Flexible packages for connection to a dispensing system and clamping devices for releasably connecting such packages to the inlet tube of a dispensing system and methods of dispensing flowable materials from flexible packages

In combination a flexible package and an inlet tube, said inlet tube forming a portion of a dispensing system, said flexible package being arranged for holding a flowable material therein to enable the flowable material to be introduced into the dispensing system via said inlet tube, said flexible package comprising a body portion formed of at least one sheet of a flexible packaging material and a projection, said body portion including a hollow interior in which the flowable material is arranged to be located, said projection forming a mouth for the package and being in communication with said interior of said package, said projection being openable to form a passageway for receipt of said inlet tube therein, said projection being arranged to be clamped into engagement with said inlet tube to form a fluid-tight interface therebetween, said fluid-tight interface being releasable.