Container having support flange and container shoulder for a sleeving process

Abstract

The invention relates to a container (1) for a food product, in particular for a food product containing vitamin B2, for example milk or beer, wherein the container (1) has a hollow container body (2), wherein the container body (2) has: a side wall (3) which extends from a base (4); a container shoulder (5) which extends from the side wall (3) as far as a container shoulder edge (6); a neck region (7) having a dispensing opening (71) and a supporting flange (72); and a recess (8), wherein at least the container shoulder edge (6) and the support flange (72) delimit the recess (8), wherein the outer diameter DF of the support flange (72) substantially corresponds to the outer diameter DR of the container shoulder edge (6).

Description

[0001] Container with support flange and container shoulder for a sleeving process

[0002] The present invention relates to a container for a food product, in particular for a food product containing vitamin B2, for example milk or beer, and a method for producing a container.

[0003] Dairy products contain ingredients, especially vitamin B2 (riboflavin), which is very important for human health, but degrades within minutes or hours when exposed to light. What's particularly critical is that the degraded milk has a distinctly foul odor and taste.

[0004] The chemistry is similar to the smell of a “skunk”; this is why it is referred to as a skunk aroma or the light taste of milk.

[0005] There are known solutions in which the vitamin is deliberately separated from the milk, thus eliminating the taste problem. This means that the end consumer can no longer absorb the vitamin through the milk, and this approach does not solve the problem.

[0006] On the other hand, aluminum light barrier layers can be used to create, for example, a multilayer carton package with an aluminum layer for milk. Here, cardboard, aluminum, and plastic are used in several layers on top of each other. These different materials pose a major problem for the recycling of carton packaging.

[0007] For example, a light barrier layer can comprise a black plastic in a white plastic multilayer bottle. The black layer either forms a middle layer and is positioned between the outer and inner layers (multilayer process) or is used as the inner layer, with the outer layer being white (overmolding process). Such plastic multilayer bottles, in which white and black layers are mixed, are difficult to recycle and usually result in a gray, low-quality recycling stream.

[0008] In versions with a covering, so-called sleeve versions, the bottle can be transparent or in a color for which there is a local recycling stream, making it well suited for recycling. The light protection function is then provided by a sleeve. The covering (“sleeve”) can contain a UV protection or light barrier as a layer. This solution offers good conditions for bottle recycling. Since the sleeve can be easily separated from the bottle either by the consumer or by a machine, high-quality recycling of the plastic bottle is possible. Another advantage is that no additives, colored layers, printing, or other contaminants such as printing inks need to be added to the plastic for the plastic bottle in order to meet the aesthetic requirements of the packaging.

[0009] The sleeve can extend over the bottle and the entire cap. The customer then has to laboriously separate the actual cap from the sleeve before the cap can be opened. Furthermore, the detached part of the sleeve usually creates loose waste, which is unfortunately often carelessly discarded and often ends up in the environment.

[0010] On the other hand, due to the maximum shrink rates, the sleeve can often only cover part of the bottle. This means that an area near the bottle neck usually remains free because the neck is too small, and the maximum shrink rate is insufficient to shrink the sleeve to the small diameters in this area.

[0011] Another problem is a small diameter in the neck area that widens again, as is often the case with very large support rings on PET bottles.

[0012] However, especially for protective purposes, it is desirable for the sleeve to cover the container as closely as possible. This can be achieved by enveloping / covering the entire container, including the closure.

[0013] The object of the present invention is to overcome one or more of the above-mentioned disadvantages. In particular, it is an object of the present invention to provide a container of the type mentioned above that is better suited for sleeving and, preferably, for higher-quality recycling.

[0014] The solution to the problem is specified in the independent claims. The dependent claims relate to advantageous further developments.

[0015] According to a first aspect, the invention relates to a container for a food product, in particular for a food product containing vitamin B2, for example milk, a food product containing milk, in particular a milk-based drink, or beer, the container comprising a hollow container body, the container body comprising: a side wall extending from a base; a container shoulder extending from the side wall to a container shoulder edge; a neck region with a dispensing opening and a support flange; and a recess. At least the container shoulder edge and the support flange delimit the recess. The outer diameter DF of the support flange substantially corresponds to the outer diameter DR of the container shoulder edge.

[0016] Since the container shoulder in the region of the container shoulder rim and the support flange both have essentially the same outer diameter, a sleeve can be easily applied at least up to the container shoulder, in particular such that the sleeve is essentially wrinkle-free (within the shrinkage rate). This allows a gap below the support flange to be avoided or at least significantly reduced. Thus, the desired provision of a sleeve on at least the container body, i.e., a sleeving process, can be carried out more easily.

[0017] In this way, the casing can in particular be provided in such a way that it specifically covers certain areas of the container, for example an area (gap, etc.) between a closure and a tamper-evident element (in particular a guarantee ring), so that, for example, no light can penetrate into the container via such areas.

[0018] The container can be a bottle.

[0019] The neck portion may include a thread extending between the outlet opening and the support flange.

[0020] The neck region may have a projection (for example, in the form of a flange) arranged to cooperate with a tamper-evident element arranged on the neck region, which preferably has the shape of a ring. The thread preferably extends between the outlet opening and the projection. The projection may be an at least partially circumferential projection. The projection may have an outer diameter that is smaller than the outer diameter of the support flange or the container shoulder rim.

[0021] The outer diameter DF of the support flange may deviate from the outer diameter DR of the container shoulder rim by 14% or less, preferably by 7% or less, particularly preferably by 3% or less. For example, the outer diameter DF of the support flange is 14% or less, preferably 7% or less, particularly preferably 3% or less, smaller or larger than the outer diameter DR of the container shoulder rim.

[0022] In particular, DF may be in a range from 0.86*DR to 1.14*DR, preferably in a range from 0.93*DR to 1.07*DR.

[0023] The outer diameter DF of the support flange may differ from the outer diameter DR of the container shoulder edge by 6 mm or less, preferably by 3 mm or less, particularly preferably by 2.5 mm or less, and in particular may be larger or smaller than DR.

[0024] The outer diameter DF of the support flange can essentially be 41 mm ± 2.5 mm.

[0025] The outer diameter DR of the container shoulder rim can essentially be 41 mm ± 2.5 mm.

[0026] The container may have a closure. The closure is preferably a screw cap.

[0027] It is preferred if the outer diameter DF of the support flange and / or the outer diameter DR of the container shoulder edge each substantially corresponds to the outer diameter DV of the closure.

[0028] The outer diameter DF of the support flange and / or the outer diameter DR of the container shoulder rim may each deviate by 3% or less from the outer diameter DV of the closure.

[0029] For example, the outer diameter DF of the support flange is 3% or less smaller or larger than the outer diameter DV of the closure.

[0030] For example, the outer diameter DR of the container shoulder rim is 3% or less smaller or larger than the outer diameter DV of the closure.

[0031] The outer diameter DF of the support flange and / or the outer diameter DR of the

[0032] The container shoulder edge may deviate from the outer diameter DV of the closure by 3 mm or less, preferably by 2.5 mm or less, in particular may be larger or smaller than DV.

[0033] In particular, DF may be in a range from 0.93*DV to 1.07*DV, preferably from 0.94*DV to 1.06*DV.

[0034] In particular, DR may be in a range from 0.93*DV to 1.07*DV, preferably from 0.94*DV to 1.06*DV.

[0035] The outer diameter DV of the closure can essentially be 41 mm ± 2.5 mm.

[0036] The closure can be connected to the container body via a preferably unweakened, in particular inseparable, connecting area, for example a web or arm, such that the closure remains connected to the container body after the latter has released the dispensing opening. This means that the closure can be a so-called "tethered cap."

[0037] Such a connection effectively prevents the closure from accidentally detaching from the container body and thus contaminating the environment. An "unweakened" or "inseparable" connection area is understood in particular to mean a connection area that cannot be separated as easily as a weakened area, such as that between a tamper-evident element and the closure.

[0038] The closure may have a lid portion and a side wall extending downward from the lid portion. If the closure is connected to the neck portion, for example, screwed onto it, the lid portion covers the dispensing opening. The dispensing opening is thus not exposed.

[0039] The container can have a tamper-evident element, preferably in the form of a ring. The tamper-evident element allows a user to easily determine whether they are opening the container for the first time, i.e., whether it has been accidentally opened before. The tamper-evident element makes the container tamper-proof.

[0040] The tamper-evident element can be connected to the closure via weakened areas (i.e. predetermined breaking areas), in particular (predetermined breaking) webs, wherein the weakened areas are preferably designed to be able to be broken upon actuation, in particular turning the closure (and thus in particular opening the container and releasing the dispensing opening).

[0041] The tamper evident element may have an outer diameter DE which substantially corresponds to the outer diameter DF of the support flange, the outer diameter DR of the container shoulder rim and / or the outer diameter DV of the closure.

[0042] The outer diameter DE of the tamper-evident element may deviate by 14% or less, preferably by 7% or less, particularly preferably by 3% or less, from the outer diameter DF of the support flange and / or the outer diameter DR of the container shoulder rim and / or the outer diameter DV of the closure. For example, the outer diameter DE of the tamper-evident element is 14% or less, preferably 7% or less, particularly preferably 3% or less, smaller or larger than the outer diameter DF of the support flange and / or the outer diameter DR of the container shoulder rim and / or the outer diameter DV of the closure.

[0043] In particular, DE may be in a range from 0.86*DF (or DR or DV) to 1.14*DF (or DR or DV), preferably in a range from 0.93*DF (or DR or DV) to 1.07*DF (or DR or DV).

[0044] The outer diameter DE of the tamper-evident element may differ by 6 mm or less, preferably by 3 mm or less, particularly preferably by 2.5 mm or less, from the outer diameter DF of the support flange and / or from the outer diameter DR of the container shoulder edge and / or from the outer diameter DV of the closure, in particular be larger or smaller than DF and / or DR and / or DV.

[0045] The outer diameter DE of the tamper-evident element can essentially be 41 mm ± 2.5 mm.

[0046] The tamper-evident element can be arranged or positioned between the support flange and the closure when the closure is in place. The tamper-evident element can be arranged to remain on the container body after the container has been opened, for example after the container has been opened by means of the closure. The tamper-evident element can, for example, remain on the container body by resting on the support flange and / or being provided at least partially below said projection and thus being prevented by the latter from moving above the projection (where the dispensing opening is provided). For example, the tamper-evident element has a radially inwardly extending projection that can interact with the neck-side projection (from below).

[0047] Alternatively, the tamper evident element can be removable from the container body together with the closure.

[0048] The container may have a sleeve which encloses at least a part of the container body, for example at least the container shoulder edge and / or a part of the container shoulder and / or the side wall, and preferably has a decoration.

[0049] The casing offers the main advantage that the casing and thus covered part of the container has no or at least a very low negative influence on the contents of the container body, for example due to light.

[0050] The sheathing may cover at least part of the support flange.

[0051] The sleeve may end on the tamper-evident element. For example, the sleeve may just cover the tamper-evident element or overlap it, so that, for example, only a (very narrow) ring of the tamper-evident element is visible from the outside of the container. If a closure is present, the sleeve preferably does not overlap the closure, allowing a consumer to open the closure without removing the sleeve.

[0052] The container may have a gap between an upper end of the casing and a lower end of the closure, the gap having a width of less than 1 mm. The lower end of the closure preferably corresponds to a free or distal end of the side wall of the closure. The width of the gap is preferably measured axially, i.e. parallel to the vertical or central axis of the container. The casing may end on the closure, in particular on a side wall of the closure, so that preferably the tamper evidence element is completely (laterally) covered by the casing. In particular, the casing may (slightly) overlap the closure so that, for example, a ring of the closure is visible from outside the container, this ring preferably making up at least 50%, preferably at least 75% of the height of the side wall of the closure.

[0053] The casing may end before the tamper-evident element, for example on the support flange, whereby the tamper-evident element is preferably not covered by the casing.

[0054] The sheath can at least partially cover a gap between the closure and the tamper-evident element.

[0055] In one embodiment, the casing is arranged so that any gaps between the closure and the tamper-evident element (in particular, the tamper-evident ring) are covered by the casing. This is particularly advantageous if the casing has a light barrier function, as this essentially prevents UV and / or visible light from penetrating the container.

[0056] The casing can be opaque to electromagnetic radiation in a range of 100-800 nm, particularly to UV radiation and / or visible light. Thus, the casing can prevent or at least significantly reduce deterioration of the container body contents due to such electromagnetic radiation. The opacity can be achieved by designing light-absorbing (e.g., black) and / or light-reflecting regions of the casing.

[0057] The sheath preferably comprises several layers, wherein the layers preferably comprise a light barrier layer that is opaque to electromagnetic radiation in a range from 100 nm to 800 nm, in particular to UV radiation and / or visible light. The light barrier layer may comprise aluminum.

[0058] The casing may have a black layer, wherein the black layer is preferably an innermost layer facing the container body.

[0059] The casing can be provided in a floating manner. Thus, it can be easily removed, for example, for recycling purposes, particularly in a float-sink process. The casing can, in particular, be designed (opaque, etc.) to conceal a large portion, for example, at least 50%, preferably at least 70%, of the underlying container body, in particular the outer surface and / or longitudinal extent of the container body.

[0060] The container shoulder edge can be convexly curved. The container shoulder edge can thus describe a kink or a curve in a section parallel to the longitudinal axis of the container body. In other words, in addition to its curvature running along the circumferential direction, the container shoulder edge can have a further curvature that is curved in a direction perpendicular to the circumferential direction.

[0061] The container body may have a circumferential wall section that forms the container shoulder edge and delimits the recess (from below). It is preferred if the wall section extends transversely, in particular obliquely, to a (for example, annular) base of the recess.

[0062] The base may have an outer diameter which is at least 10% smaller than the outer diameter DR of the container shoulder rim and is, for example, 36.5 mm.

[0063] The support flange may extend transversely, preferably perpendicularly, to the base. For example, the support flange extends radially outward, with the base extending axially.

[0064] The support flange can be designed to support the application of a closure in a system, in particular a capper. The support flange preferably has a recess, such as a groove, into which the system can engage, for example by means of spikes, in order to apply counterforces or a counter-torque for applying, in particular unscrewing, the closure to the neck area.

[0065] The container body can be made of a preferably transparent material, preferably comprising plastic, wherein the plastic preferably comprises one or more of the following materials: PET (polyethylene terephthalate), PEF (polyethylene furanoate), PC (polycarbonate), PS (polystyrene), PP (polypropylene). Substantially 50% (wt.% or vol.%) or more of the container body or the plastic preferably consists of one or more of these materials. The container body can be transparent at least to visible light and / or UV radiation. This makes the container body easily recyclable.

[0066] For example, the container body can be crystal clear, colored, in particular blue and / or brown, and / or white.

[0067] According to a second aspect, the invention relates to a product comprising a container according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the container body is filled with a food product. The product preferably contains vitamin B2. The product may contain milk or beer. In particular, the product may be a milk-based mixed drink or a beer-based mixed drink.

[0068] According to a third aspect, the invention relates to a method for producing a container for a food product (for example, a container as described above), in particular for a food product containing vitamin B2, for example, milk or beer. The method comprises the following steps: a) providing a blank, in particular a preform, wherein the blank has a neck region with a dispensing opening and a support flange; and b) forming a container body from the blank such that the container body has: a side wall, a container shoulder extending from the side wall to a container shoulder edge, and a recess, wherein at least the container shoulder edge and the support flange delimit the recess. The container shoulder edge has an outer diameter DR that substantially corresponds to the outer diameter DF of the support flange.

[0069] The method may comprise: providing a closure and / or providing a tamper-evident element.

[0070] The method may comprise: providing a casing such that it encloses at least a part of the container body, for example at least the container shoulder edge.

[0071] The provision of the jacket can comprise shrinking and / or stretching the jacket. The provision of the jacket preferably takes place in the presence of a heat flow and / or a tensile force. For example, the shrinking of the jacket can occur through heat transfer, for example through heat release and / or heat absorption. For example, the stretching of the jacket can occur by expanding the jacket. The jacket preferably has a first, unshrunk state in which it is placed onto a part of the container, for example at least the container body. At least after such placement, the jacket is heated by heat and shrinks, whereby the jacket is converted into a second, shrunken state in which the jacket encloses the container (at least in an axially secured position).The stretching of the sheath can be done in the first state of the sheath, for example before the sheath is put on.

[0072] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to an embodiment illustrated in the accompanying drawings. They show:

[0073] Figure 1 is a schematic side view of a container;

[0074] Figure 2 is a schematic plan view of the container of Figure 1;

[0075] Figure 3 is a schematic sectional view of the container of Figure i along the

[0076] Section line III-III in Figure 2;

[0077] Figure 4 is a schematic side view of a container according to an embodiment;

[0078] Figure 5 is a schematic plan view of the container of Figure 4;

[0079] Figure 6 is a schematic sectional view of the container from Figure 4 along the

[0080] Section line VI -VI in Figure 5;

[0081] Figure 7 shows the schematic sectional view according to Figure 6, supplemented by the respective outer diameters, whereby some reference numerals from Figure 6 are omitted for the sake of clarity.

[0082] Figures 1 to 3 show a container 201 for a food product, in particular for a food product containing vitamin B2, for example milk or beer. The container 201 has a hollow container body 202. The container body 202 has: a side wall 203 extending from a base 204, a container shoulder 205 extending from the side wall 203 upwards to a neck region 207 of the container body 202. The neck region 207 has a dispensing opening 2071 and a support flange 2072. A closure 211 is provided on the neck region 207 to cover the dispensing opening 2071.

[0083] It can be seen that a casing 212, a so-called "sleeve," can only cover a portion of the container 201 due to the maximum shrink rates. Thus, near the neck region 207, an area 208 remains free because the neck region 207 is too small and the maximum shrink rate is insufficient to shrink the casing 212 to the small diameters in this area 208 as well.

[0084] Figures 4 to 6 show a container 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The container 1 is intended to contain a food product. The food product may be a food product containing vitamin B2. For example, the food product comprises milk or beer. The container 1 is, for example, a bottle.

[0085] The container 1 has a hollow container body 2. The container body 2 has a side wall 3 and a base 4, from which the side wall 3 extends (upwards). The container 1 can stand upright above the base 4. The side wall 3 preferably extends perpendicular to the base 4. The container body 2 can have a height (extending in the axial direction) of at least 150 mm, preferably at least 170 mm, particularly preferably 177.1 mm. The container body 2 can have a maximum outer diameter of at least 60 mm, preferably 70 mm or more. The maximum outer diameter is preferably defined by the side wall 3.

[0086] The container body 2 has a container shoulder 5 which extends upwards from the side wall 3, in particular away from the base 4. The container shoulder 5 tapers with increasing distance from the side wall 3 and / or the base 4, i.e., it tapers along a direction away from the side wall 3 and / or the base 4. The container shoulder 5 can be convexly and / or concavely curved. For example, the container shoulder 5 has a preferably curved (e.g., convexly curved) portion 51 with a first outer diameter and a preferably curved (e.g., concavely curved) portion 52 with a second outer diameter, wherein the first outer diameter is larger than the second outer diameter.

[0087] The container body 2 has a container shoulder edge 6, up to which the container shoulder 5 extends. The container shoulder 5 thus ends, for example with its second section 52, in or at the container shoulder edge 6. Consequently, the outer diameter of the container shoulder edge 6 can correspond to the second outer diameter of the container shoulder 5. The container shoulder edge 6 can preferably be convexly curved, wherein the curvature preferably has a smaller radius than the radius of the curvature of the first section 51 and / or the curvature of the second section 52.

[0088] The container body 2 has a neck region 7 with a dispensing opening 71, through which the contents of the container body 2 can be dispensed, and a support flange 72, which is preferably a support and stop flange. The support flange 72 extends radially outward and at least partially, preferably completely, in a circumferential direction. The support flange 72 can be provided at least partially in the form of a ring. The support flange 72 can be a support ring. The support flange 72 can have an (upwardly facing) front side 721 and / or a (downwardly facing) rear side 722. The support flange 72 can be designed to assist in the application of a closure in a system, for example a closer. For this purpose, the support flange 72 can have a recess such as a groove.A device such as a capper can engage in the recess to apply counterforces for applying, in particular unscrewing, the closure to the neck region 7. The recess can, for example, be recessed from the front side 721 and / or the back side 722. The support flange 72 can additionally be designed as a stop flange, which means that a tamper-evident element can strike the support flange 72 and preferably wedge itself against it.

[0089] The neck region 7 preferably extends above the container shoulder edge 6, e.g., on a side of the container shoulder edge 6 facing away from the container shoulder 5. When the container 1 is in the upright position, the neck region 7 preferably represents the uppermost part of the container body 2. The neck region 7 may, for example, have a (circular) round side wall that delimits the dispensing opening 71. The width or outer diameter of the side wall, or of a cylindrical part comprising the side wall, may be 36 mm.

[0090] The neck portion 7 may have a thread 73 extending between the outlet opening 71 and the support flange 72. The thread 73 preferably ends in front of the support flange 72, e.g., above the front side 722. The thread 73 may, for example, be a 36 mm thread.

[0091] The neck region 7 can have a projection 74, for example in the form of a flange, wherein the projection 74 is arranged to cooperate with a tamper-evident element 10 arranged on the neck region 7, which preferably has the shape of a ring. In particular, the tamper-evident element 10 can wedge with the projection 74. The projection 72 is preferably designed as a stop flange or ring. The projection 74 can prevent the tamper-evident element 10 from moving away from the support flange 72. The thread 73 preferably extends between the outlet opening 71 and the projection 74. The projection 74 can be an at least partially (in the circumferential direction) circumferential projection 74. The projection 74 can have only one or more projections, wherein the projections are preferably distributed in the circumferential direction.

[0092] The container body 2 has a recess 8. The recess 8 recesses in a radial direction and preferably extends at least partially in a circumferential direction. For example, the recess 8 is annular. The recess 8 is delimited at least by the container shoulder edge 6 and the support flange 72, for example its rear side 722. The container body 2 can have a circumferential wall section 81 which delimits the recess 8 from below, wherein the wall section 81 comprises the container shoulder edge 6. The wall section 81 therefore preferably ends in or on the container shoulder edge 6. The recess 8 preferably has a bottom 82. The wall section 81 can extend transversely, in particular obliquely (e.g. 30° or more, preferably 40° or more, particularly preferably 50° or more relative to the bottom 82 or to a radial direction or to the rear side 722), to the bottom 82.The support flange 72, in particular its rear side 722, can extend transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the base 82. The base 82 can be formed in different ways along an axial direction of the container body, for example, straight, corrugated, and / or stepped.

[0093] The container body 2 is not limited to a specific material. For example, the container body 2 is made of a preferably transparent material, for example, comprising plastic. The plastic can comprise: PET, PEF, PC, PS and / or PP. Alternatively or additionally, the plastic can comprise a thermoplastic polyester, for example provided by a material with the trade name Tritan©, and / or a plastic provided by a material with the trade name Akestra©. The container body 2 can be transparent at least to visible light and / or UV radiation. For example, the container body 2 is crystal clear, colored, in particular blue and / or brown, and / or white.

[0094] The container 1 may have a closure 11, which is preferably a screw cap.

[0095] The closure 11 can have a side wall 111. On the inside of the side wall 111, for example, a thread 112 can be arranged, via which the closure 11 can be screwed onto the neck region 7. The thread 112 is preferably in engagement with the thread 73. The closure 11 can have a lid 113 which, when connected to the container body 2, in particular when screwed onto the neck region 7, covers the dispensing opening 71 and thus does not expose it. The height of the container 1 including the closure 11 can have a height (extending in the axial direction) of at least 150 mm, preferably at least 170 mm, particularly preferably 177.7 mm.

[0096] The container 1 can have, preferably below the closure 11, a tamper-evident element 10, which is preferably in the shape of a ring. In other embodiments, a different tamper-evident element can also be provided, for example a film (aluminum foil, plastic film, etc.) that is glued to the neck region 7 and covers the dispensing opening 71. The tamper-evident element 10 can be connected to the closure 11 via weakened regions 101, in particular webs, wherein the weakened regions 101 are preferably designed such that they can be broken upon actuation, in particular upon turning of the closure 11. The tamper-evident element 10 is preferably arranged to remain on the container body 2 after opening the container 1, for example after opening the container by means of the closure 11. This can be done in different ways.For example, the projection 74 is designed and arranged such that it can prevent the tamper-evident element 10 from moving beyond the projection 74 and / or toward the dispensing opening 71. In particular, the projection 74 and the support flange 72, in particular its upper side 721, can delimit an area in which at least a part of the tamper-evident element 10 is arranged.

[0097] Upon actuation of the closure 11, the tamper-evident element 10 preferably engages with the projection 74—for example, it wedges itself with the projection 74—which prevents the tamper-evident element 10 from further movement in the direction of movement of the closure 11. The closure 11 can thus move away from the tamper-evident element 10, causing the weakened areas 101 to break. The closure 11 then releases the dispensing opening 71, while the tamper-evident element 10 remains on the container body 2.

[0098] The closure 11 can be connected to the container body 2 via an unweakened connection region, for example one or more webs or arms, such that the closure 11 remains connected to the container body 2 after it has released the dispensing opening 71. This means that the closure 11 is preferably "leashed" to the container body 2, i.e. preferably a so-called "tethered cap". The unweakened connection region is preferably designed such that it breaks or tears under higher forces, in particular tensile forces, than any of the weakened regions toi. The connection region can have a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is connected (directly) to the closure n, and wherein the second end is connected (directly or indirectly, for example via the tamper-evident element io) to the container body 2.

[0099] A gap 102 may be provided between the closure n, in particular the lower or free end of the side wall 11, and the tamper-evident element 10. The weakened regions 101 and / or the connecting region may each extend at least partially into the gap 102.

[0100] The closure 11 may have one or more, preferably annular, sealing elements 114 arranged to come into contact with the neck region 7. A circumferential side wall of the neck region 7, which defines the dispensing opening 71, may be arranged, preferably clamped, between the sealing elements 114.

[0101] As Figure 7 clearly shows, the container 1, in particular the container body 2, has several, preferably concentric, outer diameters. An outer diameter is understood to be the diameter that extends to a respective radial end surface. An outer diameter is understood, in particular, to be a diameter that describes the greatest distance between two points on the outside of the respective cylindrical or at least partially round object or section.

[0102] The support flange 72 has an outer diameter DF which is defined by the radial, preferably straight or bent ends of the support flange 72.

[0103] The container shoulder edge 6 has an outer diameter DR which preferably corresponds to the smallest outer diameter of the container shoulder 5.

[0104] The closure 11 has an outer diameter DV, which is defined, for example, by the side wall 111.

[0105] The tamper-evident element 10 has an outer diameter DE, which is defined, for example, by a cylindrical and / or annular shape of the tamper-evident element 10. The outer diameters DF and DR, and preferably also the outer diameters DV and / or DE, are all substantially equal or identical. The outer diameters DF and DR, and preferably also the outer diameters DV and / or DE, are preferably substantially congruent with the outer diameter of an imaginary cylinder that is concentric with the outer diameters DF and DR (and preferably DV and / or DE). They therefore deviate from each other only minimally, within defined tolerance limits.

[0106] For example, the outer diameters DF and DR, and preferably DV and / or DE, are related to each other as follows:

[0107] - DF differs from DR by 14% or less, preferably by 7% or less, particularly preferably by 3% or less, where DF is, for example, 14% or less, preferably 7% or less, particularly preferably 3% or less, greater or less than DR;

[0108] - DF and / or DR each deviate from DV by 3% or less, for example DF and / or DR each being 3% or less greater or smaller than DV;

[0109] - DE differs from DR by 14% or less, preferably by 7% or less, particularly preferably by 3% or less, where DE is, for example, 14% or less, preferably 7% or less, particularly preferably 3% or less, greater or smaller than DR.

[0110] Particularly preferably, the outer diameters DF and DR and preferably DV and / or DE are related to each other as follows:

[0111] - DF deviates from DR by 6 mm or less, preferably by 3 mm or less, particularly preferably by 2.5 mm or less, where DF is, for example, 6 mm or less, preferably 3 mm or less, particularly preferably 2.5 mm or less greater or smaller than DR;

[0112] - DF and / or DR each deviate from DV by 3 mm or less, preferably by 2.5 mm or less, where, for example, DF and / or DR each is / are 3 mm or less, preferably 2.5 mm or less, greater or smaller than DV,

[0113] - DE deviates from DR by 6 mm or less, preferably by 3 mm or less, particularly preferably by 2.5 mm or less, where DE is, for example, 6 mm or less, preferably 3 mm or less, particularly preferably 2.5 mm or less greater or smaller than DR. In one embodiment, DF and DR, and preferably DV and / or DE, may each be less than 43 mm, in particular substantially 41 mm, for example 41 mm ± 2.5 mm.

[0114] In one embodiment, DF and DR, and preferably DV and / or DE, may each be less than 33 mm and a value of ± 2.5 mm.

[0115] In one embodiment, the closure 11 may have a size, in particular an outer diameter, of 28mm or 38mm ± 2.5mm.

[0116] The bottom 82 of the recess 8 can have an outer diameter DB which is at least 10% smaller than the outer diameter DR of the container shoulder edge 6 and is, for example, 36.5 mm.

[0117] The container body 2 differs from the container body 202 in particular in that i.) its support flange 72 is reduced in size compared to the support flange 2072, for example, 41 mm instead of 43 mm, and ii.) its container shoulder 50 is enlarged in size compared to the container shoulder 205, for example, 41 mm instead of 36 mm. Due to the thus obtained almost identical dimensions, namely the outer diameter, of the support flange 72 and the container shoulder 5 and preferably of the closure 11, the provision of a casing 12, in particular through a so-called "sleeving process," is significantly simplified. The casing 12 can, in particular, be provided such that the region 208 is not exposed or is at least significantly reduced.

[0118] The container 1 can therefore have a casing 12 that surrounds and thus covers at least part of the container body 2, for example at least the container shoulder edge 6 and / or at least part of the container shoulder 5 and / or side wall 4. The casing 12 can, for example, be provided in a tubular shape. The casing 12 and the container body 2 are provided concentrically. Preferably, the casing 12 extends at least along 50%, preferably at least along 75%, of the height of the container body 2 or the container 1. The casing 12 can adapt to the shape of at least the container body 2, preferably conforming to it, and can therefore have different outer diameters.

[0119] The casing 12 can have a barrier function (for example, against electromagnetic radiation, in particular light, and / or other physical and / or chemical quantities such as oxygen and / or water vapor) and / or one or more decorations (for example, in the form of symbols, letters, images, motifs, different colors and / or patterns). The casing 12 can thus protect sensitive products (in particular containing vitamin B2) contained in the container body 2, in particular protect them from degradation. The casing 12 can, for example, be provided exclusively for decorative purposes, for example to "hide" a large part of the container 1 and / or to give the container 1 an attractive appearance by means of a decoration.

[0120] The casing 12 may be opaque to electromagnetic radiation in a range of 100-800 nm, preferably in a range of 100-780 nm. Preferably, the casing 12 is (for example exclusively) opaque to UV radiation and / or visible light. The casing 12 may have one or more layers, which preferably have a light barrier layer that is opaque to electromagnetic radiation in a range of 100 nm to 800 nm, in particular to electromagnetic radiation that includes UV radiation and / or visible light. The light barrier layer may comprise aluminum. The casing 12 may be coated black and / or have a black layer. The black coating or layer is preferably provided to face the container body 2, in particular the part of the container 1 to be encased.

[0121] The casing 12 can cover at least part of the support flange 72. This can, in particular, prevent an exposed gap below the support flange 72. Preferably, the support flange 72 is completely covered at least laterally by the casing 12. The casing 12 can, for example, extend from below the support flange 72 past it and then end above it. The casing 12 can end at a higher level with respect to the container 1 than the level at which the support flange 72 is provided. The (upper) end of the casing 12 is preferably arranged closer to the dispensing opening 71 than the support flange 72. The casing 12 is preferably in contact with at least part of the wall section 81.

[0122] It is preferred if the casing 12 ends on the tamper-evident element 10, so that, for example, the (upper) end of the casing 12 is not arranged closer to the dispensing opening 71 than the tamper-evident element 10. Such a provision of the casing 12 is particularly advantageous for opening the container 1, since in order to open the container, for example by means of the closure 11, no forces need to be overcome that would act on the closure 11 through the casing 12. Because the casing 12 ends below the closure n, the closure n is therefore easy to open, and no waste is generated by removing remnants of the casing 12.

[0123] A gap 13 may be provided between an upper end of the casing 12 and a lower end of the closure 11, for example, a free end of the side wall 111. The gap 13 preferably has a width, measured in the axial direction, of less than 1 mm.

[0124] Alternatively, the casing 12 can end above the tamper-evident element 10, so that, for example, the (upper) end of the casing 12 is arranged closer to the dispensing opening 71 than the tamper-evident element 10. For example, the casing 12 can end on the closure 11, in particular on the side wall 111, whereby the tamper-evident element 10 is preferably completely (laterally) covered. The casing 12 can therefore (slightly) overlap the closure 11, so that an annular region of the closure 11, in particular of the side wall 111, is visible from outside the container 1. In particular, the casing 12 can extend so far that the gap 102 between the closure 11 and the tamper-evident element 10 is at least partially covered by the casing 12.

[0125] According to a further embodiment, the casing 12 can end before the tamper-evident element 10, for example, on the support flange 72, and thus not (laterally) cover the tamper-evident element 10. The tamper-evident element 10 can thus be arranged closer to the dispensing opening 71 than the (upper) end of the casing 12. The casing 12 can thus (slightly) overlap the support flange 72, so that only an annular region of the support flange 72 is visible from outside the container 1.

[0126] The casing 12 can be provided in a floating manner to allow for easy removal, for example, for recycling purposes. This means that the casing 12 preferably has one or more inner diameters that, in the casing state, are larger than the corresponding outer diameters of the container 1 or container body 2.

[0127] The closure 11 and / or the tamper-evident element 10 can each be made of HDPE (high-density polyethylene), PP (polypropylene), and / or PET (polyethylene terephthalate). The casing 12 can be made of a polyolefin, for example. The casing 12 can, in particular, be foamed and / or voided, i.e., hollowed out, for example. A method for producing a container 1 as described above will be explained below by way of example.The method comprises at least the following steps: a) providing a blank, in particular a preform, wherein the blank has a neck region 7 with a dispensing opening 71 and a support flange 72; and b) forming a container body 2 from the blank such that the container body 2 has: a side wall 3 extending from a base 4, a container shoulder 5 extending from the side wall 3 as far as a container shoulder edge 6, and a recess 8, wherein the container shoulder edge 6 and the support flange 72 delimit the recess 8, and wherein the container shoulder edge 6 has an outer diameter DR which substantially corresponds to the outer diameter DF of the support flange 72.

[0128] Step b) may comprise expanding, in particular inflating, the blank in a mold, wherein the mold provides the shape of the container body 2, for example by having a complementary or negative shape to the container body 2.

[0129] The method may, for example, after step b), comprise step c), in which a closure 11 and / or a tamper-evident element 10 is provided.

[0130] The method may, for example, after step c), comprise step d), in which a casing 12 is provided such that it encloses at least a portion of the container body 2, for example, at least the container shoulder edge 6. Step d) may be at least partially a sleeving process.

[0131] The provision of the sheath 12 according to step d) may comprise shrinking and / or stretching the sheath 12.

[0132] The method may, for example, between step a) or step b) on the one hand and step c) on the other hand, comprise introducing, in particular filling, a food product into the container body 2. For example, the introduction in step b) may be carried out, for example, in such a way that the blank is formed, in particular expanded, for example in the mold, by introducing the food product. The food product preferably contains vitamin B2 and / or milk or beer.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Container (i) for a food product, in particular for a food product containing vitamin B2, for example milk or beer, the container (1) comprising a hollow container body (2), the container body (2) comprising: - a side wall (3) extending from a base (4), - a container shoulder (5) extending from the side wall (3) to a container shoulder edge (6), - a neck portion (7) with a dispensing opening (71) and a support flange (72), and - a recess (8), wherein at least the container shoulder edge (6) and the support flange (72) delimit the recess (8), wherein the outer diameter DF of the support flange (72) corresponds substantially to the outer diameter DR of the container shoulder edge (6).

2. Container (1) according to claim 1, wherein the outer diameter DF of the support flange (72) deviates by 14% or less, preferably by 7% or less, from the outer diameter DR of the container shoulder edge (6).

3. Container (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the outer diameter DF of the support flange (72) deviates by 6 mm or less, preferably by 3 mm or less, from the outer diameter DR of the container shoulder edge (6).

4. Container (1) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a closure (11), wherein the closure (11) is preferably a screw cap.

5. Container (1) according to claim 4, wherein the outer diameter DF of the support flange (72) and / or the outer diameter DR of the container shoulder edge (6) each substantially corresponds to the outer diameter DV of the closure (11).

6. Container (1) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the outer diameter DF of the support flange (72) and / or the outer diameter DR of the container shoulder edge (6) each deviates by 3% or less from the outer diameter DV of the closure (11).

7. Container (1) according to one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the outer diameter DF of the support flange (72) and / or the outer diameter DR of the container shoulder edge (6) each deviates by 3 mm or less, preferably by 2.5 mm or less, from the outer diameter DV of the closure (11).

8. Container (1) according to one of claims 4 to 7, wherein the closure (11) is connected to the container body (2) via a connecting region, for example a web or arm, in such a way that the closure (11) remains connected to the container body (2) after it has released the dispensing opening (71).

9. Container (1) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a tamper-evident element (10), wherein the tamper-evident element (10) preferably has the shape of a ring, and / or wherein the tamper-evident element (10) is preferably connected to the closure via weakened regions (101), in particular webs, wherein the weakened regions (101) are preferably designed to be able to be broken upon actuation, in particular upon turning of the closure (11).

10. Container (1) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a casing (12) which encloses at least a part of the container body (2), for example at least the container shoulder edge (6) and / or a part of the container shoulder (5) and / or the side wall (4), and preferably has a decoration.

11. Container (1) according to claim 10, wherein the casing (12) covers at least a part of the support flange (72).

12. Container (1) according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the casing (12) ends on the tamper-evident element (10).

13. Container (1) according to one of claims 10 to 12, comprising a gap (13) between an upper end of the casing (12) and a lower end of the closure (11), the gap (13) having a width which is less than 1 mm.

14. Container (1) according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the casing (12) ends on the closure (11) so that preferably the tamper-evident element (10) is completely covered. 15- Container (1) according to one of claims 10 to 14, wherein the casing (12) is non-transparent to electromagnetic radiation in a range of 100-800 nm, in particular to UV radiation and / or visible light.

16. Container (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the container shoulder edge (6) is convexly curved.

17. Container (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the container body (2) has a circumferential wall section (81) which has the container shoulder edge (6) and delimits the recess (8), wherein preferably the wall section (81) extends transversely, in particular obliquely, to a base (82) of the recess (8), wherein preferably the base (82) has an outer diameter which is at least 10% smaller than the outer diameter DR of the container shoulder edge (6) and is for example 36.5 mm.

18. Container (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the support flange (72) is designed to support the application of a closure (11) in a system, in particular a closer, wherein the support flange (72) preferably has a recess such as a groove into which the system can engage in order to apply counterforces for applying, in particular unscrewing, the closure (11) to the neck region (7).

19. Container (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the container body (2) is made of a preferably transparent material, which preferably comprises plastic, wherein the plastic or the container body preferably comprises one or more of the following materials: PET, PEF, PC, PS, PP; wherein preferably 50 wt.% or more of the plastic or the container body consists of one or more of these materials.

20. A product comprising a container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the container body (2) is filled with a food product, preferably the product containing vitamin B2 and / or milk or beer.

21. A method for producing a container (1) for a food product, in particular for a food product containing vitamin B2, for example milk or beer, the method comprising the following steps: a) providing a blank, in particular a preform, wherein the blank has a neck region (7) with a dispensing opening (71) and a support flange (72); and b) forming a container body (2) from the blank such that the container body (2) has: - a side wall (3) extending from a base (4), - a container shoulder (5) extending from the side wall (3) to a container shoulder edge (6), and - a recess (8), wherein the container shoulder edge (6) and the support flange (72) delimit the recess (8), wherein the container shoulder edge (6) has an outer diameter DR which substantially corresponds to the outer diameter DF of the support flange (72).

22. Method according to claim 21, comprising providing a closure (11) and / or providing a tamper-evident element (10).

23. Method according to claim 21 or 22, comprising providing a casing (12) such that it encloses at least a part of the container body (2), for example at least the container shoulder edge (6) and / or a part of the container shoulder (5) and / or the side wall (4).

24. The method according to claim 23, wherein providing the sheath (12) comprises shrinking and / or stretching the sheath (12).

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