EDIBLE FOOD ADHESIVE FILMS

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. App. No. 63/390,205, filed on July 18, 2022, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF DISCLOSURE

[0002] The present disclosure is related to edible food adhesive films. These adhesive films are typically composite materials which resemble tape and can be used in the assembly, during consumption, and flavoring of food products. These films may contain a backbone, for example, made with a fibrous or polymeric material having an adhesive layer deposited thereon.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Many foods such as sandwiches, burritos, and gyros contain an external, edible, and typically starch based material surrounding various ingredients placed within the external material. These external materials afford the ability for a user to consume the foodstuff without the need for utensils or to avoid potential contact with the contents. However, if these items are constructed poorly, or even if they are constructed well, there is always a chance of the external material separating or tearing, allowing the ingredients within to fall out. Even a simple act of overfilling these eternal materials can result in tears material which causes the structural integrity of the foodstuff to erode making them significantly more difficult to eat.

[0004] Some consumers, cooks, and restaurants have attempted to solve this issue by wrapping these food products such as burritos or gyros with an inedible material such as aluminum foil, plastic wrap, or paper to contain the food item in its entirety. However, in order to consume the food, this wrapping must be tom away in sections or awkwardly unwrapped to reveal the food underneath. This process can also lead to an additional mess, accidental consumption of the outer wrapping, excess waste, and other issues. Moreover, wrapping the food item in its entirety, especially when the food is warm, traps the rising steam and condensation leading the wrap/tortilla itself to become soggy and unstable.

[0005] Additionally, without the use of such an outer wrapping, consumers of certain of these materials with an edible external barrier, such as burritos, gyros, and pitas, have a limited amount of filling space available for the internal foods. This may lead to customers being overcharged for the amount of food received and consumers experiencing hunger later in the day due to not eating enough at mealtime.

[0006] To address these issues, the market, including restaurants and consumers, has started offering items such as “burrito bowls” or “gyro bowls.” These are deconstructed versions of the original food stuffs and offer a less messy replacement. However, these options also lead to an increase in plastic waste due to the need for single-use bowls and utensils. Moreover (and some would say importantly), these bowls do not fulfill the experience of eating an actual burrito, taco, gyro, wrap, and other food items by hand.

[0007] It is therefore an object of this disclosure to provide a material that can be used with these foodstuffs to avoid these, and other problems often encountered with these products.

SUMMARY

[0008] In accordance with the foregoing objectives and others, the present disclosure provides edible film (e.g., tape) capable of binding to the external material. Binding the material may provide additional support to the material and provide various benefit such as avoidance of tears in the material, make eating the compiled foodstuff easier, increase the available filling space (e.g., allow more internal components be added with a reduced likelihood of tears or food blowouts (e.g, flood pushing through the edible barrier) or other breakdowns in structural integrity), and provide structural support to the material. In some embodiments, the edible film may be placed at specific points in the material (e.g, such as at the union of two portions of a tortilla). In some embodiments, the edible film may surround a portion of the food product.

[0009] The edible food adhesive film may be a composite material which may comprise (or consist essentially of or consist of an edible backbone (e.g, an edible, food-grade polymeric material) and an adhesive coating. Generally, the edible backbone layer is an edible material formed into planar structure that offers the film the ability to bend and form to the shape of the food product. The adhesive coating may be placed on (e.g, cover) one surface of the edible backbone. In some embodiments, the adhesive coating may be placed on (e.g, cover) two surfaces of the edible backbone. In some embodiments, the adhesive coating may cover at least 50% or at least 60% or at least 70% or at least 80% or at least 90% or at least 95% or at least 99% or 100% of the surface area of a surface of a surface of the edible backbone.

[0010] These materials may be used to keep food items in place or together during consumption. The backbone may comprise a material, such a polymer and/or fiber (e.g, dietary fiber) which provides structural support to the backbone layer. For example, polymers useful in the edible backbone can be high-strength and/or cross-linked. In some embodiments, the backbone layer comprises a dietary fiber (e.g. , a water-soluble dietary fiber such as psyllium or dextrin (e.g., wheat dextrin such as supplied from Benefiber), a gelatin (e.g., beef gelatin), an alginate (e.g. , sodium alginate). In some embodiments, the backbone layer may comprise a sweetener such as sugar and/or a gelling agent such as calcium lactate. In some embodiments the backbone layer includes a dietary fiber comprising more than 60% or more than 70% or more than 80% or more than or more than 90% or more than or more than 95% psyllium by volume of the dietary fiber. In some embodiments, the backbone layer comprises less than 30% or less than 20% or less than 10% or less than 5% or less than 1% or less than 0.5% or less than 0.1% by volume starch (e.g, potato starch, arrowroot). In some embodiments, the backbone layer does not comprise starch. In some embodiments, the backbone layer comprises less than 30% or less than 20% or less than 10% or less than 5% or less than 1% or less than 0.5% or less than 0.1% by volume gum (e.g., xanthan gum, guar gum) by volume of the backbone layer. In some embodiments, the backbone layer does not comprise gum. In some embodiments, the backbone layer comprises a mixture of dietary fibers (e.g., psyllium, wheat dextrin), wherein one of the dietary fibers (e.g., psyllium) is the predominant dietary fiber in the backbone layer (e.g., the backbone layer comprises two dietary fibers (e.g., psyllium and another dietary fiber such as wheat dextrin), wherein one of the dietary fibers (e.g., psyllium) is present at more than 50% or more than 60% or more than 70% or more than 80% or more than 90% or more than 95% or more than 99% by volume of the dietary fibers).

[0011] In some embodiments, the dietary fiber may include a mix of soluble and insoluble fibers. Surprisingly, it has been found that the backbone can include both the soluble fiber and insoluble fiber and maintain the appropriate characteristics to produce an adhesive composite film with characteristics consistent with the films of the present disclosure (e.g., viscosity, strength, bendability, transparency, adhesiveness). For example, the weight ratio of soluble fiber to insoluble fiber in the backbone layer may be from, for example, 10: 1 to 1 : 1 (e g., 7:1 to 2: 1 , 6: 1 to 4: 1). It was found that backbone layers comprising a weight ratio of soluble fiber to insoluble 6: 1 to 4:1 produced particularly suited adhesive composite films. In some embodiments, the dietary fiber comprises (including consists essentially of) psyllium (e.g., psyllium husk powder). In some embodiments, the dietary fiber comprises (including consists essentially of) psyllium having a weight ratio of soluble fiber to insoluble fiber in the backbone layer may be from, for example, 10: 1 to 1 : 1 (e.g., 7:1 to 2: 1, 6: 1 to 4:1). [0012] In certain aspects, the backbone layer comprises (or consists essentially of) a dietary fiber (e.g, psyllium), and optionally a sweetener (e.g, sugar), optionally an adhesive and/or binder (e.g., tylose powder, a methylcellulose such as carboxymethylcellulose), and a plasticizer e.g., xylitol, sorbitol, or combinations thereof). The backbone layer may comprise (or consist essentially of), for example, psyllium and optionally, sugar, optionally a plasticizer, and adhesive (e.g., tylose powder), and optionally one or more flavoring agents. In some embodiments, the volume ratio of the dietary fiber to sweetener is from 10: 1 to 1 : 10 (e.g, 2:1 to 1 :2).

[0013] In some embodiments, the edible backbone layer may comprise a plasticizer such as xylitol, sorbitol, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the backbone layer comprises a volume ratio (the volume ratio may be identified upon initial mixing with, for example, water, and prior to dehydration) of dietary fiber to plasticizer of from 10: 1 to 1: 10 (e.g., from 5: 1 to 1:5, from 4: 1 to 1 :4, from 3: 1 to 1 :4, from 3:2 to 2:5). In some embodiments, the backbone layer comprises a weight ratio of dietary fiber to plasticizer of from 20:1 to 1 :20 (e.g., from 15:1 to 1: 15, from 10: 1 to 1 :10, from 8: 1 to 1:8, from 5: 1 to 1 :5, from 7:2 to 1:2, from 5:2 to 2:3). In some embodiments, the backbone layer comprises a volume ratio (the volume ratio may be identified upon initial mixing with, for example, water, and prior to dehydration) of dietary fiber to plasticizer of from 10: 1 to 1:10 (e.g., from 5: 1 to 1 :5, from 3: 1 to 1 :3, from 2: 1 to 1:3, from 3:2 to 2:5). In particular embodiments, the backbone layer may comprise a volume ratio of psyllium to sorbitol of from 4: 1 to 1: 10 (e.g., from 3: 1 to 1 : 10, from 4: 1 to 1 :4, from 4: 1 to 1:3). In certain aspects, the backbone layer may comprise a volume ratio of psyllium to xylitol of from 2:1 to 1:3 (e.g., 3:2 to 2:5). In particular embodiments, the backbone layer may comprise a weight ratio of psyllium to sorbitol of from 10: 1 to 1: 10 (e.g., from 7:1 to 1:7 from 6: 1 to 1:6, from 5: 1 to 1:6, from 7: 1 to 1:3, from 7: 1 to 1:3). In certain aspects, the backbone layer may comprise a weight ratio of psyllium to xylitol of from 3: 1 to 1:4 (e.g., 5:2 to 2:5). These materials may offer additional advantages such as providing an opacity and/or translucency to the material. In some embodiments, the edible backbone can comprise 5% to 50% of a dietary polymer, 0% to 20% sugar, and 0% to 50% adhesive polymers, weight/weight. In some embodiments, the edible adhesive film that can be flavored (e.g., add one or more flavoring agents) to add certain tastes to the food item being consumed.

[0014] The adhesive layer may comprise (or consist of) an adhesive such as, for example, t lose (e.g., dextrin, carboxymethylcellulose, and sugar), dextrin, a hydroxy alkylcellulose, a cellulose derivative such as carboxymethylcellulose, a cellulose gum, glucomannan powder, soy lecithin, a sweetener such as sugar, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer comprises less than 50% starch by volume of the adhesive layer (e.g., less than 40% starch, less than 30% starch, less than 20% starch, less than 10% starch, less than 5% starch, less than 1% starch, less than 0.5% starch). In some embodiments, the adhesive layer comprises less than 50% starch by weight of the adhesive layer (e.g., less than 40% starch, less than 30% starch, less than 20% starch, less than 10% starch, less than 5% starch, less than 1% starch, less than 0.5% starch). The adhesive layer may be formed by mixing the adhesive in a suitable medium (e.g. , water, boiling water) under mixing and with optional application of heat to result in an adhesive composition for concomitant use with the backbone layer material. Exemplary tylose compositions for use in the present disclosure include Tylose Powder available from Confectionary Arts International. In some embodiments, the adhesive comprises a cellulosic material (e.g, a cellulose ether, hydroxyalkylcellulose, , carboxymethylcellulose, a cellulose gum such as carboxymethylcellulose which may have, for example, a molecular weight of less than 100 kDa (e.g., from 0.1 kDato 100 kDa, from 15 kDa to 90 kDa), and a dextrin (e.g. , a dextrin having a dextrose equivalent of, for example, less than 15% (e.g., from 1-15%, from 1-13%), and a sweetener (e.g., sugar). In some embodiments, the adhesive comprises from 1-50% carboxyalkylcellulose, from 1-50% sweetener, and from 1-50% dextrin.

[0015] In some embodiments, the backbone layer comprises less than 30% or less than 20% or less than 10% or less than 5% or less than 1% or less than 0.5% or less than 0.1% by volume starch (e.g, potato starch, arrowroot) by volume of the adhesive layer. In some embodiments, the backbone layer does not comprise starch.

[0016] The present disclosure also provides methods of making an edible backbone and adhesive coating. Generally, these methods involve the formation of the edible backbone into a shape appropriate for making adjoining or surrounding portions of a food product and application of the adhesive film to at least one surface into the shaped edible backbone. The edible backbone, for example, may be constructed by dissolving a dietary fiber (e.g, psyllium) and optionally a sweetener (e.g., sugar), optionally an adhesive (e.g, tylose powder), and optionally a plasticizer (e.g., xylitol, sorbitol, combinations thereof) in a medium (e.g., water). They may be combined in a volume ratio, of solids (e.g., dietary fiber, adhesive, plasticizer, sweetener) to water of from 1 :1 to 1: 10 (e.g, 1 :1 to 1:5, 1: 1 to 1 :2). The components may be mixed until a homogenous mixture is obtained (e.g. , for a time period of more than (or up to 2 hours) 5 minutes, more than 10 minutes, more than 15 minutes). Mixing may occur under the influence of heat (e.g., a low heat). In some embodiments, the components may be ground with, for example a chop grinder or a burr grinder, to reduce the particle size. For example, the powder may be ground with a Mueller Austria HyperGrind Precision Electric Spice/Coffee Grinder Mill prior to mixing with a dissolution medium (e.g., water). The powder, prior to mixing in the dissolution medium, may have a weight average particle size of less than (or from 0.1 pm to) 500 pm (e.g., less than 200 pm, less than 100 pm, less than 80 pm, less than 70 pm, less than 50 pm, from 1 pm to 200 pm, from 1 pm to 100 pm, from 1 pm to 80 pm, from 1 pm to 70 pm, from 1 pm to 50 pm, from 10 pm to 200 pm, from 10 pm to 100 pm, from 10 pm to 80 pm, from 10 pm to 70 pm, from 10 pm to 50 pm). In some embodiments, the powder, prior to mixing in the dissolution medium, has a number average particle size of less than (or from 0.1 pm to) 500 pm (e.g., less than 200 pm, less than 100 pm, less than 80 pm, less than 70 pm, less than 50 pm, from 1 pm to 200 pm, from 1 pm to 100 pm, from 1 pm to 80 pm, from 1 pm to 70 pm, from 1 pm to 50 pm, from 10 pm to 200 pm, from 10 pm to 100 pm, from 10 pm to 80 pm, from 10 pm to 70 pm, from 10 pm to 50 pm). Particle sizes may be measured, for example, by Dynamic Light Scattering.

[0017] Following mixing, the material may be dehydrated (e.g. , heated to remove water) for a time period sufficient for water removal (e.g., more than (or up to a week), 12 hours, more than 18 hours, more than 24 hours). In some embodiments, dehydration may occur by application of heating. In some embodiments, dehydration may occur via refrigeration. Dehydration may occur by spreading the mixed material onto a substrate, such as wax paper or plastic wrap to dry. In some embodiments, the adhesive (e.g., tylose) is additionally mixed into the material. Separately, the adhesive composition may be made by mixing an adhesive (e.g., tylose) in a medium (e.g., water, boiling water) with constant mixing until, for example, a homogenous mixture is formed. The adhesive composition may be mixed for, for example, for more than (or up to 2 hours) 5 minutes, 10 minutes, or fifteen minutes. In some embodiments, adhesive composition (e.g., tylose composition) is applied to the backbone following dehydration. In some embodiments, adhesive (e.g., tylose composition) is applied to the backbone prior to dehydration.

[0018] Methods of preparing foodstuffs are also provided. These methods may involve applying the edible film of the present disclosure to one portion of a first edible barrier material (e.g. , tortilla, pita, bread) and adhering that portion to another portion of a second edible barrier material. In some embodiments, the first edible barrier material and the second barrier material are the same edible barrier material (e.g., the same tortilla adjoined at different positions). These methods may include filling the edible barrier material with the internal components (e.g, meats, vegetables, cheeses, sauces, or combinations thereof) prior to adhering the two edible barrier materials. In some embodiments, the first application of the edible film occurs after placing the interna components in or on the edible barrier material.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0019] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an edible adhesive film illustrating an exemplary cross section across the height of the material. In this example, there are two distinct layers, the bottom containing the backbone and the top containing the adhesive.

[0020] FIG. 2 illustrates an aerial view of the embodiment packaged onto a release- layer with multiple pre-cut edible adhesive tapes on a single sheet.

[0021] FIG. 3 illustrates a three-layer version of the adhesive film, with the backbone in the middle and a layer of an adhesive on each side (for a total of two).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] Detailed embodiments of the present disclosure are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely illustrative of the disclosure that may be embodied in various forms. In addition, each of the examples given in connection with the various embodiments of the disclosure is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive.

[0023] All terms used herein are intended to have their ordinary meaning in the art unless otherwise provided. All concentrations are in terms of percentage by weight of the specified component relative to the entire weight of the topical composition, unless otherwise defined.

[0024] As used herein, “a” or “an” shall mean one or more. As used herein when used in conjunction with the word “comprising,” the words “a” or “an” mean one or more than one. As used herein “another” means at least a second or more.

[0025] As used herein, all ranges of numeric values include the endpoints and all possible values disclosed between the disclosed values. The exact values of all half-integral numeric values are also contemplated as specifically disclosed and as limits for all subsets of the disclosed range. For example, a range of from 0.1% to 3% specifically discloses a percentage of 0.1%, 1%, 1.5%, 2.0%, 2.5%, and 3%. Additionally, a range of 0.1 to 3% includes subsets of the original range including from 0.5% to 2.5%, from 1% to 3%, from 0.1% to 2.5%, etc. It will be understood that the sum of all weight % of individual components will not exceed 100%. Each numerical value, whether or not modified by the word “about,” may embrace uncertainties and equivalences associated with measurement of the particular parameter identified. Each numerical value may be exactly that value if indicated or be within, for example, 10% or 5% or 1% as indicated herein.

[0026] By “consist essentially” it is meant that the ingredients include only the listed components along with the normal impurities present in commercial materials and with any other additives present at levels which do not affect the operation of the embodiments disclosed herein, for instance at levels less than 5% by weight or less than 1% or even 0.5% by weight.

[0027] Provided herein is an edible adhesive film for food. Items of food such as tortillas, wraps, gyros, breads, edible papers, doughs can be wrapped through using the adhesive edible tape described herein to adjoin two portions of food. In some embodiments, the two portions are on the same food, such as a tortilla, wrap, or gy ro, and can connect two portions of the food in order to contain other internal components of a food product (e.g, burrito, taco, gyro, shawarma, roti roll, spring rolls, gyoza, dumplings, calzone, sushi).

[0028] Typically, the adhesive film is a composite material formed from a layer of edible adhesive disposed over a backbone layer. In some embodiments, the adhesive film is a composite material comprising three layers, two separate adhesive layers separated by the backbone.

[0029] Backbone Laver

[0030] Provided is a strength-containing backbone layer. The edible strength-containing elements (polymers, polysaccharides, edible polymers, edible natural and synthetic papers) provides a surface onto which the adhesive may be applied or is integrated within the element. The strength-containing elements can be formed into individual strips that are placed onto packaging materials (such as wax paper, parchment paper, food-grade plastics, films, aluminum foil, plastic wrap).

[0031] In one embodiment, the backbone layer (e.g., fibrous backbone) is less than (or from (0.005 mm to) to 0.5 mm thick in the dehydrated form. It may be pre-formed into strips of lengths ranging from 10 to 20 mm and widths ranging from 20 to 100 mm in the dehydrated form. The backbone layer can contain a range of water content of, for example, 50-80% by weight in the rehydrated form. In some embodiments, the backbone layer can comprise 1-50% weight/weight of polymer and/or fibrous materials (e.g, psyllium) in its rehydrated form.

[0032] The strength-containing element (backbone) can be formed through a mixture of separate solutions that form the backbone having a sufficient strength to support the adhesive, but a flexibility sufficient to not break when in use. Various combinations of materials may be used in formation of the backbone layer. For example, the backbone layer may comprise psyllium, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (Na-CMC, or just CMC), gum tragacanth, xanthan gum, karaya gum, beta glucan, wheat dextrin, an alginate (e.g., sodium alginate) and calcium polycarbonphil. Additional examples include crosslinking sodium alginate with a magnesium- or calcium-containing salt such as calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, calcium lactate or magnesium gluconate. Additional examples of polymers include acacia, guar gum, arrowroot powder, potato starch, gelatin, agar, pullulan, chitosan, pectin, methylcellulose, inulin. Examples of solvents include water. Sugar can be an optional additive.

[0033] The strength-containing element can be heated with a solvent (e.g., water) to initiate crosslinking, polymerization, or gel-formation.

[0034] Examples of strength-containing compounds include psyllium, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (Na-CMC, or just CMC), gum tragacanth, xanthan gum, karaya gum, beta glucan, wheat dextrin, and calcium polycarbonphil. Additional examples include crosslinking sodium alginate with a magnesium- or calcium-containing salt such as calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, calcium lactate or magnesium gluconate. Additional examples of polymers include acacia, guar gum, arrowroot powder, potato starch, gelatin, agar, pullulan, chitosan, pectin, methylcellulose, inulin. Examples of solvents include water. Sugar can be an optional additive.

[0035] The layers including the backbone layer may comprise a sweetener such as a sugar, stevia, or aspartame. Sugars can include cane sugar, beet sugar, coconut sugar, honey, agave, maple syrup, and molasses. Non-sugar substitutes can also be used, particularly if they have good crosslinking property.

[0036] Typically, the dietary fiber includes may be either a polysaccharides or lignin. The fibers or dietary fibers described in the present disclosure may not be digested by the endogenous secretion of the human digestive tract. A dietary fiber or fiber may be soluble fiber, which dissolves in water or an insoluble fiber, which do not dissolve in water. Insoluble fiber can be metabolically inert and can provide bulking and/or strengthening properties to food and/or prebiotic benefits. Non-limiting examples of sources of soluble fiber can include psyllium, beta glucan, oat bran, oat groat, pectin, carrageenan, guar gum, locust bean gum, gum acacia, xanthan gum, and combinations thereof. [0037] The dietary fiber may be fiber derived from plants, including fruits, vegetables, legumes, grains, and nuts, among others. In certain embodiments, the fiber may be derived from one or more of the following plants: acai, aloe, apple, apricot, banana, blackberry, blueberry, boysenberry, cantaloupe, cherry, coffee, tea, coconut, com, cranberry, date, elderberry, fig, gooseberry, grape, grapefruit, citrus, guava, honeydew, kiwi, konjac, kumquat, lemon, lime, mango, nectarine, orange, papaya, passion fruit, peach, pear, persimmon, pineapple, plantain, plum, pomegranate, prune, pumpkin, raspberry, star fruit, strawberry, tangerine, tomato, watermelon, avocado, cabbage, carrot, celery, cucumber, elderflower, kale, leek, potato, spinach, zucchini, oats, barley, rye, chia, soy, psyllium seed husks, almonds, pistachios, peanuts, macadamia nuts, walnuts, pecans, and sunflower seeds. The person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that other types of fruit, vegetables, plants, legumes, grains, and nuts may be alternatively or additionally used. The fiber may be from a combination of various fruits, vegetables, plants, legumes, grains, and nuts; the person ordinary skill will appreciate that different blends of fruit and vegetables can provide different flavors and consistencies to any layer described herein (e.g., the backbone layer).

[0038] An exemplary fiber for use in the backbone material is psyllium which may be ground psyllium or ispaghula husk. Psyllium may be obtained (e.g, extracted) from the seeds of Plantago ovata or Plantago psyllium. In one example, the psyllium husk is from Plantago ovata. In particular embodiments, the psyllium (or the soluble fiber present in the backbone layer) may be Now Foods Psyllium Husk powder soluble fiber.

[0039] The backbone may comprise (or comprise predominantly) water-soluble polymers such as guar gum, glucommannan, psyllium, gum acacia, polyethylene glycol, polyvinylpyrrolidone, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, and other cellulose ethers such as methylcellulose, and sodium carboxymethylcellulose. These include, but are not limited to, gelatin, natural sugars such as raw sugar or lactose, lecithin, mucilage, plant gums, pectins or pectin derivatives, algal polysaccharides, glucomannan, agar and lignin, guar gum, locust bean gum, acacia gum, xanthan gum, carrageenan gum, karaya gum, tragacanth gum, ghati gum, starches (e.g, com starch or amylose), dextran, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyvinyl acetate, gum arabic, alginic acid, tylose, talcum, lycopodium, silica gel (e.g., colloidal), cellulose and cellulose derivatives (e.g., cellulose ethers, cellulose ethers in which the cellulose hydroxy groups are partially etherified with lower saturated aliphatic alcohols and/or lower saturated, aliphatic oxyalcohols; e.g., methyloxypropyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose phthalate, cross-linked sodium carboxymethylcellulose, cross-linked hydroxypropylcellulose, high-molecular weight hydroxymethylpropylcellulose, carboxymethyl-cellulose, low-molecular weight hydroxypropylmethylcellulose medium-viscosity hydroxypropylmethylcellulose hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, alkylcelluloses, ethyl cellulose, cellulose acetate, cellulose propionate (low, medium or high molecular weight), cellulose acetatepropionate, cellulose acetate butyrate, cellulose triacetate, methyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, orhydroxypropylmethyl cellulose), fatty' acids as well as magnesium, calcium or aluminum salts of fatty acids with 12 to 22 carbon atoms, in particular saturated fatty acids (e.g, stearates such as magnesium stearate), polycarboxylic acids, emulsifiers, oils and fats, in particular vegetable e.g., peanut oil, castor oil, olive oil, sesame oil, cottonseed oil, com oil, wheat germ oil, sunflower seed oil, cod liver oil, in each case also optionally hydrated); glycerol esters and polyglycerol esters of saturated fatty' acids (e.g., Ci2H24O2to CisHseCh) and their mixtures, it being possible for the glycerol hydroxy groups to be totally or also only partly esterified (e.g., mono-, di- and triglycerides); high melting point hydrogenated vegetable oils suitable for microencapsulation; pharmaceutically acceptable mono- or multivalent alcohols and polyglycols such as polyethylene glycol and derivatives thereof, esters of aliphatic saturated or unsaturated fatty acids (e.g, 2 to 22 carbon atoms, e.g., 10-18 carbon atoms) with monovalent aliphatic alcohols (e.g., 1 to 20 carbon atoms) or multivalent alcohols such as glycols, glycerol, diethylene glycol, pentacrythritol, sorbitol, mannitol and the like, which may optionally also be etherified, esters of citric acid with primary alcohols, acetic acid, urea, benzyl benzoate, dioxolanes, glyceroformals, tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol, polyglycol ethers with C1-C12 alcohols, dimethylacetamide, lactamides, lactates, ethylcarbonates, silicones (e.g., medium-viscous polydimethyl siloxanes), calcium carbonate, sodium carbonate, calcium phosphate, sodium phosphate, magnesium carbonate and the like.

[0040] Typically, the backbone layer also comprises one or more plasticizers. As shown herein the plasticizer and polymer/fibrous combinations significantly alter the properties of the backbone layer to result in viable backbone products suitable within the context of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the plasticizer may comprise a sugar alcohol plasticizer. The sugar alcohol plasticizer can be isomalt, maltitol, sorbitol, xylitol, erythritol, adonitol, dulcitol, pentaerythritol, or mannitol, for example. In a particular aspect, the sugar alcohol plasticizer can be sorbitol or a sorbitol-containing plasticizer such as isomalt. The polyol plasticizer can be isomalt, maltitol, sorbitol, xylitol, erythritol, adonitol, dulcitol, pentaerythritol, or mannitol, glycerin, diglycerin, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethyleneglycol, tetraethylene glycol, a polyethylene glycol up to 400 MW, neopentyl glycol, propylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, 2-methyl-l,3-propanediol, trimethylolpropane, or a polyether polyol, for example. The plasticizer, when present, may be selected from polyethylene glycol, glycerol, sorbitol, xylitol, and a combination thereof. Typically, the backbone layer comprises a plasticizer which is selected from gly cerol, sorbitol, xylitol, and a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the film comprises a plasticizer which is selected from glycerol, sorbitol, xylitol, and a combination thereof.

[0041] In particular embodiments, the plasticizer is selected from xylitol, sorbitol, and a combination thereof. In some embodiments, a single plasticizer (e.g., sorbitol, xylitol) is the only or predominant plasticizer in the film. The backbone may comprise from 0% to 40% by weight of each plasticizer present, preferably from 1% to 35% by weight of each plasticizer, more preferably from 2% to 30% by weight of each plasticizer, and most preferably from 3% to 25% by weight of each plasticizer. Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, it is believed that the addition of plasticizers, e.g. a combination of sorbitol, xylitol, sorbitol and xylitol, increases the flexibility and pliability of the films, reducing brittleness. It is believed this makes the films easier to handle and use. Only certain plasticizers, such as xylitol or sorbitol, may be used with the polymeric and/or fibrous material (e.g., psyllium) to result in a viable backbone layer of the present disclosure.

[0042] In some embodiments, the backbone layer further comprises one or more seasoning agents (which may, for example, lessen the sweetness provided by the plasticizer). For example, the backbone layer may comprise salt, vinegar (e.g., apple cider vinegar such as distilled and/or filtered and/or pasteurized apple cider vinegar, white vinegar such as distilled and/or filtered and/or pasteurized white vinegar), mirin, soy sauce, ammo acids (such as glycine, alanine, sodium glutamate, or combinations thereof), nucleic acid based seasonings such as sodium inosinate, sodium guanylate, or combinations thereof), organic acid based seasonings such as sodium succinate, fruit juices, proteins, and spices. It has been found that the backbone layers, including those with the plasticizer, can tolerate an amount of seasoning (which may also help reduce the sweetness of the composite adhesive films). For example, in some embodiments, the weight ratio of plasticizer to seasoning agent may be from 1 : 1 to 25: 1 (e.g., 2: 1 to 20: 1, 3:1 to 20: 1, 3: 1 to 15:1, 3: 1 to 12: 1, 5: 1 to 20: 1, 5:1 to 18:1). In some embodiments, the plasticizer is xylitol and the seasoning agent is salt and/or vinegar. In some embodiments, the plasticizer is xylitol and the seasoning agent is salt and/or vinegar and the weight ratio of plasticizer to seasoning agent is from 1: 1 to 25: 1 (e.g., 2: 1 to 20: 1, 3: 1 to 20: 1, 3: 1 to 15: 1, 3: 1 to 12: 1, 5: 1 to 20: 1, 5: 1 to 18: 1). In some embodiments, the plasticizer is xylitol and the seasoning agent is salt and/or vinegar. In some embodiments, the plasticizer is sorbitol and the seasoning agent is salt and/or vinegar and the weight ratio of plasticizer to seasoning agent is from 1:1 to 25:1 (e.g., 2: 1 to 20: 1, 3: 1 to 20: 1, 3: 1 to 15: 1, 3: 1 to 12: 1, 5:1 to 20: 1, 5: 1 to 18: 1).

[0043] An exemplary backbone layer includes: a) more than 20% (e.g., 20%-99%, 30%-99%, 40%-99%, 50%-99%, 60%-99%, 20%- 95%, 30%-95%, 40%-95%, 50%-95%, 60%-95%, 20%-90%, 30%-90%, 40%-90%, 50%-90%, 60%-90%, 20%-80%, 30%-80%, 40%-80%, 50%-80%, 60%-80%) polymer or dietary fiber (e g., a blend of soluble and insoluble fibers, psyllium, a blend of psyllium soluble fiber and insoluble fiber) by weight of the backbone layer; b) optionally less than (or from 0.1% to) 50% (e.g., l%-50%, 5%-50%, 10%-50%, 20%-50%, 30%-50%, l%-40%, 5%-40%, 10%-40%, 20%-40%, 30%-40%, l%-30%, 5%-30%, 10%-30%, 20%-30%, l%-20%, 5%-20%, 10%-20%) plasticizer (e.g., sorbitol, xylitol, or a combination thereof) by weight of the backbone layer; and c) optionally less than (or from 0.1% to) 20% (e.g., l%-20%, 5%-20%, 10%-20%, 1%- 15%, 5%-15%, 10%-15%, 15%-20%, l%-10%, 5%-10%, l%-5%) adhesive and/or binder (e.g., tylose powder, carboxymethylcellulose, dextrin, sweetener) by weight of the backbone layer; d) optionally less than (or from 0.1% to) 20% (e.g., l%-20%, 5%-20%, 10%-20%, 1%- 15%, 5%-15%, 10%-15%, 15%-20%, l%-10%, 5%-10%, l%-5%) seasoning agent (e.g., salt, vinegar, distilled white vinegar) by weight of the backbone layer; and e) optionally less than (or from 0.1% to) 20% (e.g., l%-20%, 5%-20%, 10%-20%, 1%- 15%, 5%-15%, 10%-15%, 15%-20%, l%-10%, 5%-10%, l%-5%) sweetener (e.g., sugar) by weight of the backbone layer.

[0044] Adhesive layer

[0045] In one embodiment, the edible tape can be activated for use through the addition of water to rehydrate the strength-containing element and/or adhesive. Alternatively, it can be activated through heat from an oven, microwave, pan, or residual from the edible element. It can also be pre-activated form that is ready -to-use upon removal from packaging. [0046] The adhesive coating/layer can be an edible element with sticky properties that allow the adhering of one or two elements. This can be in the format of emulsifiers, sugars, and gums.

[0047] The adhesive element can be placed on the surface of the strength- containing elements in a dehydrated or hydrated format. The adhesive element can also be placed within the strength-containing element, creating a sticky strength-containing element during manufacturing. The adhesive can also be placed onto one side of the material or on both sides, creating a double-sided tape. The double-sided embodiment can be placed between two dough elements to minimize visual appearance by the consumer.

[0048] In one embodiment, the adhesive coating/layer is an organic, edible, water-soluble adhesive coating. In the dehydrated form, it ranges in thickness 0.01 to 0. 1 mm. It is placed on one side of the fibrous backbone in a dehydrated state. The adhesive is able to be re-activated into its original state through hydration, providing a sticky surface for adhesion.

[0049] The adhesive layer may include one or more components as described for other layers as well (e.g, sweeteners, fibers, plasticizers). For example, the adhesive layer may comprise a sweetener (e.g., sugar), a dextrin (e.g., a dextrin having a dextrose equivalent of less than 15%), and a cellulose derivatives (e.g., cellulose ethers, cellulose ethers in which the cellulose hydroxy groups are partially etherified with lower saturated aliphatic alcohols and/or lower saturated, aliphatic oxyalcohols; e.g., methyloxypropyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose phthalate, cross-linked sodium carboxymethylcellulose, cross-linked hydroxypropylcellulose, high-molecular weight hydroxymethylpropylcellulose, carboxymethyl-cellulose, low-molecular weight hydroxypropylmethylcellulose medium-viscosity hydroxypropylmethylcellulose hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, alkylcelluloses, ethyl cellulose, cellulose acetate, cellulose propionate (low, medium or high molecular weight), cellulose acetatepropionate, cellulose acetate butyrate, cellulose triacetate, methyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, orhydroxypropylmethyl cellulose). In particular embodiments, the adhesive comprises carboxymethylcellulose. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer comprises tylose. Exemplary tylose compositions for use in the present disclosure include Tylose Powder available from Confectionary Arts International. In some embodiments, the adhesive comprises a cellulosic material (e.g., a cellulose ether, hydroxy alkylcellulose, a cellulose derivative, a cellulose gum such as carboxymethylcellulose which may have, for example, a molecular weight of less than 100 kDa (e.g., from 0.1 kDato 100 kDa, from 15 kDato 90 kDa), and a dextrin (e.g., a dextrin having a dextrose equivalent of, for example, less than 15% (e.g., from 1-15%, from 1-13%), and a sweetener (e.g, sugar). In some embodiments, the adhesive comprises from 1-50% (e.g, 5%-50%, 10%-50%, 20%-50%, 30%-50%, l%-40%, 5%-40%, 10%-40%, 20%-40%, 30%-40%, l%-30%, 5%-30%, 10%-30%, 20%-30%, l%-20%, 5%- 20%, 10%-20%) cellulose derivative (e.g., carboxymethylcellulose), from 1-50% (e.g., 5%- 50%, 10%-50%, 20%-50%, 30%-50%, l%-40%, 5%-40%, 10%-40%, 20%-40%, 30%-40%, l%-30%, 5%-30%, 10%-30%, 20%-30%, l%-20%, 5%-20%, 10%-20%) sweetener, and from 1-50% dextrin (e g, 5%-50%, 10%-50%, 20%-50%, 30%-50%, l%-40%, 5%-40%, 10%-40%, 20%-40%, 30%-40%, l%-30%, 5%-30%, 10%-30%, 20%-30%, l%-20%, 5%-20%, 10%- 20%) by weight of the adhesive layer.

[0050] Additional Components

[0051] The adhesive layer and/or backbone layer may independently further comprise an additional component such as an opacifying agent, coloring agent, or flavoring agent. For example, the composite material (e.g, the adhesive layer, the backbone layer) may comprise artificial and natural food coloring, spices, essences, extracts, flavorings, and combinations thereof. The flavoring agent, for example, when present, may for example be selected from acacia, anise oil, caraway oil, cardamom, cherry syrup, cinnamon, citric acid syrup, clove oil, cocoa, coriander oil, ethyl vanillin, fennel oil, ginger, glycerin, glycyrrhiza, honey, lavender oil, lemon oil, mannitol, nutmeg oil, orange oil, orange flower water, peppermint oil, raspberry, rose oil, rosewater, rosemary oil, sarsaparilla syrup, spearmint oil, thyme oil, tolu balsam syrup, vanilla, wild cherry syrup, and mixtures thereof. The film may comprise from 0.001% to 10% by weight of each additional agent present, preferably from 0.01% to 5% by weight of each additional agent, and most preferably from 0.1% to 3% by weight of each additional agent.

[0052] Forming the Adhesive Composite Film

[0053] The present disclosure also provides methods of making an edible backbone and adhesive coating. Generally, these methods involve the formation of the edible backbone into a shape appropriate for making adjoining or surrounding portions of a food product and application of the adhesive film to at least one surface into the shaped edible backbone. The edible backbone, for example, may be constructed by dissolving a dietary fiber (e.g., psyllium) and optionally a sweetener (e.g, sugar), optionally an adhesive (e.g, tylose powder), and optionally a plasticizer (e.g., xylitol, sorbitol, combinations thereof) in a medium (e.g, water). The components may be mixed until a homogenous mixture is obtained. Mixing may occur under the influence of heat (e.g, a low heat). Following mixing, the material may be dehydrated for a time period sufficient for water removal. Separately, the adhesive composition may be made by mixing an adhesive (e.g. , tylose) in a medium (e.g. , water, boiling water) with constant mixing until, for example, a homogenous mixture is formed.

[0054] The adhesive composition is then generally applied to one side of the backbone composition. In some embodiments, adhesive (e.g, tylose composition) is applied to the backbone prior to dehydration. In some embodiments, the composite film is dehydrated such that the adhesiveness is lost. In these embodiments, a user may add water to the film to increase the adhesive properties and create a hydrated adhesive film suitable for adjoining food products.

[0055] Generally, both the backbone layer and the adhesive layer are planar having the adhesive layer disposed on one or both planar surfaces of the backbone. The height ratio of the backbone layer to each adhesive layer may be, for example, from 2: 1 to 1:2 (e.g. , from 2:1 to 1: 1, from 1 : 1 to 1 :2). In some embodiments, the backbone layer has a height of less than (or from 0.1 mm to) 1 mm (e.g., less than 0.5 mm, less than 0.25 mm, less than 0.15 mm). In some embodiments, the adhesive layer has a height of less than (or from 0. 1 mm to) 1 mm (e.g., less than 0.5 mm, less than 0.25 mm, less than 0.15 mm). In some embodiments, the composite film has a height of less than (or from 0.1 mm to) 1 mm (e.g., less than 0.5 mm, less than 0.35 mm, less than 0.3 mm, less than 0.25 mm).

[0056] The adhesive composite film may comprise (including consist essentially of): a) more than 50% backbone layer (e.g., more than 60%, more than 70%, more than 80%, more than 90%, more than 95%, 50%-99%, 60%-99%, 70%-99%, 80%-99%, 90%-99%, 50%-95%, 60%-95%, 70%-95%, 80%-95%, 90%-95%, 50%-90%, 60%- 90%, 70%-90%, 80%-90%, 50%-80%, 60%-80%, 70%-80%) by weight of the adhesive composite film; and b) less than 50% adhesive layer (e.g., l%-50%, 5%-50%, 10%-50%, 20%-50%, 30%- 50%, l%-40%, 5%-40%, 10%-40%, 20%-40%, 30%-40%, l%-30%, 5%-30%, 10%- 30%, 20%-30%, l%-20%, 5%-20%, 10%-20%) by weight of the adhesive composite film.

[0057] The adhesive film can be a dry and flexible material. It can contain sticky and/or wet elements (e.g. , adhesive or the backbone) that can be packaged with materials that separate one layer of the adhesive film from another (such as Release layer, wax paper, parchment paper, food-grade plastics, films, aluminum foil, plastic wrap), to prevent user exposure to said wet and sticky elements.

[0058] The adhesive film is generally created to be foldable and able to stick to a food barrier material such as a starch-based food barrier material (e.g., tortilla, gyro, pita). In some embodiments, the adhesive film can have clear color and no taste In another embodiment, the adhesive film can contain a color and/or taste through the addition of coloring and flavoring elements (such as artificial and natural food coloring, spices, essences, extracts, flavorings). The texture (and for the most part visibility) of the adhesive film may not be noticeable and can be concealed within the consumption of the edible items.

[0059] In one embodiment, the adhesive film is a product with clear color, no taste, dry, and flexible with the purpose of adhering to food elements. The adhesive film can have a fibrous backbone with organic, water-soluble, edible adhesive coating on one side of the backbone.

[0060] The composite film may be packaged with the adhesive side oriented onto a separation substrate wax paper for easy removal. The product may require water activation prior to use. Dehydration during the manufacturing process may minimize consumer mess while handling and reduce stickiness of the material. In some embodiments, there is an adhesive layer on both sides of the composite film, and each adhesive film is oriented onto a separation substrate such as wax paper.

[0061] A large sheet of the backbone can be cut or broken into differently sized smaller fragments or wdth pre-defined perforations or indentations that can be separated by the user. The backbone can also be in a roll that the user can unwind to reveal the adhesive element. In some embodiments, the adhesive film is produced in sheets having length and/or width dimensions of from 1” to 15.” These sheets may be cut into smaller strips (e.g., strips having a width of, for example less than 1.5” (e.g., 0.1”-1.5”. 0.1”-0.5”). The strips may have a length of, for example less than (or from 0.1” to) 15” (e.g., 0.5”-l”, l”-2”, 2”-3”, 3”-4”, 4”-5”, 6”-7”, 7”-8”, 8”-9”, 9”-10”, I0”-l 1”, 11”-12”, 12”-13”, 13”-14”, 14”-15”). The adhesive film may be a large sheet as well. These large sheets may be used to surround larger portions of a product. For example, a large sheet may be used to wrap a sandwich, burrito, or gyro.

[0062] Referring now to FIG. 1, a perspective view of adhesive composite film 1 is provided showing the backbone layer 2 and adhesive layer 3. As can be seen, the backbone layer 2 is planar having adhesive layer 3 disposed across one of the surfaces. The height of the composite film across the cross section is illustrated in the figure. [0063] Referring now to FIG. 2, a packaged kit 10 of the present disclosure is provided. The kit comprises a plurality of adhesive composite films 13 disposed on a transfer substrate (e.g, wax paper, parchment paper) 12. In the embodiment depicted, the kit comprises 9 individual transfer surfaces. In some embodiments, each substrate may comprise from, for example 2-20 individual adhesive composite films. In some embodiments, the kit comprises a plurality of substrate materials, each substrate material having a plurality of adhesive films deposited thereon. In some embodiments, the adhesive films may have two adhesive surfaces, and, for example, a second transfer substrate disposed over each adhesive surface.

[0064] Referring now to FIG. 3, a cross section of a double sided adhesive composite material 20 is shown. Adhesive composite film comprises planar backbone section 22. One surface of planar backbone section 22 is covered by adhesive surface 21 and the opposite surface of planar backbone section 22 is covered by adhesive surface 23. In some embodiments, adhesive surface 21 and adhesive surface 23 are formed from the same adhesive composition (e.g. , tylose based adhesive formulations). Adhesive composite film 20 has three layers. The backbone can be in the middle, with a first layer of the adhesive placed on the bottom and a second layer on the top of the backbone.

[0065] The following brands of compounds can be used (e.g., food grade versions) in the adhesive composite films of the present disclosure:

Psyllium: Himalaya Organic Psyllium Whole Husk for Daily Fiber, Weight Management, Cholesterol and Blood Sugar Support, 12 oz, 56 Tablespoon Supply

Tylose: Confectionery Arts International Professional Strength Tylose Powder, 2 Ounce

Acacia: Anthony’s Organic Acacia Senegal Powder

Guar Gum: Herbaria 100% Pure & Natural Guar Gum Powder

Xanthan Gum: MD.Life Xanthan Gum FFC Amylase Free Gluten Free

Arrowroot Powder: Its’s Just

Potato Starch: Kate Naturals Organic Potato Starch

Gelatin: Beef

[0066] The adhesive composite film can comprise 1% to 50% of a polymer or fiber (such as those listed above), 0% (or 0.1% to) to 20% sugar, and 0% (or 0.1% to) to 50% adhesive materials, weight/weight. In some embodiments, the adhesive composite fdm comprises 1- 10% polymer, 1-5% sugar, and 1-10% adhesive material, w/w (e.g., in hydrated form).

[0067] The formed strength-containing element can be spread thinly and dehydrated to remove substantial amounts of solvent from the product.

[0068] The adhesive can be formulated through a rigorous mixing process or gentle shaking over an extended period of time with the powdered adhesive and the appropriate solvent.

[0069] In certain formations, the adhesive is integrated into the strength-containing element formation process. Alternatively, it can be spread thinly onto one or two sides of the strengthcontaining element. In one aspect, it may be dehydrated onto the backbone or placed in packaging in the hydrated state.

[0070] A process included within the present disclosure involves the heating of the fibrous backbone material and water to allow for gel formation. The hydrated fibrous backbone is spread thinly for dehydration at low heat (e.g., 150-250 ° Fahrenheit), for approximately 60 to 120 minutes. The adhesive may be formulated through vigorous mixing of the powder and water. The adhesive may be spread thinly onto the dehydrated backbone and placed onto packaging. This formulation may be dehydrated once again. Dehydrated formulations often have lost adhesive properties. To regain adhesive properties, water may be added to the formulation (e.g, prior to contact with an external barrier food material).

EXAMPLES

[0071] The following examples illustrate specific aspects of the instant description. The examples should not be constmed as limiting, as the example merely provides specific understanding and practice of the embodiments and its various aspects.

[0072] Example 1 : Psyllium Backbone Recipe

[0073] Table 1 provides an exemplary backbone polymer formulation. The components were mixed in order to form a material for subsequent dehydration. The adhesive formulation of Table 3 was integrated into the formulation.

Table 1

[0074] Example 2: Sodium Alginate Backbone Recipe

[0075] Table 2 provides an exemplary backbone polymer formulation. The components were mixed in order to form a material for subsequent dehydration. The adhesive formulation of Table 3 was integrated into the formulation

Table 2

[0076] Example 3: Tylose Adhesive Recipe

[0077] Table 3 provides an exemplary adhesive formulation. The components were mixed in order to form an adhesive formulation. This adhesive formulation may be integrated into a backbone formulation of the present application and/or used to form an adhesive layer on the backbone formulation (e.g, a dehydrated backbone formulation).

Table 3

[0078] Example 4: Exemplary Formulations

Polymer (fiber) Recipes

[0079] Tylose Adhesive:

• Ingredients: o 1 tsp tylose powder o ! cup water

• Steps: o Combine using a frother until thick and all clumps have been dissolved

[0080] Psyllium Backbone:

• Ingredients: o 8 oz water o 1 tbsp psyllium, whole husk o Tylose adhesive (see above for recipe)

• Steps: o Combine water and psyllium in pan and stir over low heat (a 2 on the stove,

110°F) for 5 minutes o Spread mixture on a silicon baking sheet o Bake in oven at 200°F for approximately an hour or until dry o Peel backbone off silicone baking mat o Cut into strips (currently 2in by 0.5in but can be changed to fit end need) o Spread tylose adhesive on back of strip and place adhesive side down onto a sheet of wax paper to dry

• How to use: o Peel strip off wax paper o Thoroughly wet to activate o Apply to food item (side on wax paper is side that goes onto food)

[0081] Psyllium + Acacia Backbone:

• Ingredients: o 8 oz water o 1 tbsp psyllium, whole husk o 1 tbsp acacia Senegal powder o Tylose adhesive (see above for recipe)

• Steps: o Combine water, acacia, and psyllium in pan and stir over low heat (a 2 on the stove, 110°F) for 5 minutes o Spread mixture on a silicon baking sheet o Bake in oven at 200°F for approximately an hour or until dry o Peel backbone off silicone baking mat o Cut into strips (currently 2in by 0.5in but can be changed to fit end need) o Spread tylose adhesive on back of strip and place adhesive side dow n onto a sheet of wax paper to dry

• How to use: o Peel strip off wax paper o Thoroughly wet to activate o Apply to food item (side on wax paper is side that goes onto food)

[0082] Example 5: Viability Assessment of Individual Lavers and Composite Films

[0083] Several adhesive compositions were prepared. Their viability associated for parameters associated with constructing and using the adhesive composite films of the present disclosure was assessed. Table 4 provides the adhesive formulations tested.

Table 4

[0084] Parameters evaluated included strength of adhesiveness to starch based external foods (e.g., tortilla), film formation ability, texture, consistency, opacity, and viscosity. Table 5 details the viability for each adhesive composition as applied across these metrics.

Table 5

[0085] As can be seen, tylose based adhesive produced the most viable adhesives.

Additionally, the concentration of tylose in the blend had a resultant effect on the formulation as well. Application of starches, such as cornstarch, to tylose based adhesives, degraded viability.

[0086] Backbone compositions were also prepared and evaluated. Table 7 provides the formulations assessed.

Table 7

[0087] Parameters evaluated included strength of adhesiveness to starch based external foods (e.g., tortilla), film formation ability, texture, consistency, opacity, dehydration ability, ability to solidify, brittleness, and viscosity. Table 8 details the viability for each adhesive composition as applied across these metrics.

Table 8

[0088] As can be seen, psyllium-based backbone formulations generally created the most viable backbone formulations using the parameters assessed.

[0089] Backbone formulations with plasticizer were also assessed. Table 9 provides the formulations measured and Table 10 provides the viability assessment.

Table 9

Table 10

[0090] Backbone formulations were also formulated with various adhesive compositions to determine the interplay between the layers and how they layers may affect the resultant viability if the composite adhesive films. Table 11 provides the formulations tested and Table 12 provides the viability assessment.

Table 11

Table 12

[0091] As can be seen, viability of these formulations as an adhesive composite film varied across the different formulations tested. Surprisingly, psyllium-based backbones (e.g., with a plasticizer selected from sorbitol and/or xylitol) produced the most viable composite adhesive films when coupled with tylose based adhesives. Furthermore, a concentration dependence was identified in relation to film viability.

SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS

[0092] Non-limiting specific embodiments are described below each of which is considered to be within the present disclosure.

[0093] Embodiment 1. One-, two- or three- or multi-layer material made up of at least one layer of an edible, polymer mixture or blend of both water-soluble and water-insoluble foodgrade polymer and a third edible soluble, food-grade polymer that either is adhesive orbecomes adhesive after exposure to water for a period of 1 to 30 seconds.

[0094] Embodiment 2. The edible, water-soluble polymer of Embodiment 1 that is made beta glucan, wheat dextrin, calcium polycarbonphil and similar compounds or mixtures of such compounds that come from oats, peas, beans, apples, citrus fruits, carrots, barley, psyllium, brussels sprouts, turnips, pears, figs, apricots, or similar fruits and vegetables. [0095] Embodiment 3. The edible, high-strength, water-insoluble polymer of Embodiment 1 can be materials such as cellulose, methylcellulose, wheat bran, lignin, psyllium husk or any combination of such substances.

[0096] Embodiment 4. The edible, high-strength, cross-linked mixture or blend of water- soluble and water-insoluble polymers of Embodiment 1 can be either a mixture of water- soluble polymers of Embodiment 2 and a water-insoluble polymers of Embodiment 3 or it can be a natural material that contains both water-soluble a water-insoluble polymers such as Psyllium.

[0097] Embodiment 5. The edible, high-strength, cross-linked polymer of embodiment 1 that is made by crosslinking Sodium Alginate with a Magnesium- or Calcium-containing salt such as Calcium Chloride, Magnesium Chloride, Calcium Lactate or Magnesium Gluconate or similar compounds.

[0098] Embodiment 6. The edible, adhesive polymer of embodiment 1 that is made from Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (Na-CMC, or just CMC), Gum Tragacanth, Xanthan gum, Karaya gum, or similar substances.

[0099] Embodiment 7. The material of Embodiment 1 can be a single layer of material that is prepared by cross-linking the water-soluble and water-insoluble polymers of Embodiment 1 and after the cross-linking reaction is complete, the water-soluble adhesive polymer material of Embodiment 1 can be added and then this material processed into a thin film and allowed to dry either naturally or in an oven.

[0100] Embodiment 8. A two-, three, or multi-layer material of Embodiment 1 can prepared by crosslinking together the water-soluble and water-insoluble polymers of Embodiment 1 and then forming a thin film and allowed to dry either naturally or in an oven and then having this high-strength layer coated on one or both sides by a solution of the water-soluble adhesive material of Embodiment 1 and then having this two- or three-layer material dry either at room temperature or at an elevated temperature in an oven or by the convective flow of hot air.

[0101] Embodiment 9. An edible adhesive tape which is applied to a food item wherein the edible adhesive tape holds the food item together or in-place during consumption.

[0102] Embodiment 10. The edible adhesive tape of embodiment 1, wherein the edible adhesive tape can be activated via water or heat. [0103] Embodiment 11. The edible adhesive tape of embodiment 1 wherein the food item which the tape is applied to is chosen from the following group: burrito, taco, wrap, tortilla, sandwich, pita, gyro, pinwheel, enchilada, durum.

[0104] Embodiment 12. The edible adhesive tape of embodiment 1 wherein the edible adhesive tape contains seasoning as means of flavoring the food item it’s holding together

[0105] Embodiment 13. A method of making an edible adhesive film, wherein the backbone and adhesive coating are created separately and joined for improved adhesive properties, comprising:

(a) heating a source of dietary polymer with a sugar, and solvent to provide a backbone mixture;

(b) applying said backbone mixture to packaging for dehydration; and,

(c) blending an emulsifier and solvent to provide an adhesive coating blend; and,

(d) applying said coating blend to said dehydrated backbone mixture and dehydrate joined edible tape adhesive together.

[0106] Embodiment 14. A method of making the edible tape backbone, wherein the backbone is composed of a dietary polymer, sugar, and emulsifier, comprising:

(a) heating a source of dietary polymer (fiber) with a sugar and solvent to provide a backbone blend; and,

(b) blending the said backbone blend with an emulsifier to create a backbone mixture; and,

(c) applying said backbone mixture to packaging for dehydration

[0107] Embodiment 15. The method of claim 11, wherein the dehydration comprises baking at low heat, (range of 150-250 ° F).

[0108] Embodiment 16. A method of making an edible adhesive of Embodiment 1, wherein the backbone and adhesive coating are created separately and joined for improved adhesive properties, comprising:

(a) heating a source of dietary polymer with a sugar, and solvent to provide a backbone mixture; and,

(b) applying said backbone mixture to packaging for dehydration; and, (c) blending an emulsifier and solvent to provide an adhesive coating blend; and,

(d) applying said coating blend to said dehydrated backbone mixture and dehydrate joined edible tape adhesive together

[0109] Embodiment 17. A method of making the edible tape backbone, wherein the backbone is composed of a dietary polymer, sugar, and emulsifier, comprising:

(a) heating a source of dietary polymer with a sugar and solvent to provide a backbone blend; and,

(b) blending the said backbone blend with an emulsifier to create a backbone mixture; and,

(c) applying said backbone mixture to packaging for dehydration

[0110] Embodiment 18. The method of making an edible tape backbone of embodiment 9, wherein the dehydration comprises baking at low heat.

[0111] Embodiment 19. The edible adhesive tape of embodiment 1 wherein the edible adhesive tape can be activated via water or heat

[0112] Embodiment 20. The edible adhesive tape of embodiment 1 wherein the food item which the tape is applied to is chosen from the following group: burrito, taco, wrap, tortilla, sandwich, pita, gyro, pinwheel, enchilada, durum.

[0113] Embodiment 21. The edible adhesive tape of embodiment 1 wherein the edible adhesive tape contains seasoning as means of flavoring the food item it’s holding together.

[0114] Embodiment 22. An edible food adhesive film comprising: a. a layer of an edible backbone; b. a layer of an edible adhesive placed on the edible backbone, the adhesive configured to adhere to the item of food, wherein a user stabilizes the item of the food with the adhesive film and consumes both the item of food and the adhesive film.

[0115] Embodiment 23. The edible food adhesive film of Embodiment 22, wherein the backbone layer is made from a polymer. [0116] Embodiment 24. The edible food adhesive fdm of Embodiment 22, wherein the backbone layer is made from a high- strength polymer (such as Psyllium Backbone, sodium alginate).

[0117] Embodiment 25. The edible food adhesive film of Embodiment 22, wherein the backbone layer is made from a cross-linked polymer mixture, (such as Sodium Alginate, pectin/chitosan crosslinked with transglutaminase).

[0118] Embodiment 26. The edible food adhesive film of Embodiment 22, wherein the backbone layer is made from a blend of both water-soluble and water-insoluble food-grade polymer.

[0119] Embodiment 27. The edible food adhesive film of Embodiment 22, wherein the adhesive layer becomes adhesive after exposure contact with water.

[0120] Embodiment 28. The edible food adhesive film of Embodiment 22, wherein the adhesive layer becomes adhesive after exposure to water for 1 to 30 seconds

[0121] Embodiment 29. The edible food adhesive film of Embodiment 22, wherein the polymer is selected from the group consisting of one or more of beta glucan, wheat dextrin, and calcium polycarbonphil.

[0122] Embodiment 30. The edible food adhesive film of Embodiment 22, wherein the polymer is derived from one or more of the following fruits and vegetables: oats, peas, beans, apples, citrus fruits, carrots, barley, psyllium, brussels sprouts, turnips, pears, figs, apricots.

[0123] Embodiment 31. The edible food adhesive film of Embodiment 22, wherein the polymer is selected from the group consisting of one or more of cellulose, methylcellulose, wheat bran, lignin, psyllium husk.

[0124] Embodiment 32. The edible food adhesive film of Embodiment 22, wherein the polymer is made from Sodium Alginate.

[0125] Embodiment 33. The edible food adhesive film of Embodiment 32, wherein the polymer is made by crosslinking Sodium Alginate with a Magnesium- or Calcium-containing salt such as Calcium Chloride, Magnesium Chloride, Calcium Lactate or Magnesium Gluconate or similar compounds.

[0126] Embodiment 34. The edible food adhesive film of Embodiment 22, wherein the polymer is made from Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (Na-CMC, or just CMC), Gum Tragacanth, Xanthan gum, and Karaya gum. [0127] Embodiment 35. The edible food adhesive fdm of Embodiment 22, wherein the adhesive film comprises Calcium Lactate, Sodium Alginate and tylose, or a derivative thereof.

[0128] Embodiment 36. The edible food adhesive film of Embodiment 22, wherein the adhesive film comprises Psyllium, sugar, tylose, or a derivative thereof.

[0129] Embodiment 37. The edible food adhesive film of Embodiment 22, wherein the adhesive layer is made from tylose.

[0130] Embodiment 38. The edible food adhesive film of Embodiment 22, wherein the adhesive layer is a full layer.

[0131] Embodiment 39. The edible food adhesive film of Embodiment 22, wherein the adhesive layer is a partial layer.

[0132] Embodiment 40. The edible food adhesive film of Embodiment 22, wherein the adhesive film comprises 5% to 50% of a dietary polymer, 0% to 20% sugar, and 0% to 50% adhesive polymers

[0133] Embodiment 41. The edible food adhesive film of Embodiment 40, where the range is 1-10% polymer in hydrated form, 1-5% sugar, and 1-10% adhesive polymer, w/w.

[0134] Embodiment 42. The edible food adhesive film of Embodiment 22, wherein the backbone is made by a process comprising the steps of: a. cross-linking the water-soluble and water-insoluble polymers, b. adding the water-soluble adhesive polymer material: c. processing into a thin film; and d. allowing to dry.

[0135] Embodiment 43. An edible backbone prepared by a process comprising the steps of: a) crosslinking together the water-soluble and water-insoluble polymers; b) forming a thin film; c) allowing to dry; d) coating on one or both sides by a solution of the water-soluble adhesive material; and; e) drying.

[0136] Embodiment 44. The edible food adhesive film of Embodiment 22, wherein the backbone is made by a process comprising the steps of: e. cross-linking polymers, f. adding the water-soluble adhesive poly mer material; g. processing into a thin film; and h. allowing to dry.

[0137] Embodiment 45. An edible backbone prepared by a process comprising the steps of: a) crosslinking polymers; b) forming a thin film; c) allowing to dry; d) coating on one or both sides by a solution of the water-soluble adhesive material; and; e) drying.

[0138] Embodiment 46. The edible food adhesive film of Embodiment 22, further comprising an additional layer of an edible adhesive on other side of the edible backbone, (there is a layer of adhesive, layer of backbone, then another layer of adhesive, basically double sided tape.)

[0139] Embodiment 47. The edible food adhesive film of Embodiment 22, further comprising a flavoring and/or coloring additive.

[0140] Embodiment 48. The edible food adhesive film of Embodiment 22, wherein the adhesive layer is preactivated before use.

[0141] Embodiment 49. The edible food adhesive film of Embodiment 22, wherein the adhesive layer is heat activated.

[0142] Embodiment 50. The edible food adhesive film prepared by any of the preceding processes and/or ingredients.

[0143] Embodiment 51. The edible adhesive prepared by any of the preceding processes and/or ingredients.

[0144] As various changes can be made in the above-described subject matter without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure, it is intended that all subj ect matter contained in the above description, or defined in the appended claims, be interpreted as descriptive and illustrative of the present disclosure. Many modifications and variations of the present disclosure are possible in light of the above teachings. Accordingly, the present description is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variances which fall within the scope of the appended claims.

[0145] All documents cited or referenced herein and all documents cited or referenced in the herein cited documents, together with any manufacturer's instructions, descriptions, product specifications, and product sheets for any products mentioned herein or in any document incorporated by reference herein, are hereby incorporated by reference, and may be employed in the practice of the disclosure.