DISPERSIBLE TABLETS FOR INSTANT SOUP AND RELATED METHODS

Abstract

ABSTRACT The dispersible soup tablet composition includes a plant-based binder, plant-based ingredients with medicinal properties, a plant-based flavoring agent, and a plant-based seasoning ingredient. The composition is designed to dissolve in warm water, producing a soup or gravy with a smooth consistency. The method for preparing the composition involves combining, processing, and compressing the ingredients to form the tablet. Reference Fig 1

Specification

Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The invention relates to the preparation of dispersible tablets for instant soup, focusing on improved dissolution and consumer convenience.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The food industry has seen a growing demand for convenient and easy-to-prepare meal options, driven by the fast-paced lifestyle of modern consumers. Instant soups have become a popular choice due to their quick preparation time and ease of use, providing a warm and nutritious meal with minimal effort. However, traditional instant soup formulations, often in granular or powder form, can present challenges in achieving a smooth and consistent texture when dissolved in water. This can lead to a less satisfying consumer experience, as the soup may not fully dissolve or may form clumps, affecting both the taste and appearance.

[0003] In response to these challenges, there is a continuous need for innovation in the formulation and delivery of instant soups. The development of new methods to improve the dissolution and consistency of instant soups can significantly enhance consumer satisfaction. By addressing these issues, manufacturers can offer products that not only meet the convenience needs of consumers but also deliver a superior culinary experience. The exploration of alternative forms, such as tablets, presents an opportunity to overcome the limitations of traditional granular soups, providing a more uniform and enjoyable product.
SUMMARY
[0004] In accordance with embodiments, a dispersible soup tablet composition is provided, comprising a plant-based binder in an amount ranging from 150 mg to 250 mg, at least one plant-based ingredient with medicinal properties in an amount ranging from 50 mg to 300 mg, a plant-based flavoring agent in an amount ranging from 300 mg to 500 mg, and a plant-based seasoning ingredient in an amount ranging from 50 mg to 150 mg. This composition is designed to offer a convenient and nutritious option for soup preparation.

[0005] In accordance with other embodiments, the dispersible soup tablet composition includes flax seeds as the plant-based binder. Flax seeds are known for their binding properties and nutritional benefits, making them an ideal choice for this application.
[0006] In yet other embodiments, the dispersible soup tablet composition features at least one plant-based ingredient with medicinal properties selected from the group consisting of black pepper, curry leaves, and combinations thereof. These ingredients are chosen for their potential health benefits, including their medicinal properties.

[0007] In accordance with further embodiments, the medicinal properties of the plant-based ingredients in the dispersible soup tablet composition include antihypertensive properties. This makes the composition particularly beneficial for individuals seeking to manage their blood pressure through dietary means.

[0008] In other embodiments, the dispersible soup tablet composition incorporates spinach powder as the plant-based flavoring agent. Spinach powder is selected for its rich flavor and nutritional content, enhancing the overall taste and health benefits of the soup.

[0009] In accordance with additional embodiments, the dispersible soup tablet composition includes celery leaves as the plant-based seasoning ingredient. Celery leaves contribute a distinct flavor and additional nutritional value to the soup.

[0010] In yet further embodiments, the dispersible soup tablet composition is characterized by a hardness in the range of 60-140 N. This hardness ensures the tablet maintains its form until it is ready to be dissolved in water.

[0011] In accordance with other embodiments, the dispersible soup tablet composition provides improved dissolution in warm water and produces a soup or gravy with a substantially even and flowy consistency compared to conventional instant soup products. This feature enhances the user experience by offering a superior texture and consistency.

[0012] In yet other embodiments, a method for preparing the dispersible soup tablet composition is provided. The method comprises combining the plant-based binder, the at least one plant-based ingredient with medicinal properties, the plant-based flavoring agent, and the plant-based seasoning ingredient to form a mixture of ingredients, processing the mixture to form a homogeneous mixture, and compressing the homogeneous mixture to form the dispersible soup tablet composition.

[0013] In accordance with further embodiments, the method of preparing the dispersible soup tablet composition includes processing the mixture of ingredients to form a homogeneous mixture by sieving the mixture through a sieve having a mesh size of about 230 µm, transferring the sieved mixture to a mixer, and stirring the sieved mixture in the mixer for a specified time. This process ensures uniformity and consistency in the final product.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] FIG. 1 illustrates, in a flowchart, operations for creating a dispersible soup tablet composition.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0015] The technology of preparing dispersible soup tablets involves a series of methodical steps to achieve a uniform and effective composition. The process begins with the combination of various plant-based components, including a seasoning ingredient, a binder, an ingredient with medicinal properties, and a flavoring agent. These components are weighed and introduced into a granulator, where they are stirred to initiate the formation of a homogeneous mixture. This mixture is then processed using a compression method, which is a cost-effective and convenient approach to tablet formation. The compression method facilitates the preparation of dispersible tablets by ensuring that the mixture is compacted into a solid form with a specified hardness range of 60 to 140 N. This hardness specification is necessary for the tablets to maintain their integrity while also allowing for improved dissolution in warm water. The dissolution process results in a soup or gravy with a more even and flowy consistency, enhancing the overall consumer experience. The use of a 230 µm sieve during the preparation further refines the mixture, ensuring that the ingredients are adequately mixed and free of larger particles. The plant-based binder, such as flax seeds, serves to bind the ingredients together, while the medicinal properties of ingredients like black pepper and curry leaves provide additional health benefits. The flavoring agent, potentially spinach powder, adds a desirable taste to the final product, and the seasoning ingredient, such as celery leaves, enhances the overall flavor profile. The entire process is designed to be travel-friendly, light, and compact, making the dispersible soup tablets a convenient option for consumers.

[0016] Flax seeds are used as a plant-based binder in the dispersible soup tablet composition, in an amount ranging from 150 mg to 250 mg. The flax seeds serve to bind the ingredients together, ensuring the structural integrity of the tablet. The plant-based binder provides a cohesive matrix for the other components. The use of flax seeds as a binder facilitates the compression process, allowing the ingredients to be effectively compacted into a tablet form. The binding action is necessary in maintaining the tablet's form during handling and storage. The plant-based binder is selected for its natural properties, contributing to the overall plant-based nature of the composition. The binder also plays a role in the dissolution process, potentially affecting the rate at which the tablet disperses in warm water. The selection of flax seeds as a binder is based on their ability to provide a balance between binding strength and dissolution characteristics. The binder is incorporated into the composition in a specified amount, ensuring consistency in the tablet's performance. The use of a plant-based binder aligns with the overall theme of using natural ingredients in the composition. The binder's role is integral to the tablet's functionality, influencing both its physical properties and its behavior during use.

[0017] The plant-based ingredient with medicinal properties is selected from curry leaves and black pepper, which are used for their medicinal properties, including antihypertensive properties, in an amount ranging from 50 mg to 300 mg. This selection provides medicinal benefits to the dispersible soup tablet composition. The plant-based ingredient with medicinal properties is combined with other components such as a plant-based binder, flavoring agent, and seasoning ingredient to form a mixture. This mixture is processed to achieve a homogeneous mixture, which is then compressed using a compression method to form the dispersible soup tablet. The compression method is employed to ensure the uniformity and integrity of the tablet. The dispersible soup tablet is designed to provide improved dissolution in warm water, resulting in a soup or gravy with a more even and flowy consistency. The dissolution process is enhanced by the specific combination and processing of the plant-based ingredients, which contribute to the overall consistency and quality of the final product.
[0018] The vegetable powder, specifically spinach, is utilized as a plant-based flavoring agent in an amount ranging from 300 mg to 500 mg. This agent is employed to add flavor to the dispersible soup tablet composition. The plant-based flavoring agent is incorporated into the mixture of ingredients, which includes other components such as a plant-based binder, plant-based seasoning ingredient, and plant-based ingredient with medicinal properties. The process involves combining these ingredients to form a homogeneous mixture. The homogeneous mixture is then compressed using a compression method to form the dispersible soup tablets. The compression method is selected for its potential to achieve uniformity and prepare the tablets effectively. The dispersible soup tablets are designed to provide improved dissolution in warm water, which results in a soup or gravy with a more even and flowy consistency. The flavoring agent, along with other ingredients, contributes to the overall taste and quality of the final product. The use of spinach powder as a flavoring agent is specified to enhance the flavor profile of the soup tablet.

[0019] Celery leaves are utilized as a plant-based seasoning ingredient in an amount ranging from 50 mg to 150 mg. The celery leaves are employed to season the product, contributing to the overall flavor profile of the soup tablet. The plant-based seasoning ingredient, in this case, celery leaves, is integrated into the composition to enhance the taste and aroma of the final product. The inclusion of celery leaves is considered a strategic choice to achieve a balanced and appealing flavor in the soup tablet. The process of incorporating celery leaves involves precise measurement and mixing to ensure uniform distribution throughout the tablet. This action is necessary in maintaining the consistency and quality of the seasoning effect in the dispersible soup tablet. The potential benefits of using celery leaves as a seasoning ingredient include the addition of a subtle, aromatic note that complements the other plant-based components in the composition.

[0020] The dispersible soup tablet is formed with a specific hardness range, which is achieved through the compression of the tablets. The tablets are compressed in a hardness range of 60 to 140 N, which ensures the structural integrity of the tablet while allowing for effective dissolution. The compression process involves the use of a homogeneous mixture, which is prepared by combining various plant-based ingredients. These ingredients include a plant-based binder, a plant-based ingredient with medicinal properties, a plant-based flavoring agent, and a plant-based seasoning ingredient. The homogeneous mixture is achieved by weighing the ingredients and stirring them in a granulator, followed by sieving through a 230 µm sieve and further mixing. The compression method is employed to form the dispersible tablets, which provide improved dissolution in warm water. This improved dissolution results in a soup or gravy with a more even and flowy consistency. The plant-based binder, such as flax seeds, is used to bind the ingredients, while the plant-based ingredient with medicinal properties, such as black pepper or curry leaves, provides antihypertensive benefits. The plant-based flavoring agent, like spinach powder, adds flavor, and the plant-based seasoning ingredient, such as celery leaves, seasons the product. The dispersible soup tablet is thus designed to offer a convenient and effective solution for preparing instant soup with enhanced consistency and medicinal benefits.

[0021] The interaction between the dispersible tablets and warm water is necessary for achieving the desired dissolution and consistency. The dispersible tablets are designed to provide improved dissolution when introduced to warm water, potentially resulting in a soup or gravy with a more even and flowy consistency. This interaction is facilitated by the specific composition of the dispersible soup tablet, which includes a plant-based binder, plant-based ingredients with medicinal properties, a plant-based flavoring agent, and a plant-based seasoning ingredient. The plant-based binder, such as flax seeds, serves to bind the ingredients together, while the plant-based ingredients with medicinal properties, like black pepper and curry leaves, contribute additional health benefits. The plant-based flavoring agent, such as spinach powder, enhances the flavor profile, and the plant-based seasoning ingredient, like celery leaves, provides seasoning to the final product. The process of forming the dispersible soup tablet involves combining these ingredients to form a homogeneous mixture, which is then compressed into tablets with a specific hardness range. This compression method ensures that the tablets maintain their integrity until they are introduced to warm water, at which point they dissolve effectively. The dissolution process is further refined by sieving the mixture through a 230 µm sieve and stirring it in a mixer, which helps to achieve a uniform distribution of ingredients. The overall system is designed to enhance the consumer experience by providing a convenient, cost-effective, and travel-friendly option for preparing instant soup or gravy.

[0022] FIG. 1 is a flowchart illustrating a method in step 100 for preparing a dispersible soup tablet composition, according to an embodiment. At step 100, the plant-based binder, the plant-based ingredient with medicinal properties, the plant-based flavoring agent, and the plant-based seasoning ingredient are combined to form a mixture of ingredients. The plant-based binder, which includes flax seeds, serves to bind the ingredients together. The plant-based ingredient with medicinal properties, potentially selected from black pepper or curry leaves, provides antihypertensive benefits. The plant-based flavoring agent, such as spinach powder, adds flavor to the composition, while the plant-based seasoning ingredient, like celery leaves, seasons the product. The combination of these ingredients is achieved by taking weighed amounts into a granulator and stirring them to ensure uniformity. This process leads to the formation of a homogeneous mixture, which is necessary for the subsequent steps in the preparation of the dispersible soup tablet. The method utilizes a compression method, which is a cost-effective and convenient approach for preparing the tablets. The resulting mixture is then processed further to achieve the desired consistency and properties of the final product.

[0023] In the context of step 102, the process of forming a homogeneous mixture is initiated by processing the mixture of ingredients. This step involves the use of a sieve with a mesh size of about 230 µm to refine the mixture, ensuring that the particle size is consistent and suitable for further processing. The sieved mixture is then transferred to a mixer, where it is stirred for a specified time to achieve uniformity. This stirring action facilitates the even distribution of all components, potentially leading to a more consistent final product. The homogeneous mixture thus formed is necessary for the subsequent compression step, as it ensures that the dispersible soup tablets possess the desired characteristics, such as improved dissolution in warm water and a flowy consistency in the resulting soup or gravy. The use of a sieve and mixer in this process highlights the importance of precise and controlled processing methods in achieving the desired quality and performance of the final product.

[0024] In step 104, the process of compressing the homogeneous mixture to form the dispersible soup tablet composition is undertaken. The homogeneous mixture, which has been prepared through prior steps, is subjected to compression to achieve the desired tablet form. This compression is executed within a specified hardness range of 60 to 140 N, which ensures the structural integrity and dispersibility of the tablet. The compression method is employed as it is considered a cost-effective and efficient approach for tablet formation. The resulting dispersible soup tablet provides improved dissolution in warm water, potentially leading to a soup or gravy with a more even and flowy consistency. The tablet's hardness specification is necessary in maintaining its form while allowing for rapid dissolution when introduced to warm water. This step is integral in ensuring that the final product meets the desired quality and performance standards, aligning with the claims of improved dissolution and consistency.

Examples
[0025] Composition of Dispersible Soup Tablet
The ingredients and their respective quantities (with ranges) used in the preparation of the dispersible soup tablets are shown in Table 1 below:
Table 1
Ingredient Purpose Quantity per tablet (mg)
Flax seeds Binder 150 mg - 250 mg
Black pepper Medicinal properties (antihypertensive) 50 mg - 300 mg
Spinach powder Flavoring agent 300 mg - 500 mg
Curry leaves Medicinal properties (antihypertensive) 50 mg - 300 mg
Celery leaves Seasoning 50 g - 150 mg

Preparation Method:
1. Weighing and Mixing: The specified quantities of flax seeds, black pepper, spinach powder, curry leaves, and celery leaves were weighed and placed in a granulator. The mixture was stirred at low speed for 10 minutes to ensure initial uniformity.
2. Sieving: The mixture was passed through a 230 µm sieve to remove any large particles and ensure a homogeneous consistency.
3. Final Mixing: The sieved mixture was transferred to a mixer, where it was stirred for an additional 5 minutes to create a fully homogeneous blend.
4. Compression: The homogeneous mixture was then compressed using a tablet press, with each tablet having a hardness range of 60-140 N to maintain structural integrity while ensuring easy dissolution in warm water.


[0026] Evaluation data for dispersible soup tablets:
[0027] Appearance: Tablets were evaluated for organoleptic properties such as color, texture, and overall visual appeal. No abnormalities like cracks, discoloration, or rough surfaces were observed, confirming acceptable appearance.
[0028] Thickness: The average thickness of the tablets was measured using a vernier caliper. For three tablets, the values recorded were 5.3 mm, 5.4 mm, and 5.2 mm, with an average thickness of 5.3 mm.
[0029] Weight Variation: Twenty tablets were selected, and their average weight was found to be 1.50 g. Individual tablet weights ranged from 1.48 g to 1.52 g, within an acceptable variation limit of ±5% of the average weight.
[0030] Hardness: Using the Monsanto hardness tester, the hardness of the tablets was evaluated. The values obtained ranged from 65 to 130 N, with an average hardness of 90 N, falling within the acceptable range.
[0031] Friability: Tablets were placed in a Roche Friabilator for 100 revolutions. The initial tablet weight was 10 g, and after the test, the tablets weighed 9.95 g, indicating a friability of 0.5%, which is well below the 1% maximum acceptable limit.
[0032] Fineness of Dispersion Test: Two tablets were placed in 100 mL of distilled water and stirred until dispersed. The dispersion passed through a 0.7 mm sieve without any residue, confirming that the tablets met the fineness of dispersion criteria.
[0033] Evaluation of Dispersibility: Ten grams of soup mix were stirred in 75 mL of 8°C cold water for 15 seconds at 120 rpm. The remaining lumps on a 1700 µm mesh weighed 0.8 g, indicating good dispersibility.
[0034] Test-Tube Method: A single tablet was placed in a test tube with 2 mL of distilled water. The tablet fully disintegrated within 3 minutes and 45 seconds, demonstrating satisfactory disintegration time.
[0035] Rotating Shaft Apparatus: Tablets were placed on a wire gauze, partially submerged in water, and pressed by a rotary shaft. Complete disintegration occurred within 2 minutes and 30 seconds, as registered by the apparatus.
, Claims:CLAIMS
We claim:
1. A dispersible soup tablet composition comprising:
a plant-based binder in an amount ranging from 150 mg to 250 mg;
at least one plant-based ingredient with medicinal properties in an amount ranging from 50 mg to 300 mg;
a plant-based flavoring agent in an amount ranging from 300 mg to 500 mg; and
a plant-based seasoning ingredient in an amount ranging from 50 mg to 150 mg.

2. The dispersible soup tablet composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plant-based binder is flax seeds.

3. The dispersible soup tablet composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one plant-based ingredient with medicinal properties is selected from the group consisting of black pepper, curry leaves, and combinations thereof.

4. The dispersible soup tablet composition as claimed in claim 3, wherein the medicinal properties include antihypertensive properties.

5. The dispersible soup tablet composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plant-based flavoring agent is spinach powder.

6. The dispersible soup tablet composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plant-based seasoning ingredient is celery leaves.

7. The dispersible soup tablet composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the dispersible soup tablet has a hardness in the range of 60-140 N.

8. The dispersible soup tablet composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the dispersible soup tablet provides improved dissolution in warm water and produces a soup or gravy with a substantially even and flowy consistency compared to conventional instant soup products.

9. A method for preparing the dispersible soup tablet composition as claimed in claim 1, the method comprising:
combining the plant-based binder, the at least one plant-based ingredient with medicinal properties, the plant-based flavoring agent, and the plant-based seasoning ingredient to form a mixture of ingredients;
processing the mixture of ingredients to form a homogeneous mixture; and
compressing the homogeneous mixture to form the dispersible soup tablet composition.

10. The method as claimed in claim 9, wherein processing the mixture of ingredients to form a homogeneous mixture comprises:
sieving the mixture of ingredients through a sieve having a mesh size of about 230 µm;
transferring the sieved mixture to a mixer; and
stirring the sieved mixture in the mixer for a specified time.

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