Capsule clusters for oral consumption

#Provided is an oral product for providing an engaging and flavorful oral experience to a user.

#In one embodiment, the oral product includes a plurality of functional and/or flavor capsules and a binder that are mixed to form a matrix. In a preferred embodiment, the matrix is molded into a shape chosen from the group consisting of a pouch-shape, crescent, half-moon, rhombus, trapezoid, ellipsis, rectangle, heart, square, oval, sphere, and the like.

#Preferably, the flavors and juices from the matrix are able to exit the pouch via pores in the pouch material. Preferably, each component of the matrix provides a different flavor, function, and/or texture. In other embodiments, each component of the matrix provides the same flavor, function and/or texture.

#FIG. 1 is an illustration of a capsule cluster including a plurality of capsules, a binder, optionally a powdered component, and optionally a viscous substance.

#FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an oral product, including a binder, enclosed in a porous pouch.

#FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an oral product, excluding a binder, enclosed in a porous pouch.

#As described herein, an oral product, in the form of a capsule cluster, provides an engaging, flavorful, aromatic, energizing, and/or soothing experience by delivering ingredients to a user in a consumable unit. In a preferred embodiment, the ingredients form a matrix that is molded into an oral product. In another embodiment, the matrix is enclosed in a porous pouch designed to be inserted in the mouth. In yet another embodiment, a plurality of capsules are contained in a pouch product. In another embodiment, the matrix is coated by a super-hydrated membrane coating. Preferably, each ingredient of the capsules, pouch, and/or coating provides a different texture or flavor to enhance the oral enjoyment of the product.

#As best seen in FIG. 1, an oral product 10 is provided. Preferably, the oral product 10 includes a matrix 50. In a preferred embodiment, the matrix 50 is formed by combining a plurality of functional and/or flavor capsules 12 and a binder 13.

#In a preferred embodiment, the binder 13 is a food grade adhesive, gum or other binder. Suitable binders include, without limitation, sodium alginate, sugar, agar, guar gum, flour, water, maltodextrin and the like. In a preferred embodiment, the binder 13 is added in an effective amount such as about 10% to about 60% by weight of the oral product. If too much binder 13 is used the product is too viscous and will not adequately hold together. If too little binder 13 is used the oral product will be dry and may not hold together.