U.S. patent application number 17/595109 was filed with the patent office on 2022-07-21 for smokeless tobacco composition.
The applicant listed for this patent is British American Tobacco Sweden AB, Fenum Optima AB, Fiedler & Lundgren AB, House of Prince A/S. Invention is credited to Andinet Amare GESSESSE, Philip Richard HUNT, Richard SVENSSON.
Application Number | 20220225659 17/595109 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | |
Filed Date | 2022-07-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220225659 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
GESSESSE; Andinet Amare ; et
al. |
July 21, 2022 |
SMOKELESS TOBACCO COMPOSITION
Abstract
A smokeless tobacco composition that contains bleached tobacco
material in which at least 50% by weight of the bleached tobacco
material has a particle size of from about 1 mm to about 50 mm.
Inventors: |
GESSESSE; Andinet Amare;
(Malmo, SE) ; HUNT; Philip Richard; (Malmo,
SE) ; SVENSSON; Richard; (Malmo, SE) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Fiedler & Lundgren AB
House of Prince A/S
British American Tobacco Sweden AB
Fenum Optima AB |
Malmo
Copenhagen V
Stockholm
Vargarda |
|
SE
DK
SE
SE |
|
|
Appl. No.: |
17/595109 |
Filed: |
May 9, 2019 |
PCT Filed: |
May 9, 2019 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/EP2019/061984 |
371 Date: |
November 9, 2021 |
International
Class: |
A24B 13/00 20060101
A24B013/00; A24B 15/42 20060101 A24B015/42 |
Claims
1. A smokeless tobacco composition comprising bleached tobacco
material, wherein at least 50% by weight of the bleached tobacco
material has a particle size of from about 1 mm to about 50 mm.
2. The smokeless tobacco composition according to claim 1, wherein
at least 50% by weight of the bleached tobacco material has a
particle size of from about 1 mm to about 10 mm.
3. The smokeless tobacco composition according to claim 1, wherein
at least 90% by weight of the bleached tobacco material has a
particle size of from about 1 mm to about 10 mm.
4. The smokeless tobacco composition according to claim 1, wherein
the bleached tobacco material is present in an amount of from about
0.1% to about 15% by weight of the smokeless tobacco
composition.
5. The smokeless tobacco composition according to claim 1, wherein
the bleached tobacco material comprises fermentable carbohydrates
in an amount of less than about 4% by weight of the bleached
tobacco material.
6. The smokeless tobacco composition according to claim 1, further
comprising an alginate composition distributed in the smokeless
tobacco composition, wherein the alginate composition comprises
water and a salt of alginic acid.
7. The smokeless tobacco composition according to claim 6, wherein
the salt of alginic acid is selected from the group consisting of
sodium alginate, calcium alginate, potassium alginate, magnesium
alginate, ammonium alginate, and mixtures thereof.
8. The smokeless tobacco composition according to claim 6, wherein
the alginate composition contains an alginate matrix that retains
at least a major proportion of an added substance so long as the
matrix is intact, and wherein the alginate matrix is formed so as
to disintegrate and/or dissolve in the chemical and physical
environment that exists in a user's mouth.
9. The smokeless tobacco composition according to claim 8, wherein
the added substance is an active ingredient comprising
nicotine.
10. The smokeless tobacco composition according to claim 1, further
comprising guar gum.
11. The smokeless tobacco composition according to claim 10,
wherein the guar gum is present in an amount of from about 1% to
about 15% by weight of the smokeless tobacco composition.
12. The smokeless tobacco composition according to claim 10,
wherein the guar gum is present in an amount of from about 2% to
about 10% by weight of the smokeless tobacco composition.
13. The smokeless tobacco composition according to claim 1, wherein
the smokeless tobacco composition comprises water in an amount of
from about 40% to about 60% by weight of the smokeless tobacco
composition.
14. The smokeless tobacco composition according to claim 1, wherein
the smokeless tobacco composition comprises nicotine in addition to
any nicotine naturally present in the bleached tobacco
material.
15. The smokeless tobacco composition according to claim 1, wherein
the smokeless tobacco composition is an oral smokeless tobacco
composition.
16. A process for the production of a smokeless tobacco composition
as defined in claim 1, the process comprising the steps of: (a)
providing an unbleached tobacco material; (b) bleaching the
unbleached tobacco material to form the bleached tobacco material;
and (c) recovering the bleached tobacco material, such that the at
least 50% by weight of the bleached tobacco material has the
particle size of from about 1 mm to about 50 mm.
17. The process according to claim 16, wherein the step (b) of
bleaching the unbleached tobacco material comprises the step of
treating the unbleached tobacco material with an effective amount
of a bleaching agent.
18. The process according to claim 17, wherein the step (b) of
bleaching the unbleached tobacco material comprises the steps of:
(i) treating the unbleached tobacco material at an acidic pH with
an acid; and (ii) contacting the unbleached tobacco material with
the bleaching agent at a temperature range of from about 50.degree.
C. to about 95.degree. C.
19. The process according to claim 1, wherein at least 50% by
weight of the unbleached tobacco material has a particle size of at
least about 1 mm.
20. A smokeless tobacco composition obtained or obtainable by the
process according to claim 16.
Description
[0001] The present application is a National Phase entry of PCT
Application No. PCT/GB2020/050599, filed Mar. 11, 2020 which claims
priority from GB Patent Application No. 1903291.1 filed Mar. 11,
2019, each of which is hereby fully incorporated herein by
reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates to a smokeless tobacco
composition, and to a process for producing the smokeless tobacco
composition.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Tobacco fermentation is generally a process that starts
spontaneously soon after the tobacco is harvested. As tobacco
fermentation was early on found to enhance certain properties of
the tobacco, such as smell and taste, this spontaneous process is
frequently consciously stimulated in various industrial processes
in the course of tobacco production.
[0004] However, tobacco fermentation--spontaneous as well as
industrially stimulated--also has the effect of generating
undesired by-products, such as for instance tobacco-specific
nitrosamines, abbreviated TSNA.
[0005] It would be desirable to be able to provide an improved
smokeless tobacco composition. For example, it would be desirable
to provide a smokeless tobacco composition that can easily be
provided with such desirable properties as is associated with
tobacco fermentation, such as enhanced smell and taste, while not
being burdened by the undesired side effects of tobacco
fermentation. It would also be desirable to provide a smokeless
tobacco composition having improved physical properties to enhance
the user's experience.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] In accordance with some embodiments described herein, there
is provided a smokeless tobacco composition comprising bleached
tobacco material, wherein at least 50% by weight of the bleached
tobacco material has a particle size of from about 1 mm to about 50
mm.
[0007] In accordance with some embodiments described herein, there
is provided a process for the production of a smokeless tobacco
composition as defined herein, the process comprising the steps of:
[0008] (a) providing unbleached tobacco material; [0009] (b)
bleaching the unbleached tobacco material to form bleached tobacco
material; and [0010] (c) recovering the bleached tobacco material
such that at least 50% by weight of the bleached tobacco material
has a particle size of from about 1 mm to about 50 mm.
[0011] In accordance with some embodiments described herein, there
is provided a smokeless tobacco composition obtained or obtainable
by the process comprising the steps of: [0012] (a) providing
unbleached tobacco material; [0013] (b) bleaching the unbleached
tobacco material to form bleached tobacco material; and [0014] (c)
recovering the bleached tobacco material such that at least 50% by
weight of the bleached tobacco material has a particle size of from
about 1 mm to about 50 mm.
[0015] For ease of reference, these and further aspects of the
present disclosure are now discussed under appropriate section
headings. However, the teachings under each section are not
necessarily limited to each particular section.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0016] It is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited
to the particular configurations, process steps, and materials
disclosed herein as such configurations, process steps, and
materials may vary somewhat. It is also to be understood that the
terminology employed herein is used for the purpose of describing
particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting
since the scope of the present disclosure will be limited only by
the appended claims and equivalents thereof
[0017] It must be noted that, as used in this specification and the
claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural
referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0018] In this specification, unless otherwise stated, the term
"about" modifying the quantity of an ingredient in the tobacco
material or tobacco compositions of the disclosure or employed in
the methods of the disclosure refers to variation in the numerical
quantity that can occur, for example, through typical measuring and
liquid handling procedures used for making concentrates or use
solutions in the real world; through inadvertent error in these
procedures; through differences in the manufacture, source, or
purity of the ingredients employed to make the tobacco material or
tobacco compositions, or to carry out the methods; and the like.
The term "about" also encompasses amounts that differ due to
different equilibrium conditions for a composition resulting from a
particular initial mixture. Whether or not modified by the term
"about", the claims include equivalents to the quantities.
[0019] In this specification, unless otherwise stated, the term
"bleached" refers to an object, such as for instance a tobacco
material, such as a tobacco raw material, whose visible color has
been reduced by any known method for this purpose, such as by
washing with one or more solvents, or treatment with one or more
bleaching agents, or any combination thereof.
[0020] In this specification, unless otherwise stated, the term
"fermentable carbohydrates" refers to carbohydrates that can be
metabolically broken down in and by the human body. For example,
the term "fermentable carbohydrate" may encompass starch, glucose,
fructose and sucrose.
[0021] In this specification, unless otherwise stated, the term
"oral" in connection to a product refers to a product which, in
normal use, is suited to be placed somewhere in the oral cavity of
the user, for example under the lips, in the same way as moist
snuff products are generally used.
[0022] The ranges provided herein provide preferred amounts of each
of the components. Each of these ranges may be taken alone or
combined with one or more other component ranges to provide a
preferred aspect of the disclosure.
Composition
[0023] As described herein, the smokeless tobacco composition
comprises bleached tobacco material, wherein at least 50% by weight
of the bleached tobacco material has a particle size of from about
1 mm to about 50 mm.
[0024] In some embodiments, the bleached tobacco material is a
bleached tobacco raw material.
[0025] In some embodiments, the bleached tobacco material is
present in an amount of from about 0.001% to about 50% by weight of
the smokeless tobacco composition. In some embodiments, the
bleached tobacco material is present in an amount of from about
0.001% to about 40% by weight of the smokeless tobacco composition.
In some embodiments, the bleached tobacco material is present in an
amount of from about 0.001% to about 30% by weight of the smokeless
tobacco composition. In some embodiments, the bleached tobacco
material is present in an amount of from about 0.001% to about 20%
by weight of the smokeless tobacco composition. In some
embodiments, the bleached tobacco material is present in an amount
of from about 0.01% to about 15% by weight of the smokeless tobacco
composition. In some embodiments, the bleached tobacco material is
present in an amount of from about 0.01% to about 10% by weight of
the smokeless tobacco composition. In some embodiments, the
bleached tobacco material is present in an amount of from about
0.05% to about 10% by weight of the smokeless tobacco composition.
In some embodiments, the bleached tobacco material is present in an
amount of from about 0.1% to about 10% by weight of the smokeless
tobacco composition. In some embodiments, the bleached tobacco
material is present in an amount of from about 0.5% to about 9% by
weight of the smokeless tobacco composition. In some embodiments,
the bleached tobacco material is present in an amount of from about
1% to about 8% by weight of the smokeless tobacco composition. In
some embodiments, the bleached tobacco material is present in an
amount of from about 2% to about 7% by weight of the smokeless
tobacco composition.
[0026] In some embodiments, the bleached tobacco material is
present in an amount of from about 1% to about 10% by weight of the
smokeless tobacco composition.
[0027] In some embodiments, the bleached tobacco material is as
described in WO 2015/150506, the entire contents of which are
incorporated herein by reference.
[0028] In some embodiments, the bleached tobacco material comprises
less than about 4 weight-%, such as less than about 2 weight-%,
such as less than about 1 weight-%, of fermentable carbohydrates,
calculated on the dry total weight of the bleached tobacco
material. In some embodiments, the bleached tobacco material
comprises starch, glucose, fructose and sucrose in a total combined
amount of less than about 4 weight-%, such as less than about 2
weight-%, such as less than about 1 weight-% of the bleached
tobacco material.
[0029] In some embodiments, the bleached tobacco material has an
ISO brightness that is not less than about 60, such as not less
than about 70, such as not less than about 80, as measured
according to ISO 2470:1999.
[0030] In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a
smokeless tobacco composition that comprises a bleached tobacco
material (such as a bleached tobacco raw material) that is
substantially free from undesired substances, as described in WO
2015/150506, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its
entirety. For example, in some embodiments, the smokeless tobacco
composition comprises:
[0031] less than about 7.0 mg/kg nitrite; and/or
[0032] less than about 2.0 mg/kg combined amount of NNN
(N-nitrosonornicotine) and NNK
((4-methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone); and/or
[0033] less than about 10.0 .mu.g/kg NDMA (N-Nitrosodimethylamine);
and/or
[0034] less than about 5.0 .mu.g/kg B(a)P (Benzo(a)pyrene);
and/or
[0035] less than about 1.0 mg/kg Cd; and/or
[0036] less than about 2.0 mg/kg Pb; and/or
[0037] less than about 0.5 mg/kg As; and/or
[0038] less than about 3.0 mg/kg Ni; and/or
[0039] less than about 4.5 mg/kg Cr;
[0040] calculated on the dry total weight of the smokeless tobacco
composition.
[0041] In one embodiment the smokeless tobacco composition
comprises
[0042] less than about 3.5 mg/kg nitrite; and/or
[0043] less than about 1.0 mg/kg combined amount of NNN
(N-nitrosonornicotine) and NNK
((4-methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone); and/or
[0044] less than about 5.0 .mu.g/kg NDMA (N-Nitrosodimethylamine);
and/or
[0045] less than about 2.5 .mu.g/kg B(a)P (Benzo(a)pyrene);
and/or
[0046] less than about 0.5 mg/kg Cd; and/or
[0047] less than about 1.0 mg/kg Pb; and/or
[0048] less than about 0.25 mg/kg As; and/or
[0049] less than about 1.5 mg/kg Ni; and/or
[0050] less than about 2.25 mg/kg Cr;
[0051] calculated on the dry total weight of the smokeless tobacco
composition.
[0052] In one embodiment the smokeless tobacco composition
comprises
[0053] less than about 1.0 mg/kg nitrite; and/or
[0054] less than about 0.2 mg/kg combined amount of NNN
(N-nitrosonornicotine) and NNK
((4-methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone); and/or
[0055] less than about 0.6 .mu.g/kg NDMA (N-nitrosodimethylamine);
and/or
[0056] less than about 0.6 .mu.g/kg B(a)P (benzo(a)pyrene);
and/or
[0057] less than about 0.1 mg/kg Cd; and/or
[0058] less than about 0.1 mg/kg Pb; and/or
[0059] less than about 0.1 mg/kg As; and/or
[0060] less than about 0.1 mg/kg Ni; and/or
[0061] less than about 0.1 mg/kg Cr;
[0062] calculated on the dry total weight of the smokeless tobacco
composition.
[0063] In one embodiment the smokeless tobacco composition
comprises a combined amount of aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2 that
does not exceed 0.01 mg/kg, calculated on the dry total weight of
the smokeless tobacco composition.
[0064] In some embodiments, the bleached tobacco material is
particulate. As used herein, the term "particulate" means that the
average length to width ratio of particles of the material is less
than 2:1, such as less than 1.5:1, such as about 1:1. In some
embodiments the particles of the bleached tobacco material are
substantially spherical. In some embodiments, the bleached tobacco
material is granular.
[0065] As described herein, at least 50% by weight of the bleached
tobacco particles have a particle size of from about 1 mm to about
50 mm. In some embodiments, the particle size is measured by sieve
analysis. Therefore, in some embodiments, at least 50% by weight of
the bleached tobacco particles have a particle size as measured by
sieve analysis of from about 1 mm to about 50 mm.
[0066] In some embodiments, at least 50% by weight of the bleached
tobacco particles have a particle size (e.g. as measured by sieve
analysis) of from about 1 mm to about 40 mm, such as from about 1
mm to about 30 mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 20 mm, such as
from about 1 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about 1.5 mm to about
5 mm, such as from about 2 mm to about 4 mm. In some embodiments,
at least 50% by weight of the bleached tobacco particles have a
particle size (e.g. as measured by sieve analysis) of from about
1.5 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about 2 mm to about 5 mm, such
as from about 2.5 mm to about 4 mm. In some embodiments, at least
50% by weight of the bleached tobacco particles have a particle
size (e.g. as measured by sieve analysis) of from about 1.1 mm to
about 10 mm, such as from about 1.2 mm to about 10 mm, such as from
about 1.3 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about 1.4 mm to about 10
mm, such as from about 1.5 mm to about 10 mm.
[0067] In some embodiments, at least 60% by weight of the bleached
tobacco particles have a particle size (e.g. as measured by sieve
analysis) of from about 1 mm to about 50 mm, such as from about 1
mm to about 40 mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 30 mm, such as
from about 1 mm to about 20 mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 10
mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 5 mm, such as from about 2 mm
to about 4 mm. In some embodiments, at least 60% by weight of the
bleached tobacco particles have a particle size (e.g. as measured
by sieve analysis) of from about 1.5 mm to about 10 mm, such as
from about 2 mm to about 5 mm, such as from about 2.5 mm to about 4
mm. In some embodiments, at least 60% by weight of the bleached
tobacco particles have a particle size (e.g. as measured by sieve
analysis) of from about 1.1 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about
1.2 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about 1.3 mm to about 10 mm,
such as from about 1.4 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about 1.5 mm
to about 10 mm.
[0068] In some embodiments, at least 70% by weight of the bleached
tobacco particles have a particle size (e.g. as measured by sieve
analysis) of from about 1 mm to about 50 mm, such as from about 1
mm to about 40 mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 30 mm, such as
from about 1 mm to about 20 mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 10
mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 5 mm, such as from about 2 mm
to about 4 mm. In some embodiments, at least 70% by weight of the
bleached tobacco particles have a particle size (e.g. as measured
by sieve analysis) of from about 1.5 mm to about 10 mm, such as
from about 2 mm to about 5 mm, such as from about 2.5 mm to about 4
mm. In some embodiments, at least 70% by weight of the bleached
tobacco particles have a particle size (e.g. as measured by sieve
analysis) of from about 1.1 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about
1.2 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about 1.3 mm to about 10 mm,
such as from about 1.4 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about 1.5 mm
to about 10 mm.
[0069] In some embodiments, at least 80% by weight of the bleached
tobacco particles have a particle size (e.g. as measured by sieve
analysis) of from about 1 mm to about 50 mm, such as from about 1
mm to about 40 mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 30 mm, such as
from about 1 mm to about 20 mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 10
mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 5 mm, such as from about 2 mm
to about 4 mm. In some embodiments, at least 80% by weight of the
bleached tobacco particles have a particle size (e.g. as measured
by sieve analysis) of from about 1.5 mm to about 10 mm, such as
from about 2 mm to about 5 mm, such as from about 2.5 mm to about 4
mm. In some embodiments, at least 80% by weight of the bleached
tobacco particles have a particle size (e.g. as measured by sieve
analysis) of from about 1.1 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about
1.2 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about 1.3 mm to about 10 mm,
such as from about 1.4 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about 1.5 mm
to about 10 mm.
[0070] In some embodiments, at least 90% by weight of the bleached
tobacco particles have a particle size (e.g. as measured by sieve
analysis) of from about 1 mm to about 50 mm, such as from about 1
mm to about 40 mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 30 mm, such as
from about 1 mm to about 20 mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 10
mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 5 mm, such as from about 2 mm
to about 4 mm. In some embodiments, at least 90% by weight of the
bleached tobacco particles have a particle size (e.g. as measured
by sieve analysis) of from about 1.5 mm to about 10 mm, such as
from about 2 mm to about 5 mm, such as from about 2.5 mm to about 4
mm. In some embodiments, at least 90% by weight of the bleached
tobacco particles have a particle size (e.g. as measured by sieve
analysis) of from about 1.1 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about
1.2 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about 1.3 mm to about 10 mm,
such as from about 1.4 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about 1.5 mm
to about 10 mm.
[0071] In some embodiments, at least 95% by weight of the bleached
tobacco particles have a particle size (e.g. as measured by sieve
analysis) of from about 1 mm to about 50 mm, such as from about 1
mm to about 40 mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 30 mm, such as
from about 1 mm to about 20 mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 10
mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 5 mm, such as from about 2 mm
to about 4 mm. In some embodiments, at least 95% by weight of the
bleached tobacco particles have a particle size (e.g. as measured
by sieve analysis) of from about 1.5 mm to about 10 mm, such as
from about 2 mm to about 5 mm, such as from about 2.5 mm to about 4
mm. In some embodiments, at least 95% by weight of the bleached
tobacco particles have a particle size (e.g. as measured by sieve
analysis) of from about 1.1 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about
1.2 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about 1.3 mm to about 10 mm,
such as from about 1.4 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about 1.5 mm
to about 10 mm.
[0072] In some embodiments, at least 99% by weight of the bleached
tobacco particles have a particle size (e.g. as measured by sieve
analysis) of from about 1 mm to about 50 mm, such as from about 1
mm to about 40 mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 30 mm, such as
from about 1 mm to about 20 mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 10
mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 5 mm, such as from about 2 mm
to about 4 mm. In some embodiments, at least 99% by weight of the
bleached tobacco particles have a particle size (e.g. as measured
by sieve analysis) of from about 1.5 mm to about 10 mm, such as
from about 2 mm to about 5 mm, such as from about 2.5 mm to about 4
mm. In some embodiments, at least 99% by weight of the bleached
tobacco particles have a particle size (e.g. as measured by sieve
analysis) of from about 1.1 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about
1.2 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about 1.3 mm to about 10 mm,
such as from about 1.4 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about 1.5 mm
to about 10 mm.
[0073] In some embodiments, approximately 100% by weight of the
bleached tobacco particles have a particle size (e.g. as measured
by sieve analysis) of from about 1 mm to about 50 mm, such as from
about 1 mm to about 40 mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 30 mm,
such as from about 1 mm to about 20 mm, such as from about 1 mm to
about 10 mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 5 mm, such as from
about 2 mm to about 4 mm. In some embodiments, approximately 100%
by weight of the bleached tobacco particles have a particle size
(e.g. as measured by sieve analysis) of from about 1.5 mm to about
10 mm, such as from about 2 mm to about 5 mm, such as from about
2.5 mm to about 4 mm. In some embodiments, approximately 100% by
weight of the bleached tobacco particles have a particle size (e.g.
as measured by sieve analysis) of from about 1.1 mm to about 10 mm,
such as from about 1.2 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about 1.3 mm
to about 10 mm, such as from about 1.4 mm to about 10 mm, such as
from about 1.5 mm to about 10 mm.
[0074] In some embodiments, at least 50% by weight, such as at
least 60% by weight, such as at least 70% by weight, such as at
least 80% by weight, such as at least 90% by weight, such as at
least 95% by weight, such as at least 99% by weight, such as
approximately 100% by weight of the bleached tobacco particles have
a particle size (e.g. as measured by sieve analysis) of from about
1 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about 1.5 mm to about 9 mm, such
as from about 1.5 mm to about 8 mm, such as from about 2 mm to
about 7 mm, such as from about 2 mm to about 6 mm, such as from
about 2 mm to about 5 mm, such as from about 2 mm to about 4
mm.
[0075] In some embodiments, at least 70% of the bleached tobacco
particles have a particle size (e.g. as measured by sieve analysis)
of from about 1 mm to about 10 mm. In some embodiments, at least
70% of the bleached tobacco particles have a particle size (e.g. as
measured by sieve analysis) of from about 1 mm to about 5 mm. In
some embodiments, at least 95% of the bleached tobacco particles
have a particle size (e.g. as measured by sieve analysis) of from
about 1 mm to about 10 mm. In some embodiments, at least 95% of the
bleached tobacco particles have a particle size (e.g. as measured
by sieve analysis) of from about 1 mm to about 5 mm. In some
embodiments, at least 99% of the bleached tobacco particles have a
particle size (e.g. as measured by sieve analysis) of from about 1
mm to about 10 mm. In some embodiments, at least 99% of the
bleached tobacco particles have a particle size (e.g. as measured
by sieve analysis) of from about 1 mm to about 5 mm.
[0076] The particle size of the bleached tobacco material may be
measured by sieve analysis. As the skilled person will readily
appreciate, sieve analysis (otherwise known as a gradation test) is
a method used to measure the particle size distribution of a
particulate material. Typically, sieve analysis involves a nested
column of sieves which comprise screens, preferably in the form of
wire mesh cloths. A pre-weighed sample may be introduced into the
top or upper-most sieve in the column, which has the largest screen
openings or mesh size (i.e. the largest pore diameter of the
sieve). Each lower sieve in the column has progressively smaller
screen openings or mesh sizes than the sieve above. Typically, at
the base of the column of sieves is a receiver portion to collect
any particles having a particle size smaller than the screen
opening size or mesh size of the bottom or lowermost sieve in the
column (which has the smallest screen opening or mesh size).
[0077] In some embodiments, the column of sieves may be placed on
or in a mechanical agitator. The agitator causes the vibration of
each of the sieves in the column. The mechanical agitator may be
activated for a pre-determined period of time in order to ensure
that all particles are collected in the correct sieve. In some
embodiments, the column of sieves is agitated for a period of time
from 0.5 minutes to 10 minutes, such as from 1 minute to 10
minutes, such as from 1 minute to 5 minutes, such as for
approximately 3 minutes.
[0078] Once the agitation of the sieves in the column is complete,
the material collected on each sieve is weighed. The weight of each
sample on each sieve may then be divided by the total weight in
order to obtain a percentage of the mass retained on each
sieve.
[0079] As the skilled person will readily appreciate, the screen
opening sizes or mesh sizes for each sieve in the column used for
sieve analysis may be selected based on the granularity or known
maximum/minimum particle sizes of the sample to be analysed.
[0080] In some embodiments, a column of sieves may be used for
sieve analysis, wherein the column comprises from 2 to 20 sieves,
such as from 5 to 15 sieves. In some embodiments, a column of
sieves may be used for sieve analysis, wherein the column comprises
10 sieves.
[0081] In some embodiments, the largest screen opening or mesh
sizes of the sieve(s) used for sieve analysis may be about 50 mm,
such as about 40 mm, such as about 30 mm, such as about 20 mm, such
as about 10 mm, such as about 9 mm, such as about 8 mm, such as
about 7 mm, such as about 6 mm, such as about 5 mm, such as about 4
mm. In some embodiments, the largest screen opening or mesh size of
the sieve(s) is about 10 mm such that at least about 50% by weight,
such as at least about 70% by weight, such as at least 95% by
weight, such as approximately 100% by weight of the particles have
a particle size of no greater than about 10 mm.
[0082] In some embodiments, the smallest screen opening or mesh
size of the sieve(s) used is about 1 mm, such as about 2 mm. As
such, any particles that have a particle size of less than 1 mm,
and thus pass through this sieve, may be collected and discarded.
These smaller particles or "fines" may be collected and discarded
(or used in other products). As such, at least about 50% by weight,
such as at least about 70% by weight, such as at least 95% by
weight, such as approximately 100% by weight of the particles have
a particle size of at least about 1 mm.
[0083] In some embodiments, the bleached tobacco material has an
average particle size (e.g. as measured by sieve analysis) of from
about 1 mm to about 50 mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 40 mm,
such as from about 1 mm to about 30 mm, such as from about 1 mm to
about 20 mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 10 mm, such as from
about 1 mm to about 5 mm, such as from about 2 mm to about 4 mm. In
some embodiments, the bleached tobacco material has an average
particle size (e.g. as measured by sieve analysis) of from about
1.5 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about 2 mm to about 5 mm, such
as from about 2.5 mm to about 4 mm. In some embodiments, the
bleached tobacco material has an average particle size (e.g. as
measured by sieve analysis) of from about 1.1 mm to about 10 mm,
such as from about 1.2 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about 1.3 mm
to about 10 mm, such as from about 1.4 mm to about 10 mm, such as
from about 1.5 mm to about 10 mm.
[0084] It has been surprisingly found by the present inventors that
the inclusion of a bleached tobacco material having a particle size
as defined herein provides a smokeless tobacco composition which is
suitable for use as a chewing tobacco, and which does not discolour
the user's fingers, and--in the case of oral smokeless tobacco
products--does not discolour the user's teeth. Indeed, the
composition having such bleached tobacco material may be able to be
moulded and formed into shapes by the user's teeth, whilst also not
breaking down and/or disintegrating in the user's mouth when chewed
or masticated.
[0085] In some embodiments, the smokeless tobacco composition
further comprises an alginate composition. In some embodiments, the
smokeless tobacco composition contains an alginate composition of
the kind, and in the way described in WO 2010/114445, the contents
of which is hereby incorporated by reference. More specifically,
the oral smokeless tobacco composition according to this embodiment
contains an alginate composition, distributed in the product and
comprising at least water, alginate and an added substance intended
to be released from the product when said product is used, said
composition containing an alginate matrix that retains at least a
major proportion of the added substance so long as the matrix is
intact, and the alginate matrix being formed so as to disintegrate
and/or dissolve in the chemical and physical environment that
exists in a user's mouth. In some embodiments, the alginate
contains an alginate salt of monovalent cations. In some
embodiments, the alginate is soluble in cold water. The added
substance may be one or more substances belonging to any of the
following categories, or combinations thereof: API (active
pharmaceutical substances), food additives, natural or synthetic
nutrients, flavoring substances, natural medicaments or naturally
occurring substances that can have an effect on humans. Examples of
such substances are green tea, white tea, caffeine, vitamin B12,
vitamin C, vitamin E, bioperin, Q10, selenium, glutathione, liponic
acid, folic acid, ginseng, pollen extract, antioxidants, minerals,
paracetamol, acetylsalicylic acid, Russian root, and rose root. In
some embodiments, the added substance may comprise nicotine,
cannabis, a cannabinoid, or mixtures thereof
[0086] In some embodiments, the smokeless tobacco composition
comprises guar gum. In such embodiments, the guar gum may be
present in an amount of from about 0.01% to about 20% by weight of
the smokeless tobacco composition. In some embodiments, the guar
gum is present in an amount of from about 0.1% to about 15% by
weight of the smokeless tobacco composition. In some embodiments,
the guar gum is present in an amount of from about 0.5% to about
10% by weight of the smokeless tobacco composition. In some
embodiments, the guar gum is present in an amount of from about 1%
to about 10% by weight of the smokeless tobacco composition. In
some embodiments, the guar gum is present in an amount of from
about 2% to about 8% by weight of the smokeless tobacco
composition. In some embodiments, the guar gum is present in an
amount of from about 2.5% to about 7.5% by weight of the smokeless
tobacco composition. In some embodiments, the guar gum is present
in an amount of from about 3% to about 7% by weight of the
smokeless tobacco composition. In some embodiments, the guar gum is
present in an amount of from about 4% to about 6% by weight of the
smokeless tobacco composition.
[0087] It has been surprisingly found by the present inventors that
the inclusion of guar gum in combination with a bleached tobacco
material having a particle size as defined herein provides a
smokeless tobacco composition which has improved moldability, and
thus provides an improved sensorial experience when chewed by the
user. As used herein, the term "moldable " means that the
composition can be pushed and formed into different shapes by the
user's hands or teeth, without requiring any additional mechanical
means and without cracking and/or crumbling. For example, the
composition including guar gum may have a softer, more dough-like
texture and thus be easier and more comfortable for the user to
chew. The inclusion of guar gum has also been surprisingly found to
improve the rate of release of active ingredients (e.g. nicotine
and/or flavorings) from the composition by the mechanical pressure
of chewing.
[0088] In some embodiments, the smokeless tobacco composition may
further comprise guar gum or an alginate composition. In some
embodiments, the smokeless tobacco composition may further comprise
a combination of guar gum and an alginate composition. The amounts
of either or both components may be as defined hereinabove.
[0089] In some embodiments, the smokeless tobacco composition may
be provided in the form of a loose powder. One advantage of the
smokeless tobacco composition comprising the bleached tobacco
material as defined herein is that it provides for tobacco products
that does not discolour the user's fingers, and--in the case of
oral smokeless tobacco products--does not discolour the user's
teeth.
[0090] In some embodiments, the smokeless tobacco composition is
nasal snuff, i.e. snuff products suited for nasal administration.
Therefore, in some embodiments, there is provided a nasal snuff
which comprises bleached tobacco material, wherein at least 50% by
weight of the bleached tobacco material has a particle size of from
about 1 mm to about 50 mm.
[0091] In some embodiments, the smokeless tobacco composition is an
oral smokeless tobacco composition (i.e. one which is suitable for
placing into the mouth of the user). Therefore, in some
embodiments, there is provided an oral smokeless tobacco
composition comprising bleached tobacco material, wherein at least
50% by weight of the bleached tobacco material has a particle size
of from about 1 mm to about 50 mm. The oral smokeless tobacco
composition may be or comprise, but is not limited to, moist snuff
such as snus, chewing tobacco, sucking tobacco (commonly referred
to as "lutsch-tabak"), oral dry snuff, or hard snuff.
[0092] In some embodiments, the oral smokeless tobacco composition
comprises snus.
[0093] In some embodiments, the oral smokeless tobacco composition
is chewing tobacco.
[0094] In some embodiments, the oral smokeless tobacco composition
may be a chewing tobacco which further comprises a gum base. The
gum base may be chosen among--but is not limited to--commercial
chewing gum bases, bubble gum bases, and natural gum base
materials.
[0095] In some embodiments, the oral smokeless tobacco composition
may be a chewing tobacco having the characteristics as defined
hereinabove. In some embodiments, there is provided an oral
smokeless chewing tobacco composition comprising bleached tobacco
material, wherein at least 50% by weight of the bleached tobacco
material has a particle size of from about 1 mm to about 50 mm. In
some embodiments, the chewing tobacco composition may further
comprise guar gum and/or an alginate composition as defined
hereinabove.
[0096] In some embodiments, the smokeless tobacco composition (such
as an oral chewing tobacco) may comprise salt (sodium chloride)
and/or other flavorants.
[0097] In some embodiments, the smokeless tobacco composition (such
as an oral smokeless chewing tobacco composition) further comprises
one or more additives selected from the group consisting of sodium
chloride, xylitol, microcrystalline cellulose, flavoring agents,
sodium bicarbonate and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the
smokeless tobacco composition (such as an oral smokeless chewing
tobacco composition) further comprises sodium chloride. In some
embodiments, the smokeless tobacco composition further comprises
flavoring agents. In some embodiments, the smokeless tobacco
composition (such as an oral smokeless chewing tobacco composition)
further comprises xylitol. In some embodiments, the smokeless
tobacco composition further comprises sodium bicarbonate. In some
embodiments, the smokeless tobacco composition (such as an oral
smokeless chewing tobacco composition) further comprises
microcrystalline cellulose.
[0098] The oral smokeless tobacco composition (such as an oral
smokeless chewing tobacco composition) may comprise additives
chosen among--but not limited to--one or more substances belonging
to any of the following categories, or combinations thereof: API
(active pharmaceutical substances), food additives, natural or
synthetic nutrients, flavoring substances, natural medicaments or
naturally occurring substances that can have an effect on humans.
Examples of such substances are green tea, white tea, caffeine,
vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin E, bioperin, Q10, selenium,
glutathione, liponic acid, folic acid, ginseng, pollen extract,
antioxidants, minerals, paracetamol, acetylsalicylic acid, Russian
root, and rose root.
[0099] In some embodiments, the oral smokeless tobacco composition
(such as an oral smokeless chewing tobacco composition) comprises
an active substance; for example, the composition may comprise
nicotine, cannabis, a cannabinoid, or mixtures thereof
[0100] Cannabinoids are a class of natural or synthetic chemical
compounds which act on cannabinoid receptors (i.e., CB1 and CB2) in
cells that repress neurotransmitter release in the brain. Two of
the most important cannabinoids are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and
cannabidiol (CBD). Cannabinoids may be naturally occurring
(Phytocannabinoids) from plants such as cannabis,
(endocannabinoids) from animals, and artificially manufactured
(Synthetic cannabinoids).
[0101] Cannabinoids are cyclic molecules exhibiting particular
properties such as the ability to easily cross the blood-brain
barrier, weak toxicity, and few side effects.
[0102] Cannabis species express at least 85 different
phytocannabinoids, and are divided into subclasses, including
cannabigerols, cannabichromenes, cannabidiols,
tetrahydrocannabinols, cannabinols and cannabinodiols, and other
cannabinoids.
[0103] Cannabinoids found in cannabis include, without limitation:
cannabigerol (CBG), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabidiol (CBD),
tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabinol (CBN) and cannabinodiol
(CBDL), cannabicyclol (CBL), cannabivarin (CBV),
tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabidivarin (CBDV),
cannabichromevarin (CBCV), cannabigerovarin (CBGV), cannabigerol
monomethyl ether (CBGM), cannabinerolic acid, cannabidiolic acid
(CBDA), Cannabinol propyl variant (CBNV), cannabitriol (CBO),
tetrahydrocannabmolic acid (THCA), and tetrahydrocannabivarinic
acid (THCV A).
[0104] In some embodiments, the oral smokeless tobacco composition
(such as an oral smokeless chewing tobacco composition) further
comprises nicotine in addition to the nicotine naturally present in
the bleached tobacco material.
[0105] The oral smokeless tobacco composition may be provided in
baked or compressed form, from which portions may be punched or
pressed in portions, such as lozenges or tablets.
[0106] In some embodiments, the smokeless oral tobacco product can
be provided to the user in a portioned format. In some embodiments,
the smokeless tobacco composition is surrounded by a pouch. For
example, chewing tobacco may be prepared by sealing the tobacco
material in a permeable pouch.
[0107] A pouch holds the tobacco material in place, while at the
same time allowing substances such as flavours and nicotine to
diffuse through the pouch and into the mouth of the user for
absorption through the user's mucous membranes. In some embodiments
in which the smokeless tobacco composition is a chewing tobacco,
the flavours and/or nicotine may be released from the composition
upon chewing of the product by the user.
[0108] In some embodiments, the smokeless tobacco composition can
be provided to the user in a non-portioned format. In one
embodiment, the smokeless tobacco composition is packaged in loose
form in a container, such as a can, sachet or tin.
[0109] In some embodiments, the oral smokeless tobacco composition
may be provided in loose form or in the form of portion-size
sachets. In some embodiments, the oral smokeless tobacco
composition is provided as a loose powder. In some embodiments, the
oral smokeless tobacco composition is provided as a powder that is
contained in a pouch. Therefore, in some embodiments, there is
provided a pouched oral smokeless tobacco composition comprising
bleached tobacco material, wherein at least 50% by weight of the
bleached tobacco material has a particle size of from about 1 mm to
about 50 mm.
[0110] In some embodiments, the oral smokeless tobacco composition
is in the form of a powder, either provided as a loose powder or in
pouches. The oral smokeless tobacco composition may be particulate
(either as loose powder or encased in a pouch). In some
embodiments, at least 50% of the particles of oral smokeless
tobacco composition have a particle size of from about 1 mm to
about 50 mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 40 mm, such as from
about 1 mm to about 30 mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 20 mm,
such as from about 1 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about 1 mm to
about 5 mm, such as from about 2 mm to about 4 mm. In some
embodiments, at least 50% of the particles of oral smokeless
tobacco composition have a particle size of from about 1.5 mm to
about 10 mm, such as from about 2 mm to about 5 mm.
[0111] As a further alternative the oral smokeless tobacco
composition may have a film-like form.
[0112] The smokeless tobacco composition may have a pH of about
7-12, such as about 8-12, such as about 8-9.
[0113] In some embodiments, the smokeless tobacco composition has a
water content of from about 5% to about 60%, such as from about 20%
to about 60%, such as from about 40 to about 55%, such as from
about 45% to about 55%, such as from about 45% to about 50% by
weight of the smokeless tobacco composition. In some embodiments,
the smokeless tobacco composition has a water content of from about
40% to about 60% by weight of the smokeless tobacco
composition.
[0114] Also described herein is a smokeless product, which
comprises non-tobacco plant material, wherein at least 50% by
weight of the non-tobacco plant material has a particle size of
from about 1 mm to about 50 mm, but wherein the composition does
not comprise tobacco. In other words, described herein is a
smokeless non-tobacco product comprising non-tobacco plant
material, wherein at least 50% by weight of the non-tobacco plant
material has a particle size of from about 1 mm to about 50 mm. The
non-tobacco plant material may be selected from the group
consisting of maize, oat, tomato, barley, rye, sugar beet, buck
wheat, potato, cellulose, cellulose derivatives, apple, cocoa,
bamboo, citrus, and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the
non-tobacco plant material is or comprises cellulose,
microcrystalline cellulose, or mixtures thereof. In some
embodiments, the non-tobacco plant material is or comprises
microcrystalline cellulose. In some embodiments, the smokeless
non-tobacco product comprises nicotine. In some embodiments, the
smokeless non-tobacco product comprises guar gum. In some
embodiments, the smokeless non-tobacco product comprises an
alginate composition. Therefore, in some embodiments, the smokeless
non-tobacco product comprises non-tobacco plant material, guar gum
and nicotine. The smokeless non-tobacco product may comprise each
of the features as described hereinabove, with the exception that
said product includes non-tobacco plant material as a replacement
for the bleached tobacco material as described herein.
Process
[0115] According to a further aspect of the disclosure, there is
provided a process for the production of a smokeless tobacco
composition comprising the steps of: [0116] (a) providing
unbleached tobacco material; [0117] (b) bleaching the unbleached
tobacco material to form bleached tobacco material; and [0118] (c)
recovering the bleached tobacco material such that at least 50% by
weight of the bleached tobacco material has a particle size of from
about 1 mm to about 50 mm.
[0119] In some embodiments, the process is for the production of
the smokeless tobacco composition as described hereinabove.
[0120] In some embodiments, the unbleached tobacco material is or
comprises cut tobacco. In some embodiments, at least 50% by weight
of the unbleached tobacco material has a particle size of at least
about 1 mm. In some embodiments, the at least 50% by weight of the
unbleached tobacco material has a particle size of from about 1 mm
to about 50 mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 20 mm, such as
from about 1 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about 2 mm to about 5
mm. In some embodiments, the unbleached tobacco material has the
same particle size distribution as the resultant bleached tobacco
material, for example as measured by sieve analysis.
[0121] In some embodiments, the step (b) of bleaching the
unbleached tobacco material comprises the steps of:
[0122] (i) treating unbleached tobacco material at an acidic pH
with an acid; and
[0123] (ii) contacting the unbleached tobacco material with a
bleaching agent at a temperature range of from about 50.degree. C.
to about 95.degree. C.
[0124] In some embodiments, the amount of bleaching agent used may
be any suitable amount to cause bleaching of the tobacco material.
In some embodiments, the amount of bleaching agent may be from
about 2% to about 15% by weight of the resulting mixture. For
example, the total amount of bleaching agent may, for instance, be
about 30-250 kg per ton tobacco material (calculated as pure
bleaching agent), specifically about 50-200 kg per ton tobacco
material. In some embodiments, the unbleached tobacco material is
contacted with a bleaching agent for a period of from about 1 hour
to about 10 hours, such as from about 2 hours to about 8 hours,
such as from about 4 hours to about 6 hours. In some embodiments,
the unbleached tobacco material is contacted with a bleaching agent
at a temperature range of from about 60.degree. C. to about
90.degree. C., such as from about 70.degree. C. to about 80.degree.
C.
[0125] The bleaching agent may be, but is not limited to, chlorine,
chlorine dioxide, sodium hypochlorite, hydrogen peroxide, ozone,
enzymes, oxygen, potassium peroxymonosulfate, dimethyldioxirane,
peroxy acids, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the
bleaching agent is selected from chlorine dioxide, sodium
hypochlorite, hydrogen peroxide, ozone, enzymes, or a combination
thereof
[0126] The bleaching agent may also be constituted by, or at least
involve the use of ultrasound.
[0127] In some embodiments, the process further comprises a step of
drying the bleached tobacco material. The drying step may be
carried out by heating.
[0128] For example, in some embodiments, the step (b) of bleaching
the unbleached tobacco material comprises the steps of:
[0129] (i) treating unbleached tobacco material at an acidic pH and
at a temperature range of from about 70.degree. C. to about
180.degree. C. with an aqueous solution of comprising sulfite
ion;
[0130] (ii) defiberating the tobacco material from step (ii);
and
[0131] (iii) treating the defiberated tobacco material from step
(ii) with an effective amount of a bleaching agent at a temperature
range of from about 60.degree. C. to about 90.degree. C.
[0132] In some embodiments, the step (b) of bleaching the
unbleached tobacco material comprises steps as described in WO
2015/150506, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein
by reference.
[0133] In some alternative embodiments, the step (b) of bleaching
the unbleached tobacco material comprises the steps of: [0134] (i)
mechanically deliberating uncooked tobacco material to produce a
defiberated tobacco material; and [0135] (ii) treating the
defiberated tobacco material from step (i) with at least one
bleaching agent to product a bleached tobacco material.
[0136] In some embodiments, the step (b) of bleaching the
unbleached tobacco material comprises steps as described in WO
2018/083114, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein
by reference.
[0137] In some embodiments, the process further comprises
contacting the bleached tobacco material with guar gum. In some
embodiments, the process further comprises contacting the bleached
tobacco material with an alginate composition. In some embodiments,
the process further comprises contacting the bleached tobacco
material with guar gum and an alginate composition.
[0138] In some embodiments, the process further comprises
contacting the bleached tobacco material (optionally with the guar
gum and/or alginate composition) with one or more additives
selected from the group consisting of sodium chloride, xylitol,
microcrystalline cellulose, flavoring agents, sodium bicarbonate,
API (active pharmaceutical substances), active substances (such as
nicotine, cannabis, cannabinoids or mixtures thereof) food
additives, natural or synthetic nutrients, natural medicaments or
naturally occurring substances that can have an effect on humans
and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the process further
comprises contacting the bleached tobacco material (optionally with
the guar gum and/or alginate composition) with nicotine.
[0139] In embodiments in which the process comprises contacting the
bleached tobacco material with an alginate composition and/or guar
gum, the process comprises the step (b-i) of contacting the
bleached tobacco material with one or more additives before and/or
during and/or after contacting the bleached tobacco material with
guar gum and/or alginate composition. In some embodiments, the
process comprises the step (b-i) of contacting the bleached tobacco
material with one or more additives before contacting the bleached
tobacco material with guar gum and/or alginate composition. In some
embodiments, the process comprises the step (b-i) of contacting the
bleached tobacco material with one or more additives during
contacting the bleached tobacco material with guar gum and/or
alginate composition. In some embodiments, the process comprises
the step (b-i) of contacting the bleached tobacco material with one
or more additives after contacting the bleached tobacco material
with guar gum and/or alginate composition.
[0140] In some embodiments, the process comprises the step (b-i) of
contacting the bleached tobacco material with one or more additives
selected from the group consisting of sodium chloride,
microcrystalline cellulose, and mixtures thereof during the step of
contacting the bleached tobacco material with guar gum and/or
alginate composition. In some embodiments, the process comprises
the step (b-i) of contacting the bleached tobacco material with one
or more additives selected from the group consisting of sodium
bicarbonate, flavoring agents, nicotine, and mixtures thereof after
the step of contacting the bleached tobacco material with guar gum
and/or alginate composition.
[0141] In some embodiments, the process further comprises the step
(b-ii) of contacting the bleached tobacco material with water. In
some embodiments, the process further comprises the step (b-ii) of
contacting the bleached tobacco material with water before and/or
during and/or after the step of contacting the bleached tobacco
material with guar gum. In some embodiments, the process comprises
the step (b-ii) of contacting the bleached tobacco material with
water before the step of contacting the bleached tobacco material
with guar gum. In some embodiments, the process comprises the step
(b-ii) of contacting the bleached tobacco material with water
during the step of contacting the bleached tobacco material with
guar gum. In some embodiments, the process comprises the step
(b-ii) of contacting the bleached tobacco material with water after
the step of contacting the bleached tobacco material with guar
gum.
[0142] In some embodiments, the step (c) comprises sieving the
bleached tobacco material such that at least 50% by weight of the
bleached tobacco material has a particle size of from about 1 mm to
about 50 mm.
[0143] In some embodiments, the steps (a) and (b) of the process
comprises the following steps:
[0144] (i) extracting a tobacco material with an aqueous solution
to provide a tobacco solids material and a tobacco extract;
[0145] (ii) treating the tobacco solids material with a caustic
wash to provide a tobacco pulp;
[0146] (iii) bleaching the tobacco pulp with a solution comprising
a strong base, an oxidizing agent, or a combination thereof to
provide a bleached tobacco pulp; and
[0147] (iv) drying the bleached tobacco pulp to provide a bleached
tobacco material.
[0148] In some embodiments, the process further comprises milling
the tobacco material before the extraction step such that at least
50% by weight of the milled tobacco material has a particle size of
at least about 1 mm. In some embodiments, at least 50% by weight of
the unbleached tobacco material has a particle size of from about 1
mm to about 50 mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 20 mm, such as
from about 1 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about 2 mm to about 5
mm. In some embodiments, the unbleached tobacco material has the
same particle size distribution as the resultant bleached tobacco
material, for example as measured by sieve analysis.
[0149] In some embodiments, the process further comprises
hydrolyzing the tobacco pulp with acid prior to step (ii). The acid
may be sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, citric acid, or a
combination thereof. In some embodiments, the caustic wash
comprises sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide or mixtures
thereof.
[0150] In some embodiments, the bleaching step (iii) comprises
treatment with a strong base and an oxidizing agent, and wherein
the molar ratio of the amount of strong base to the amount of
oxidizing agent is from about 1:1 to about 1:100. In some
embodiments, the bleaching step (iii) comprises treatment with one
or more of peracetic acid, sodium hydroxide and hydrogen
peroxide.
[0151] In some embodiments, the steps (a) and (b) of bleaching the
unbleached tobacco material comprises steps as described in U.S.
Ser. No. 16/227,742, the entire contents of which are incorporated
herein by reference.
[0152] Another aspect of the disclosure relates to a smokeless
tobacco composition obtained or obtainable by the inventive
process. In some embodiments, the disclosure provides a smokeless
tobacco composition obtained or obtainable by the process described
hereinabove, wherein the smokeless tobacco composition comprises
bleached tobacco material, wherein at least 50% by weight of the
bleached tobacco material has a particle size of from about 1 mm to
about 50 mm. In some embodiments, the smokeless tobacco composition
comprises bleached tobacco material that comprises less than about
4 weight-% fermentable carbohydrates, calculated on the dry total
weight of the bleached tobacco material.
[0153] In some embodiments, the smokeless tobacco composition is as
described in any one of the embodiments described above.
[0154] The disclosure will now be illustrated in closer detail in
the following non-limiting examples.
EXAMPLES
Example 1
[0155] A bleached tobacco material was prepared using the following
method: [0156] 1. Unbleached tobacco material was cut to have a
length and/or width of from about 1 mm to about 10 mm. [0157] 2.
The tobacco material was defiberated in a mechanical defibrator.
[0158] 3. The defiberated tobacco material was subjected to acid
wash with sulfuric acid under the following conditions: [0159] Pulp
concentration: 5% [0160] Temperature: 50.degree. C. [0161] Time: 60
minutes [0162] pH 2.5 [0163] 4. The tobacco material was then
bleached under the following conditions: [0164] Pulp concentration:
12% [0165] Temperature: 80.degree. C. [0166] Time: 150 minutes
[0167] 100 kg peroxyacetic acid/ton of tobacco material [0168] pH:
4-6 [0169] 5. The material was then dewatered in centrifuge, and
then chelated with EDTA under the following conditions: [0170] Pulp
concentration: 5% [0171] Temperature 70.degree. C. [0172] Time: 60
minutes [0173] pH: 5.5 [0174] 5 kg EDTA/ton of tobacco material
[0175] 6. A second bleaching stage was then carried out under the
following conditions: [0176] Pulp concentration: 12% [0177]
Temperature: 90.degree. C. [0178] Time: 240 minutes [0179] 50 kg
hydrogen peroxide/ton of tobacco material [0180] pH
10.5-11.5--regulated by means of NaOH [0181] 10 kg MgSO.sub.4/ton
of tobacco material [0182] 7. The composition was then dewatered in
centrifuge. [0183] 8. Finally, the tobacco material was sieved such
that at least 50% of the bleached tobacco material has a particle
size of from 2 mm to 5 mm.
Example 2
[0184] A smokeless tobacco composition is prepared having the
following composition:
TABLE-US-00001 Ingredient % by weight Water 54 Microcrystalline
cellulose 36 Bleached tobacco material of Example 1 2 Sodium
chloride 3 Guar gum 3 Nicotine 0.2 Sodium alginate 0.8 Flavoring
agent 0.5 Sodium bicarbonate 0.5
[0185] The composition is prepared using the method as described
for Example 1, but with the following additional steps: [0186] 9.
The bleached tobacco material is mixed with the guar gum, salt,
sodium bicarbonate, and microcrystalline cellulose. [0187] 10. The
alginate composition is prepared by dissolving the alginate in
water. [0188] 11. The alginate composition is then mixed with the
bleached tobacco material and other dry ingredients via spray
nozzles under high pressure. The resulting mixture is stirred.
[0189] 12. Nicotine and flavorings are then added and mixed.
[0190] It is found that the smokeless tobacco composition could be
readily chewed by the user without crumbling or disintegrating in
the user's mouth. The product when chewed has a soft dough-like
texture, and is readily moldable/chewable. The product is also
found to have a desirable rate of release of the active substances
into the user's oral cavity when placed under mechanical pressure
by chewing.
[0191] The various embodiments described herein are presented only
to assist in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These
embodiments are provided as a representative sample of embodiments
only, and are not exhaustive and/or exclusive. It is to be
understood that advantages, embodiments, examples, functions,
features, structures, and/or other aspects described herein are not
to be considered limitations on the scope of the invention as
defined by the claims or limitations on equivalents to the claims,
and that other embodiments may be utilised and modifications may be
made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention.
Various embodiments of the invention may suitably comprise, consist
of, or consist essentially of, appropriate combinations of the
disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc,
other than those specifically described herein. In addition, this
disclosure may include other inventions not presently claimed, but
which may be claimed in future.
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