U.S. patent application number 15/060377 was filed with the patent office on 2017-09-07 for food preparation packages, systems, and methods.
This patent application is currently assigned to ZimplyFresh, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is ZimplyFresh, LLC. Invention is credited to Manju Karthikeyan, Narayan Tripunithura Mahadeva, Malavika Mantry.
Application Number | 20170253413 15/060377 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 59722625 |
Filed Date | 2017-09-07 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170253413 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Mantry; Malavika ; et
al. |
September 7, 2017 |
FOOD PREPARATION PACKAGES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS
Abstract
A food preparation package is disclosed. In some embodiments,
the food preparation package can include a burst compartment, a
first compartment to contain a first food ingredient, and a second
compartment to contain a second food ingredient. The food
preparation package can also include a first frangible seal
separating the burst compartment and at least one of the first and
second compartments. In addition, the food preparation device can
include a second frangible seal separating the first and second
compartments. Fluid pressure introduced into the burst compartment
can break the first frangible seal and the second frangible seal to
introduce the first food ingredient and the second food ingredient
to one another within the package. In other embodiments, a food
preparation package can include a first compartment to contain a
first food ingredient, and a second compartment to contain a second
food ingredient. The food preparation package can also include a
frangible seal separating the first and second compartments. In
addition, the food preparation package can include a filter to
prevent unwanted material carried by a fluid from entering or
exiting the package. Introduction of the fluid can provide a fluid
pressure that breaks the frangible seal and introduces the first
food ingredient and the second food ingredient to one another
within the package.
Inventors: |
Mantry; Malavika; (Bethesda,
MD) ; Karthikeyan; Manju; (Salt Lake City, UT)
; Mahadeva; Narayan Tripunithura; (Buffalo Grove,
IL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
ZimplyFresh, LLC |
Salt Lake City |
UT |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
ZimplyFresh, LLC
Salt Lake City
UT
|
Family ID: |
59722625 |
Appl. No.: |
15/060377 |
Filed: |
March 3, 2016 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 81/34 20130101;
B65D 81/245 20130101; B65D 81/3294 20130101; B65D 81/3288 20130101;
B65D 81/3261 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B65D 81/34 20060101
B65D081/34; B65D 81/32 20060101 B65D081/32; B65D 81/24 20060101
B65D081/24 |
Claims
1. A food preparation package, comprising: a burst compartment; a
first compartment to contain a first food ingredient; a second
compartment to contain a second food ingredient; a first frangible
seal separating the burst compartment and at least one of the first
and second compartments; and a second frangible seal separating the
first and second compartments, wherein fluid pressure introduced
into the burst compartment breaks the first frangible seal and the
second frangible seal to introduce the first food ingredient and
the second food ingredient to one another within the package.
2. The food preparation package of claim 1, further comprising a
filter to prevent unwanted material carried by a fluid from
entering or exiting the package.
3. The food preparation package of claim 2, further comprising a
valve to facilitate external fluid communication with the burst
compartment, wherein the fluid pressure is introduced into the
burst compartment via the valve.
4. The food preparation package of claim 3, wherein the filter is
associated with the valve.
5. The food preparation package of claim 3, wherein the filter is
disposed in a fluid pathway between the valve and the first
frangible seal.
6. The food preparation package of claim 3, wherein the valve is
openable by piercing.
7. The food preparation package of claim 2, wherein the filter
comprises a filter paper, a membrane, or a combination thereof.
8. The food preparation package of claim 2, wherein the filter is
configured to restrict particles equal to or greater than about 0.2
.mu.m in size.
9. The food preparation package of claim 1, wherein the first and
second frangible seals are oriented an angle of from about 5
degrees to about 85 degrees relative to one another.
10. The food preparation package of claim 9, wherein the first and
second frangible seals are oriented an angle of from about 50
degrees to about 80 degrees relative to one another.
11. The food preparation package of claim 1, further comprising a
tab to facilitate securing the food preparation package within a
food preparation device.
12. The food preparation package of claim 1, wherein at least one
of the first and second compartments is configured to facilitate
mixing of the first and second food ingredients to form a food
mixture in the package.
13. The food preparation package of claim 12, wherein a corner of
at least one of the first and second compartments is rounded,
chamfered, or a combination thereof to facilitate mixing of the
first and second food ingredients to form a food mixture in the
package.
14. The food preparation package of claim 1, wherein the fluid
comprises at least one of a gas and a liquid.
15. The food preparation package of claim 1, wherein the package is
flexible.
16. The food preparation package of claim 1, wherein the package is
configured to provide an internal volume for mixing the first and
second food ingredients once the first and second frangible seals
have broken.
17. The food preparation package of claim 1, wherein the package is
disposable.
18. The food preparation package of claim 1, wherein the package is
recyclable.
19. The food preparation package of claim 1, wherein a single layer
seal is formed around a perimeter of the first and second
compartments.
20. A food preparation package, comprising: a first compartment to
contain a first food ingredient; a second compartment to contain a
second food ingredient; a frangible seal separating the first and
second compartments; and a filter to prevent unwanted material
carried by a fluid from entering or exiting the package, wherein
introduction of the fluid provides a fluid pressure that breaks the
frangible seal and introduces the first food ingredient and the
second food ingredient to one another within the package.
21. The food preparation package of claim 20, further comprising a
valve to facilitate external fluid communication with the package,
wherein the fluid is introduced into the package via the valve.
22. The food preparation package of claim 21, wherein the filter is
associated with the valve.
23. The food preparation package of claim 21, wherein the filter is
disposed in a fluid pathway between the valve and the first
frangible seal.
24. The food preparation package of claim 21, wherein the valve is
openable by piercing.
25. The food preparation package of claim 20, wherein the filter
comprises a filter paper, a membrane, or a combination thereof.
26. The food preparation package of claim 20, wherein the filter is
configured to restrict particles equal to or greater than about 0.2
.mu.m in size.
27. The food preparation package of claim 20, wherein the first and
second frangible seals are oriented an angle of from about 5
degrees to about 85 degrees relative to one another.
28. The food preparation package of claim 27, wherein the first and
second frangible seals are oriented an angle of from about 50
degrees to about 80 degrees relative to one another.
29. The food preparation package of claim 20, further comprising a
tab to facilitate securing the food preparation package within a
food preparation device.
30. The food preparation package of claim 20, wherein at least one
of the first and second compartments is configured to facilitate
mixing of the first and second food ingredients to form a food
mixture in the package.
31. The food preparation package of claim 30, wherein a corner of
at least one of the first and second compartments is rounded,
chamfered, or a combination thereof to facilitate mixing of the
first and second food ingredients to form a food mixture in the
package.
32. The food preparation package of claim 20, wherein the fluid
comprises at least one of a gas and a liquid.
33. The food preparation package of claim 20, wherein the package
is flexible.
34. The food preparation package of claim 20, wherein the package
is at least one of disposable and recyclable.
35. The food preparation package of claim 20, wherein a single
layer seal is formed around a perimeter of the first and second
compartments.
36. A food preparation system, comprising: a first food ingredient;
a second food ingredient; and a food preparation package as recited
in any one of claim 1, wherein the first compartment contains the
first food ingredient, and the second compartment contains the
second food ingredient.
37. The food preparation system of claim 36, wherein the first food
ingredient comprises a fluid, a solid, or a combination
thereof.
38. The food preparation package of claim 36, wherein the second
food ingredient comprises a fluid, a solid, or a combination
thereof.
39. A method for preparing a food product, comprising: obtaining a
package having a first food ingredient contained in a first
compartment and a second food ingredient contained in a second
compartment; breaking, with a pressurized fluid, a first frangible
seal associated with at least one of the first and second
compartments; and breaking, with the pressurized fluid, a second
frangible seal between the first and second compartments to
introduce the first and second food ingredients to one another
within the package.
40. The method of claim 39, further comprising filtering the
pressurized fluid to prevent unwanted material carried by the fluid
from entering or exiting the package.
41. The method of claim 39, wherein the fluid comprises at least
one of a gas and a liquid.
42. The method of claim 39, wherein the first food ingredient
comprises a fluid, a solid, or a combination thereof.
43. The method of claim 39, wherein the second food ingredient
comprises a fluid, a solid, or a combination thereof.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] Food consumers often desire a nutritionally relevant snack
or meal to meet specific dietary requirements, such as a need for
immediate energy through carbohydrate, muscle mass and recovery
through protein, specific nutritional components (i.e., vitamins,
minerals, fiber, and whole grains, or delivering specific health
and lifestyle benefits including antioxidant or weight management
properties). In addition, consumers often crave a product that is
highly palatable due to its freshness, moistness, softness, and
warmth at consumption.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Although fresh, moist, warm foods are desirable to consume,
such foods are not typically available without significant
pre-work, preparation (e.g., ingredient selection, and weighing),
and manufacture (e.g., heating, cooling, mixing, and
shaping/molding) in the home or other location. A warm, moist,
fresh tasting snack is currently not believed to be available in a
convenient, single serve form while also providing and meeting
nutritional and lifestyle needs.
[0003] In one invention embodiment, a composition preparation
package, such as a food preparation package, is provided. In some
embodiments, the food preparation package can include a burst
compartment, a first compartment to contain a first food
ingredient, and a second compartment to contain a second food
ingredient. The food preparation package can also include a first
frangible seal separating the burst compartment and at least one of
the first and second compartments. In addition, the food
preparation device can include a second frangible seal separating
the first and second compartments. Fluid pressure introduced into
the burst compartment can break the first frangible seal and the
second frangible seal to introduce the first food ingredient and
the second food ingredient to one another within the package.
[0004] In another invention embodiment, a food preparation package
can include a first compartment to contain a first food ingredient,
and a second compartment to contain a second food ingredient. The
food preparation package can also include a frangible seal
separating the first and second compartments. In addition, the food
preparation package can include a filter to prevent unwanted
material carried by a fluid from entering or exiting the package.
Introduction of the fluid can provide a fluid pressure that breaks
the frangible seal and introduces the first food ingredient and the
second food ingredient to one another within the package.
[0005] Additional invention embodiments encompass a food
preparation system. In some aspects, such a system can include a
food preparation package as disclosed herein having first and
second food compartments. Additionally, such a system can include
first and second food ingredients. The first compartment can
contain the first food ingredient, and the second compartment can
contain the second food ingredient.
[0006] Yet additional invention embodiments encompass methods for
preparing a food product. The method can include obtaining a
package having a first food ingredient contained in a first
compartment and a second food ingredient contained in a second
compartment. The method can also include breaking, with a
pressurized fluid, a first frangible seal associated with at least
one of the first and second compartments. Additionally, the method
can include breaking, with the pressurized fluid, a second
frangible seal between the first and second compartments to
introduce the first and second food ingredients to one another
within the package.
[0007] There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, various
features of the invention so that the detailed description thereof
that follows may be better understood, and so that the present
contribution to the art may be better appreciated. Other features
of the present invention will become clearer from the following
detailed description of the invention, taken with the accompanying
claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] The following detailed description of preferred embodiments
of the invention will be better understood when read in conjunction
with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the
invention, there are shown in the drawings embodiments which are
presently preferred. It should be understood, however, that the
invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and
instrumentalities of the embodiments shown in the drawings.
[0009] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a composition
preparation system in accordance with an example of the present
disclosure.
[0010] FIG. 2 illustrates a composition preparation package in
accordance with an example of the present disclosure.
[0011] FIG. 3 illustrates a fluid port assembly for a composition
preparation package in accordance with an example of the present
disclosure.
[0012] FIG. 4 is a composition preparation system used with a food
preparation device in accordance with an example of the present
disclosure.
[0013] FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of a composition
preparation system in accordance with another example of the
present disclosure.
[0014] FIG. 6 illustrates a composition preparation package in
accordance with another example of the present disclosure.
[0015] FIG. 7 illustrates a composition preparation package in
accordance with yet another example of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Definitions
[0016] Although the following detailed description contains many
specifics for the purpose of illustration, a person of ordinary
skill in the art will appreciate that many variations and
alterations to the following details can be made and are considered
to be included herein. Accordingly, the following embodiments are
set forth without any loss of generality to, and without imposing
limitations upon, any claims set forth. It is also to be understood
that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing
particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting.
Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used
herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of
ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs.
[0017] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the
singular forms "a," "an" and "the" include plural referents unless
the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example,
reference to "a seal" includes a plurality of such seals.
[0018] In this disclosure, "comprises," "comprising," "containing"
and "having" and the like can have the meaning ascribed to them in
U.S. Patent law and can mean "includes," "including," and the like,
and are generally interpreted to be open ended terms. The terms
"consisting of" or "consists of" are closed terms, and include only
the components, structures, steps, or the like specifically listed
in conjunction with such terms, as well as that which is in
accordance with U.S. Patent law. "Consisting essentially of" or
"consists essentially of" have the meaning generally ascribed to
them by U.S. Patent law. In particular, such terms are generally
closed terms, with the exception of allowing inclusion of
additional items, materials, components, steps, or elements, that
do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristics or
function of the item(s) used in connection therewith. For example,
trace elements present in a composition, but not affecting the
compositions nature or characteristics would be permissible if
present under the "consisting essentially of" language, even though
not expressly recited in a list of items following such
terminology. When using an open ended term, like "comprising" or
"including," it is understood that direct support should be
afforded also to "consisting essentially of" language as well as
"consisting of" language as if stated explicitly and vice
versa.
[0019] The terms "first," "second," "third," "fourth," and the like
in the description and in the claims, if any, are used for
distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for
describing a particular sequential or chronological order. It is to
be understood that any terms so used are interchangeable under
appropriate circumstances such that the embodiments described
herein are, for example, capable of operation in sequences other
than those illustrated or otherwise described herein. Similarly, if
a method is described herein as comprising a series of steps, the
order of such steps as presented herein is not necessarily the only
order in which such steps may be performed, and certain of the
stated steps may possibly be omitted and/or certain other steps not
described herein may possibly be added to the method.
[0020] The terms "left," "right," "front," "back," "top," "bottom,"
"over," "under," and the like in the description and in the claims,
if any, are used for descriptive purposes and not necessarily for
describing permanent relative positions. It is to be understood
that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate
circumstances such that the embodiments described herein are, for
example, capable of operation in other orientations than those
illustrated or otherwise described herein. The term "coupled," as
used herein, is defined as directly or indirectly connected in an
electrical or nonelectrical manner. Objects described herein as
being "adjacent to" each other may be in physical contact with each
other, in close proximity to each other, or in the same general
region or area as each other, as appropriate for the context in
which the phrase is used. Occurrences of the phrase "in one
embodiment," or "in one aspect," herein do not necessarily all
refer to the same embodiment or aspect.
[0021] As used herein, the term "substantially" refers to the
complete or nearly complete extent or degree of an action,
characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or result. For
example, an object that is "substantially" enclosed would mean that
the object is either completely enclosed or nearly completely
enclosed. The exact allowable degree of deviation from absolute
completeness may in some cases depend on the specific context.
However, generally speaking the nearness of completion will be so
as to have the same overall result as if absolute and total
completion were obtained. The use of "substantially" is equally
applicable when used in a negative connotation to refer to the
complete or near complete lack of an action, characteristic,
property, state, structure, item, or result. For example, a
composition that is "substantially free of" particles would either
completely lack particles, or so nearly completely lack particles
that the effect would be the same as if it completely lacked
particles. In other words, a composition that is "substantially
free of" an ingredient or element may still actually contain such
item as long as there is no measurable effect thereof.
[0022] As used herein, the term "about" is used to provide
flexibility to a numerical range endpoint by providing that a given
value may be "a little above" or "a little below" the endpoint.
Unless otherwise stated, use of the term "about" in accordance with
a specific number or numerical range should also be understood to
provide support for such numerical terms or range without the term
"about". For example, for the sake of convenience and brevity, a
numerical range of "about 50 angstroms to about 80 angstroms"
should also be understood to provide support for the range of "50
angstroms to 80 angstroms." Furthermore, it is to be understood
that in this specification support for actual numerical values is
provided even when the term "about" is used therewith. For example,
the recitation of "about" 30 should be construed as not only
providing support for values a little above and a little below 30,
but also for the actual numerical value of 30 as well.
[0023] As used herein, a plurality of items, structural elements,
compositional elements, and/or materials may be presented in a
common list for convenience. However, these lists should be
construed as though each member of the list is individually
identified as a separate and unique member. Thus, no individual
member of such list should be construed as a de facto equivalent of
any other member of the same list solely based on their
presentation in a common group without indications to the
contrary.
[0024] Concentrations, amounts, and other numerical data may be
expressed or presented herein in a range format. It is to be
understood that such a range format is used merely for convenience
and brevity and thus should be interpreted flexibly to include not
only the numerical values explicitly recited as the limits of the
range, but also to include all the individual numerical values or
sub-ranges encompassed within that range as if each numerical value
and sub-range is explicitly recited. As an illustration, a
numerical range of "about 1 to about 5" should be interpreted to
include not only the explicitly recited values of about 1 to about
5, but also include individual values and sub-ranges within the
indicated range. Thus, included in this numerical range are
individual values such as 2, 3, and 4 and sub-ranges such as from
1-3, from 2-4, and from 3-5, etc., as well as 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5,
individually.
[0025] This same principle applies to ranges reciting only one
numerical value as a minimum or a maximum. Furthermore, such an
interpretation should apply regardless of the breadth of the range
or the characteristics being described.
[0026] Reference throughout this specification to "an example"
means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic
described in connection with the example is included in at least
one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in an example" in
various places throughout this specification are not necessarily
all referring to the same embodiment.
[0027] Reference in this specification may be made to devices,
structures, systems, or methods that provide "improved"
performance. It is to be understood that unless otherwise stated,
such "improvement" is a measure of a benefit obtained based on a
comparison to devices, structures, systems or methods in the prior
art. Furthermore, it is to be understood that the degree of
improved performance may vary between disclosed embodiments and
that no equality or consistency in the amount, degree, or
realization of improved performance is to be assumed as universally
applicable.
Example Embodiments
[0028] With reference to FIG. 1, a preparation system, such as a
composition or food preparation system 100 in accordance with an
example of the present disclosure is schematically illustrated. The
system 100 can include a preparation package 101, which can include
ingredients in a composition or recipe and which can contain the
ingredients during processing to form a final product or
preparation. Thus, in one aspect, the package 101 can include
ingredients in a food recipe, and can contain the food ingredients
during processing to form a final food product (e.g., a snack or
bar product). Such a final food product can be provided on demand
and produced from pre-formulated food material stored within a
package of fresh, ready to eat food. The package 101 can have a
first compartment 110 and a second compartment 112. The first
compartment 110 can contain a first ingredient 120, and the second
compartment 112 can contain a second ingredient 122. In general, in
the case of a food recipe, the first and second ingredients 120,
122 can comprise any suitable ingredient in a food recipe, such as
a fluid (e.g., a liquid and/or a gas) and/or a solid, as desired.
For example, the first ingredient 120 can comprise a fluid food
ingredient (e.g., liquid or viscous components) and the second
ingredient 122 can comprise a solid food ingredient (e.g., dry,
particulate, powder, dried fruits, nuts, pre-cooked ingredients,
etc.). The package 101 can hold selective ingredients of the recipe
in each of the compartments for desired functionality, packaged
shelf life at room temperature, as well as taste and nutrition
quality. The package 101 can also serve to contain ingredients
during preparation or manufacture and/or as the package or wrapper
for the finished product. The package 101, for instance, can hold
solid ingredients of a recipe in one compartment while fluid
ingredients of the recipe can be held in another compartment. The
amount of solids and liquid in a given package can be any amount or
type needed to achieve a specific finished product or follow a
given recipe. However, in one example solids as a function of the
total package may account for greater than 5% of the volume of the
package or container. In another example, a volume of the package
can be 180 cm.sup.3.
[0029] In one aspect, at least a portion of the package 101 can be
made of materials that are heat tolerant or heat resistant (such as
heat resistant silicone) so as to allow mild heating of its
contents, namely liquid/viscous binding/sweetening agents, and
cause these components to flow freely. For example, the heating of
a compartment with fluid ingredients can make liquid components
flow-able in to a compartment having solid ingredients. The package
101 may need to withstand temperatures of around 70 degrees C. for
around 1 minute, although temperatures may be higher and last for a
longer period of time in some embodiments. In another aspect, at
least a portion of the package can be made of material that is
resistant to application of pressure, pull, or other type of force
and avoid potential tearing as a result of ingredients piercing
through the material during processing (e.g., mixing and molding)
to form a final food product. Thus, for example, the molding of a
snack or bar product can occur within one or both of the
compartments 110, 112. This can allow a food preparation device
utilizing the package 101 to remain a clean-free state. In
addition, the package 101 may be inflated by an internal fluid
pressure to facilitate processing of the ingredients into a final
food product. For example, inflation of the package to a minimum
inflated thickness or "pillowing" of the package may facilitate
successful mixing (e.g., magnetic mixing, sonication, orbital
mixing, sonication, etc.) of fluid and solid ingredients. The
package may be subjected to around 30 kgf in tension, although
higher tensile forces may be experienced in some embodiments. In
yet another aspect, at least a portion of the package can be made
of material and/or have a coating that does not allow the contents
of the compartments to be visible from the outside unless cut open
to reveal the contents. In one aspect, a compartment can have an
inner layer pre-coated with oil, glycerin, or some other non-stick
material. At least some portion of the package may be manufactured
using materials with a high moisture and oxygen barrier to create a
package that has an extremely dry internal environment. One or more
of the compartments can be packaged with raw ingredients under a
nitrogen flush to prevent oxidative degradation during shelf life.
Furthermore, the package 101 can include flexible and/or rigid
portions, as desired. For example, the package can be made of a
flexible type of material to facilitate processing of the
ingredients to form a food product. Because the package can serve
as the finished package as well, it may be equipped with a
re-sealable or rip-able capability at one of its ends or corners
for consumer ease. The package can also be used as the delivery
package (e.g., wrapper) after product manufacture, which can
temporarily protect the food product and allow the consumer to
safely hold and carry the finished product. The package can also be
disposable and/or disposable once the food product is removed or
consumed. The package 101 can be constructed of any suitable
material in accordance with the principles disclosed herein, such
as polyethylene tetraphthalate, low density polyethylene, high
density polyethylene, poly vinyl chloride, poly propylene, poly
styrene, aluminum, biodegradable polymers, styrene, etc. In one
aspect, the package 101 can include any suitable material or
combination of materials that can be included in a laminate of two
or more materials. In another aspect, the package 101 can include
materials and/or components that facilitate expansion or
"pillowing" of the package, which can increase the internal volume
of the package to enable mixing of ingredients. Thus, packaging
materials can be selected to provide flexibility of the package
internal volume, which may be minimal initially (e.g., a compact
package), increased for mixing (e.g., "pillowed"), and decreased
for subsequent processing.
[0030] Although the contents of the compartments of packages
disclosed herein may be discussed by way of example in terms of
food ingredients to form food products within the packages, it
should be recognized that any suitable materials, ingredients
(e.g., food and/or non-food ingredients), components, constituents,
chemicals, substances, etc. can be contained within package
compartments and mixed in accordance with the principles disclosed
herein and are also considered to be the subject of the present
disclosure. In short a wide range of compositions, formulations, or
products can be prepared using the present technology.
[0031] Thus, two or more ingredients, materials, or substances of
any kind can be mixed or combined in the package 101. For example,
as an alternative to mixing only food-type ingredients, food and
non-food ingredients can be contained within the package, such as
one or more compartments of the package containing dry ice, while
other compartments may have food ingredients for preparation of a
frozen dessert. In another example, food and/or non-food
ingredients can be mixed or combined in the package to make
non-food preparations, such as acrylamide and water to form
polyacrylamide gel, powdered clay mix and rose water to form a face
mask, and henna powder and orange juice to form a henna hair dye.
Ingredients can be separated (e.g., oils from other liquids) to
prevent chemical reactions during storage prior to use, such as
oxidation. An additional example of a non-food application includes
mixing hydrating or diluting chemicals or vaccines at the point of
consumption that would otherwise be unstable in an aqueous
environment. In this case, the package can store or contain the
chemicals or vaccines in one or more compartments, and store
aqueous materials, such as diluents, in one or more other
compartments. The package can therefore be useful for providing
vaccines at the point of use that are prove to losing stability and
efficacy once reconstituted. Thus, the package can enable, for
example, oral delivery of vaccines where the vaccines can be
stabilized and/or activated prior to consumption as a result of
hydrating, mixing, or energizing the active ingredients. In another
example, the package can include a pre-formulated mixture of
ingredients that are stored or contained in separate compartments
of the package, and can provide a cocktail in a liquid form or as a
dry blend following mixing. The package can therefore be used in
drug manufacture to facilitate drug dissolution and blend
homogeneity. In yet another example, the package may be used to mix
two separate chemical/resins (solid-solid, liquid-liquid, or
solid-liquid) to prepare a strong adhesive instantly and in a clean
and mess-free manner.
[0032] In hospital care, medications are sometimes manually diluted
erroneously or, in some cases, unnecessarily, thus creating risks
for patients. The package disclosed herein can include
pre-formulated medication components that can provide any suitable
dilution in a sterile manner. The package can therefore be provided
with a designated dilution so that health care professionals can
prepare a diluted medication at the point of patient care. In one
example, the package can contain cyclodextrin, which is widely used
in drug delivery as a complexing agent to increase aqueous
solubility of poorly soluble drugs and to increase drug
bioavailability and stability. Cyclodextrin prevents
crystallization of active ingredients by complexing individual drug
molecules so that they can no longer self-assemble in to a crystal
lattice or react chemically. Cyclodextrin is also used to prevent
incompatibility between more than one drug by physically separating
the components (avoiding drug-drug and drug-additive interactions).
The package may be used for single dose dispensation of medicines,
such as of cough syrups, that need to be diluted or mixed just
before administration and therefore avoids long periods of storage
of mixed or complex medicines. Additionally, the package may
facilitate the formulation of oils/liquids that are difficult to
handle into stable solid dosage forms. Thus, the compartments of
the package can be pre-formulated with appropriate drug and
additive components, which can be mixed and shaped to form a solid
drug dose (e.g., an oral tablet) just prior to patient
administration. This can preclude concerns of molecule stability
and drug shelf life. The principles disclosed herein can therefore
facilitate the release and/or delivery of drugs or delivery drugs
by controlling drug dissolution, diffusion, density, pH, osmotic
control, etc.
[0033] In one aspect, the package may be used to carry out water
emulsion polymerization procedures to create nanoparticles for the
drug, cosmetic, paint, health diagnostics industries. For example,
the spontaneous formation of nanocapsules or nanospheres, which can
take place within the package can be beneficial for the oral
administration of drugs. The package may also be used for medical
and lab diagnostics, where mixing is an integral component of
activating a potential reaction and subsequently result in
eliciting a consequential signal. Furthermore, the package may be
used to conduct DNA-DNA and DNA-RNA hybridization procedures in an
enclosed compartment with timed release of specific substrates and
mixing of reactants to activate the hybridization reaction. In
another example, the interior side of the package may be coated
with a specific antibody, so as to immobilize the antibody to the
package. This type of technology may be used not only for
biological assays, but also microbiological detection of pathogenic
viruses, bacteria, and other microbiological agents of interest.
Other applications for the package in medical and research
diagnostics technology include use with ATPase tests and BCA
protein assays.
[0034] In one aspect, the package may contain solid and/or liquid
ingredients that are frozen. The package may therefore be stored
frozen rather than in ambient state to ensure that the quality of
ingredients is preserved, for example, to ensure that the shelf
life of the ingredients/materials is achieved. The frozen package
can be thawed by heating prior to mixing the ingredients and
forming desired preparation (e.g., a food product). A compartment
having water as a content may be filled to less than full capacity
to allow the water to expand when frozen without bursting the
compartment.
[0035] In one aspect, the preparation package 101 can include a
frangible seal 130 separating the first and second compartments
110, 112. The frangible seal 130 can be configured to burst or
rupture under pressure to facilitate combining the contents of the
first and second compartments. In addition, the package 101 can
include another frangible seal 132, which can burst or rupture
under pressure to facilitate the introduction of a fluid (e.g., gas
and/or liquid) into the first and/or second compartments 110, 112.
Although the frangible seal 132 is illustrated associated with the
first compartment 110, the frangible seal 132 can be associated
with the first compartment 110 and/or the second compartment 112.
The frangible seal 132 can be broken by a fluid under pressure
external to the first and second compartments 110, 112. With the
frangible seal 132 broken, the pressurized fluid can act from
within the first and/or second compartments 110, 112 to break the
frangible seal 130, which separates the first and second components
110, 112, and thereby introduce the first ingredient 120 and the
second ingredient 122 to one another within the package 101. Thus,
introduction of a fluid into the first and/or second compartments
110, 112 can provide a fluid pressure that breaks the frangible
seal 130 and introduces the first ingredient 120 and the second
ingredient 122 to one another within the package 101. In some
embodiments, the first compartment 110 can contain a liquid food
ingredient, which can be pressurized upon the breakage of the
frangible seal 132 to break the frangible seal 130 between the
first and second compartments 110, 112. This pressurized liquid can
then penetrate into solid ingredients contained within the second
compartment 112, thus facilitating a mixing of liquid and solid
ingredients. It should also be recognized that solid ingredients
can be introduced into a compartment having liquid ingredients.
[0036] Alternatively, as opposed to the sequential breaking of the
frangible seals just described, the frangible seals may be broken
simultaneously by pressurized fluid, which may depend upon the
configuration of the compartments and the seals. The pressurized
fluid can cause expansion or "pillowing" of the package 101, which
can increase the internal volume of the package to facilitate
mixing of the ingredients. For example, the package can expand or
inflate to provide a predetermined or controlled amount of volume
for mixing within the package. Thus, the package can be configured
to provide an internal volume for mixing the ingredients once the
frangible seals have broken. In one aspect, the fluid introduced
into the compartments and utilized to break the frangible seals can
be an ingredient in a food recipe, and can therefore form a part of
the final food product. The contents of the compartments and/or the
pressurized fluid can be heated prior to breaking the frangible
seals to facilitate mixing of the ingredients. The frangible seals
can be configured to break at any suitable pressure, such as from
about 1 psi to about 5 psi, with 3 psi being typical in one
embodiment.
[0037] In one aspect, the package 101 can include a burst
compartment 114. Although the burst compartment 114 is illustrated
with the frangible seal 132 separating the burst compartment 114
and the first compartment 110, the burst compartment 114 can be
configured such that the frangible seal 132 separates the burst
compartment 114 from the first compartment 110 and/or second
compartment 112. Thus, in some embodiments, one or more frangible
seals can separate the burst compartment from ingredient containing
compartments. Fluid pressure introduced into the burst compartment
114 can break the frangible seal 132 and the frangible seal 130 to
introduce the first ingredient 120 and the second ingredient 122 to
one another within the package 101. In one aspect, the frangible
seal 130 and/or the frangible seal 132 can be caused to break by
sublimation of one or more ingredients or components (e.g., dry ice
or solid carbon dioxide) within the burst compartment 114, the
first compartment 110, and/or the second compartment 112, which can
cause inflation of the package and provide the volume needed for
mixing the ingredients.
[0038] In one example, the package 101 can have two or more
self-contained compartments that can serve as a reservoir for one
or more chemicals or substances, which may be activated by the
breaking of a frangible seal, heating, mixing, and/or the addition
of pressure to catalyze physical, chemical, and immunological
reactions. The package may also allow a sample to be injected in to
one or more of the compartments.
[0039] The package 101 can also include a filter 140 to prevent
unwanted material carried by the fluid used to break the frangible
seals 130, 132 from entering or exiting the package 101. In one
aspect, the filter 140 can be a two-way filter. The filter 140 can
comprise a filter paper, a membrane (e.g., an FDA approved food
grade membrane filter), and/or any other suitable type of filter or
device that can remove an unwanted material from a liquid or gas
that passes through the device. In one aspect, the filter 140 can
be configured to restrict particles equal to or greater than about
0.2 .mu.m in size. In another aspect, the filter 140 can be
configured to allow only gas to pass therethrough. Thus, the filter
140 can minimize or prevent contamination of the first and second
ingredients with foreign material (e.g., physical, chemical, and/or
biological material). In one aspect, the frangible seal 132 can
separate the ingredients in the first and/or second compartment
110, 112 from the filter 140 prior to the introduction of the
pressurized fluid into the first and/or second compartments. The
frangible seal 132 can therefore protect the filter 140 from
fouling with materials that can cause blockage of the filter (e.g.,
wetting the filter and/or introducing solid particles to the
filter).
[0040] The package 101 can include a valve 150 to facilitate
external fluid communication with the package 101. Thus, fluid used
to break the frangible seals 130, 132 can be introduced into the
package 101 via the valve 150. For example, the valve 150 can
facilitate external fluid communication with the burst compartment
114, thus fluid pressure can be introduced into the burst
compartment 114 via the valve 150. The valve 150 can also separate
or protect the filter 140 from potential contaminants external to
the package prior to opening of the valve to introduce pressurized
fluid. In one aspect, the filter 150 can be associated with the
valve 150. In another aspect, the filter 150 can be disposed in a
fluid pathway 115 between the valve 150 and the frangible seal 132.
The valve 150 can be any suitable type of valve, such as a poppet
valve, needle valve, spool valve, etc. In one aspect, the valve 150
can be configured for "one-time" use, such as by being openable to
facilitate the passage of fluid through the valve, but not closable
once opened. Such a valve can be openable by piercing, penetrating,
rupturing, bursting, etc. In another aspect, the valve 150 can be
configured to be openable and closable. For example, the valve 150
can include a spring configured to bias the valve to a closed
position, which spring can be overcome by sufficient force (e.g.,
from outside the package 101 directed into the package) to open the
valve. Thus, the package 101 can be configured to facilitate the
removal of the fluid from the package that was used to break the
frangible seals. This can be beneficial in some cases for
processing the ingredients to achieve a final product, such as to
eliminate or remove any "pillowing" of the package and thereby
facilitate deformation of the package and its contents for molding
a product (e.g., a food product) without bursting or rupturing the
package.
[0041] FIG. 2 illustrates a package 201 in accordance with an
example of the present disclosure. The package 201 includes the
same general features described above with respect to the package
101 of FIG. 1. For example, the package 201 includes a first
compartment 210, a second compartment 212, a frangible seal 230
separating the first and second compartments, a burst compartment
214, a frangible seal 232 separating the burst compartment and the
first compartment, a valve 250, and a filter (obscured from view by
the valve.
[0042] In this case, the frangible seals 230, 232 are shown
oriented at an angle 204 relative to one another. The angle 204 can
be any suitable angle, which may depend on the particular geometry
or structure of the package 201. In one aspect, the angle 204 can
be from about 5 degrees to about 85 degrees. In a more particular
aspect, the angle 204 can be from about 50 degrees to about 80
degrees. The angle 204 may be influenced by the configuration of
the compartments, valve, filter, and/or any other aspect of the
package that may influence the geometry of the package.
[0043] In one aspect, the first and/or second compartments 210, 212
can be configured to facilitate mixing of ingredients to form a
mixture in the package. For example, one or more corners 216a,
216b, 216c, 216d of the first compartment 210 and/or the second
compartment 212 can be rounded, chamfered, and/or any other
suitable type of blunted corner to facilitate mixing of ingredients
in the package 201 once the frangible seals 230, 232 have been
broken to form a single, large compartment. Such blunted corners
can prevent the capture of ingredients and thus prevent waste. In
some embodiments, the blunted corners can have a radius of 15 mm,
although any suitable radius can be incorporated.
[0044] An outer boundary of the first and second compartments 210,
212 can be formed by a perimeter seal 236. The perimeter seal 236
can be configured to avoid breakage during processing of the
product. Typically, the perimeter seal 236 can be able to withstand
at least about three times as much pressure as the frangible seals
can withstand before breaking. In one aspect, the perimeter seal
236 can be configured as a single layer seal. In this
configuration, there are no folds of material or other features
that would facilitate freestanding of the package on an end.
[0045] The package 201 can also include one or more tabs or wings
218a, 218b to facilitate securing the package within a preparation
device (see, e.g., FIG. 4, discussed below). Such tabs or wings can
be configured to engage a clamp of a preparation device to secure
the package during processing to produce a final product. The valve
250 can be located on a tab or wing to facilitate coupling with a
source of pressurized fluid, which may be associated with a clamp
of a preparation device. It should be recognized that the perimeter
seal 236 can extend into the tabs or wings 218a, 218b to any
suitable extent.
[0046] FIG. 3 illustrates a fluid port assembly 302 for a
preparation package in accordance with an example of the present
disclosure. The fluid port assembly 302 can include a valve 350 and
a filter 340, which function as described herein. The fluid port
assembly 302 can include support structure 352 configured to
support the valve 350 and the filter 340. For example, the support
structure 352 can include a wall 354 that can be coupled to the
valve 350. In one aspect, as illustrated, the wall 354 and the
valve 350 can be integrally formed with one another. The wall can
also have a lip 356 configured to interface with the filter 340.
The filter 340 can be coupled to the lip 356 in any suitable
manner, such as with an adhesive. The support structure 352 can
also include a flange 358, which can be configured to facilitate
coupling (e.g., via welding) the fluid port assembly 302 to a
portion of a preparation package, such as to a tab or wing as
discussed above.
[0047] In one aspect, the wall 354 can be configured to interface
with (e.g., contact or sealingly engage) a source of pressurized
fluid, such as a fluid supply port. Thus, the wall 354 can be
tapered at an angle 306, which may be configured to match or be
compatible with an interfacing surface or feature of a pressurized
fluid supply. In one embodiment, the angle 306 is 10 degrees,
although any suitable angle can be utilized. The wall 354 can also
include a shoulder 357, which may be configured to prevent over
insertion of the wall into a mating interface feature of a
pressurized fluid supply. The components of the fluid port assembly
302 can be manufactured by any suitable technique or process with
any suitable material or combination of materials. In one aspect,
the valve 350 and the support structure 352 can be made by molding,
such as injection molding.
[0048] In use, the valve 350 can be opened by breaking, cutting,
shearing, puncturing, penetrating, ripping, tearing, etc. to create
an opening through the valve. For example, a preparation device may
have a sharp feature configured to cut or shear the valve 350 about
a portion of its periphery thus leaving a flap intact and attached
to the wall 354. Pressurized fluid (e.g., air, liquid carbon
dioxide, etc.) can then be provided to a package through the valve
350 and the filter 340 as described herein to facilitate mixing
ingredients. Contaminants in the fluid can be prevented from
entering a package by the filter 340. Fluid can also be removed
from a package through the filter 340 and the valve 350 following
mixing to facilitate forming a product into a final shape within
the package. In one aspect, moisture and small particles can be
captured by the filter 340 and remain with the package. This can
prevent contamination of a processing device by materials from
inside a package.
[0049] FIG. 4 illustrates a preparation package 401 used with a
preparation device 460 in accordance with an example of the present
disclosure. The package 401 can be any suitable preparation package
disclosed herein. The package 401 can include a valve 450 and
associated structure that facilitates fluidly coupling the valve
with a pressurized fluid source 462. The package 401 can include
tabs or wings 418a, 418b to interface with lower clamp portions
464a, 464b, respectively. Upper clamp portions are obscured from
view, which can be lowered into a clamping arrangement with the
lower clamp portions 464a, 464b to secure the package 401. The
valve 450 is located on the tab 418a. The valve 450 can be oriented
"out of plane" from the package 401 or perpendicular to the tab
418a such that the valve 450 can be accessed from a side of the
package 401. An upper clamp portion associated with the lower clamp
portion 464a can serve to secure the valve 450 in a coupled
configuration with the pressurized fluid source while the package
is clamped in the device 460. A valve opening device, can be
associated with the pressurized fluid source 462 to open (e.g.,
cut, shear, puncture, etc.) the valve 450. The pressurized fluid
source 462 can also serve to withdraw fluid from the package 401.
In the case of frozen package contents, the package contents can be
thawed within the device 460 by heating, mixing, shaping, etc.
[0050] In some embodiments, a valve can be oriented "in plane" with
a package (e.g., perpendicular to the illustrated orientation of
the valve 450) such that the valve can be accessed from an end of
the package. Thus, a valve can be oriented in any suitable
direction to facilitate use of the valve as described herein.
[0051] In one example, the package 401 can be used to contain drug
molecules and excipients in separate compartments and when placed
in the device 460, can be infused with liquid carbon dioxide and
the pressure created inside the package can break the frangible
seals resulting in blending and mixing (e.g., by sonication) of the
drugs and excipients. Subsequently, the liquid carbon dioxide can
be removed from the package through the valve 450 by
depressurization, leaving a high quality drug-excipient
mixture.
[0052] In one aspect, the final dilution of a medication can be
removed from the package 401 with a sterile syringe and
administered to a patient. Thus, the principles disclosed herein
can eliminate human error and human intervention in patient
care.
[0053] FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of a preparation system
500 in accordance with another example of the present disclosure.
The system 500 includes a preparation package 501, which is similar
in many respects to the package 101 schematically illustrated in
FIG. 1. In this case, the package 501 includes more than two
ingredient compartments. As illustrated, the package 501 includes
four ingredient compartments 510, 512, 517, 519. It should be
recognized, however, that a package can include any suitable number
of compartments as desired. As with other examples disclosed
herein, the compartments 510, 512, 517, 519 can be used to contain
separate ingredients or groups of ingredients 520, 522, 524, 526,
respectively. As shown in the figure, the ingredient compartments
can be separated by frangible seals 530, 533, 535. In one aspect,
the ingredient compartments and the frangible seals can be
configured to facilitate mixing of ingredients in a particular
sequence. For example, the frangible seals 530, 533, 535 can be
broken sequentially to facilitate the mixing of the ingredients
520, 522, 524, 526 in a predetermined order. Thus, the compartments
510, 512, 517, 519 can be configured such that pressurized fluid
introduced into the package can be purposefully directed to break
the frangible seals between specific compartments in the package
that may be specified by the distance of the seals from the burst
compartment 514 and the valve 550. This can result in a mechanism
where the order in which ingredients are released and mixed is in a
stepwise or sequential manner, which may be beneficial for the
proper execution of a given recipe. For example, two solid and/or
liquid ingredients can be introduced to one another prior to the
introduction of water, which can enable proper mixing of the
ingredients and thereby facilitate production of a suitable end
product. In a particular example, the package 501 may be used to
conduct antibody-antigen reactions where the reaction may be
initiated at a particular time interval when a frangible seal is
broken and mixing ingredients of two components occurs. The
antigen-antibody complex may then be further treated with a
secondary or tertiary component contained in other compartments to
elicit a colorimetric or photometric reaction. An example of this
is avidin-biotin reactions to amplify protein signals.
[0054] FIG. 6 illustrates a package 601 in accordance with another
example of the present disclosure. The package 601 includes certain
general features described above with respect to the package 501 of
FIG. 5. For example, the package 601 includes more than two
ingredient compartments 610, 612, 617 and frangible seals 630, 633,
635 separating certain of the ingredient compartments. The package
601 also includes a burst compartment 614 separated from the
compartment 610 by a frangible seal 632, and a valve 650 as
disclosed herein. In this case, the ingredient compartment 610 is
separated from the ingredient compartment 612 by the frangible seal
630 and from the ingredient compartment 617 by the frangible seal
635. The frangible seal 633 separates the ingredient compartment
612 from the ingredient compartment 617. In one aspect, the
ingredient compartments and the frangible seals can be configured
to facilitate mixing of ingredients in a particular sequence or
predetermined order. For example, the frangible seal 630 can be
broken to facilitate mixing of the ingredients in the compartments
610, 612 prior to breaking either of the frangible seals 633, 635,
which facilitates the introduction of the ingredient in compartment
617 to the combination of ingredients from compartments 610, 612.
In another aspect, the frangible seals 630, 635 can be broken
substantially at the same time to mix contents of ingredient
compartment 610, 612, and 617 simultaneously. The ingredients may
be maintained separate from one another prior to mixing in order to
preserve the ingredients (e.g., avoid oxidation).
[0055] FIG. 7 illustrates a package 701 in accordance with another
example of the present disclosure. The package 701 is similar in
many respects to other packages disclosed herein. For example, the
package 701 includes a first compartment 710, a second compartment
712, a frangible seal 730 separating the first and second
compartments, a burst compartment 714, a frangible seal 732
separating the burst compartment and the first compartment, a valve
750, and a filter (obscured from view by the valve.
[0056] In one aspect, the compartments of the package 701 can be
configured to facilitate mixing of ingredients to form a mixture in
the package. For example, an outer boundary of the burst
compartment 714 and the first and second compartments 710, 712 can
be formed by a perimeter seal 736 that can be configured to
facilitate mixing of ingredients in the package 701 once the
frangible seals 730, 732 have been broken to form a single, large
compartment. In the illustrated example, the perimeter seal 736 has
a generally circular shape configured to maximize an internal or
mixing volume of the single large compartment with a rounded
perimeter that provides a generally spherical interior shape when
pillowed by internal fluid pressure. When utilized with flexible
materials, this configuration can minimize or prevent interior
folds when a maximum interior volume is attained. This can minimize
or prevent ingredients from being captured in folds of the package
that may form naturally in the absence of such a spherical interior
compartment. Thus, the package 701 can be configured to provide an
internal volume for mixing the ingredients once the frangible seals
732, 730 have broken.
[0057] The package 701 can also include one or more tabs or wings
718a, 718b to facilitate securing the package within a preparation
device (see, e.g., FIG. 4, discussed above). Such tabs or wings can
be configured to engage a clamp of a preparation device to secure
the package during processing to produce a final product. The valve
750 can be located on a tab or wing to facilitate coupling with a
source of pressurized fluid, which may be associated with a clamp
of a preparation device. It should be recognized that the perimeter
seal 736 can extend into the tabs or wings 718a, 718b to any
suitable extent.
[0058] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention,
a method for preparing a food product is disclosed. The method can
comprise obtaining a package having a first food ingredient
contained in a first compartment and a second food ingredient
contained in a second compartment. The method can also comprise
breaking, with a pressurized fluid, a first frangible seal
associated with at least one of the first and second compartments.
Additionally, the method can comprise breaking, with the
pressurized fluid, a second frangible seal between the first and
second compartments to introduce the first and second food
ingredients to one another within the package. It is noted that no
specific order is required in this method, though generally in one
embodiment, these method steps can be carried out sequentially.
[0059] In one aspect, the method can further comprise filtering the
pressurized fluid to prevent unwanted material carried by the fluid
from entering or exiting the package.
[0060] In one aspect of the method, the fluid comprises at least
one of a gas and a liquid. In another aspect of the method, the
first food ingredient comprises a fluid, a solid, or a combination
thereof. In another aspect of the method, the second food
ingredient comprises a fluid, a solid, or a combination
thereof.
[0061] The following examples pertain to further specific invention
embodiments.
[0062] In one example there is provided a food preparation package,
comprising a burst compartment, a first compartment to contain a
first food ingredient, a second compartment to contain a second
food ingredient, a first frangible seal separating the burst
compartment and at least one of the first and second compartments,
and a second frangible seal separating the first and second
compartments. Fluid pressure introduced into the burst compartment
breaks the first frangible seal and the second frangible seal to
introduce the first food ingredient and the second food ingredient
to one another within the package.
[0063] In one example, the food preparation package further
comprises a filter to prevent unwanted material carried by a fluid
from entering or exiting the package.
[0064] In one example, the food preparation package further
comprises a valve to facilitate external fluid communication with
the burst compartment, wherein the fluid pressure is introduced
into the burst compartment via the valve.
[0065] In one example of a food preparation package, the filter is
associated with the valve.
[0066] In one example of a food preparation package, the filter is
disposed in a fluid pathway between the valve and the first
frangible seal.
[0067] In one example of a food preparation package, the valve is
openable by piercing.
[0068] In one example of a food preparation package, the filter
comprises a filter paper, a membrane, or a combination thereof.
[0069] In one example of a food preparation package, the filter is
configured to restrict particles equal to or greater than about 0.2
.mu.m in size.
[0070] In one example of a food preparation package, the first and
second frangible seals are oriented an angle of from about 5
degrees to about 85 degrees relative to one another.
[0071] In one example of a food preparation package, the first and
second frangible seals are oriented an angle of from about 50
degrees to about 80 degrees relative to one another.
[0072] In one example, the food preparation package further
comprises a tab to facilitate securing the food preparation package
within a food preparation device.
[0073] In one example of a food preparation package, at least one
of the first and second compartments is configured to facilitate
mixing of the first and second food ingredients to form a food
mixture in the package.
[0074] In one example of a food preparation package, a corner of at
least one of the first and second compartments is rounded,
chamfered, or a combination thereof to facilitate mixing of the
first and second food ingredients to form a food mixture in the
package.
[0075] In one example of a food preparation package, the fluid
comprises at least one of a gas and a liquid.
[0076] In one example of a food preparation package, the package is
flexible.
[0077] In one example of a food preparation package, the package is
configured to provide an internal volume for mixing the first and
second food ingredients once the first and second frangible seals
have broken.
[0078] In one example of a food preparation package, the package is
disposable.
[0079] In one example of a food preparation package, the package is
recyclable.
[0080] In one example of a food preparation package, a single layer
seal is formed around a perimeter of the first and second
compartments.
[0081] In one example, there is provided a food preparation
package, comprising a first compartment to contain a first food
ingredient, a second compartment to contain a second food
ingredient, a frangible seal separating the first and second
compartments, and a filter to prevent unwanted material carried by
a fluid from entering or exiting the package. Introduction of the
fluid provides a fluid pressure that breaks the frangible seal and
introduces the first food ingredient and the second food ingredient
to one another within the package.
[0082] In one example, the food preparation package can further
comprise a valve to facilitate external fluid communication with
the package, wherein the fluid is introduced into the package via
the valve.
[0083] In one example of a food preparation package, the filter is
associated with the valve.
[0084] In one example of a food preparation package, the filter is
disposed in a fluid pathway between the valve and the first
frangible seal.
[0085] In one example of a food preparation package, the valve is
openable by piercing.
[0086] In one example of a food preparation package, the filter
comprises a filter paper, a membrane, or a combination thereof.
[0087] In one example of a food preparation package, the filter is
configured to restrict particles equal to or greater than about 0.2
.mu.m in size.
[0088] In one example of a food preparation package, the first and
second frangible seals are oriented an angle of from about 5
degrees to about 85 degrees relative to one another.
[0089] In one example of a food preparation package, the first and
second frangible seals are oriented an angle of from about 50
degrees to about 80 degrees relative to one another.
[0090] In one example, the food preparation package can further
comprise a tab to facilitate securing the food preparation package
within a food preparation device.
[0091] In one example of a food preparation package, at least one
of the first and second compartments is configured to facilitate
mixing of the first and second food ingredients to form a food
mixture in the package.
[0092] In one example of a food preparation package, a corner of at
least one of the first and second compartments is rounded,
chamfered, or a combination thereof to facilitate mixing of the
first and second food ingredients to form a food mixture in the
package.
[0093] In one example of a food preparation package, the fluid
comprises at least one of a gas and a liquid.
[0094] In one example of a food preparation package, the package is
flexible.
[0095] In one example of a food preparation package, the package is
configured to provide an internal volume for mixing the first and
second food ingredients once the first and second frangible seals
have broken.
[0096] In one example of a food preparation package, the package is
disposable.
[0097] In one example of a food preparation package, the package is
recyclable.
[0098] In one example of a food preparation package, a single layer
seal is formed around a perimeter of the first and second
compartments.
[0099] In one example there is provided a food preparation system,
comprising a first food ingredient, a second food ingredient, and a
food preparation package as disclosed herein. The first compartment
contains the first food ingredient, and the second compartment
contains the second food ingredient.
[0100] In one example of a food preparation system, the first food
ingredient comprises a fluid, a solid, or a combination
thereof.
[0101] In one example of a food preparation system, the second food
ingredient comprises a fluid, a solid, or a combination
thereof.
[0102] In one example there is provided a method for preparing a
food product, comprising, obtaining a package having a first food
ingredient contained in a first compartment and a second food
ingredient contained in a second compartment, breaking, with a
pressurized fluid, a first frangible seal associated with at least
one of the first and second compartments, and breaking, with the
pressurized fluid, a second frangible seal between the first and
second compartments to introduce the first and second food
ingredients to one another within the package.
[0103] In one example of a method for preparing a food product, the
method further comprises filtering the pressurized fluid to prevent
unwanted material carried by the fluid from entering or exiting the
package.
[0104] In one example of a method for preparing a food product, the
fluid comprises at least one of a gas and a liquid.
[0105] In one example of a method for preparing a food product, the
first food ingredient comprises a fluid, a solid, or a combination
thereof.
[0106] In one example of a method for preparing a food product, the
second food ingredient comprises a fluid, a solid, or a combination
thereof.
[0107] Of course, it is to be understood that the above-described
arrangements are only illustrative of the application of the
principles of the present invention. Numerous modifications and
alternative arrangements may be devised by those skilled in the art
without departing from the spirit and scope of the present
invention and the appended claims are intended to cover such
modifications and arrangements. Thus, while the present invention
has been described above with particularity and detail in
connection with what is presently deemed to be the most practical
and preferred embodiments of the invention, it will be apparent to
those of ordinary skill in the art that numerous modifications,
including, but not limited to, variations in size, materials,
shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use may
be made without departing from the principles and concepts set
forth herein.
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