Milk labeling system

Abstract

This invention relates to devices that label containers of milk. Previously, different types of milks had a similar appearance, making them difficult to distinguish from one another. Embodiments of the present invention use at least one pitcher and a plurality of labels, each indicating a different milk type, the labels being configured to magnetically and interchangeably attach to the pitcher for indication the type of milk stored in the pitcher.

Description

MILK LABELING SYSTEMTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to systems and devices for storing and dispensing milk and milk substitutes.BACKGROUND ART

[0002]

[0003] A variety of different milk types, i.e., various animal derived milks, plant-based milks (also known as alternative milks), etc., are available to consumers at supermarkets, and are commonly used in coffee houses, restaurants, hotels, and similar establishments. Due to factors such as allergies, ideological beliefs, increase in health consciousness, individual taste, etc., consumers may have strong preferences for using and / or avoiding certain types of milk(s). However, different types of milks may have a similar appearance, making them difficult to distinguish from one another. As such, an improved system for identifying different milk types is desirable.DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

[0003] According to various embodiments, disclosed is a milk labeling system and / or kit, which may comprise a pitcher; and multiple milk labels each configured to non- permanently attach to the milk pitcher, wherein the multiple milk labels include at least a first milk label for a first type of milk, and a second milk label for a second type of milk which is different from the first milk type. In certain embodiments, the milk labels are magnetically attachable to the pitcher. In some embodiments, the pitcher is made of stainless steel. In some embodiments, the pitcher includes an indentation configured to receive the labels. In certain embodiments, each label is made of silicone, and is a planar sheet including an embedded magnet. In some embodiments, the labels and the indentations have the same geometric shape. In some further embodiments, the labels and indentation are elliptically shaped. In certain embodiments, the first type of milk is an animal-derived milk and the second type of milk is a plant derived milk. In some embodiments, the system / kit comprises multiple labels for different types of plant derived milk, the different types of milk comprising soy milk, oat milk, almond milk, and coconut milk. In some embodiments, the system / kit comprises multiple labels for different types of animal derived milks. In certain embodiments, the pitcher is usedfor steaming, frothing, and / or heating the milk for use in coffee and / or tea beverages. In some embodiments, the pitcher is used to store milk in a refrigerator.

[0004] Also disclosed according to various embodiments, is a milk labeling method, which may comprise attaching one of a plurality of milk labels to a pitcher; and pouring milk into the pitcher, wherein the plurality of milk labels are each configured to non- permanently attach to the milk pitcher (and is therefore reusable), wherein each milk label indicates a different milk type, and wherein the type of milk poured into the pitcher is indicated by the milk label attached to the pitcher. In some embodiments, the different milk types include different types of animal derived milks and different types of plant-based milks. In some embodiments, the method further comprises steaming, frothing, and / or heating the milk inside the labeled pitcher for use in a coffee and / or a tea beverage. In some embodiments, the method further comprises storing one or more milks in multiple pitchers which are differently labeledBRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0005] The detailed description of some embodiments of the invention will be made below with reference to the accompanying figures, wherein the figures disclose one or more embodiments of the present invention.

[0006] FIG. 1 shows a milk labeling system, according to certain embodiments.

[0007] FIG. 2 depicts a pitcher of the milk labeling system with an attached label, according to certain embodiments.

[0008] FIG. 3 depicts the pitcher with label removed, and including an indentation for receiving the label according to an alternate embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 4 depicts the labeled pitcher in use, according to certain embodiments.

[0010] FIG. 5 is a detailed view of an exemplary label, according to certain embodiments.

[0011] FIG. 6 shows the label of FIG. 5 attached to the pitcher.BEST MODE OF THE INVENTION

[0012] A variety of different types of milks, including various animal derived milks, plant-based milks (e.g., soy milk, coconut milk, oat milk, almond milk), etc., are used in drinks such as coffees, teas (e.g., chai), and other beverages, cereals, oatmeal, in baking and preparing foods, etc. These milks typically have a white or off-white color, making themdifficult to distinguish from one another. While the milks may be stored in their original retail / store bought containers which are typically labeled, in certain cases the milk may be transferred into an unlabeled container such as a metal / stainless steel pitcher. This may be done, for example, for heating, steaming, and / or frothing the milk for use in a beverage such as coffee. As another example, a pitcher may be more desirable to put out on a buffet or dining table for presentation and / or to reduce the likelihood of waste and / or spoilage (due to the unrefrigerated environment) when only a small amount of milk is used. As different individuals may have different needs / preference, in many cases, a home or commercial establishment may have different types of milk available. As such, there is a need for an improved system which helps to avoid confusing different types of milks once removed from their original containers.

[0013] To address this issue, and with reference to the attached figures, the disclosed subject matter provides a milk labeling system 10 comprising at least one container 14 (also referred to as pitcher 14) and a plurality of labels 12, each indicating a different milk type, the labels being configured to non-permanently attach to container 14. As such, labels 12 may be interchanged for indicating the type of milk inside the container.

[0014] In certain embodiments, labels 12 may be configured to magnetically attach to container 14. In some embodiments, labels 12 may be magnetic, and container 14 may be a ferromagnetic stainless steel. In certain embodiments, container 14 may have a generally cylindrical body, but not necessarily so. In one embodiment, container 14 may be a pitcher made from anodized stainless steel to prevent rust while supporting magnet attachment. According to an exemplary embodiment, container 14 may be made from stainless steel SS430 with an anodized interior, and include a handle made of stainless steel SS201. In further embodiments, container 14 may be cylindrical and include a spout and inner measuring markings as shown in the figures. In some embodiments, container 14 may be provided in different sizes (e.g., 350 ml, 600 ml, 900 ml, etc.). It shall be appreciated however, that container 14 may have different designs features, shapes, colors, sizes, and / or dimensions in alternate embodiments. In certain embodiments, container 14 may have a label attachment site 18 configured to receive labels 12, but not necessarily so. In one embodiment, each label 12 may be a planar sheet. In further embodiments, each label 12 may be elliptically shaped, wherein label attachment site 18 may be an elliptical indentation within pitcher 14. In some further embodiments, attachment site 18 is horizontally oriented with respect to pitcher 14 as shown.

[0015] In certain embodiment, each label 12 is configured to bend to conform and attach to the cylindrical curvature of the pitcher body, without gaps. According to an exemplaryembodiment, each label 12 may be made of a flexible food-grade silicone with embedded magnet(s). Such material is easy to clean, dishwasher safe, and durable. Additionally, the material has a high heat resistance (e.g., of about 100 degrees Celsius), which protects the magnetic properties of the embedded magnet(s). In some further embodiments, each label may be BPA-free, FDA-approved. In one embodiment, each label 12 may be an ellipse with a major axis of about 50mm in length, a minor axis of about 27.50 mm, and about 3 mm in thickness, with a pair of embedded magnetic discs 12A within the focal points of the ellipse. This design enables label 12 to be in full contact with the cylindrical surface of pitcher 14 without gaps when attached in horizontal orientation thereto. It shall be appreciated however that label 12 may have any number of magnets at various locations, and may have different design features, shapes, sizes, and / or dimensions in alternate embodiments.

[0016] In certain embodiments, labels 12 may indicate various cow milks, e.g., half-and-half, whole, reduced fat, low fat, etc. and various plant-based milks, e.g. almond, soy, oat, coconut, almond, etc. Additionally, each label is clearly marked so that a user may easily identify the milk type and distinguish it from the other labels. In certain embodiments, each label may include a textual description of the milk type. In further embodiments, each label may include a pictorial depiction of the milk type, e.g., a cow for cow milk, or the plant from which the milk is derived, as shown in the figures. In some further embodiments, each label may have a unique color. As such, a user may easily ascertain the type of milk which is contained within container 14.

[0017] Container 14 may be thus used to prepare the milk for pouring into a coffee or other drinks, wherein the stainless-steel material is ideal for heating, frothing, and / or steaming the milk inside the container. Labels 12 are magnetically attached to container 14 and are easily removable and interchangeable. Moreover labels 12 may be conveniently attached to any other ferromagnetic surface, such as a refrigerator, coffee machine, or other appliance for convenient storage and access. Placement of label 12 on container 14 prevents the user (e.g., cafe worker) from confusing one type of milk with another, or from using a pitcher containing residue from a different type of milk. Additionally, container 14 or multiple containers 14 holding different types of milk may be placed on a buffet or dining table, to provide a more aesthetic appearance over a typical milk container. This may further reduce spoilage, as only the amount needed for use may be placed out of the refrigerated environment, instead of placing the entire milk carton on the table. Leftover milk(s) may further be stored in a refrigerator, inside pitcher(s) 14 for later use, without the risk of confusion between different types of milks.

[0018] The disclosed system may be used in a home, and various commercial establishments such as coffee shops, restaurants, hotels, offices / places of work, etc., and avoids accidental confusion of one type of milk for another. This may be particularly beneficial for individuals with allergies (e.g., to cow’s milk) or ideological beliefs such as veganism, and the like, which may have strong objections, aversions, and / or adverse reactions to certain types of milks. Thus, the disclosed subject matter provides a quick, hygienic, and convenient system for identifying milk types, with enhanced functionality over a conventional milk pitcher system. The disclosed system protects users and consumer from accidental mix ups which can lead to dangerous allergic reactions in certain cases. In some embodiments, the disclosed system may be provided to the consumer as a kit including a set of labels 12 and one or more pitchers 14; or the various system components may be sold separately or as add-ons to a set.

[0019] It shall be appreciated that the disclosed system and system components can have multiple configurations in different embodiments. For example, container 14 may include a magnetic element and labels 12 may include a metal and / or magnet in alternate embodiments. As another examples, container 14 may be a cup. Additionally, container 14 may or may not include an indentation in different embodiments. It shall be appreciated that the system components described herein may comprise any alternative known materials in the field and be of any color, size, and / or dimensions. It shall be appreciated that the system components may be manufactured and assembled using any known techniques in the field.

[0020] It shall be understood that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by terms such as "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside" is based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, which is only for convenience and simplification of describing the disclosed subject matter, rather than indicating or implying that the indicated device or element must have a specific orientation or are constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of the present invention.

[0021] As used herein, the articles “a” and “an” are intended to include one or more items, and may be used interchangeably with “one or more.” Where only one item is intended, the term “one” or similar language is used. Also, as used herein, the terms “has”, “have”, “having”, “with” or the like are intended to be open-ended terms. Further, the phrase “based on” is intended to mean “based, at least in part, on” unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0022] The constituent elements of the disclosed device and system listed herein are intended to be exemplary only, and it is not intended that this list be used to limit the device of the present application to just these elements. Persons having ordinary skill in the artrelevant to the present disclosure may understand there to be equivalent elements that may be substituted within the present disclosure without changing the essential function or operation of the device. Terms such as ‘approximate,’ ‘approximately,’ ‘about,’ etc., as used herein indicate a deviation of within + / -10%. Relationships between the various elements of the disclosed device as described herein are presented as illustrative examples only, and not intended to limit the scope or nature of the relationships between the various elements. Persons of ordinary skill in the art may appreciate that numerous design configurations may be possible to enjoy the functional benefits of the inventive systems. Thus, given the wide variety of configurations and arrangements of embodiments of the present invention the scope of the invention is reflected by the breadth of the claims below rather than narrowed by the embodiments described above.INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0023] Embodiments of the claimed invention are useful for labeling a container of milk.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A milk labeling system comprising: a container; multiple milk labels each configured to non-permanently attach to the container, the multiple milk labels comprising a first milk label for a first type of milk, and a second milk label for a second type of milk which is different from the first milk type.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the milk labels are magnetically attachable to the container.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the container is made of a ferromagnetic metal, and wherein each label comprises a magnetic material.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the container is made of stainless steel.

5. The system of claim 3, wherein the container includes an indentation configured to receive each of the labels, the labels and the indentation having matching shapes.

6. The system of claim 3, wherein each label comprises a non-magnetic material with the magnetic material being embedded within the non-magnetic material.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein the non-magnetic material comprises flexible silicone.

8. The system of claim 6, wherein each label is a planar sheet.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the labels are elliptically shaped, wherein the container is cylindrical, and wherein the labels are configured to bend to conform to the cylindrical shape of the container, such that each label may be continuously attached to the container without gaps between the container and label.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the first type of milk is an animal-derived milk and the second type of milk is a plant derived milk.

11. The system of claim 10, further comprising multiple labels for different types of plant derived milk, the different types of milk comprising soy milk, oat milk, almond milk, and coconut milk.

12. The system of claim 10, further comprising multiple labels for different types of animal derived milks.

13. The system of claim 1, wherein the container is useable for steaming, frothing, and / or heating the milk for use in coffee and / or tea beverages.

14. A milk labeling method, comprising: attaching one of a plurality of milk labels to a container; and pouring milk into the container, wherein the plurality of milk labels are each configured to non-permanently attach to the container, wherein each milk label indicates a different milk type, and wherein the type of milk poured into the container is indicated by the milk label attached to the container.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the milk labels are magnetically attachable to the container.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein the container is made of a ferromagnetic metal, and wherein each label comprises a magnetic material.

17. The method of claim 15, wherein the container includes an indentation configured to receive the labels.

18. The method of claim 15, wherein each label comprises a non-magnetic material with the magnetic material being embedded within the non-magnetic material.

19. The method of claim 14, further comprising steaming, frothing, and / or heating the milk inside the labeled container for use in a coffee and / or a tea beverage.

20. The method of claim 14, further comprising storing the milk within the labeled container; and storing a different type of milk in a second container which is differently labeled.

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