WO2025078626A1

WO2025078626A1 - Filler composition

Info

Publication number: WO2025078626A1
Application number: PCT/EP2024/078729
Authority: WO
Inventors: Robert William EMMETT
Original assignee: Philip Morris Products SA
Current assignee: Philip Morris Products SA
Priority date: 2023-10-13
Filing date: 2024-10-11
Publication date: 2025-04-17
Anticipated expiration: 2026-04-13

Abstract

A filler composition for a nicotine pouch. The filler composition comprises a first filler component and a second filler component. The first filler component comprises cellulose. The second filler component is selected from the group consisting of sesame, husked rice, manju, seaweed, ginger, matcha, sakura, yuzu, sudachi, wasabi, miso and soy.

Description

FILLER COMPOSITION

The present disclosure relates to a filler composition, for example a filler composition for a nicotine pouch. The invention also relates to a nicotine pouch comprising the filler composition and a package comprising one or more nicotine pouches.

Compositions comprising nicotine are included in various smoke-free products. A popular smoke-free product for oral delivery of nicotine is a pouch. A pouch is a container formed of a water-permeable material enclosing a cavity. The pouch is filled with a composition and then sealed. The composition can be dry, semi-moist or moist.

The known compositions for inclusion in nicotine pouches typically exhibit fast release of nicotine for a short period or a slow sustained release of nicotine with a low initial release. Fast release compositions are described in WO 2020/244721 A1. These compositions comprise free- base nicotine and have a water content of at least 15 weight percent. They achieve fast relief of nicotine craving but do not provide a sustained level of nicotine. This results in an unsatisfactory experience for the user.

There is thus a need for compositions which achieve improved nicotine release. Specifically, compositions which achieve fast onset of release followed by a sustained release. Such compositions will quickly satisfy the nicotine craving of the user and also provide a sustained level of nicotine delivery over time.

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a filler composition for a nicotine pouch, the filler composition including a first filler component and a second filler component. The first filler component may comprise a water-insoluble fiber, for example cellulose fiber. The second filler component may comprise one of sesame, rice (e.g. husked or brown rice), manju, seaweed, ginger, matcha, sakura, yuzu, sudachi, wasabi, miso and soy (e.g. soy sauce).

Advantageously, the filler composition of the present invention achieves fast high onset of nicotine release followed by sustained release. The filler composition of the present invention also provides superior user experience as it provides both nicotine satisfaction and is palatable.

According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a filler composition for a nicotine pouch, the filler composition including a first filler component including cellulose, and a second filler component, wherein the second filler component is selected from the group consisting of sesame, husked rice, manju, seaweed, ginger, matcha, sakura, yuzu, sudachi, wasabi, miso, rice fiber and soy (e.g. soy sauce).

The filler composition of the present invention achieves fast high onset of nicotine release followed by sustained release. The filler composition of the present invention also provides superior user experience as it provides both nicotine satisfaction and is palatable.

The first filler component and/or the second filler component may be provided as a powder, for example in a powder form. The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be between approximately 100:1 and approximately 1 :100.

The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be between approximately 50:1 and approximately 1 :50.

The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be between approximately 30:1 and approximately 1 :30.

The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be between approximately 20:1 and approximately 1 :20.

The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be between approximately 10:1 and approximately 1 :10.

The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be between approximately 5:1 and approximately 1 :5.

The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be between approximately 3:1 and approximately 1 :3.

The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be approximately 1 :1.

The filler composition may include between about 1 weight percent of the second filler component and about 99 weight percent of the second filler component.

The filler composition may include between about 3 weight percent of the second filler component and about 97 weight percent of the second filler component.

The filler composition may include between about 5 weight percent of the second filler component and about 95 weight percent of the second filler component.

The filler composition may include between about 10 weight percent of the second filler component and about 90 weight percent of the second filler component.

The filler composition may include between about 20 weight percent of the second filler component and about 80 weight percent of the second filler component.

The filler composition may include between about 30 weight percent of the second filler component and about 70 weight percent of the second filler component.

The filler composition may include between about 40 weight percent of the second filler component and about 60 weight percent of the second filler component. The filler composition may include approximately 50 weight percent of the second filler component.

The second filler component may include sesame or husked rice. The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be between approximately 3:1 and approximately 1 :3. The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be up to 3:1. The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be approximately 1 :1. The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be more thanl :3.

The filler composition may include between about 20 weight percent and about 80 weight percent of the second filler component. The filler composition may include at least 25 weight percent of the second filler component. The filler composition may include approximately 50 weight percent of the second filler component. The filler composition may include up to 75 weight percent of the second filler component. The filler composition may include, for example, between about 25 weight percent and about 75 weight percent of the second filler component.

The second filler component may include one of manju, ginger, matcha, yuzu, sudachi or wasabi.

The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be between about 50:1 and about 20:1. The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be up to 49:1. The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be approximately 32: 1 . The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be at least 24:1.

The filler composition may include between about 1 weight percent of the second filler component and about 10 weight percent of the second filler component. The filler composition may include at least 2 weight percent of the second filler component. The filler composition may include approximately 3 weight percent of the second filler component. The filler composition may include up to about 4 weight percent of the second filler component. The filler composition may include between approximately 2 weight percent and approximately 4 weight percent of the second filler component.

The second filler component may include seaweed or rice fiber.

The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be between about 25: 1 and about 5: 1 . The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be up to 19:1. The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be approximately 12:1. The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be at least 9:1.

The filler composition may include between about 3 weight percent of the second filler component and about 20 weight percent of the second filler component. The filler composition may include at least 5 weight percent of the second filler component. The filler composition may include approximately 7.5 weight percent of the second filler component. The filler composition may include up to about 10 weight percent of the second filler component. The filler composition may include between approximately 5 weight percent and approximately 10 weight percent of the second filler component.

The second filler component may include sakura.

The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be between approximately 25:1 and approximately 3:1 .The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be up to19:1. The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be approximately 9:1. The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be at least 6:1.

The filler composition may include between approximately 3 weight percent of the second filler component and approximately 20 weight percent of the second filler component. The filler composition may include at least 5 weight percent of the second filler component. The filler composition may include approximately 10 weight percent of the second filler component. The filler composition may include up to 15 weight percent of the second filler component. The filler composition may include between approximately 5 weight percent and approximately 15 weight percent of the second filler component.

The second filler component may include miso.

The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be between approximately 100:1 and approximately 20:1. The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be up to 99:1. The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be approximately 49: 1 . The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be at least 32:1.

The filler composition may include between approximately 0.5 weight percent of the second filler component and approximately 10 weight percent of the second filler component. The filler composition may include at least 1 weight percent of the second filler component. The filler composition may include approximately 2 weight percent of the second filler component. The filler composition may include up to 3 weight percent of the second filler component. The filler composition may include between approximately 1 weight percent and approximately 3 weight percent of the second filler component.

The second filler component may include soy, for example soy sauce.

The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be between approximately 15:1 and approximately 1 :1. The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be up to 9:1. The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be approximately 4:1. The ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component may be up to 2:1.

The filler composition may include between approximately 5 weight percent of the second filler component and approximately 40 weight percent of the second filler component. The filler composition may include at least 10 weight percent of the second filler component. The filler composition may include approximately 20 weight percent of the second filler component. The filler composition may include up to 30 weight percent of the second filler component. The filler composition may include between approximately 10 weight percent and approximately 30 weight percent of the second filler component.

The first filler component may include microcrystalline cellulose.

The filler composition may include powdered cellulose.

The cellulose may be derived from wood pulp.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a nicotine pouch. The nicotine pouch includes a pouch and a substrate. The substrate includes nicotine and the filler composition according to any of the preceding aspects of the invention.

The substrate may include between approximately 25 weight percent of the filler composition and approximately 75 weight percent of the filler composition. The substrate may include at least 40 weight percent of the filler composition. The substrate may include approximately 50 weight percent of the filler composition. The substrate may include up to 60 weight percent of the filler composition. The substrate may, for example, include between approximately 40 weight percent and approximately 60 weight percent of the filler composition.

The substrate may include between approximately 5 weight percent of the first filler component and approximately 75 weight percent of the first filler component. The substrate may include at least 10 weight percent of the first filler component. The substrate may include less than 60 weight percent of the first filler component.

The substrate may include between approximately 5 weight percent of the second filler component and approximately 75 weight percent of the second filler component. The substrate may include at least 10 weight percent of the second filler component. The substrate may include less than 60 weight percent of the second filler component.

The second filler component may be one or more of an excipient, a flavoring agent and /or a salt.

The substrate may be a dry substrate. The substrate may have a water content of not more than 12 weight percent. The substrate may have a water content of between 5 weight percent and 12 weight percent. The substrate may be a semi-moist substrate. The substrate may have a water content of not more than 20 weight percent. The substrate may have a water content of between 12 weight percent and 20 weight percent.

The substrate may be a moist substrate. The substrate may have a water content of not more than 50 weight percent. The substrate may have a water content of between 20 weight percent and 50 weight percent.

The nicotine pouch may also include where the substrate has a pH of at least 7.0. The nicotine pouch may also include where the substrate has a pH of less than 9.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a package. The package includes one or more nicotine pouches according to the preceding aspect of the invention.

The package may include two or more nicotine pouches according to the preceding aspect of the invention. At least some of the nicotine pouches may comprise different substrates. At least some of the nicotine pouches may, for example comprise substrates having different filler compositions.

Unless defined otherwise, any feature(s) within any aspect or embodiment of the invention may be combined with any feature(s) within any other aspect or embodiment of the invention, and such combination is understood as being encompassed in the original disclosure of the present application. This also applies to the possibility of combination of elements from lists of species within definitions of different broader terms with one another, said possibilities of individualized combination being expressly intended and within the direct and unambiguous disclosure of the present application. This also applies in particular, but not exclusively, to endpoints of ranges disclosed herein. For instance, if a given substance is disclosed as existing in a composition in a concentration range of X-Y% or A-B%, the present application is to be understood as explicitly disclosing not only the ranges X-Y% and A-B%, but also the ranges X-B%, A-Y% and, in as far as numerically possible, Y-A% and B-X%. Each of these ranges, and range combinations, are contemplated, and are to be understood as being directly and unambiguously disclosed in the present application.

As used herein, each of the terms “comprising’, “having” and “containing”, including grammatical variants thereof, are meant in a non-exhaustive sense to mean “including”, but not necessarily “composed of”, and does not exclude elements in addition to those explicitly recited as being present. As used herein, then, the terms “comprising”, “having” and “containing”, and grammatical variants thereof, indicate that components other than those explicitly recited may, but need not, be present. As such these terms include as a limiting case embodiments in which no other elements than those recited are present, e.g. in the commonly accepted sense of “consisting of”. As used herein, the phrase “consisting of”, and grammatically related variants thereof, means that no other elements are present than those recited. In standing with the above definition of “comprising” (and grammatically and semantically related terms), the term “consisting of” therefore denotes a limiting scenario within the meaning of “comprising”.

Unless stated otherwise, percentages indicating the extent to which a particular ingredient is comprised in a mixture or composition refer to weight/weight (w/w) percentages. Similarly, unless stated otherwise, ratios specified herein are weight ratios.

As used herein, the term “a combination thereof” denotes any combination thereof, in any proportion. That is, the term encompasses any combination of the listed features (e.g. a combination of any two listed features, any three listed features, etc.) in any relative amounts.

As used herein, the term “composition” denotes a composition which is suitable for use in products for oral delivery of nicotine (e.g. for use in a nicotine pouch).

As used herein, the term “for oral use” denotes that a product is adapted for use in a user’s mouth. During use, saliva in the mouth of the user causes one or more of the components of the product (e.g. a nicotine pouch) to pass into the mouth of the user.

As used herein, the term “nicotine” denotes free-base nicotine, a nicotine salt, a combination of free-base nicotine and one or more nicotine salts, or a combination of nicotine salts. Examples of nicotine salts are benzoate, hydrochloride, dihydrochloride, monotartrate, bitartrate, sulfate, salicylate, citrate, stearate, glutarate, aspartate, palmitate, and lactate. Further possible forms of nicotine are discussed below. A combination thereof in any proportion is also possible and disclosed in the context of the present invention.

As used herein “nicotine content” denotes the content of the nicotine calculated as free base nicotine in weight/weight (w/w) percentage, also referred to herein as “wt%”.

As used herein, the term “dry” in the context of the composition means a water content of not more than 12 wt%.

As used herein, the term “semi-moist” in the context of the composition means a water content of more than 12 wt% and not more than 20 wt%.

As used herein, the term “moist” in the context of the composition means a water content of more than 20 wt% and not more than 50 wt%.

As used herein, the term “water content” refers to gravimetric water content expressed by mass (weight) as follows u = mw/ms where mw is the mass of water and ms is the mass of the solids. The water content can be determined by the Karl Fischer method, specifically according to ISO 6488:2021 - Tobacco and tobacco products — Determination of water content — Karl Fischer method.

As used herein, the term “pouch” denotes a container formed of a water-permeable material enclosing a cavity. The pouch is adapted for oral use. The water-permeable material can be a fibrous material such a woven or non-woven fabric. The non-woven fabric can be made of polyester fibers, viscose, sisal, wool fibers or a combination thereof. The water-permeable material is not water-soluble. In a preferred embodiment, the fibrous material is a non-woven fabric made of a combination of polyester and viscose. Preferably, the weight ratio of polyester to viscose is about 1 :1 to 10:1 , more preferably about 2:1 to 5:1 , most preferably about 4:1. In another preferred embodiment, the water-permeable material is a non-woven fabric which is laminated with a layer of thermoplastic polymer (e.g. thermoplastic polyurethane).

As used herein, the term “water-permeable” means that water can pass bidirectionally through the material of the pouch, i.e. from the oral cavity into the interior of the pouch, as well as from inside the pouch (back) into the oral cavity.

The first filler component may comprise water-insoluble fiber. As used herein, the term “water-insoluble fiber” denotes a substance which is water-insoluble and is in fiber form. Nonlimiting examples thereof may be chosen from the group consisting of wheat fiber, pea fiber, rice fiber, maize fiber, oat fiber, tomato fiber, barley fiber, rye fiber, sugar beet fiber, buckwheat fiber, potato fiber, apple fiber, cocoa fiber, bran fiber, bamboo fiber, and a combination thereof. Fibers derived from plants are referred to herein as plant fibers.

As used herein, the term “husked rice” refers to rice from which the husk has been removed, which is also known as brown rice.

As used herein, the term “water-insoluble” refers to water solubility of less than 0.1 gram of water soluble composition or substance per 100 mL of water, measured at 25°C, atmospheric pressure and pH of 7.

As used herein, the term “powder form” refers to a composition in the form of a powder, i.e. a particulate material having a relatively small average particle size, for example, 1 - 1500 pm.

As used herein, the term “fiber form” refers to a composition in the form of fibers, i.e. particles which are significantly longer than they are wide. The term “fiber form” also encompasses all products referred to in the field as dietary fibers.

The composition of the present invention may comprise a sugar alcohol. A sugar alcohol may for example be selected from the group consisting of xylitol, maltitol, mannitol, erythritol, isomalt, sorbitol, lactitol, and a combination thereof. The sugar alcohol is preferably a powdered sugar alcohol. As used herein, the term “powdered sugar alcohol” denotes a product in a powder form,.

The composition of the present invention may comprise a flavoring agent. As used herein, the term “flavoring agent” is any flavorful or aromatic substance capable of altering the sensory characteristics of a compound or a composition. Examples of sensory characteristics that can be modified by the flavoring agent include taste (e.g. sweet, salty, sour, bitter, etc.), mouthfeel, moistness, coolness/heat, and/or fragrance/aroma. Flavoring agents may be natural or synthetic, and the character of the flavors imparted thereby may be described, without limitation, as fresh, sweet, salty, umami, herbal, confectionary, floral, fruity, or spicy. Specific types of flavors include, but are not limited to, vanilla, coffee, chocolate/cocoa, cream, mint, spearmint, menthol, peppermint, wasabi, azuki, ginseng, kelp, Wintergreen, eucalyptus, lavender, cardamom, nutmeg, cinnamon, clove, cascarilla, sandalwood, honey, jasmine, ginger, anise, sage, licorice, lemon, orange, apple, peach, lime, cherry, strawberry, and any combination thereof in any proportion. Flavoring agents also include components that are considered moistening, cooling or smoothening agents, such as eucalyptus. The flavoring agent can mask the flavor of other components in a composition (e.g. bitterness). For example, a sweetener can be used as a bitterness masking agent. The flavoring agent may comprise at least one volatile flavor component. As used herein, "volatile" refers to a chemical substance that forms a vapor readily at ambient temperatures (i.e., a chemical substance that has a high vapor pressure at a given temperature relative to a nonvolatile substance). Typically, a volatile flavor component has a molecular weight below about 400 Da, and often include at least one carbon-carbon double bond, carbon-oxygen double bond, or both. Examples of volatile flavor components include alcohols, aldehydes, aromatic hydrocarbons, ketones, esters, terpenes, terpenoids, trigeminal sensates, or a combination thereof. Non-limiting examples of aldehydes include vanillin, ethyl vanillin, p- anisaldehyde, hexanal, furfural, isovaleraldehyde, cuminaldehyde, benzaldehyde, and citronellal. Non-limiting examples of ketones include 1-hydroxy-2-propanone and 2-hydroxy-3-methyl-2- cyclopentenone1-one. Non-limiting examples of esters include allyl hexanoate, ethyl heptanoate, ethyl hexanoate, isoamyl acetate, and 3-methylbutyl acetate. Non-limiting examples of terpenes include sabinene, limonene, gamma- terpinene, beta-famesene, nerolidol, thujone, myrcene, geraniol, nerol, citronellol, linalool, and eucalyptol. A combination thereof in any proportion is also possible and disclosed in the context of the present invention.

The invention is defined in the claims. However, below there is provided a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein. Example Ex1 . A filler composition for a nicotine pouch, the filler composition comprising: a first filler component comprising cellulose; and a second filler component, wherein the second filler component is selected from the group consisting of sesame, husked rice, rice fiber, manju, seaweed, ginger, matcha, sakura, yuzu, sudachi, wasabi, miso and soy. Example Ex2. The filler composition of Ex1 , wherein the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is between approximately 100:1 and approximately 1 :100.

Example Ex3. The filler composition of Ex1 or Ex2, wherein the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is between approximately 50:1 and approximately 1 :50.

Example Ex4. The filler composition of any one of Ex1 to Ex3, wherein the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is between approximately 30: 1 and approximately 1 :30.

Example Ex5. The filler composition of any one of Ex1 to Ex4, wherein the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is between approximately 20: 1 and approximately 1 :20.

Example Ex6. The filler composition of any one of Ex1 to Ex5, wherein the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is between approximately 10: 1 and approximately 1 :10.

Example Ex7. The filler composition of any one of Ex1 to Ex6, wherein the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is between approximately 5:1 and approximately 1 :5.

Example Ex8. The filler composition of any one of Ex1 to Ex7, wherein the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is between approximately 3:1 and approximately 1 :3.

Example Ex9. The filler composition of any one of Ex1 to Ex8, wherein the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is approximately 1 :1.

Example Ex10. The filler composition of any one of Ex1 to Ex9, wherein the filler composition comprises between about 1 weight percent of the second filler component and about 99 weight percent of the second filler component.

Example Ex11. The filler composition of Ex10, wherein the filler composition comprises between about 3 weight percent of the second filler component and about 97 weight percent of the second filler component.

Example Ex12. The filler composition of Ex10 or Ex11 , wherein the filler composition comprises between about 5 weight percent of the second filler component and about 95 weight percent of the second filler component.

Example Ex13. The filler composition of any one of Ex10 to Ex12, wherein the filler composition comprises between about 10 weight percent of the second filler component and about 90 weight percent of the second filler component. Example Ex14. The filler composition of any one of Ex10 to Ex13, wherein the filler composition comprises between about 20 weight percent of the second filler component and about 80 weight percent of the second filler component.

Example Ex15. The filler composition of any one of Ex10 to Ex14, wherein the filler composition comprises between about 30 weight percent of the second filler component and about 70 weight percent of the second filler component.

Example Ex16. The filler composition of any one of Ex10 to Ex15, wherein the filler composition comprises between about 40 weight percent of the second filler component and about 60 weight percent of the second filler component.

Example Ex 17. The filler composition of any one of Ex10 to Ex16, wherein the filler composition comprises approximately 50 weight percent of the second filler component.

Example Ex18. The filler composition of any one of Ex1 to Ex17, wherein the second filler component comprises sesame or husked rice.

Example Ex19. The filler composition of Ex18, wherein the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is between approximately 3:1 and approximately 1 :3.

Example Ex20. The filler composition of Ex18 or Ex19, wherein the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is between approximately 2:1 and approximately 1 :2.

Example Ex21. The filler composition of any one of Ex18 to Ex20, wherein the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is approximately 1 :1.

Example Ex22. The filler composition of any one of Ex18 to Ex21, wherein the filler composition comprises between about 20 weight percent and about 80 weight percent of the second filler component.

Example Ex23. The filler composition of any one of Ex1 to Ex17, wherein the second filler component comprises one of manju, ginger, matcha, yuzu, sudachi or wasabi.

Example Ex24. The filler composition of Ex23, wherein the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is between about 50:1 and about 20:1.

Example Ex25. The filler composition of Ex23 or Ex24, wherein the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is between about 40:1 and about 30:1.

Example Ex26. The filler composition of any one of Ex23 to Ex25, wherein the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is between about 35:1 and about 25:1. Example Ex27. The filler composition of Ex23, wherein the filler composition comprises between approximately 1 weight percent of the second filler component and approximately 10 weight percent of the second filler component.

Example Ex28. The filler composition of any one of Ex1 to Ex17, wherein the second filler component comprises seaweed or rice fiber.

Example Ex29. The filler composition of Ex28, wherein the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is between about 25: 1 and about 5: 1 .

Example Ex30. The filler composition of Ex28 or Ex29, wherein the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is between about 20: 1 and about 9: 1 .

Example Ex31. The filler composition of Ex28, wherein the filler composition comprises between approximately 3 weight percent of the second filler component and approximately 20 weight percent of the second filler component.

Example Ex32. The filler composition of any one of Ex1 to Ex17, wherein the second filler component comprises sakura.

Example Ex33. The filler composition of Ex32, wherein the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is between approximately 25:1 and approximately 3:1.

Example Ex34. The filler composition of Ex32 or Ex33, wherein the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is between approximately 20:1 and approximately 5:1.

Example Ex35. The filler composition of Ex32, wherein the filler composition comprises between approximately 3 weight percent of the second filler component and approximately 20 weight percent of the second filler component.

Example Ex36. The filler composition of any one of Ex1 to Ex17, wherein the second filler component comprises miso.

Example Ex37. The filler composition of Ex36, wherein the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is between approximately 100:1 and approximately 20:1 .

Example Ex38. The filler composition of Ex36 or Ex37, wherein the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is between approximately 100:1 and approximately 30:1 . Example Ex39. The filler composition of Ex36, wherein the filler composition comprises between approximately 0.5 weight percent of the second filler component and approximately 10 weight percent of the second filler component.

Example Ex40. The filler composition of any one of Ex1 to Ex17, wherein the second filler component comprises soy.

Example Ex41. The filler composition of Ex40, wherein the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is between approximately 15:1 and approximately 1 :1.

Example Ex42. The filler composition of Ex40 or Ex41 , wherein the ratio of he first filler component to the second filler component is between approximately 10: 1 and approximately 2:1.

Example Ex43. The filler composition of Ex40, wherein the filler composition comprises between approximately 5 weight percent of the second filler component and approximately 40 weight percent of the second filler component.

Example Ex44. The filler composition of any one of Ex1 to Ex43, wherein the first filler component comprises microcrystalline cellulose.

Example Ex45. The filler composition of any one of Ex1 to Ex44, wherein the first filler component comprises powdered cellulose.

Example Ex46. The filler composition of any one of Ex1 to Ex45, wherein the cellulose is derived from wood pulp.

Example Ex47. A nicotine pouch comprising a pouch and a substrate, wherein the substrate comprises nicotine and the filler composition of any one of Ex1 to Ex46.

Example Ex48. The nicotine pouch of Ex47, wherein the substrate comprises between approximately 25 weight percent of the filler composition and approximately 75 weight percent of the filler composition.

Example Ex49. The nicotine pouch of Ex47 or Ex48, wherein the substrate comprises between approximately 40 weight percent of the filler composition and approximately 60 weight percent of the filler composition.

Example Ex50. The nicotine pouch of any one of Ex47 to Ex49, wherein the substrate comprises between approximately 5 weight percent of the first filler component and approximately 75 weight percent of the first filler component. Example Ex51. The nicotine pouch of any one of Ex47 to Ex50, wherein the substrate comprises between approximately 10 weight percent of the first filler component and approximately 60 weight percent of the first filler component.

Example Ex52. The nicotine pouch of any one of Ex47 to Ex51, wherein the substrate comprises between approximately 5 weight percent of the second filler component and approximately 75 weight percent of the second filler component.

Example Ex53. The nicotine pouch of any one of Ex47 to Ex52, wherein the substrate comprises between approximately 10 weight percent of the second filler component and approximately 60 weight percent of the second filler component.

Example Ex54. The nicotine pouch of any one of Ex47 to Ex53, wherein the substrate has a water content of not more than 12 weight percent.

Example Ex55. The nicotine pouch of any one of Ex47 to Ex54, wherein the substrate has a water content of between 5 weight percent and 12 weight percent.

Example Ex56. The nicotine pouch of any one of Ex47 to Ex53, wherein the substrate has a water content of not more than 20 weight percent.

Example Ex57. The nicotine pouch of any one of Ex47 to Ex53, wherein the substrate has a water content of between 12 weight percent and 20 weight percent.

Example Ex58. The nicotine pouch of any one of Ex47 to Ex53, wherein the substrate has a water content of not more than 50 weight percent.

Example Ex59. The nicotine pouch of any one of Ex47 to Ex53, wherein the substrate has a water content of between 20 weight percent and 50 weight percent.

Example Ex60. The nicotine pouch of any one of Ex47 to Ex59, wherein the substrate has a pH of at least 7.0.

Example Ex61. The nicotine pouch of any one of Ex47 to Ex60, wherein the substrate has a pH of less than 9.

Example Ex62. A package comprising one or more nicotine pouches according to any one of

Ex47 to Ex61.

Example Ex63. The package of Ex62, wherein the package comprises two or more nicotine pouches according to any one of Ex47 to Ex61. Example Ex64. The package of Ex62 or Ex63, wherein the package comprises two or more nicotine pouches, wherein at least some of the nicotine pouches comprise different filler compositions.

Examples of the invention will now be described.

Example 1

In a first example of the invention, the first filler component is a cellulose powder, for example Vivapur L 700G cellulose powder and the second filler component is husked rice powder.

The substrate includes 13.9 weight percent of the cellulose powder and 41.6 weight percent of the husked rice powder. In other words, the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is approximately 1 :3. The remainder of the substrate includes sodium carbonate, sodium chloride, sodium alginate, potassium sorbate and sucralose powder. The substrate is mixed with a stabilised solution of nicotine, along with vegetable glycerine and water.

Example 2

In another example of the invention, the first filler component is a cellulose powder, for example Vivapur L 700G cellulose powder and the second filler component is husked rice powder.

The substrate includes 27.7 weight percent of the cellulose powder and 27.7 weight percent of the husked rice powder. In other words, the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is approximately 1 :1. The remainder of the substrate includes sodium carbonate, sodium chloride, sodium alginate, potassium sorbate and sucralose powder. The substrate is mixed with a stabilised solution of nicotine, along with vegetable glycerine and water.

Example 3

In a further example of the invention, the first filler component is a cellulose powder, for example Vivapur L 700G cellulose powder and the second filler component is husked rice powder.

The substrate includes 41.6 weight percent of the cellulose powder and 13.8 weight percent of the husked rice powder. In other words, the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is approximately 3:1. The remainder of the substrate includes sodium carbonate, sodium chloride, sodium alginate, potassium sorbate and sucralose powder. The substrate is mixed with a stabilised solution of nicotine, along with vegetable glycerine and water.

Example 4

In this example of the invention, the first filler component is a cellulose powder, for example Vivapur L 700G cellulose powder and the second filler component is sesame powder.

The substrate includes 13.9 weight percent of the cellulose powder and 41.6 weight percent of the sesame powder. In other words, the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is approximately 1 :3.The remainder of the substrate includes sodium carbonate, sodium chloride, sodium alginate, potassium sorbate and sucralose powder. The substrate is mixed with a stabilised solution of nicotine, along with vegetable glycerine and water. Example 5

The substrate includes 27.7 weight percent of the cellulose powder and 27.7 weight percent of the sesame powder. In other words, the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is approximately 1 :1 .The remainder of the substrate includes sodium carbonate, sodium chloride, sodium alginate, potassium sorbate and sucralose powder. The substrate is mixed with a stabilised solution of nicotine, along with vegetable glycerine and water.

Example 6

The substrate includes 41.6 weight percent of the cellulose powder and 13.9 weight percent of the sesame powder. In other words, the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is approximately 3:1 .The remainder of the substrate includes sodium carbonate, sodium chloride, sodium alginate, potassium sorbate and sucralose powder. The substrate is mixed with a stabilised solution of nicotine, along with vegetable glycerine and water.

Example 7

In this example of the invention, the first filler component is a cellulose powder, for example Vivapur L 700G cellulose powder and the second filler component is powdered seaweed.

The substrate includes 50.7 weight percent of the cellulose powder and 5 weight percent of the powdered seaweed. In other words, the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is approximately 10:1. The remainder of the substrate includes sodium carbonate, sodium chloride, sodium alginate, potassium sorbate and sucralose powder. The substrate is mixed with a stabilised solution of nicotine, along with vegetable glycerine and water.

Example 8

The substrate includes 48.3 weight percent of the cellulose powder and 7.5 weight percent of the powdered seaweed. In other words, the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is approximately 6:1. The remainder of the substrate includes sodium carbonate, sodium chloride, sodium alginate, potassium sorbate and sucralose powder. The substrate is mixed with a stabilised solution of nicotine, along with vegetable glycerine and water.

Example 9

In this example of the invention, the first filler component is a cellulose powder, for example Vivapur L 700G cellulose powder and the second filler component is powdered seaweed. The substrate includes 45.9 weight percent of the cellulose powder and 10 weight percent of the powdered seaweed. In other words, the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is approximately 4.5:1. The remainder of the substrate includes sodium carbonate, sodium chloride, sodium alginate, potassium sorbate and sucralose powder. The substrate is mixed with a stabilised solution of nicotine, along with vegetable glycerine and water.

Example 10

In this example of the invention, the first filler component is a cellulose powder, for example Vivapur L 700G cellulose powder and the second filler component is powdered ginger.

The substrate includes 51.5 weight percent of the cellulose powder and 4 weight percent of the powdered ginger. In other words, the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is approximately 13:1. The remainder of the substrate includes sodium carbonate, sodium chloride, sodium alginate, potassium sorbate and sucralose powder. The substrate is mixed with a stabilised solution of nicotine, along with vegetable glycerine and water.

Example 11

The substrate includes 52.5 weight percent of the cellulose powder and 3 weight percent of the powdered ginger. In other words, the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is approximately 17.5:1. The remainder of the substrate includes sodium carbonate, sodium chloride, sodium alginate, potassium sorbate and sucralose powder. The substrate is mixed with a stabilised solution of nicotine, along with vegetable glycerine and water.

Example 12

The substrate includes 53.5 weight percent of the cellulose powder and 2 weight percent of the powdered ginger. In other words, the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is approximately 27:1. The remainder of the substrate includes sodium carbonate, sodium chloride, sodium alginate, potassium sorbate and sucralose powder. The substrate is mixed with a stabilised solution of nicotine, along with vegetable glycerine and water.

Example 13

In this example of the invention, the first filler component is a cellulose powder, for example Vivapur L 700G cellulose powder and the second filler component is soy sauce powder.

The substrate includes 29.4 weight percent of the cellulose powder and 30 weight percent of the soy sauce powder. In other words, the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is approximately 1 :1. The remainder of the substrate includes sodium carbonate, sodium chloride, sodium alginate, potassium sorbate and sucralose powder. The substrate is mixed with a stabilised solution of nicotine, along with glycerol and water.

Example 14

The substrate includes 39.4 weight percent of the cellulose powder and 20 weight percent of the soy sauce powder. In other words, the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is approximately 2:1. The remainder of the substrate includes sodium carbonate, sodium chloride, sodium alginate, potassium sorbate and sucralose powder. The substrate is mixed with a stabilised solution of nicotine, along with glycerol and water.

Example 15

The substrate includes 49.4 weight percent of the cellulose powder and 10 weight percent of the soy sauce powder. In other words, the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is approximately 5:1. The remainder of the substrate includes sodium carbonate, sodium chloride, sodium alginate, potassium sorbate and sucralose powder. The substrate is mixed with a stabilised solution of nicotine, along with vegetable glycerine and water.

In each of Examples 1 to 15, the first filler component is powdered cellulose. It will be appreciated that, in other examples of the invention, the first filler component may be microcrystalline cellulose.

In examples of the invention, the filler composition may be prepared in a dry format, for example the powdered composition may be homogenously mixed in dry form using a fluidised bed. In some examples, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) may be dissolved in ethanol and subject to flash drying using a HPMC flash dryer, for example the Haeomaidryer flash dryer. The HPMC acts like a glue, binding the components together.

Manufacture and testing of nicotine pouches

Substrates from each of Examples 1 to 15 were filled into pouches by a known procedure, and then qualitatively tested for both taste and nicotine satisfaction. In each case, the nicotine satisfaction was found to be at least as good as, if not better than, conventional nicotine pouches.

The pouches made using substrates from Examples 1 , 2, 3, 10, 11 and 12 were preferred from a taste and aroma perspective.

For the purpose of the present description and of the appended claims, except where otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, quantities, percentages, and so forth, are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about". Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically enumerated herein. In this context, therefore, a number A is understood as A ± 1 % of A. Within this context, a number A may be considered to include numerical values that are within general standard error for the measurement of the property that the number A modifies. The number A, in some instances as used in the appended claims, may deviate by the percentages enumerated above provided that the amount by which A deviates does not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the claimed invention. Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically enumerated herein.

Claims

1 . A filler composition for a nicotine pouch, the filler composition comprising: a first filler component comprising cellulose; and a second filler component, wherein the second filler component is selected from the group consisting of sesame, husked rice, rice fiber, manju, seaweed, ginger, matcha, sakura, yuzu, sudachi, wasabi, miso and soy.

2. The filler composition of claim 1 , wherein the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is between approximately 100:1 and approximately 1 :00.

3. The filler composition of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the ratio of the first filler component to the second filler component is approximately 1 :1.

4. The filler composition of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the filler composition comprises between about 1 weight percent of the second filler component and about 99 weight percent of the second filler component.

5. The filler composition of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the filler composition comprises between about 40 weight percent of the second filler component and about 60 weight percent of the second filler component.

6. The filler composition of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first filler component comprises microcrystalline cellulose, for example wherein the first filler component comprises powdered cellulose.

7. A nicotine pouch comprising a pouch and a substrate, wherein the substrate comprises nicotine and the filler composition of any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The nicotine pouch of claim 7, wherein the substrate comprises between approximately 25 weight percent of the filler composition and approximately 75 weight percent of the filler composition.

9. The nicotine pouch of claim 7 or claim 8, wherein the substrate comprises between approximately 40 weight percent of the filler composition and approximately 60 weight percent of the filler composition.

10. The nicotine pouch of any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the substrate comprises between approximately 5 weight percent of the first filler component and approximately 75 weight percent of the first filler component.

11. The nicotine pouch of any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the substrate comprises between approximately 5 weight percent of the second filler component and approximately 75 weight percent of the second filler component.

12. The nicotine pouch of any one of claims 7 to 11 , wherein the substrate has a water content of between 5 weight percent and 12 weight percent, or wherein the substrate has a water content of between 12 weight percent and 20 weight percent, or wherein the substrate has a water content of between 20 weight percent and 50 weight percent.

13. The nicotine pouch of any one of claims 7 to 12, wherein the substrate has a pH of at least 7.0 and/or wherein the substrate has a pH of less than 9.

14. A package comprising one or more nicotine pouches according to any one of claims 7 to 12.

15. The package of claim 14, wherein the package comprises two or more nicotine pouches according to any one of claims 7 to 12, for example wherein the package comprises two or more nicotine pouches, wherein at least some of the nicotine pouches comprise different filler compositions.