Nicotine pouch and manufacturing method therefor

Abstract

The present invention relates to a nicotine pouch comprising a filler and a packaging material surrounding the filler, the filler comprising: nicotine; a release control excipient including at least one selected from the group consisting of cellulose and a sugar alcohol; a binder; a pH adjuster; and a flavoring, wherein the content of nicotine in the filler is 2.5-10 wt% with respect to the total solid content of the filler, the content of the release control excipient in the filler is 5.5-36 times that of nicotine, and the packaging material comprises at least two selected from the group consisting of pulp, a cellulose-based staple fiber, and a thermoplastic fiber.

Description

Nicotine pouch and method for manufacturing the same

[0001] The present invention relates to a nicotine pouch and a method for manufacturing the same.

[0002] Nicotine pouches are a type of smoking device used in the mouth to provide nicotine gratification. For example, nicotine pouches can be used by placing the pouch between the upper or lower gums and the lips and holding it there for a limited period of time.

[0003] A nicotine pouch consists of a filler encased in a packaging material. The packaging material holds the nicotine pouch filler in place, allowing saliva to pass through the nicotine pouch filler, and the flavor and nicotine released from the nicotine pouch filler are distributed into the user's mouth.

[0004] If the amount of nicotine released through the packaging is too small, it is difficult to provide the user with a sense of satisfaction from smoking. On the other hand, if the rate of release of nicotine is too fast, the user may be irritated by the rapid absorption of nicotine into the body, or the duration of the nicotine pouch may be shortened.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for a nicotine pouch in which most or all of the nicotine can be released from the nicotine pouch filler in an appropriate amount and the nicotine can be effectively absorbed.

[0006] The present invention aims to provide a nicotine pouch having an appropriate nicotine inhalation / release rate and a method for manufacturing the same, in order to meet the needs for the nicotine pouch described above.

[0007] However, the problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0008] One aspect of the present invention provides a nicotine pouch comprising a filler and a packaging material surrounding the filler, wherein the filler comprises: nicotine; a release-controlling excipient comprising at least one selected from the group consisting of cellulose and sugar alcohols; a binder; a pH regulator; and a flavoring; wherein the content of the nicotine in the filler is 2.5 to 10 wt% based on the weight of the total solid contents of the filler, the content of the release-controlling excipient in the filler is 5.5 to 36 times the content of the nicotine, and the packaging material comprises at least two or more selected from the group consisting of pulp, cellulose staple fiber, and thermoplastic fiber.

[0009] According to one embodiment, the nicotine pouch may be one in which the cellulosic staple fiber comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of rayon, viscose rayon and lyocell.

[0010] According to one embodiment, the thermoplastic fiber may be a nicotine pouch comprising at least one selected from the group consisting of polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polypropylene / polyethylene (PP / PE).

[0011] According to one embodiment, the packaging material may be a nicotine pouch, which further includes at least one binder selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), an acrylic binder, polylactic acid (PLA), polybutylene succinate (PBS), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), vinyl acetate copolymer, vinyl acrylic copolymer, styrene-butadiene copolymer, and plant-derived natural materials.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the packaging material may be a nicotine pouch comprising 40 to 70 wt% of pulp and 30 to 60 wt% of thermoplastic fiber.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the packaging material may be a nicotine pouch comprising 40 to 70 wt% viscose rayon, 30 to 60 wt% thermoplastic fiber, and 0 to 15 wt% binder.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the packaging material may be a nicotine pouch manufactured by a spun-lace method, and the packaging material may include 40 to 70 wt% of viscose rayon, 30 to 60 wt% of thermoplastic fiber, and 0 to 15 wt% of binder.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the packaging material may be a nicotine pouch manufactured by a wet laid method, and the packaging material may include 40 to 70 wt% of pulp and 30 to 60 wt% of thermoplastic fiber.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the packaging material may be a nicotine pouch having a weight of 20 to 40 gsm and a thickness of 50 to 250 μm.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the packaging material may be a nicotine pouch having a porosity of 15,000 to 30,000 and a tensile strength of 1.00 to 1.50 N / mm.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the cellulose content of the filler is 1 to 2 times the nicotine content, the cellulose content is 5 to 20 wt% based on the weight of the total solid contents of the filler, and the sugar alcohol content is 50 to 70 wt% based on the weight of the total solid contents of the filler, which may be a nicotine pouch.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the pH adjusting agent of the filler may be a nicotine pouch, wherein the weight ratio of the sodium bicarbonate to the sodium carbonate is 7:3 to 6:4.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the pH of the filler may be 8.3 to 8.5, which may be a nicotine pouch.

[0021]

[0022] Another aspect of the present invention comprises the steps of forming a web in the form of a sheet using a fiber raw material;

[0023] A method for manufacturing the nicotine pouch is provided, comprising: a step of spraying moisture onto the web to entangle fibers to form a nonwoven fabric; a step of drying the nonwoven fabric to manufacture a packaging material; and a step of packaging a filler using the manufactured packaging material.

[0024]

[0025] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method for manufacturing a nicotine pouch, comprising the steps of: dispersing a fiber raw material in water to prepare a dispersion; moving the dispersion to a paper machine to form a web; drying the formed web to prepare a packaging material; and packaging a filler using the prepared packaging material.

[0026] The nicotine pouch of the present invention can provide a satisfying smoking experience to the user by appropriately controlling the release rate of nicotine and thereby controlling the rate at which nicotine is absorbed into the user's body.

[0027]

[0028] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, and should be understood to include all effects that can be inferred from the detailed description of the present invention or the composition of the invention described in the claims.

[0029] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the spunlace process.

[0030] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the packaging material manufacturing process using the wet laid method.

[0031] Figure 3 is a graph showing the cumulative nicotine concentration according to the dissolution time of a nicotine pouch according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 4 is a graph showing the nicotine concentration according to the dissolution time of a nicotine pouch according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a method for manufacturing a nicotine pouch filler according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 6 is a diagram showing the dissolution rate according to the microcrystalline cellulose content of a nicotine pouch filler according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 7 is a drawing showing the dissolution rate according to the addition of sugar alcohol to a nicotine pouch according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Hereinafter, embodiments are described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. However, the embodiments may be modified in various ways, and the scope of the patent application is not limited or restricted by these embodiments. It should be understood that all modifications, equivalents, or alternatives to the embodiments are included within the scope of the patent application.

[0037] The terms used in the examples are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In this specification, terms such as "comprise" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in the specification, but should be understood to not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0038] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiments pertain. Terms defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined herein.

[0039] In addition, when describing with reference to the attached drawings, identical components will be assigned the same reference numerals regardless of the drawing numbers, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted. When describing embodiments, if a detailed description of a related known technology is judged to unnecessarily obscure the gist of the embodiment, the detailed description will be omitted.

[0040] Additionally, in describing components of an embodiment, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc. may be used. These terms are only intended to distinguish the components from other components, and the nature, order, or sequence of the components are not limited by the terms.

[0041] Components included in one embodiment and components with common functions will be described using the same names in other embodiments. Unless otherwise stated, the descriptions given in one embodiment can be applied to other embodiments, and detailed descriptions will be omitted to the extent of overlap.

[0042] Throughout the specification, when a part is said to "include" a component, this does not mean that it excludes other components, but rather that it may include other components.

[0043]

[0044] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a nicotine pouch including a filler and a packaging material surrounding the filler, wherein the filler includes: nicotine; a release-controlling excipient including at least one selected from the group consisting of cellulose and sugar alcohols; a binder; a pH regulator; and a flavoring; wherein the content of the nicotine in the filler is 2.5 to 10 wt% based on the weight of the total solid contents of the filler, the content of the release-controlling excipient in the filler is 5.5 to 36 times the content of the nicotine, and the packaging material includes at least two or more selected from the group consisting of pulp, cellulose staple fiber, and thermoplastic fiber.

[0045]

[0046] <Packaging material>

[0047] The packaging material can package a certain amount of the nicotine pouch filler, and the packaging material can be packaged so that the nicotine pouch filler inside does not leak out during transportation and use after being packaged, and can be manufactured so that a smoker does not feel a foreign body sensation in the mouth when using the packaging material.

[0048] The packaging material may be safe for the human body, able to retain saliva well, have a certain strength to prevent tearing, and have sealing properties.

[0049]

[0050] Among the components forming the packaging material of the nicotine pouch according to one embodiment of the present invention, the pulp may include at least one selected from the group consisting of hard wood pulp and soft wood pulp, and preferably, the pulp may be soft wood pulp. When soft wood pulp is used, it may be easier to increase the tensile strength.

[0051] The content of pulp included in the packaging material may be 0 to 70 wt%, preferably 40 to 70 wt%, and more preferably 50 to 70 wt%. If the content of pulp exceeds the upper limit, the content of thermoplastic fibers becomes relatively low, which may result in insufficient sealing strength and inability to form a stable seal.

[0052]

[0053] Furthermore, the cellulose staple fiber may include at least one selected from the group consisting of rayon, viscose rayon, and lyocell, and preferably, the cellulose staple fiber may be viscose rayon.

[0054] The content of cellulose staple fibers included in the packaging material may be 0 to 70 wt%, preferably 40 to 70 wt%, and more preferably 50 to 70 wt%. If the content of cellulose staple fibers exceeds the upper limit, the content of thermoplastic fibers becomes relatively low, which may prevent sufficient sealing strength from being formed and prevent stable sealing from being formed.

[0055] Additionally, the thermoplastic fiber may include at least one selected from the group consisting of polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polypropylene / polyethylene (PP / PE).

[0056] The content of thermoplastic fibers included in the packaging material may be 30 to 60 wt%, preferably 35 to 50 wt%. If the content of thermoplastic fibers is less than the lower limit, sufficient sealing strength may not be formed, and a stable seal may not be formed.

[0057]

[0058] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the packaging material of a nicotine pouch may further include at least one binder selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), an acrylic binder, polylactic acid (PLA), polybutylene succinate (PBS), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), vinyl acetate copolymer, vinyl acrylic copolymer, styrene-butadiene copolymer, and plant-derived natural materials, and preferably, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA).

[0059] The binder content included in the packaging material may be 0 to 15 wt%, preferably 5 to 15 wt%. If the binder content exceeds the upper limit, manufacturing workability may deteriorate, making production of the packaging material impossible.

[0060]

[0061] In a nicotine pouch according to one embodiment of the present invention, when the packaging material is manufactured by a spun-lace method, the packaging material may include 40 to 70 wt% of viscose rayon, 30 to 60 wt% of thermoplastic fiber, and 0 to 15 wt% of binder. When the content of viscose rayon is less than the lower limit, the surface becomes rough and the porosity is extremely reduced, and when the content exceeds the upper limit, a problem may occur in which sufficient sealing strength cannot be formed. When the content of the binder exceeds the upper limit, a problem may occur in which manufacturing workability deteriorates, making it impossible to produce the packaging material.

[0062] Meanwhile, when the above packaging material is manufactured using a wet laid method, it may contain 40 to 70 wt% of pulp and 30 to 60 wt% of thermoplastic fiber. When the pulp content is below the lower limit, problems such as a rough surface and reduced porosity may occur, and when it exceeds the upper limit, problems such as insufficient sealing strength and tensile strength may occur.

[0063]

[0064] The method for manufacturing a packaging material may include a process for forming a web and a process for combining the web, wherein the process for forming the web may be a dry-laid method, a wet-laid method, or a spinning method, and the dry method may be a carding method or an air-ray method. The wet method may be a general paper manufacturing method or a manufacturing method modified therefrom, and the spinning method may be a spun-bonded method or a melt-blown method.

[0065] Meanwhile, the process for bonding the webs may include a mechanical bonding method, a chemical bonding method, or a thermal bonding method. The mechanical bonding method may include a needle-punching method or a spun-lace method, the chemical bonding method may include a polymer dispersion method or a polymer solution method, and the thermal bonding method may include a calendaring method, a hot air method, or an ultrasonic method.

[0066] Preferably, the packaging material can be manufactured by a spunlace method and / or a wet-laid method, more preferably by a wet-laid method.

[0067] The spunlace method is a process of making nonwoven fabric using only fiber raw materials and high-pressure water. It has the advantage of being able to produce safe packaging materials because there is little damage to the fibers and it does not contain additives or adhesives.

[0068] The wet laid method is similar to the general papermaking process and can be broadly divided into two parts: the composition process and the papermaking process.

[0069] 1. Composition process (Pulper → Refiner → Blend)

[0070] The pulping process is the process immediately before sending the paper stock to the paper machine. The pulp goes through a process of disintegration and refining, mixing various chemicals including fillers, and then goes through a refining / dusting process in a cleaner and screen before being sent to the head box of the paper machine.

[0071] 2. Papermaking process (Headbox → Wire → Press → Pre Dryer → Size Press → After Dryer → Machine Calendar)

[0072] The papermaking process involves dehydrating and drying the raw material to produce paper. It involves layer formation, pressing and dehydrating, drying, and surface treatment. The raw material ejected from the headbox is formed into paper in the wire section, then undergoes a pressing and dehydrating process in the press section. The dryer section evaporates any remaining moisture, and the paper thickness is adjusted in the calendar to complete the finished product.

[0073] When using the wet laid method, it is easier to manufacture packaging materials having a thickness, basis weight and porosity suitable for nicotine pouch use, which allows for more easily controlled release of nicotine.

[0074]

[0075] The packaging material for a nicotine pouch manufactured in the above manner may have a basis weight of 20 to 40 gsm and a thickness of 50 to 250 μm.

[0076] If the weight and thickness of the packaging material are less than the lower limit above, the packaging material may be damaged and small particles of the filler may leak out of the packaging material. If the weight and thickness exceed the upper limit above, the amount of filler filled may be reduced compared to the same size, and the release of nicotine may be delayed.

[0077]

[0078] In a nicotine pouch according to one embodiment of the present invention, the porosity of the packaging material may be 15,000 to 30,000, and the tensile strength may be 1.00 to 1.50 N / mm.

[0079] The packaging material must be porous enough to release the nicotine pouch filler contained within, and must also have sufficient tensile strength to prevent the pouch from bursting. Therefore, if the porosity falls below the lower limit, the pores may not be sufficient to sufficiently release the active ingredient of the internal filler. If the porosity exceeds the upper limit, small particles of the filler may leak out.

[0080] If the tensile strength falls below the lower limit, the pouch may burst, causing the internal filler to leak out.

[0081]

[0082] Filler

[0083] In a filler for a nicotine pouch according to one embodiment of the present invention, the filler may include nicotine, a release-controlling excipient, a binder, a pH regulator, and a flavoring, and the nicotine may include a nicotine salt, and the nicotine salt may include at least one selected from the group consisting of nicotine salt benzoate, nicotine salt tartrate, nicotine salt malate, and nicotine salt salicylate.

[0084] At this time, the content of nicotine included in the filler may be 2.5 to 10 wt% based on the weight of the filler solids (total solid contents). The content of nicotine may be determined depending on the desired strength of the nicotine pouch. If the content of nicotine is below the range described above, it is difficult to provide a smoker with a sense of satisfaction from smoking. On the other hand, if the content of nicotine exceeds the range described above, the nicotine stimulation may be excessive.

[0085]

[0086] Meanwhile, the release-controlling excipient controls the nicotine dissolution rate, and can provide a nicotine pouch capable of supplying an appropriate amount of nicotine when the nicotine pouch is used. Preferably, the content of the release-controlling excipient may be 5.5 to 36 times the nicotine content. If the content of the release-controlling excipient is outside the above-described range, the pouch filler may melt quickly or the nicotine dissolution rate may be delayed, and further, the nuclei of the filler particles may not be sufficiently formed, and severe clumping or powder clumping may occur, making it difficult to manufacture the nicotine pouch filler, and problems may arise in that the stimulation of nicotine may be too strong or too weak.

[0087]

[0088] The above-mentioned release-controlling excipient comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of cellulose and sugar alcohols. The cellulose can act as a carrier for nicotine.

[0089] Additionally, cellulose can act as a diluent, has a high water holding capacity, promotes wetting of powdered mixtures through swelling and wicking, and can act to rapidly release saliva and nicotine.

[0090] Additionally, cellulose may provide a pleasant sensation. Without cellulose, the nicotine pouch filler may dissolve.

[0091]

[0092] The specific type of the cellulose may be at least one of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) or methyl cellulose, and the content thereof may be 1 to 2 times the nicotine content, and specifically, may be 5 to 20 wt% relative to the total solid contents of the filler.

[0093] If the cellulose content falls below the numerical range described above, the nicotine pouch filler may rapidly dissolve. Conversely, if the cellulose content exceeds the numerical range described above, the nicotine release rate may be excessively delayed due to the water-insoluble nature of cellulose.

[0094]

[0095] Sugar alcohols dissolve well in saliva and bind more loosely to solvents than cellulose, allowing for faster release of nicotine within the use period, suppressing bitterness, and providing a cooling effect as they dissolve in the mouth.

[0096] Additionally, sugar alcohols can promote nucleation and granule growth in the high-shear wet granulation process of nicotine pouch fillers.

[0097]

[0098] The content of the sugar alcohol may be 50 to 70 wt%, preferably 60 to 70 wt%, based on the weight of the total solid contents of the filler. If the content of the sugar alcohol is less than the numerical range described above, the nuclei of the nicotine pouch filler particles may not be sufficiently formed. On the other hand, if the content of the sugar alcohol exceeds the numerical range described above, severe clumping or crushing of the powder may occur, making it difficult to manufacture the nicotine pouch filler.

[0099]

[0100] The heat of dissolution of the sugar alcohol may be -190 J / g to -10 J / g. For example, the heat of dissolution of the sugar alcohol may be -185 J / g to -20 J / g, -125 J / g to -20 J / g, -40 J / g to -23 J / g, or -23 J / g. If the heat of dissolution of the sugar alcohol exceeds the numerical range described above, it is difficult to provide a sufficient cooling experience to the user.

[0101]

[0102] The solubility of the sugar alcohol may be 10 g / 100g to 80 g / 100g, preferably 20 g / 100g to 65 g / 100g, and more preferably 60 g / 100g to 65 g / 100g at 20°C. If the solubility of the sugar alcohol is below the numerical range described above, it may not be sufficiently dissolved in the user's oral cavity. On the other hand, if the solubility of the sugar alcohol exceeds the numerical range described above, excessive nicotine may be released.

[0103]

[0104] The above sugar alcohol may include at least one selected from the group consisting of erythritol, xylitol, mannitol, sorbitol, maltitol, and isomalt, but is not limited to the examples described.

[0105]

[0106] The type and content of the binder included in the filler of the nicotine pouch according to one embodiment of the present invention can affect the formation of the size distribution of the nicotine pouch filler particles.

[0107] The binder may include at least one selected from the group consisting of povidone K-25, hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC), low substituted hydroxypropylcellulose (L-HPC), hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC), and carboxymethylcellulose (CMC). Preferably, the binder may be hydroxypropylcellulose. Meanwhile, the low substituted hydroxypropylcellulose may mean that the content of hydroxypropyl groups is 5.0 to 16.0%.

[0108]

[0109] The content of the above binder may be 10 wt% or less, preferably 8 to 15 wt%, based on the weight of the total solid contents of the filler.

[0110] If the type and content of the binder described above are exceeded, it is difficult to secure the required particle size and may have a negative effect on the initial dissolution.

[0111]

[0112] The pH adjuster can adjust the pH of the nicotine pouch filler to a pH at which nicotine can be absorbed, so that when the nicotine pouch is inserted into the oral cavity, the nicotine can be converted into a rapidly absorbable free-based nicotine form.

[0113] Free-base nicotine is a non-ionic substance with hydrogen ions removed from the nicotine salt, which can be rapidly absorbed through the mucous membrane and have a strong impact on the consumer.

[0114]

[0115] In the nicotine pouch according to one embodiment of the present invention, the pH of the filler may be 8.3 to 8.5. When the pH is 8.02 or higher, nicotine is converted into a free-base nicotine form, which can be rapidly absorbed through the mucosa. Therefore, when the pH of the nicotine pouch filler satisfies the above-described numerical range, when mixed with saliva (pH 6.5 to 7.7), the pH becomes 8.02 or higher, so that nicotine can be easily absorbed and have a strong impact on the consumer.

[0116] The above pH adjusting agent may be at least one selected from the group consisting of sodium bicarbonate and sodium carbonate.

[0117] In this case, the weight ratio of sodium bicarbonate to sodium carbonate may be 7:3 to 6:4, preferably 6:4. If sodium bicarbonate is added in a greater proportion (sodium carbonate in a relatively smaller proportion) than the ratio described above, the pH may be lowered, resulting in insufficient absorption of nicotine. On the other hand, if sodium bicarbonate is added in a lesser proportion (sodium carbonate in a relatively larger proportion) than the ratio described above, the pH may be higher than the desired range, resulting in insufficient oral dissolution.

[0118]

[0119] The flavoring in the above filler may provide a taste to satisfy the smoker's preference.

[0120] The above flavoring may include at least one selected from the group consisting of menthol, licorice, sucrose, fructose syrup, iso-sweetener, cocoa, lavender, cinnamon, cardamom, celery, fenugreek, cascarilla, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, mint oil, caraway, cognac, jasmine, chamomile, cinnamon, ylang-ylang, sage, spearmint, peppermint, ginger, coriander and coffee, but is not limited to the examples described.

[0121]

[0122] The filler of the nicotine pouch according to one embodiment of the present invention is not limited to including only the described components, and may optionally additionally include a moisturizer, an antioxidant, a preservative, etc.

[0123] The above moisturizer may include, for example, at least one of glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0124] The above antioxidant may include, for example, one or more of ascorbyl palmitate and sodium ascorbate.

[0125] The above preservative may include, for example, xylitol.

[0126]

[0127] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the filler of the nicotine pouch may include 70% or more of particles having a size of 200 μm or more and less than 30% of particles having a size of 100 μm or more and less than 200 μm. When the size of the nicotine pouch filler satisfies the numerical range described above, nicotine can be efficiently released. If the number of small particles in the nicotine pouch filler is excessive, there may be a problem in that nicotine is not initially released. On the other hand, if the number of large particles in the nicotine pouch filler is excessive, all of the nicotine may be initially released, which may cause a problem in that nicotine is not provided to the user later in use.

[0128]

[0129] <Method for manufacturing nicotine pouches>

[0130] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method for manufacturing a nicotine pouch as described above can be provided, comprising: a step of forming a web in the form of a sheet using a fiber raw material; a step of spraying moisture onto the web to entangle the fibers to form a nonwoven fabric; a step of drying the nonwoven fabric to manufacture a packaging material; and a step of packaging a filler using the manufactured packaging material.

[0131]

[0132] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method for manufacturing a nicotine pouch as described above can be provided, comprising the steps of: dispersing a fiber raw material in water to prepare a dispersion; moving the dispersion to a paper machine to form a web; drying the formed web to prepare a packaging material; and packaging a filler using the manufactured packaging material.

[0133]

[0134] The nicotine pouch can be packaged using a packaging material with an internal filler in a three-sided packaging or a double-sided packaging manner, and the sealing of the packaging material can be performed by ultrasonic sealing or heat sealing. The nicotine pouch has a longitudinal seal formed along the width of the packaging material and a cross seal formed along the length of the packaging material, and the cross seal and / or the longitudinal seal can be sealed using a lap seal or a fin seal.

[0135] Packaging materials can be categorized into original, slim, super slim, and mini types based on their size and weight. Packaging materials can have an appropriate internal volume based on the capacity of the nicotine pouch filler to provide appropriate hardness and a comfortable user experience.

[0136] The final manufactured nicotine pouch can be wrapped and distributed.

[0137]

[0138] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in more detail through examples. The following examples are provided for the purpose of illustrating the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0139]

[0140] 1. Example 1: Nicotine release rate according to packaging material manufacturing method and fiber composition

[0141] Manufacturing Example 1

[0142] A packaging material for a nicotine pouch was manufactured using a spunlace method with a fiber composition of 60 wt% viscose rayon as a cellulose staple fiber, 30 wt% PE as a thermoplastic fiber, and 10 wt% PVA as a binder, based on the total weight of the packaging material. A filler including a filler, a pH regulator, a binder, nicotine (including salt), and a flavoring agent was packaged with the packaging material to manufacture a nicotine pouch.

[0143]

[0144] Manufacturing Example 2

[0145] A packaging material for a nicotine pouch was manufactured using a spunlace method with a fiber composition of 60 wt% viscose rayon as a cellulose staple fiber and 40 wt% PE as a thermoplastic fiber relative to the total weight of the packaging material. A nicotine pouch was manufactured using the same method as Example 1, except for the fiber composition.

[0146]

[0147] Manufacturing Example 3

[0148] A packaging material for a nicotine pouch was manufactured using a wet laid method with a fiber composition of 60 wt% soft pulp as pulp and 40 wt% PE outer / PP inner composite yarn as thermoplastic fiber based on the total weight of the packaging material, and an internal filler including filler, pH adjuster, binder, nicotine (including salt), and flavoring was packaged with the packaging material to manufacture a nicotine pouch.

[0149]

[0150] Experimental Example 1

[0151] The basis weight, thickness, tensile strength, and porosity of the nicotine pouches of Manufacturing Examples 1 to 3 were measured, and the results for each measured property are shown in Table 1 below.

[0152] Weight (g / m²) Thickness (㎛) Tensile strength MD (N / mm) Porosity (CU) Manufacturing example 127.01801.0030000 Manufacturing example 240.02301.5025000 Manufacturing example 327.0901.2517000

[0153] Referring to Table 1, it can be confirmed that the basis weight, thickness, and porosity were measured to be low in Example 3 manufactured by the wet laid method.

[0154]

[0155] Experimental Example 2

[0156] In order to compare the nicotine release rates of the nicotine pouches manufactured in Manufacturing Examples 1 to 3, the amount of nicotine released was measured for 1 hour, at 4-minute intervals up to 20 minutes, and at 10-minute intervals from 20 minutes to 60 minutes, and the concentration of released nicotine, cumulative nicotine amount, and cumulative nicotine concentration were calculated. The results are shown in Table 2 below.

[0157]

[0158] The results of the above table are presented as a graph of cumulative nicotine concentration according to dissolution time in Fig. 3, and as a graph of nicotine concentration according to dissolution time in Fig. 4.

[0159] Referring to Table 2, Figures 3 and 4, it can be confirmed that the nicotine release rate is the slowest for the nicotine pouch made using the wet-laid manufacturing method, and the difference in the concentration of nicotine released over time is also the smallest. This is presumably because the moisture absorption / release rate of the pulp is lower than that of viscose rayon.

[0160]

[0161] 2. Example 2: Nicotine release rate according to the content of microcrystalline cellulose

[0162] Manufacturing Example 4

[0163] A nicotine pouch containing a nicotine pouch filler was manufactured. At this time, the nicotine pouch filler contained 4.5 wt% of nicotine, 20 wt% of microcrystalline cellulose, 50 to 60 wt% of sugar alcohol, 10 wt% of pH adjuster, and 8 wt% of binder.

[0164] The specific manufacturing method is as shown in Fig. 5.

[0165]

[0166] Comparative Example 1

[0167] A nicotine pouch was manufactured in the same manner as in Manufacturing Example 4, except that the content of microcrystalline cellulose was 25 wt%.

[0168]

[0169] Comparative Example 2

[0170] A nicotine pouch was manufactured in the same manner as in Manufacturing Example 4, except that the content of microcrystalline cellulose was 40 wt%.

[0171]

[0172] Comparative Example 3

[0173] A nicotine pouch was manufactured in the same manner as in Manufacturing Example 4, except that the content of microcrystalline cellulose was 55 wt%.

[0174]

[0175] Experimental Example 3

[0176] The nicotine release rates of Manufacturing Example 4 and Comparative Examples 1 to 3 were analyzed. The nicotine release rates were evaluated by measuring the content of released nicotine after leaving the Manufacturing Example and Comparative Example in 1 liter of phosphate buffer maintained at 37°C and pH 7.4 for 1 minute using a USP paddle apparatus. The results are shown in Fig. 6 and Table 3.

[0177] Manufacturing Example 4 Comparative Example 1 Comparative Example 2 Comparative Example 3 MCC content (weight %) 20254055 Initial dissolution rate after 4 minutes (%) 17.5 16.11 1.76.12 Dissolution rate after 0 minutes (%) 70.159.96 1.75 1.2

[0178] Manufacturing Example 4 showed the highest dissolution rate of 17.5% after the initial 4 minutes. However, as the content of microcrystalline cellulose increased, the dissolution rate tended to decrease after the initial 4 minutes due to the water-insoluble nature of microcrystalline cellulose (Comparative Examples 1 to 3).

[0179]

[0180] 3. Example 3: Nicotine release rate according to sugar alcohol addition

[0181] Manufacturing Example 5

[0182] A nicotine pouch containing a nicotine pouch filler was manufactured. The nicotine pouch filler contained nicotine, microcrystalline cellulose, and maltitol, wherein the content of maltitol was 70 wt% based on the total weight of solids, and the content of microcrystalline cellulose was 5 wt% based on the total weight of solids.

[0183]

[0184] Manufacturing Example 6

[0185] A nicotine pouch was manufactured in the same manner as in Manufacturing Example 5, except that the content of maltitol was 55 wt% based on the total weight of solids, and accordingly, the content of microcrystalline cellulose was 20 wt% based on the total weight of solids.

[0186]

[0187] Experimental Example 4

[0188] The nicotine release rates of Manufacturing Examples 5 and 6 were analyzed. The nicotine release rates were evaluated using the same method as the experimental examples described above. The results are shown in Figure 7.

[0189] As a result, Manufacturing Example 5 showed a nicotine release rate of 20% after the initial 4 minutes and 80% after 20 minutes, and Manufacturing Example 6 showed a nicotine release rate of 14% after the initial 4 minutes and 51.6% after 20 minutes. It is believed that the reason Manufacturing Example 5 showed a higher release rate than Manufacturing Example 6 is due to the higher sugar alcohol content.

[0190]

[0191] 4. Example 4: Particle size distribution and nicotine release rate according to the type of binder

[0192] Manufacturing Example 7

[0193] A nicotine pouch containing a nicotine pouch filler was manufactured. The nicotine pouch filler contained nicotine, microcrystalline cellulose, maltitol, a binder, a pH regulator, and a flavoring agent, wherein the binder was hydroxypropyl cellulose, and the content of the binder was 8 wt% based on the total weight of the solids.

[0194] The nicotine pouch filler was manufactured using a dry binder addition method. That is, nicotine, microcrystalline cellulose, maltitol, binder, pH adjuster, and flavoring were first mixed, and then the solvent (water alone, water + ethanol, or ethanol alone) was sprayed, followed by a granulation step.

[0195]

[0196] Manufacturing Example 8

[0197] A nicotine pouch was manufactured in the same manner as in Manufacturing Example 7, except that povidone K-25 was used as a binder and alcohol was applied as a solvent.

[0198]

[0199] Manufacturing Example 9

[0200] A nicotine pouch was manufactured in the same manner as in Manufacturing Example 7, except that low-substituted hydroxypropyl cellulose was used as a binder.

[0201]

[0202] Experimental Example 5

[0203] The nicotine release rates of Manufacturing Examples 5, 7, and 9 were analyzed. The nicotine release rates were evaluated using the same method as the previously described experimental examples. The results are shown in Table 4.

[0204]

[0205] In Manufacturing Examples 5 and 7, nicotine pouch filler particles having a size of 200 μm or more were distributed at a rate of 66.7% or more, and nicotine pouch filler particles having a size of 50 μm or less were not present. Manufacturing Examples 5 and 7 had a higher nicotine release rate not only initially but also after 20 minutes compared to Manufacturing Examples 8 and 9.

[0206]

[0207] 5. Example 5: Free-base nicotine production rate according to pH range and pH regulator ratio

[0208] Manufacturing Example 10

[0209] A nicotine pouch containing a nicotine pouch filler was manufactured. The nicotine pouch filler contained a pH adjuster, and the pH adjuster used was sodium bicarbonate and sodium carbonate in a ratio of 6:4.

[0210]

[0211] Manufacturing Example 11

[0212] A nicotine pouch was manufactured in the same manner as in Manufacturing Example 10, except that sodium bicarbonate and sodium carbonate were used as pH adjusters in a ratio of 7:3.

[0213]

[0214] Comparative Example 4

[0215] A nicotine pouch was manufactured in the same manner as in Manufacturing Example 10, except that sodium bicarbonate and sodium carbonate were used as pH adjusters in a ratio of 8:2.

[0216]

[0217] Experimental Example 6

[0218] The pH and free-base nicotine production ratio of the nicotine pouch fillers of Manufacturing Examples 10 and 11 and Comparative Example 4 were investigated, and the results are shown in Table 5.

[0219] pH Free-base nicotine production rate (%) Manufacturing example 108.885 to 90% Manufacturing example 118.476% Comparative example 47.624%

[0220] Unlike Comparative Example 4, Manufacturing Examples 10 and 11 showed results in which the pH of the saliva was 8.8 and 8.4, respectively, and the free-base nicotine production ratio was 76% or higher. This confirms that when saliva with a pH of 6.5 to 7.7 is introduced, the pH becomes 8.02 or higher, and thus more free-base nicotine is produced.

[0221]

[0222] From the above experimental examples, it is predicted that by using the nicotine pouch filler described in the claims, nicotine can be easily extracted and absorption of the extracted nicotine can be promoted.

[0223]

[0224] Although the embodiments described above have been described with limited drawings, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various technical modifications and variations can be applied based on the above. For example, appropriate results can still be achieved even if the described techniques are performed in a different order than described, and / or the described components are combined or combined in a different manner than described, or are replaced or substituted with other components or equivalents.

[0225] Therefore, other implementations, other embodiments, and equivalents to the claims also fall within the scope of the claims described below.

Claims

1. A nicotine pouch comprising a filler and a packaging material surrounding the filler, The above filler comprises nicotine; A controlled-release excipient comprising at least one selected from the group consisting of cellulose and sugar alcohols; binder; pH adjuster; and Contains fragrance; The content of the nicotine in the filler is 2.5 to 10 wt% based on the weight of the total solid contents of the filler, The content of the release-controlling excipient of the above filler is 5.5 to 36 times the content of the nicotine, The above packaging material comprises at least two or more selected from the group consisting of pulp, cellulose staple fibers, and thermoplastic fibers. Nicotine pouch.

2. In paragraph 1, The above cellulose staple fiber comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of rayon, viscose rayon and lyocell. Nicotine pouch.

3. In paragraph 1, The thermoplastic fiber comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polypropylene / polyethylene (PP / PE). Nicotine pouch.

4. In paragraph 1, A nicotine pouch, wherein the packaging material further comprises at least one binder selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), an acrylic binder, polylactic acid (PLA), polybutylene succinate (PBS), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), vinyl acetate copolymer, vinyl acrylic copolymer, styrene-butadiene copolymer, and plant-derived natural materials.

5. In paragraph 1, The above packaging material comprises 40 to 70 wt% of pulp and 30 to 60 wt% of thermoplastic fiber. Nicotine pouch.

6. In paragraph 1, The above packaging material comprises 40 to 70 wt% of viscose rayon, 30 to 60 wt% of thermoplastic fiber, and 0 to 15 wt% of binder. Nicotine pouch.

7. In paragraph 1, The above packaging material is manufactured using the spun-lace method. The above packaging material comprises 40 to 70 wt% of viscose rayon, 30 to 60 wt% of thermoplastic fiber, and 0 to 15 wt% of binder. Nicotine pouch.

8. In paragraph 1, The above packaging material is manufactured using the wet laid method. The above packaging material comprises 40 to 70 wt% of pulp and 30 to 60 wt% of thermoplastic fiber. Nicotine pouch.

9. In paragraph 1, The weight of the above packaging material is 20 to 40 gsm, having a thickness of 50 to 250 ㎛, Nicotine pouch.

10. In paragraph 1, The porosity of the above packaging material is 15,000 to 30,000, Tensile strength of 1.00 to 1.50 N / mm, Nicotine pouch.

11. In paragraph 1, The cellulose content of the above filler is 1 to 2 times the nicotine content, The content of the cellulose is 5 to 20 wt% based on the weight of the total solid contents of the filler, The content of the above sugar alcohol is 50 to 70 wt% based on the weight of the total solid contents of the filler. Nicotine pouch.

12. In paragraph 1, The pH adjusting agent of the above filler includes sodium bicarbonate and sodium carbonate, The weight ratio of the above sodium bicarbonate to sodium carbonate is 7:3 to 6:4, Nicotine pouch.

13. In paragraph 1, The pH of the above filler is 8.3 to 8.5, nicotine pouch 14. A step of forming a web in the form of a sheet using fiber raw materials; A step of forming a nonwoven fabric by spraying moisture on the above web to entangle the fibers; A step of drying the above nonwoven fabric to manufacture a packaging material; and A step of packaging a filler using the above-mentioned manufactured packaging material; including; A method for manufacturing a nicotine pouch as described in claim 1.

15. A step of preparing a dispersion liquid by dispersing fiber raw materials in water; A step of moving the above dispersion to a starting machine to form a web; A step of manufacturing a packaging material by drying the formed web; and A step of packaging a filler using the above-mentioned manufactured packaging material; including; A method for manufacturing a nicotine pouch as described in claim 1.

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