentration of agar-agar must be adapted to the respective liquid substance depending on its pH, since a decrease in pH over time may lead to a risk of physical decomposition of the hydrocolloid. Preferred ranges of agar-agar concentrations (weight percentage of agar) for the said liquid substances are, for example, from 0.4 wt. % to 1.5 wt. %, preferably from 0.6 wt. % to 1.2 wt. % and particularly preferably from about 0.7 wt. % to 1.1 wt. %. The gel concentration for any other gelling agents used should be individually selected taking into account the parameters related to these gelling agents.

[0047] The main source of agar-agar (like the alginate shell) is seaweed (the outer cell walls of red algae). It is a mixture of two soluble fiber substances: agarose polysaccharides (up to 70%; responsible for the gelation process) and agaropectin (up to 30%). Due to the prebiotic effect attributed to agar-agar as a fermentable fiber, it effectively reduces the number of harmful intestinal bacteria, thereby improving the dog's intestinal health.

[0048] This takes into account that the liquid bound in the internal environment of agar-agar, such as bone broth, rich in nutrients and minerals, enters the digestive system (gastrointestinal tract) after ingestion, primarily through physical digestive interaction with oral processing, respectively, the mechanics of chewing in the dog's oral cavity (the initial opening of the gel), as well as, in particular, with counteracting mechanical digestive or shearing forces in the gastrointestinal tract in the form of peristalsis, so that the liquid (loosely) bound in the gel network can be made available, with further continuous breakdown of the gel, without repeated water-binding swelling during passage through the intestine. Furthermore, nutrients, minerals, and trace elements that may be contained in the bone broth or in supplements enclosed in the liquid can be absorbed and assimilated.Agar-agar is approved by both the Association of American Feed Inspectors (AAFCO) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), has no maximum limit (ADI value, i.e., Acceptable Daily Intake) for food and feed, and is considered safe for use in animal feed. Similarly, the risk of a laxative reaction due to a potentially excessive dosage of agar-agar in a sachet is negligible, given the small mass of agar added.

[0049] In addition, ready-made packaged gelled products / substances, as well as products / substances that sometimes have a secondary property of a liquid donor, can also be used within the framework of the present invention.

[0050] In order to qualitatively and sustainably ensure the essential criteria of the requirements and the sought-after functional, textural and consistency-related properties of the sachet according to the invention in connection with the target area of ​​use for dogs and their owners, the inclusion of a gelled liquid substance or a gel-like liquid product was chosen as the form of execution most effectively adapted to the group of users and consumers.

[0051] One of the criteria here is the hermetic seal of the sachet, ensuring that the gelled liquid product—that is, the internal environment—does not leak, especially when the dog exerts force during the capture process or when the owner manipulates the product. This is ensured by the use of a gelled liquid substance with its homogeneous, non-flowing texture and the stability of a gel or hydrocolloid, as well as by the plastically cohesive and cut- and bite-resistant textural properties of the entire sachet.

[0052] Using purely liquid or viscous (liquid) substances will not result in a full, stable, and bite-resistant pouch with an impermeable membrane. Furthermore, this would reduce or even cause the dog to resist food acceptance and preference. Furthermore, due to the sharp structure of the dog's teeth, which it uses for grasping and eating, the risk of leakage and loss of liquid, for example, in the event of a membrane rupture, would be very high. Filling with a (soft) gel-like solid (i.e., a gelled liquid substance) is aimed at producing a spatially dense and hermetically sealed pouch, thus allowing for a similarly closed and molded pouch design.By ensuring the physical stability of the sachet, it is also possible to effectively counteract the potential effects of membrane elasticity and diffusion openness, which can lead to membrane sagging and drying out of the substance within. This could, in particular, directly impair pre- and oral ingestive control, chewing, and eating.

[0053] The strength of the plastic sachet, achieved by filling it with a gelled liquid, ensures durability and, depending on the specific application, stability during handling (transportation) and when the dog is given to the dog by the owner. Furthermore, gelled liquids have a cooling effect and are beneficial in that they refresh the mouth, especially on hot summer days (the refreshing effect also contributes to the psychological perception of thirst quenching) and can be associated with liquid. The dog guides the sachet through the incisors and canines into the mouth and opens or activates the release of the refreshing moist gel by controlled biting with the premolars.

[0054] The flexible filling of the pouch with a gel-like liquid substance ensures effective intake, control, chewing, and consumption, tailored to dogs. The intended bite resistance, associated with the destruction of the membrane lining in the mouth during oral administration, is achieved by a combination of a membrane or alginate lining and a brittle, soft-to-chew, but preferably slightly bite-resistant substance that is released after the bite. This has created the first liquid food that dogs can consume. Combined with its texture, the pouch's highly varied organoleptic properties create a completely new experience for dogs, combining bite resistance with a soft, gelatinous feel and a pleasant cracking sensation.

[0055] The use of a gelled liquid substance ensures the necessary strength of the sachet. Even if the sachet accidentally falls to the ground when the owner gives it to the dog during the dog's grasping behavior, the sachet will not burst, tear, or become deformed. Even if the membrane casing ruptures, the contents (hydrocolloid) retain their gel-like form, as described above, and there is no loss of the internal environment, unlike with a runny or viscous liquid.

[0056] Although dogs naturally pick up food components or rewarding treats from the floor during their mealtimes, this is easily eliminated with the inventive pouch. Even if the dog bites through the pouch and swallows it in several swallows, this problem is prevented by the gelled interior. The concentration of the gelling agent determines the nature of the breakdown of the interior, preventing it from disintegrating into individual, too small, and / or too numerous gel pieces upon initial mechanical contact, such as chewing.

[0057] Furthermore, swallowing, which regularly occurs during stationary fluid intake and with existing mobile fluid supply solutions for dogs, is eliminated by encapsulating the gelled liquid within a membrane or alginate shell with a low friction coefficient. The cause of swallowing during stationary fluid intake is the incorrect direction of the liquid, which, when extremely thirsty, is quickly sucked into the dog's windpipe.

[0058] Thanks to the pouch's targeted composition, texture, stability, and bite resistance, the dog associates most of the sensations of grasping it with what it's accustomed to, like a regular treat or snack, and therefore perceives the pouch primarily as a reward (stimulant effect) for fluid intake. This revolutionizes fluid intake, even for dogs who are "lazy" about drinking, as the process of chewing or eating combines fluid provision (hydration) with the release of fluid in the gastrointestinal tract (resorption) and stress (digestion). Ultimately, the difference from traditional, often fatty and calorie-laden treats currently on the market lies primarily in meeting dogs' basic need for fluid intake, which is also rewarded during consumption.

[0059] An internal medium in the form of a non-flowing, cohesive, sometimes cuttable or cut-resistant, and, depending on the gelling agent used, provided with an individual molecular network of a (soft) gel-like solid (hydrocolloid) enclosed within a membrane (preferably alginate) represents a form of embodiment that can optimally cover and satisfy the need for a medium in a mobile liquid supply, primarily for a dog, but also for its owner.

[0060] The volume of the bag is preferably in the range of about 2 cm 3 up to approximately 35 cm 3 , preferably from about 2.5 cm 3 up to approximately 30 cm 3 , more preferably from about 2.8 cm 3 up to approximately 25 cm 3 , more preferably from about 3 cm 3 up to approximately 20 cm 3 and even more preferable from about 5 cm 3 up to approximately 15 cm 3 .

[0061] The bag should preferably be shaped like a sausage, a pouch, an oval, or an elliptical shape to ensure the dog can grasp it effectively. However, spherical, cubic, triangular, and other shapes are also possible.

[0062] The design shape depends primarily on the process of capture, control, chewing and digestion, combined with the anatomical features of the dental system and the structure of the dog's teeth, which will be briefly described below.

[0063] A dog's canine teeth, also known as eye teeth, are long and pointed. They are located behind the incisors at the front of the dog's mouth. They are used by dogs to grasp and hold existing and presented food and to firmly hold the object in the mouth. Between the canine teeth are the incisors, which are noticeably smaller. The incisors are used to grasp smaller, more controlled pieces of food.

[0064] Premolars, the chewing teeth, are used by dogs to chew very hard food and to crush or break it into smaller pieces. Premolars are also very sharp and covered with hard enamel. They are located at the back of the jaw.

[0065] Thanks to the flexible, firmly gelled, stably filled and cohesive shape of the bag, especially in the form of a sausage, pouch, oval or ellipse, the dog has a larger gripping surface compared to other geometric shapes, such as a spherical shape, for gripping with incisors and canines, and can, if necessary, optimally transfer it to the premolars in the mouth thanks to the long flat surface of the bottom of the bag formed during the manufacturing process, and portion it for the eating process.

[0066] This shape, combined with a stable and bite-resistant structure, allows the dog to grasp (firmly gripped by the fangs), chew, and consume the pouch in a controlled manner, even during dynamic movement. Furthermore, this shape is adapted to the typically elongated, flat shape of a dog's mouth, making it more comfortable for the control and consumption mechanism.

[0067] For the dog owner as the giver, a sausage-shaped, pouch-shaped, oval-shaped, or elliptical bag is also more effective in terms of ease of placement and delivery. Furthermore, by providing the dog with the usual stages of grasping, controlling, chewing, and eating, it encourages the dog to portion out the bag for consumption in advance, eliminating the risk of swallowing the bag whole. This cannot be guaranteed to the same extent, for example, with a spherical shape due to the difficulty of grasping and controlling the contents in the mouth, as well as the significantly smaller surface area for grasping and chewing. Furthermore, the proposed shape ensures a high level of interaction between the owner and dog regarding the reward tool.

[0068] Next, other texture-related parameters of the sachet according to the invention will be discussed.

[0069] Preferably, the maximum cutting force of a pouch formed, for example, from the above-mentioned substances is from about 5 N to about 25 N, preferably from about 6 N to about 15 N and more preferably from about 7 to about 10 N and / or lies in the range from about 1 N to about 24 N, preferably from about 2 N to about 20 N, more preferably from about 3 N to about 15 N and even more preferably in the range from about 4 N to about 9 N. The measurement of this strength parameter was carried out by cutting several samples with Werner Brazier scissors, and the maximum force required to cut the sample was measured. The results indicate that the pouches have a desired lower bite resistance than, for example, a Viennese sausage, for which the corresponding maximum force is about 38 N.A Vienna sausage is included here for comparison purposes only during mechanical texture analysis to illustrate the properties of the inventive pouch. The sample temperature in each case was +11°C.

[0070] Furthermore, the total energy expended in cutting a pouch formed, for example, from the above-mentioned substances, is preferably in the range of from about 0.05 J to about 0.25 J, preferably from about 0.1 J to about 0.2 J, more preferably from about 0.125 J to about 0.15 J and / or from 0.01 J to 0.22 J. The measurement of this strength was carried out by transversely shearing several samples using Werner Brazier scissors, whereby the total energy required for cutting was measured. This shows that such pouches deliberately have a significantly lower overall strength or a significantly lower chewing force than the comparative Vienna sausages, for which the corresponding total energy is about 0.3 J.

[0071] Furthermore, the peak force for the first compression of the sachet formed, for example, from the above-mentioned substances, to 50% of its height is preferably from about 3 N to about 25 N, preferably from about 5 N to about 15 N, more preferably from about 9 N to about 12 N, even more preferably from about 10 N to about 11 N; and the peak force for the second compression of the sachet to 50% of its height is preferably from about 0.05 N to about 6 N, preferably from about 1 N to about 5 N, more preferably from about 2 N to about 4 N, and even more preferably from about 3.0 N to about 3.3 N. In this texture profile analysis (TPA) using an Instron 3365 texture measuring instrument (Instron Corp. Ltd, USA), several samples are cut into 1 cm high cylinders and placed on a plate. Then a stamp with a pressure plate larger than the cylindrical sample is moved onto the sample from above and presses the sample to 50% of its height (5 mm).The stamp is then pulled back 5 mm, and then pushes the sample a second time, 5 mm further, before returning to its original position. This allows for particularly effective determination of the elasticity of such samples. As a result, the force required to compress the sachet sample the second time is significantly less than that measured the first time. Again, for comparison purposes only, the force required to compress the Vienna sausage sample the second time is always over 80% of the force determined in the first measurement; for the sachet, by contrast, the force is on average approximately 33%.

[0072] It is preferable that the cohesivity index of the sachet formed, for example, from the above-mentioned substances, is from about 0.01 to about 0.4, preferably from about 0.03 to about 0.3, preferably from about 0.05 to about 0.2, and more preferably from about 0.06 to about 0.10. Cohesivity indicates how well the product withstands the second deformation compared to its resistance to the first deformation. In this case, the area under the curve (J) during the second compression is divided by the area under the curve (J) during the first compression. Cohesivity also indicates a very plastic texture of the gelled liquid substance, the shape of which is maintained by the surrounding membrane shell of the sachet. The combination of a membrane shell and a gelled liquid substance as an internal medium creates the desired textural properties of a plastic, tightly stretched and reliably stable (e.g. bite-resistant) and at the same time (gel-like) soft, chewable structure.

[0073] A cohesive index of 1 means the specimen behaves 100% elastically, and therefore the energy required remains constant under repeated loading. For comparison, a Vienna sausage has a cohesive index of approximately 0.5.

[0074] It should be noted that the slight elasticity of the pouch is due to the combined composition of the membrane and the gelled liquid substance. This property is desirable for the pouch according to the invention, as it results in a consistently stable and consistently flexible pouch shape, both in terms of functional properties for optimal handling by the dog owner and in terms of the pouch's firm centering and controllability during its grasp by the dog and right up until the chewing and consumption.

[0075] On the other hand, elasticity would lead to excessive mobility of the sachet, which would, firstly, create a risk of insufficient gel degradation with respect to the gel-like solid contained in the sachet due to excessively high ultimate elongation, and secondly, with respect to the enclosing membrane, there is a risk of excessive expansion of the surrounding membrane, which could lead to a texture-induced membrane sagging effect. For example, both the alginate shell and the hydrocolloid obtained from agar-agar, taken separately, exhibit an elastic structure (in the case of agar gel, depending on the weight fraction of agar, it is preferable for the sachet to have a less elastic, i.e., predominantly brittle, agar gel texture, even regardless of the membrane shell) and fracture-mechanical structural properties; however, when these two elements are combined, they are transformed into the physical properties already discussed above.The desired low ultimate elongation at break for the sachet according to the invention, i.e. the elasticity (attributable to the low weight content of agar, for example, from 0.7 to 1.1 wt.%) of the soft-brittle gel-like solid substance contained therein, also makes it possible to facilitate the mechanical deformation of the gel, while the cohesion of the gel is maintained during chewing and subsequent swallowing.

[0076] The stickiness of a sachet, which is formed, for example, from one of the above-mentioned substances, is preferably from about 0.03 N to about 11.0 N, preferably from about 0.3 N to about 10.0 N, more preferably from about 0.5 N to about 3.0 N, and more preferably from about 0.7 N to about 1.0 N. Stickiness is usually measured only on semi-solid products and can be used as a parameter describing the energy required to crush a sample during chewing. Stickiness is calculated as the product of hardness and cohesivity. The values ​​for such a sachet again demonstrate brittle and less elastic behavior, since only very low energy costs are required to compress the sample to 50% of its height.Marked fragility is sometimes an important parameter of mechanical texture due to the dynamic behaviour of the gel during breakdown, which is highly dependent on gastrointestinal, physical digestive action for (faster) peristaltic fluid removal.

[0077] The above values ​​for maximum force, total force energy, peak force, cohesiveness index, and stickiness, obtained from texture analysis studies, indicate that the corresponding pouches preferably have a cut-resistant but gel-like, soft texture that is very easy to chew, particularly for dogs. Compared to a Vienna sausage, the pouch's bite resistance is approximately 20% of that of the latter. If the elasticity of a completely elastic sample is taken as 1, the elasticity of the pouch will preferably be very low and may be close to zero.

[0078] It follows that a gelled liquid substance, even at low concentrations and with low water-binding and water-retaining capacity, preferably has a highly plastic, brittle, and yet stably cohesive internal structure, which is held in place by the surrounding membrane, preventing the (soft) gel-like solid from escaping. After biting and orally rupturing the membrane, the escaping internal medium can be easily chewed and pre-broken into smaller gel pieces in a specific ratio for the upcoming digestion process.A membrane adapted to a homogeneous gelled inner content, surrounding or tightly adhering to it, provides the product with application- and technology-specific stability and strength, as well as stability and strength in the context of fracture mechanics and movement in relation to the application area of ​​​​edible mobile liquid delivery and reception, in particular by a dog, which, in particular, also makes the membrane easy to process and technologically stable under further loading conditions (packaging, thermal printing, transportation, touching, pressing).

[0079] It should be noted once again that the conventional Viennese sausage was used here solely as a measuring scale for orientation in interpreting the textural properties specified for the sachet, as the sachet according to the invention represents an entirely new type of product structure. Otherwise, the Viennese sausage falls into a completely different field of application and exhibits significantly different physical properties compared to the sachet according to the invention.

[0080] Further, the sachet preferably has a length of from about 2 cm to about 10 cm, preferably from 2.5 cm to 9 cm, more preferably from 2.8 cm to 8 cm, more preferably from 3 cm to 7 cm and even more preferably from 4 cm to 6 cm, and preferably has a diameter of from about 1.0 cm to 3.0 cm, preferably from about 1.2 cm to about 2.5 cm, more preferably from about 1.5 cm to about 2.3 cm, more preferably from about 1.6 cm to about 2.2 cm and even more preferably from about 1.7 cm to about 1.9 cm. The size of the sachet depends primarily on the size of the dog. The length is indicated after deducting any twisting points that may be present on both sides of the sachet (for example, in the case of a coextrusion system with a twisting function).

[0081] In one example of a particularly preferred embodiment in the form of a first standardized variant of a sachet, it has a volume of approximately 10 cm 3. Particularly preferred is also the shape of a sachet in the form of a sausage, a pouch, an oval or an ellipse, wherein a diameter of approximately 18 mm and a length of approximately 50 mm (or 55 mm from one twist point to the other) are particularly preferred. The portion weight of the sachet, i.e. the alginate membrane (e.g. shell thickness 0.2 mm) and the liquid substance gelled with agar-agar (e.g. 0.9 wt. % agar) (e.g. minimum volumetric liquid content 10 ml), is approximately 10.7 g (arithmetic mean). In this embodiment, the weight of the alginate membrane is approximately 0.6 g (taking into account the moisture bound in the alginate membrane). Thus, the gelled liquid contained in the sachet, with a content weight of approximately 10.1 g and also after deducting the agar concentration of 0.9 wt. %, amounts to approximately 10 g of pure liquid liquid available to the dog's body. Thus, the liquid weight fraction in this example is at least approximately 90% (of the total weight of the sachet).For the sachet according to the invention, smaller liquid weight fractions of at least about 70%, or larger liquid weight fractions of at least about 95%, are also permissible.

[0082] The sachets according to the invention can be produced, for example, using a coextrusion system with a leak-free twisting function. Another option is to completely seal or encapsulate the material with a suitable sealant, which eliminates twist points or seams. However, in principle, any mechanical, mechanical-technological, or manual manufacturing methods are possible that produce the shell and achieve a hermetic seal (edible membrane) around the internal environment (gelled liquid substance).

[0083] The table below provides approximate daily food and fluid requirements for dogs weighing 5, 10 and 20 kg for reference:

[0085] The pre-measured sachets of the present invention are preferably designed, with respect to the amount of liquid absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and digested from the gelled inner content or hydrocolloid (internal medium), so that the dog receives neither too little nor too much liquid per administered portion, and so that the number and frequency of sachets can be individually and independently selected by the dog owner based on the needs of the respective dog and any external influencing factors (ambient temperature, activity level, etc.). Compared with a conventional reward treat, the sachet for mobile supply of liquid to a dog has a large content volume and, thus, a higher benefit curve.

[0086] The following will briefly describe the causes and consequences of insufficient fluid intake in dogs. The basis for this discussion is behavioral problems associated with overall fluid intake in dogs.

[0087] One of the reasons for insufficient fluid intake is primarily the general inactivity of dogs regarding drinking. Another common cause is a lack of awareness among dogs and their owners about regular and sufficient fluid intake or about its supply and monitoring, especially in the mobile environment of a dog's daily life. This is also due to a lack of awareness of the potential health consequences and long-term behavioral changes that occur with insufficient fluid intake or supply.

[0088] Furthermore, the high demands of activity and the associated high need for movement lead to decreased hydration (fluid balance) in the body, resulting in decreased vitality and lethargy in dogs. Also noteworthy is the lack of taste and odor in tap water, which results in a lack of incentive to drink, as well as the presence of lime in tap water, which often leads to intolerance and abstinence from drinking.

[0089] Furthermore, older dogs and dogs with behavioral disorders are very difficult to retrain, especially regarding conscious, beneficial, enjoyable, and motivating fluid consumption, which previously did not exist. Therefore, the dog may drink, for example, from dirty puddles or ponds in mobile "walking" environments or not drink at all. External (behavioral) drinking behavior disorders, such as mirror reflection or noise from stationary water bowls, such as aluminum ones, or the off-putting smell of plastic in mobile transport containers, are also reasons for abstaining from drinking.Another aspect that should not be underestimated is the lack of connection between reward and mobility, since, according to the current status quo of available product solutions, mobile drinking and delivery of liquid is not a reward from either the dog's or the owner's perspective, and therefore does not provide a mobile tool with which the dog owner can encourage and remind the dog to drink regularly.

[0090] With currently available mobile fluid delivery solutions for dogs, dogs exhibit the same behavior as with stationary fluid delivery, in that they don't perceive it as a rewarding, differentiated tool. The invention described herein pioneers the concept of "ready-to-eat (mobile) fluid delivery" products for dogs.

[0091] The purpose of the sachet according to the invention is not to shut off or replace a dog's stationary fluid supply, but to provide an effective supplemental product for covering the required amount of fluid consumed by a dog per day and to introduce it for the first time as a mobile source of hydration for dogs and dog owners in the mobile conditions of everyday life. Furthermore, the composition of the sachet (e.g., a salt-containing fraction of calcium chloride in a cross-linked alginate membrane and a salt content adapted to the dog's body in an exemplary embodiment with bone broth), taking into account the frequency and number of sachets consumed by the dog per day, is aimed at potentially stimulating the dog to intensify its stationary fluid intake.

[0092] Finally, it is also necessary to consider the complexity of parameters, taking into account individual differences in the amount of daily fluid requirement, as well as, among other things, situational changes in the amount required by the dog (for example, if the activity level and / or ambient temperature increases, then the fluid requirement also increases). This primarily includes parameters such as body size, weight, temperature (season), age, exercise requirements (activity in mobile conditions), fluid loss due to dehydration disorders or clinical symptoms (diarrhea, kidney disease, fever, diabetes mellitus, etc.).) and the liquid or moisture content of the respective food type (wet food, dry food, or species-appropriate raw food), or the amount of liquid added manually, for example, in the case of dry food, and the liquid-absorbing components present in some types of food, as well as the daily feeding frequency. Furthermore, it is a fact that dogs do not or cannot achieve the minimum fluid requirements in their daily life, as well as the hydration needs that arise when used in everyday mobile conditions.

[0093] Regular, adequate, and controlled fluid intake, including a direct correlation between mobile and stationary hydration, is of paramount importance for dogs. The basic need for adequate, regular fluid intake is essential for the vital functions (well-being) and health of dogs, as water, or liquid, combines numerous functional properties. It is essential for most bodily processes, as a dog's body is 70-80% water. Fluid supply is also necessary for dissolving food components in the digestive tract, for transporting important nutrients from the intestinal tract through the bloodstream to the tissues, and is also responsible for cellular metabolism and the excretion of substances in the urine via the kidneys.

[0094] Furthermore, fluid intake regulates body temperature and thus serves to quench thirst, which occurs during intense physical exertion or when a dog is exposed to high temperatures. This serves to quench thirst and stabilize blood circulation. In hot weather, dogs need to drink fluids approximately every 30 minutes. This need becomes even more pressing in mobile settings, such as during long walks. This can lead to acute thirst, which can be effectively quenched or prevented with the sachet according to the invention.

[0095] The positive effects of adequate fluid supply in dogs that can be achieved in this way include continued hydration, mobility, vitality, enhanced physiological and energetic health, support for digestion, increased circulation, and overall improvement of the dog's body processes.

[0096] Furthermore, the sachet according to the invention is also suitable as a carrier medium (for incorporating and dissolving the active ingredient), particularly for liquid or powdered veterinary products. Furthermore, if desired, tablets can also be pressed into the gelled internal medium to facilitate administration by the dog owner.

[0097] The invention of the "pouch" makes mobile fluid intake for dogs hydrating, thirst-quenching, refreshing, (pre)orally controlled, beneficial, and always available to the dog in a mobile environment. The pouch provides fluid supply to dogs with a simple, convenient (mobile), and flexible supply tool controlled by the dog's owner, located in a single environment. Brief description of the drawings

[0098] Additional advantageous embodiments of the invention will follow from the following description of exemplary embodiments of the invention in schematic drawings. In particular, the sachet according to the invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings of exemplary embodiments. In the drawings: Fig. 1: a sectional view of the sachet according to the invention and Fig. 2: a side view of the sachet according to the invention. Methods for carrying out the invention

[0099] Certain expressions may be used in the following description for practical reasons and should not be construed limitingly. The words "right," "left," "bottom," and "top" designate directions in the drawing to which reference is made. The expressions "inward," "outward," "below," "above," "left," "right," or similar expressions are used to describe the location of designated parts relative to each other, for the movement of designated parts relative to each other, and for directions toward or from the geometric center of the subject matter of the invention and its designated parts, as shown in the figures. These relative spatial references also include positions and orientations other than those shown in the figures. For example, when a part shown in the figures is turned over, elements or features described as "below" appear "above." The terminology includes words expressly stated above, derivatives thereof, and words with similar meanings.

[0100] To avoid repetition in the figures and in the corresponding description of various aspects and embodiments, certain features should be understood as common to various aspects and embodiments. The omission of an aspect from the description or from a figure does not imply that this aspect is absent from the corresponding embodiment. Rather, such omission may be made for clarity and to avoid repetition. In this regard, the following statement applies to the entire subsequent description: if reference numbers are included in a figure for graphic clarity, but are not mentioned in the directly associated descriptive text, then reference should be made to their explanation in the description of the preceding figures. Furthermore, if the descriptive text directly associated with a figure mentions a reference number that is not contained in the corresponding figure, then reference should be made to the preceding or following figures.Identical positions on two or more figures indicate similar or identical elements.

[0101] Fig. 1 shows a sectional view of a sachet 1 according to the invention with a membrane 2 (or shell) surrounding a gelled liquid substance 3 (or internal medium). The membrane 2 has a thickness D M In this case, membrane 2 can be made single-layer, two-layer or multi-layer.

[0102] In Fig. 2, the bag 1 according to the invention, shown in Fig. 1, is shown in a side view. The bag 1 has a length L along the longitudinal axis X and, perpendicularly and in the center, a diameter D S The section for the view in Fig. 1 runs approximately along the double arrow indicating the diameter D S In this embodiment, sachet 1 is shaped like a sausage, a pouch, an oval, or an ellipse. In this embodiment, the sachet is completely sealed and therefore has no twists at the longitudinal ends.

[0103] The present description also covers embodiments with any combination of the features named or shown above or below for various embodiments. It also includes individual features shown in the figures, even if they are shown there in connection with other features and / or not mentioned above or below. Furthermore, alternative embodiments shown in the figures and described in the text, as well as individual alternative versions of their features, may be excluded from the subject matter of the invention or the disclosed subject matter. The disclosure of the invention covers embodiments that include exclusively the features described in the claims or in the embodiment examples, as well as variants that include additional other features.

[0104] Furthermore, the term "comprises" and its derivatives do not exclude other elements or steps. Likewise, the indication of an item in the singular does not exclude a plurality. The functions of several features listed in the claims may be realized by a single element or step. The expressions "mainly," "about," "approximately," and the like in connection with a property or parameter also define, in particular, precisely this property or precisely this quantity. The terms "approximately" and "approximately" in connection with the specified numerical value or range may mean a value or range, respectively, within 20%, within 10%, within 5%, or within 2% of the specified value or range, respectively. List of items: 1 sachet 2 membrane (shell) 3 gelled liquid substance (internal medium) L length of sachet D M membrane thickness D Sdiameter of the sachet X longitudinal axis of the sachet In other embodiments, the invention comprises: Variant 1: A sachet (1) for mobile supply of liquid, in particular to dogs, with a shell (2) and also with an internal medium (3) enclosed in the shell, wherein the shell (2) is formed from an edible membrane, and the internal medium (3) consists of a gelled liquid substance. Variant 2: A sachet (1) according to variant 1, wherein the edible membrane comprises a polymer, preferably alginate. Variant 3: A sachet (1) according to variant 2, wherein the alginate is cross-linked with a calcium chloride solution. Variant 4: A sachet (1) according to variant 2 or 3, wherein the alginate is formed from an alginate paste that contains sodium alginate. Variant 5: A sachet (1) according to any of the previous variants, wherein the edible membrane has a thickness (D M) from about 0.05 mm to about 5 mm, preferably from about 0.1 mm to about 2 mm, more preferably from 0.15 mm to 1.5 mm and even more preferably from about 0.2 mm to about 1 mm. Variant 6: The sachet (1) according to any of the previous variants, wherein the gelled liquid substance contains, in particular, soups, broths or smoothies on an animal, biological plant, vegetarian or vegan basis, or contains drinking water, hydrogels, yoghurt drinks, cocktails, juices, teas or liquid food supplements. Variant 7: The sachet (1) according to any of the previous variants, wherein the gelled liquid substance is converted into a gel by means of gelling agents, such as, in particular, agar-agar, gelatin, alginate, carrageenan, pectin or tragacanth and / or by means of binders and thickeners, such as, in particular, locust bean gum wood, guar gum, arrowroot starch, psyllium, corn starch, potato starch, xanthan gum, gum arabic, tara gum or gellan gum.Option 8: A sachet (1) according to any of the previous options, wherein the volume of the sachet (1) is approximately 2 cm. 3 up to approximately 35 cm 3 , preferably from about 2.5 cm 3 up to approximately 30 cm 3 , more preferably from about 2.8 cm 3 up to approximately 25 cm 3 , more preferably from about 3 cm 3 up to approximately 20 cm 3 and even more preferably from about 5 cm 3 up to approximately 15 cm 3.Variant 9: The sachet (1) according to any of the previous variants, wherein the maximum force for cutting the sachet (1) is from about 5 N to about 25 N, preferably from about 6 N to about 15 N, and more preferably lies in the range from about 7 to about 10 N, and / or lies in the range from about 1 N to about 24 N, preferably from about 2 N to about 20 N, more preferably from about 3 N to about 15 N, and even more preferably in the range from about 4 N to about 9 N.Variant 10: The sachet (1) according to any of the previous variants, wherein the total energy expended on cutting the sachet (1) lies in the range from about 0.05 to about 0.25 J, preferably from about 0.1 J to about 0.2 J, more preferably from about 0.125 J to about 0.15 J, and / or in the range from 0.01 J to 0.22 J.Embodiment 11: The sachet (1) according to any of the previous embodiments, wherein the peak force for the first compression of the sachet (1) to 50% of its height is from about 3 N to about 25 N, preferably from about 5 N to about 15 N, more preferably from about 9 N to about 12 N, even more preferably from about 10 N to about 11 N, and the peak force for the second compression of the sachet (1) to 50% of its height is preferably from about 0.05 N to about 6 N, preferably from about 1 N to about 5 N, more preferably from about 2 N to about 4 N, and even more preferably from about 3.0 N to about 3.3 N. Embodiment 12: The sachet (1) according to any of the previous embodiments, wherein the cohesiveness index of the sachet (1) is from about 0.01 to about 0.4, preferably from about 0.03 to about 0.3, more preferably from about 0.05 to about 0.2 and even more preferably from about 0.06 to about 0.10.Variant 13: The sachet (1) according to any of the previous variants, wherein the stickiness of the sachet (1) is from about 0.03 N to about 11.0 N, preferably from about 0.3 N to about 10.0 N, more preferably from about 0.5 N to about 3.0 N and even more preferably from about 0.7 N to about 1.0 N. Variant 14: The sachet (1) according to any of the previous variants, wherein it has a length (L) from about 2 cm to about 10 cm, preferably from 2.5 cm to 9 cm, more preferably from 2.8 cm to 8 cm, more preferably from 3 cm to 7 cm and even more preferably from 4 cm to 6 cm, and preferably has a diameter (D. S) from about 1.0 cm to 3.0 cm, preferably from about 1.2 cm to about 2.5 cm, more preferably from about 1.5 cm to about 2.3 cm, more preferably from about 1.6 cm to about 2.2 cm and even more preferably from about 1.7 cm to about 1.9 cm. Variant 15: A sachet (1) according to one of the previous embodiments, wherein the weight fraction of liquid is at least about 70%, preferably at least about 90%, more preferably at least about 95% of the total weight of the sachet.

Claims

1. A sachet (1) for mobile supply of liquid to domestic animals or people, having a shell (2) and also an internal medium (3) enclosed in the shell, wherein the shell (2) is formed from an edible membrane, and the internal medium (3) is formed from a gelled liquid substance, wherein the maximum force for cutting the sachet (1) lies in the range from 1 to 24 N, and the total energy expended on cutting the sachet (1) lies in the range from 0.01 to 0.22 J.

2. A sachet (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the edible membrane contains a polymer, preferably alginate.

3. A sachet (1) according to item 2, characterized in that the alginate is cross-linked with a calcium chloride solution.

4. A sachet (1) according to item 2 or 3, characterized in that the alginate is formed from an alginate paste that contains sodium alginate.

5. A sachet (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the edible membrane has a thickness (DM) of from 0.05 to 5 mm, preferably from 0.1 to 2 mm, more preferably from 0.15 to 1.5 mm and even more preferably from 0.2 to 1 mm.

6. A sachet (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the gelled liquid substance contains, in particular, soups, broths or smoothies on an animal, biologically plant, vegetarian or vegan basis, or contains drinking water, hydrogels, yoghurt drinks, cocktails, juices, teas or liquid food supplements.

7. A sachet (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the gelled liquid substance is gelled by means of gelling agents, such as, in particular, agar-agar, gelatin, alginate, carrageenan, pectin or tragacanth, and / or by means of binders and thickeners, such as, in particular, locust bean gum, guar gum, arrowroot starch, psyllium, corn starch, potato starch, xanthan gum, gum arabic, tara gum or gellan gum.

8. A sachet (1) according to any of the previous paragraphs, characterized in that the volume of the sachet (1) is in the range from 2 to 35 cm 3 , preferably from 2.5 to 30 cm 3 , more preferably from 2.8 to 25 cm 3 , most preferably from 3 to 20 cm 3 , even more preferably from 5 to 15 cm 3 .

9. A sachet (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the maximum cutting force of the sachet (1) is in the range from 2 to 20 N, preferably from 3 to 15 N, most preferably from 4 to about 9 N.

10. A sachet (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the total energy expended on cutting the sachet (1) is in the range from 0.05 to 0.25 J, preferably in the range from 0.1 to 0.2 J and most preferably from 0.125 to 0.15 J.

11. A sachet (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the peak force for the first compression of the sachet (1) to 50% of its height is from 3 to 25 N, preferably from 5 to 15 N, more preferably from 9 to 12 N, most preferably from 10 to 11 N, and in that the peak force for the second compression of the sachet (1) to 50% of its height is from 0.05 to 6 N, preferably from 1 to 5 N, more preferably from 3.0 to 3.3 N.

12. A sachet (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cohesiveness index of the sachet (1) is from 0.01 to 0.4, preferably from 0.03 to 0.3, more preferably from 0.05 to 0.2, even more preferably from 0.06 to 0.

10.

13. A sachet (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the stickiness of the sachet (1) is from 0.03 to 11 N, preferably from 0.3 to 10.0 N, more preferably from 0.5 to 3.0 N, even more preferably from 0.7 to 1.0 N.

14. The sachet (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it has a length (L) from 2 to 10 cm, preferably from 2.5 to 9 cm, more preferably from 2.8 to 8 cm, most preferably from 3 to 7 cm, even more preferably from 4 to 6 cm, and preferably has a diameter (DS) from 1.0 to 3.0 cm, preferably from 1.2 to 2.5 cm, more preferably from 1.5 to 2.3 cm, most preferably from 1.6 to 2.2 cm, even more preferably from 1.7 to 1.9 cm.

15. A sachet (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the weight fraction of liquid is at least 70%, preferably at least 90%, more preferably at least 95% of the total weight of the sachet.

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