WO2024100657A1

WO2024100657A1 - A water-soluble carrier device, food protection article, food products comprising the same and methods

Info

Publication number: WO2024100657A1
Application number: PCT/IL2023/051146
Authority: WO
Inventors: Ifat Hammer
Original assignee: Liva Bio Protection Technologies Ltd
Priority date: 2022-11-07
Filing date: 2023-11-07
Publication date: 2024-05-16

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a carrier device comprising at least a first enclosing wall and a second enclosing wall that are connected to each other at least along part of each walls' perimeter, said first enclosing wall and said second enclosing wall defining therebetween an enclosing space configured to receive and hold therewithin a substrate comprising a nutrient composition for microorganism growth, wherein, at least one of the first enclosing wall and second enclosing wall comprise a water-soluble portion. Also provided are a protection article comprising the carrier device, consumer goods package comprising consumer goods to be preserved and the protection article; a method for manufacturing the carrier device, a method for preparing the protection article, and method of use of the carrier device or protection article in preserving consumer goods.

Description

A WATER-SOLUBLE CARRIER DEVICE, FOOD PROTECTION ARTICLE, FOOD PRODUCTS COMPRISING THE SAME AND METHODS

TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to food preservation.

BACKGROUND ART

References considered to be relevant as background to the presently disclosed subject matter are listed below:

International Patent Application Publication No. W02021/033190.

Acknowledgement of the above reference herein is not to be inferred as meaning that these are in any way relevant to the patentability of the presently disclosed subject matter.

BACKGROUND

The food industry is constantly seeking food preservation products for extending the shelf life of the products.

W02021/033190 describes protection inserts comprising a discrete substrateforming material holding a nutrient composition, the nutrient composition comprising a combination of nutrients for supporting selective growth of one or more bacteriocin- producing bacterium on said substrate and being essentially free of externally added microorganisms. The protection inserts can be included in a consumer goods package comprising goods to be protected and can be held within a carrier.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure is based on the development of a carrier device for a preservation substrate material suitable for increasing shelf-life of consumer goods and fresh food products by stimulating growth of selected bacteria within packages containing the goods, without the use of externally added live bacteria to the consumer goods and, thereby eliminating the high costs and the complexity of handling live bacteria in industrial plants.

The preservation substrate material can be made of gel material that is introduced into the carrier device while in liquid (yet viscous, e.g. liquid gel) state and upon e.g. cooling, while within the carrier device, solidifies (into a solid or semi solid form). The carrier device is designed such that no leakage of gel material takes place when within the carrier device in liquid state.

There is thus provided, according to a first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, a carrier device comprising at least a first enclosing wall and a second enclosing wall that are connected to each other at least along part of each walls' perimeter, said first enclosing wall and said second enclosing wall defining therebetween an enclosing space configured to receive and hold therewithin a substrate comprising a nutrient composition for microorganism growth, wherein, at least one of the first enclosing wall and second enclosing wall comprise a water-soluble portion.

In some examples, the substrate is a thermosensitive substrate.

In some further or other examples, the substrate comprises up to 30% water. In cases where said substrate contains up to 30% water, the at least one of the first enclosing wall and second enclosing wall can be highly water soluble, namely, completely dissolve in the presence of more than 30% water.

In accordance with a second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter there is provided a protection article comprising a carrier device and enclosed therewithin a substrate; the carrier device comprises an enclosing wall comprising at least a first enclosing wall and a second enclosing wall that are connected to each other at least along part of each walls' perimeter, said first enclosing wall and said second enclosing wall defining therebetween an enclosing space configured to receive and hold therewithin the substrate comprising a nutrient composition for microorganism growth, wherein, at least one of the first enclosing wall and second enclosing wall comprise a water-soluble portion. In accordance with a third aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter there is provided a consumer goods package comprising consumer goods to be preserved and a protection article as disclosed herein.

In accordance with yet a fourth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter there is provided a method for manufacturing a carrier device configured for receiving and holding therewithin a substrate, the method comprising: preparing an enclosing wall comprising at least a first enclosing wall and a second enclosing wall, at least one of the first enclosing wall and the second enclosing wall comprises a water-soluble portion; and connecting the first enclosing wall and the second enclosing wall together along the first and second walls' perimeter, to define therebetween an enclosing space configured to receive and hold therewithin the substrate, while maintaining an opening between the first enclosing wall and second enclosing wall, to allow passage therethrough of the substrate when said substrate is in liquid state.

In accordance with a fifth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter there is provided a method for preparing a protection article for preserving consumer goods, the method comprising: providing a carrier device as disclosed by the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, where at least part of the first enclosing wall and the second enclosing wall are spaced apart to form a passage into the enclosing space between the first enclosing wall and the second enclosing wall; introducing into said enclosing space, through said passage, substrate material in liquid state; allowing said substrate material to solidify; and optionally sealing said passage.

Finally, there is provided, in accordance with a sixth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, a method for preserving consumer goods, the method comprising holding consumer goods in vicinity with a protection article as disclosed herein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order to better understand the subject matter that is disclosed herein and to exemplify how it may be carried out in practice, embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting examples only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig. 1A schematically illustrates a perspective view of two enclosing walls, a first wall representing a water insoluble wall and the other wall representing a water-soluble wall, both walls being illustrated before assembly into a carrier device according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter

Fig. IB schematically illustrates a perspective view of two enclosing walls, one wall comprising two perforated films, and the other wall representing a water-soluble wall, both before assembly into a carrier device according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter;

Fig. 1C schematically illustrates a perspective view of an assembled carrier device including the enclosing walls of Fig. 1A and including an insert material within the enclosing space formed between the two walls.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure is based on the development of a carrier device for holding a substrate for the selective growth of microorganism that can promote or facilitate preservation of consumer goods, such as fruits and vegetables.

Thus, in accordance with a first of its aspects, the present disclosure provides, a carrier device comprising: at least a first enclosing wall and a second enclosing wall that are connected to each other at least along part of each walls' perimeter, said first enclosing wall and said second enclosing wall defining therebetween an enclosing space configured to receive and hold therewithin a substrate comprising a nutrient composition for microorganism growth, wherein, at least one of the first enclosing wall and second enclosing wall comprise a water-soluble portion. In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the first enclosing wall and the second enclosing wall that are connected to each other along each walls' essentially entire perimeter. In such a manner, the walls form a type of a pocket suitable for/configured for carrying an insert as will be further described herein.

In the context of the presently disclosed subject matter, when referring to the connection along each walls' essentially entire perimeter, it is to be understood that there are no apparent or detected sections that are disconnected, or that if there are disconnected sections, these do not affect the functionally of the device in carrying therewithin the insert and allowing controlled transfer of fluids into and/or out of the enclosing space, as can be determined by a person of skill in the art.

The carrier device comprises at least some portions that are water soluble. By using portions that are water soluble, upon contact with moisture/water vapor, the portions of the device become permeable to microorganism transport from the external environment into the enclosing space which would preferably hold an insert, e.g. a substrate material holding the nutrient composition suitable for the selective growth of microorganism.

In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter the water-soluble portion comprise a water-soluble film.

In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter the water-soluble film comprises film forming material being completely soluble when exposed to a relative humidity of at least 65%.

In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the water-soluble film is a food grade film comprising at least one polymer selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), seaweeds, collagen, alginate, pectin, chitosan, pullulan, carrageenan, starch, soybean protein, wheat gluten, com zein, sunflower protein, gelatin, whey, casein, keratin.

In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the water-soluble film is completely water soluble and as such compostable.

Notably, when the film is highly water soluble (essentially completely dissolved in the presence of water, i.e. no apparent or detected non-dissolved film), it is preferable that the insert enclosed within the carrier device, as further described hereinbelow, contains a substrate with up to 30% water.

In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the carrier device is designed such that at least one of said first enclosing wall and second enclosing wall comprises a water insoluble film. This is in addition to the fact that at least one film is water soluble. In other words, in addition to portions of the walls being water soluble, the carrier device can include other portions that are water insoluble.

In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the wall comprises at least two films, and the at least two films are connected to each other.

In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, at least one of the first enclosing wall and second enclosing wall comprises at least two films, at least one of the at least two films include an array of perforations. When the device includes at least one film that contains an array of perforations, the device is referred to herein by the term "perforated device" . The perforated device relates to some specific examples of the carrier device disclosed herein and thus fall within the scope of the broad definition of the presently disclosed carrier device.

In some examples of the presently disclosed perforated device, i.e. when the film contains perforations, the perforated film is a water insoluble film.

In some examples of the presently disclosed perforated device, when the wall comprises at least two films, at least one film including said array of perforations and at least one other film is a non-perforated film. In this specific example, the at least one film that comprises the array of perforations is a water insoluble film, and the at least one non-perforated film is made of water-soluble polymer(s).

In some examples of the presently disclosed perforated device, when the wall of the device comprises at least one film that is perforated and at least one film that is nonperforated, the at least one non-perforated film is proximal to the enclosing space. In other words, the non-perforated film is sandwiched between the perforated film and the enclosing space.

In some examples of the presently disclosed perforated device, the at least one of the first enclosing wall and the second enclosing wall comprises at least three films, at least two of the at least three films are perforated films connected to each other, each of the at least two perforated films comprising a respective array of holes, wherein the array of perforations of any first perforated film of the at least two perforated films is offset with respect to the array of perforations of an adjacent second perforated film of said at least two perforated films.

In the context of the present disclosure, when referring to a hole from the plurality of holes, it is to be understood to mean a gap or opening in the film having the hole. The hole can have any define and/or amorphous shape. In some examples, the hole has a geometrical shape, e.g. circular, oval, polygonal.

The holes can have different dimensions. Yet, in some examples, the holes are defined by a maximal longest dimension. For example, if the hole is circular or oval, each of the plurality of holes is defined by a diameter of at most 6mm or between about 0.05and and 6 mm. Further, for example, if the hole has a geometrical shape, each of the plurality of holes is defined by a longest axis of at most about 3mm or between about 0.05mm and about 3mm. Yet, further, if the hole has an amorphous/undefined shape, each of the plurality of holes is defined by its longest dimension of the shape, being at most 6mm or between about 0.05mm and about 6mm.

In some examples, the plurality of holes have essentially the same shape.

In some examples, the plurality of holes have essentially the same dimensions.

In the context of the present disclosure when referring to an "array of holes" it is to be understood to mean a plurality of holes arranged in a pattern or arranged arbitrarily in the perforated film.

In some examples, the plurality of holes are spaces apart from each other in a pattern.

In some other examples, the plurality of holes are essentially equally spaced apart from each other.

In the context of the present disclosure, when referring to holes having "essentially" same shape, dimension and/or spaces, it is to be understood to mean that the holes in the plurality of holes may have some differences in their shape and/or dimension and/or spaces therebetween and such differences are insignificant to the functionality of the device. In some examples of the presently disclosed perforated device, when the wall includes at least two perforated films, each hole of the array of perforations of the any first perforated film is offset with respect to each hole of the array of perforations of the adjacent second perforated film.

Further, in some examples of the presently disclosed perforated device, when the wall includes at least two perforated films, each perforation of each of the array of perforations comprises a corresponding perforation axis extending perpendicular to the perforated film, wherein each perforation axis of the array of perforations of the any first perforated film is spaced apart from each perforation axis of the array of perforations of the second perforated film at least when the any first perforated film extends parallel to the adjacent second perforated film.

In some examples of the presently disclosed perforated device, the offset between the array of perforations of the any first perforated film and the array of perforations of the adjacent second perforated film is configured to prevent leakage of thermosensitive substrate when said thermosensitive substrate is in liquid state within said enclosing space.

In some examples of the presently disclosed perforated device, the array of perforations of the any first perforated film and the array of perforations of the adjacent second perforated film are configured to allow free flow of microorganisms and moisture therethrough and into the enclosing space, once the water-soluble film is at least partially dissolved.

In some examples of the presently disclosed perforated device, the at least two perforated films are configured to at least partially move with respect to each other.

Further, in some examples of the presently disclosed perforated device, the connection between the at least two perforated films are configured to maintain the array of perforations of the any first perforated film offset with respect to the array of perforations of the adjacent second perforated film.

Yet further, in some examples of the presently disclosed perforated device, each perforation has, independently, a maximum cross section within a range of between about 0.05mm and about 6 mm. In some examples of the presently disclosed perforated device, the substrate held within the walls is a thermosensitive substrate or comprises a thermosensitive material. This allows, inter alia, the introduction of the substrate within the space between the walls while in liquid form, and upon cooling, its solidification, without leaking out through the perforated films.

Turning back to the presently disclosed carrier device (irrespective of whether or not it includes at least one perforated film), the at least two films that form a wall are, in accordance with some examples, partially connected to each other by any one or combination of welding (e.g. hot plate welding), gluing (e.g. using adhesive or solvent bonding), machine fastening etc.

Further, in some examples of the presently disclosed device, the first enclosing wall and second enclosing wall are connected to each other by any one or combination of welding (e.g. hot plate welding), gluing (e.g. using adhesive or solvent bonding), machine fastening etc.

In some examples of the presently disclosed device, the first enclosing wall and second enclosing wall constitute portions of a single continuous enclosing wall. In such cases, the first enclosing wall and the second enclosing wall are formed by folding the single continuous enclosing wall, as further described hereinbelow.

In some examples, the walls of the presently disclosed carrier device can be made from flexible (e.g. foldable) films.

In some other examples, the walls of the presently disclosed carrier device can be made rigid films.

When the carrier device comprises at least one water insoluble film (or film portion), the film can be made from one or more polymers that together provide an insoluble film. In some examples, the one or more polymers can be selected from synthetic polymers, naturally occurring polymers and a combination of at least one synthetic polymer and at least one naturally occurring polymer.

In some examples of the presently disclosed carrier device, when the film comprises a synthetic polymer, the synthetic polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyolefins, polyacrylonitriles, polybutadienes, polycarbonates, polyamides, ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymers (EVOH), polypropylene, polyethylene, polystyrene, polyurethanes, polylactic acid polyhydroxyalkanoates, polyhydroxybutyrate and any combination of same.

In some examples of the presently disclosed carrier device, when the film comprises a naturally occurring polymer, the naturally occurring polymer can be selected from polysaccharides, proteins, gelatin and combinations of same.

In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, when portions of the walls are made of a water-soluble material (polymer) the wall should be selected to be insoluble when the water concentration in the substrate is up to 30% and yet at least partially or preferably completely dissolve at humidity above 65%

In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, when portions of the walls are made of a water-soluble material, i.e. material that dissolved completely in the presence of more than 30% moisture, there is a need for the substrate forming material, to be stable at low humidity and yet allow (not interfere) with selective microorganism growth. It has been found by the inventors of the presently disclosed subject matter that it is possible to introduce into a water-soluble carrier device some types of substrates that will include 30wt% water or less, and still promote selective microorganism thereon.

When the films of the carrier device are completely water soluble (in their entirety, and not only portions thereof), it is desired to use substrate forming materials that do not require for their performance as a substrate a significant amount of water. In other words, when using a hydrogel, the amount of water in the hydrogel may cause premature dissolution of the walls of the carrier device. Thus, there is a need to use a substrate that has a relatively low water content (i.e. not more than 30%). To provide such conditions, the water may be replaced with a filler that is food grade and allows growth of microorganism. A non-limiting list of possible fillers according to the above, include any one or combination of dextrin, Silicone Dioxide, Maltodextrin ,Oat Fiber , Starches or modified starches, and/or Cellulose. A preferred example of such filler comprises or is dextrin.

In such cases, where using a substrate contains up to 30% water, and still supports selective microorganism thereon in a low moisture environment, the inclusion of a filler, such as that defined above, can allow the formation of a carrier device that is entirely made of water-soluble films (i.e. the films being completely water soluble) and as such can allow the formation of a compostable carrier device.

In some examples, the film forming the carrier device is highly water soluble (completely dissolved in the presence of water), and the insert (e.g. a substrate and nutrient composition) contains up to 30% water.

The carrier device is configured to hold the substrate in solid, semi solid state or liquid form.

The carrier device is configured to hold a preservation insert comprising a substrate and a nutrient composition. The combination of the substrate and the nutrient composition constitute together the "insert" or in more specific examples, the "preservation insert" . Yet, in a similar manner, the presently disclosed carrier device can be used with other types of inserts.

The thermosensitive substrate holds nutrient composition.

The carrier devices according to some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter allows preservation inserts that are composed of a thermosensitive substrate (or generally gels) to be introduced into the carrier devices while being in the liquid form and to solidify into the gel state, semi solid or solid state within the carrier devices.

In some examples, when using a thermosensitive substrate, at least upon controlled heating, the thermosensitive gel material forming the substrate is provided in fluid form, such that in can be poured into the carrier device, and yet, it is not too liquid to leak out of the porous films.

In some examples, when using a thermosensitive substrate, at least at room temperature, the thermosensitive gel material forming the substrate is maintained, in the carrier device, in solid or semi solid state.

When referring to a semi solid material it is to be understood to encompass a deformable, non-fluidic unit form, i.e. flexible, pliable, easily bent, re-shapable, while when referring to a solid form it is to be understood as encompassing a rigid structure, i.e. non-flexible, that does not change in shape upon application of pressure. The physical property of the thermosensitive gel material, namely, it being semi solid or solid (or in other words, non-liquid), depends, inter alia, on the type of material used for holding the nutrients composition. In this connection, it is noted that while the thermosensitive gel material as a whole is semi solid or solid, the nutrients composition therein may be in a non-solid form, such as a gel, semi -gel, liquid, fluid (e.g. powder) form. This is achieved, for example, by holding the non-solid nutrients composition on a solid or semi solid material.

In some examples, the substrate, is food grade, i.e. acceptable for being contact with food.

In some examples of the presently disclosed carrier device, when using a thermosensitive substrate, the thermosensitive gel material forming it is selected from the group consisting of alginate, methylcellulose (MC), hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC), hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC), carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), gum Arabic, chitosan, pectin, agar, guar gum, xanthan gum, gellan gum, carrageenan, gelatin, dextrin and starch.

The nutrients in the nutrient composition are selected to selectively promote growth of human-safe bacterium, and preferably bacteriocin producing bacterium, the human-safe bacterium inhibiting or preventing, as aforementioned, growth of undesired microorganisms. In other words, in the presence of the selective nutrients held by the substrate, predominantly only the desired human-safe bacterium is effectively grown.

The practice of constructing nutrient compositions that are selective in supporting growth of a particular target microorganism is known from diagnostic microbiology. For example, and without being limited thereto, Monnet et al. demonstrates the selective culturing of target microorganism [M Bonnet et al. “Bacterial culture through selective and none-selective conditions: the evaluation of culture media in clinical microbiology' New Microbe and New Infect 2020; 34: 100622], Further, as a non-limiting example, MRS culture media is known to be selective for the growth of lactic acid bacteria. Further exemplary art includes, Nwadiuto O. Nwamaioha and Salam A. Ibrahim "A selective medium for the enumeration and differentiation of Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus" J. Dairy Sci. 101 :4953-4961.

In the context of the presently disclosed subject matter, the term "selective growth" is to be understood to signify the promotion of growth exclusively of target bacteriocin-producing and/or human safe bacteria while inhibiting growth of other spoilage bacteria or pathogens. Further, in the context of the present disclosure, when referring to selectively promote growth of the human safe and/or bacteriocin producing bacterium it is to be understood to predominantly allow growth of only the target bacteriocin producing bacterium, without a detectable amount or with less than 10 CFU/gr growth or even less than 5 CFU/gr of other microorganisms, such as yeast, enterococcus bacteria etc. In this context, the detectable amount of the selectively grown bacteriocin producing bacterium and/or human safe bacterium would be, in the presence of the presently disclosed device with the selective nutrient composition, more than 10 CFU/gr, at times, at least more than 10 CFU/gr, as can be measured, such as, microbial total count test, also known as the total viable count or total plate count. This method is used to estimate the total number of viable microorganisms in a sample. There are several official and widely accepted methods for conducting microbial total count testing. One of the most commonly used methods is the pour plate method using Nutrient Agar or Standard Methods Agar as described in ISO 4833.

In some preferred examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the selective growth is of at least one bacteriocin producing bacterium.

In the context of the presently disclosed subject matter, it is to be understand that human-safe bacterium are bacteria generally recognized as safe (GRAS) bacteria, which have a long history of use in food applications and have been proven not to cause harm.

In some examples, the human safe bacterium comprises bacteriocin producing bacterium.

In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter the bacteriocin producing species is selected from the group consisting of lactic acid bacteria and Bacillus related species.

In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the human safe bacterium comprises probiotic bacterium. The nutrient composition held by the carrier device comprises different types of substances, each acting as a source for a different nutrient element required for the growth to the human-safe (e.g. bacteriocin producing) bacterium. In some examples, the nutrient composition comprises one or more nitrogen containing compounds, acting as a nitrogen source for the growth of the desired, humansafe bacterium.

In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the nutrient composition held by the substrate comprises one or more of nitrogen containing compounds, carbohydrates, inorganic minerals and salts, fatty acids and vitamins.

In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the nutrient composition comprises a combination of two or more, at times, three or more, at times four or more, at times five or more of nitrogen containing compounds, carbohydrates, inorganic minerals and salts, fatty acids and vitamins.

In some examples, the nutrient composition comprises one or more nitrogen containing compounds, acting as a nitrogen source for the growth of the desired, humansafe bacterium.

In some examples, the nitrogen containing compounds are any one or combination of amino acids, short peptides, polypeptides, and protein hydrolysates. These may be obtained from various sources.

In some examples, the source for the nitrogen containing compounds is an animal source, such as beef extract and/or casein hydrolysate.

In some examples, the source for the nitrogen containing compounds is a microorganism extract, such as yeast extract.

In some examples, the source for the nitrogen containing compounds is a plant extract, such as a legume extract. In this context, the legume may be any type of legume, such as, without being limited thereto, peas, chickpeas, potato, soy, beans, and others.

In some examples, the nitrogen containing compounds comprises a combination of one or more extracts and one or more hydrolysates from different sources.

In some examples, the nitrogen containing source comprises at least a protein hydrolysate, and at times preferably peptone.

In some examples, the nitrogen containing source comprises at least yeast extract.

In some examples, the nitrogen containing source comprises at least animal extract. In some examples, the nitrogen containing source comprises at least plant extract.

In some examples, the nitrogen containing source comprises at least a protein hydrolysate and yeast extract.

In some examples, the nitrogen containing source comprises a combination of a protein hydrolysate, yeast extract and at least one of animal extract or plant extract.

In some examples, the amount of the nitrogen containing compounds/source, be it a single source or a combination of sources is between 0.1% and 20% out of the total weight of the insert, at times between 0.5% and 10%, at times between 0.5% and 5%, at times between 1% and 5%, at times between 1% and 3%, at times between 0.5% and 3%, at times between 0.1% and 3% or any other range within the range of 0.1% and 20%.

In some examples, the carbohydrates are a carbon containing compound acting as a carbon source.

In some examples, the carbon containing compound is or comprises saccharides, these include, inter alia, any one or combination of monosaccharides, e.g. glucose, fructose, galactose, xylose, arabinose; disaccharides e.g. sucrose, lactose, maltose, isomaltulose, trehalose, trealulose and trehalulose; and oligosaccharides i.e. those typically containing 3-10 monosaccharides, such as raffinose (trisaccharide) oligofructose (FOS), galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS), gluco-oligosaccharide, isomalto- oligosacccharides, maltotriose and others.

Other carbohydrates may include sugar alcohols such as mannitol and sorbitol,

In some examples, the carbohydrate/carbon containing compound comprises at least glucose or at least a combination of glucose and FOS.

In some examples, the amount of the carbohydrates, be it a single source or a combination of carbohydrates, is within the range of 0.5% and 5% out of the total weight of the insert composition, at times, between 1% and 5%, at times between 0.5% and 4%, at times between 0.5% and 2.5% and times between 1% and 4%, at times between 1% and 3%, at times between 1% and 2.5% or any other range within the range of 0.5% and 5% . In some examples, the inorganic salts are minerals. These can include, without being limited thereto, salts of phosphate, potassium, calcium, zinc, magnesium, manganese, and iron.

In some examples, the source of such minerals/inorganic salts is yeast extract. Notably, the yeast extract can be regarded as providing several types of nutrients in the context of the present disclosure, including the minerals, the vitamins and/or the digested nucleic acids.

In some examples, the nutrient composition comprises at least manganese salts, such as manganese sulfate.

In some examples, the nutrient composition comprises at least magnesium salts, such as magnesium sulfate.

In some examples, the nutrient composition comprises at least sodium salt, such as sodium acetate.

In some examples, the nutrient composition comprises at least potassium salts such as dipotassium hydrogen phosphate.

In some examples, the nutrient composition comprises at least ammonium salts, such as tri-ammonium citrate.

In some examples, the nutrient composition comprises at least a combination of manganese salts and magnesium salts.

In some examples, the amount of the inorganic minerals/inorganic salts, be it a single inorganic component or a combination of inorganics, is within the range of 0.005% and 5% out of the total weight of the composition, at times between 0.01-2% and 0.02- 1%, at times between 0.005% and 2%, at times between 0.05% and 1%, at times between 0.01% and 3% or any other range within the range of 0.005% and 5%.

In some examples, the nutrient composition comprises at least one surfactant/ emul sifi er .

In some examples, the surfactant/emulsifier is or comprises fatty acids or fatty acid esters or any other surfactant/emulsifier acceptable under the food regulations (E- numbers). In the context of the present invention, the term “fatty acids” denotes simple fatty acids, namely, those having a carboxylic head-group and an aliphatic tail which is either saturated or unsaturated, and yet also complexed fatty acids, where the head-group is substituted with macromolecule, such as a polyoxyethylene group. Such fatty acids may be used also as surfactants and/or emulsifiers of the nutrient composition.

The aliphatic chain may include any number of carbon atoms including short chain fatty acids, having a tail of up to 5 carbon atoms, medium chain fatty acids, containing a tail of 6-12 carbons, long chain fatty acids typically including 13-21 carbon atoms in the tail, and very long chain fatty acids, containing 22 and more carbons in the aliphatic tail.

In some examples, the fatty acids component of the nutrient composition comprises one or combination of caprylic acid, capric acid, lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, arachidic acid, behenic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, polysorbate 20 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate), polysorbate 40 (polyoxyethylene (40) sorbitan monopalmitate), polysorbate 60 (polyoxyethylene (60) sorbitan monostearate) and polysorbate 80 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate).

In some further examples, the fatty acids component comprises at least polysorbate 80.

In some examples, the amount of surfactant/emulsifier, be it a single surfactant/emulsifier or a combination of several such additives, is within the range of 0.001% and 5% out of the total weight of the composition, at times between 0.005% and 3%, at times between 0.01% and 2% and times between 0.01% and 3%, at times between 0.05% and 3%, at times between 0.05% and 2%, at times between 0.01% and 1%, at times between 0.05% and 1%, at times between 0.06% and 0.11%, or any other range within the range of 0.001% and 5%.

In some cases, the nutrient composition also requires the presence of one or more vitamins. The vitamins are known to be important for proper function of organisms and metabolism and are thus essential even at very low quantities.

The nutrient composition may include, without being limited thereto, any one or combination of niacin (Vitamin B13), Calcium Pantothenate (calcium salt of vitamin B5), Pyroxidine (Vitamin B6) and Vitamin B12. In some examples, the nutrient composition comprises at least calcium panthenoate.

In some examples, the vitamin component includes at least niacin.

In some examples, the vitamin comprises a combination of niacin and calcium panthenoate.

In some examples, the amount of vitamins is within a range of 0.0001 and 5%, at times between 0.0001% and 3%, at times between 0.005% and 5%, at times between 0.008% and 2%, and any other range between 0.0001% and 5%. Notably, the vitamins can be obtained from the yeast extract and yet can also be externally added, as shown in the non-limiting examples of Table 2 below.

The nutrient composition also comprises, according to some examples, a buffering agent. The purpose of the buffering agent, inter alia, is to maintain the pH of the nutrient composition within a pH range that supports the growth of the desired bacteriocin-producing bacterium. In some examples, the buffering agent comprises any one or combination of phosphoric acid, citric acid, lactic acid and glycine.

In some examples, the buffering agent comprises at least glycine.

The amount of the buffering agent will depend on the type of the agent used. In some examples, the amount is selected to provide a pH within the range of 5.5 and 7, at times, between 5.5 and 6.5, at times, between 5.6 and 6, at times between 5.7 and 6.1, at times about 5.8±2.

The protection insert may include additional ingredients.

In some examples, the amount of the preservatives added to the nutrient composition is within the range of 0.01% and 0.1% out of the total weight of the composition, at times between 0.05% and 0.1%, at times between 0.02% and 0.08% or any other range within the range of 0.01% and 0.1%. The amount may vary, depending on the preservative used.

In some examples, the nutrient composition also comprises inactivated cell extract of LAB, this may assist in supporting the growth of LAB on the insert. Examples of such inactivated cell extract may include but not limited to: extract of Lactobacillus Laclis. and extract of Lactobacillus Salivarius. In yet some other or additional examples, the nutrient composition comprises one or more preservatives (growth inhibitors). Non-limiting examples of preservatives include potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate, sodium chloride, sodium lactate, bacteriocins, long chain polyphosphates, ammonium citrate and sodium acetate.

In one example the protection additive is potassium sorbate.

It is noted that while the insert is typically in a semi solid or solid form, as described above, the nutrient composition may be in liquid, fluid solid form, as long as it is held by the insert.

The protection insert disclosed herein can support the growth of various LAB. Examples of LAB include Lactobacillus Plantarum, Lactobacillus Laclis, Lactobacillus Brevis.

In some examples, the insert stimulates and/or supports the growth of bacteria other than LAB such as Bacillus species. These include, without being limited thereto, Bacillus Subtillis, Bacillus Pumilis, Bacillus Safensis, Bacillus Thurgiensis, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Bacillus Licheniformis, Bacillus Megaterium, Bacillus Coagulans, and Bacillus Brevis.

Without being bound to theory, the selective growth is achieved by providing the specific nutritional requirements (namely, the nutrient composition disclosed herein) specific for the desired bacteria along with generating conditions which inhibit the growth of other undesired microorganisms. Such conditions include, for example, any one or combination of preservatives, pH control agents, oxygen control and temperature control.

In some examples, the selective growth can be supported or achieved by any one or combination of controlling the oxygen level, e.g. by monitoring or specifically designing the permeability of the package holding the goods, by controlling the storage temperature, by controlling pH using specifically selected pH adjusting agents etc.

The ratio between the different components of the insert may vary depending on the good to be preserved, the conditions of storage (temperature, humidity etc.,) and the type of bacteriocin producing and/or human safe microorganism, the stimulation of which is desired. The nutrient composition can be prepared by any method known in the art. in some examples, the insert is prepared by mixing the ingredients of the nutrient composition with the substrate forming material until a homogenous mixture is formed.

In some examples, the substrate including the nutrient composition is as described in PCT Application No. PCT/IL2020/050916 “GOODS PROTECTION INSERT AND USES THEREOF,” bearing the publication No. W02021/033190, the content of which is incorporated in its entirety herein by reference.

Specifically, in some examples of the substrate described in W02021/033190, the substrate including the nutrient composition comprises Agar used as a thermosensitive (substrate) forming material. Tables 1 A and IB in W02021/033190 and Tables 1A-1B hereinbelow provide non-limiting examples of Agar based substrates.

Tables 1A-1B provide exemplary and non-limiting ranges for some components that are included in the insert, in accordance with some examples of the present disclosure. Table 1A- Beef-extract containing composition

* The yeast extract provides also the vitamins

Table IB- Vegan based insert composition

When the films of the carrier device are completely water soluble, it is desired to use substrate forming materials that do not require for their performance as a substrate a significant amount of water. In other words, when using a hydrogel, the amount of water in the hydrogel may cause pre-mature dissolution of the walls of the carrier device. Thus, there is a need to use a substrate that has a relatively low water content (i.e. not more than 30%). To provide such conditions, the water may be replaced with a filler that is food grade and allows growth of microorganism. A non-limiting list of possible fillers according to the above, include any one or combination of dextrin, Silicone Dioxide, Maltodextrin ,Oat Fiber , Starches or modified starches, and/or Cellulose. A preferred example of such filler is dextrin.

Thus, in accordance with some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, when the film of the carrier device (or portion of the film) is completely water soluble, substrate forming material can comprise or be dextrin, which is water soluble and can maintain low viscosities even at high dextrin concentrations and does not interfere with the selectivity of the nutrient blend.

In some other examples, when the film of the carrier device (or portion of the film) is completely water soluble, substrate forming material can comprise or be any one or combination of dextrin, Silicone Dioxide, Maltodextrin ,Oat Fiber , Starches or modified starches, and/or Cellulose.

According to some examples, when using a filler as noted above, and preferably when using dextrin, it can be in a substrate concentration of between about 50wt% and 70wt%, at times, between 55wt% and 65wt%.

Tables 2A-2B provide a non-limiting example for a substrate that is based on a filler, and specifically dextrin, and can be suitable for carrier device that has high water solubility and would dissolve at humidity above 65%. While Tables 2A-2B refer to dextrin, other fillers, such as those listed above, can be used with similar amounts.

It is noted, as a general comment, that the films are weaken, so as to allow microorganisms to permeate inside and grow on the substrate, and yet, the substrate does not come in direct contact with the food and the full dissolution of the films occurs only after product consumption and disposal in the environment of the substrate.

Table 2A - Dextrin based substrate

Table 2B -

In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the carrier device is thus designed to be in a form of a sachet configured to hold therewithin the insert comprising the substrate and nutrient composition.

The carrier device can be used to carry a protection insert that is designed to protect goods from being spoiled during storage. Thus, the combination of the carrier device and the preservation insert in referred to herein as a protection device. Thus, in accordance with some aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is also provided a protection article comprising a carrier device and enclosed therewithin a thermosensitive substrate as disclosed herein.

Thus, in accordance with some aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a goods (e.g. food) protection article comprising the presently disclosed carrier device that holds in its enclosing space an insert, preferably including substrate material holding a nutrient composition suitable for supporting selective growth of one or more human safe bacterium on said substrate material.

In yet some additional aspect, the presently disclosed subject matter also provides a consumer goods package, comprising consumer goods to be preserved and a protection article as disclosed herein.

When referring to consumer goods, it is to be understood, in accordance with some examples, to refer to food items.

In some examples, the food to be preserved/protected is a meat product, including marine animal meat, red meat, poultry, as well as vegan alternatives to meat.

In some examples, the food to be protected is harvested crop, e.g. fruits, vegetables, seeds and grains, as well as already pealed fruits and vegetables.

In some examples, the food to be preserved/protected is dairy or vegan alternatives to dairy products.

In some examples, the protection article is packed with ready to cook or ready to eat food, such as pre-cooked meals, salads, etc. In some examples, the protection article is packed with consumer goods that have a high-water activity and thus more vulnerable to microbial spoilage. Examples of such products include but are not limited to fresh produce, food products such as cheese, meat, salads, spreads, cosmetics and toiletries, home care cleaning products.

In some examples, the protection article is packed with consumer goods that otherwise would require storage within a refrigerator. In the presence of the protection article such products can be stored at room temperature. Examples of such products may include, without being limited thereto, salad spreads, meat, fish, cheese, fruit and vegetables, pre peeled and pre-cut fruits and vegetables.

In some examples, the goods include crops. The protection article can be incorporated in the soil (i.e. embedded in the soil) and stimulates plant growth promoting bacteria which further protect the plants from disease.

In some examples, the goods include home care products such as cleansing solutions which are normally preserved with chemicals.

In some examples, the goods include drugs in the form of an ointment, gel, cream, lotion or a solution, which are normally preserved with chemicals.

The carrier device disclosed herein together with the preservation insert allows for the production of consumer goods package having a shelf life that is extended by at least 10% as compared to the same consumer goods, when the consumer goods are packed and stored under the same conditions, without the protection article.

In some examples, the consumer goods package improves crop yield, and accordingly is a combination of the protection article (the carrier device and insert) and a planter holding soil, the protection article being embedded within the soil.

The carrier device can be produced by different methods. Yet in accordance with the fourth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter there is provided a method for manufacturing the carrier device of the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, the method comprising preparing an enclosing wall comprising at least a first enclosing wall and a second enclosing wall, at least one of the first enclosing wall and the second enclosing wall comprises a water-soluble portion; and connecting the first enclosing wall and the second enclosing wall together along the first and second walls' perimeter, to define therebetween an enclosing space configured to receive and hold therewithin a thermosensitive substrate, while maintaining an opening between the first enclosing wall and second enclosing wall, to allow passage therethrough of the thermosensitive material when said thermosensitive material is in liquid state.

In some examples of the presently disclosed perforated device, the method involves also preparing of the first enclosing wall by obtaining at least one perforated film and connecting said at least one perforated film comprising an array of perforations with at least one non-perforated film, the at least one non-perforated film comprising the water-soluble portion; obtaining a second enclosing wall; and connecting the first enclosing wall and the second enclosing wall together along the first and second walls' perimeter, to define therebetween an enclosing space configured to receive and hold therewithin a thermosensitive substrate, while maintaining an opening between the first enclosing wall and second enclosing wall, to allow passage therethrough of the thermosensitive material when said thermosensitive material is in liquid state.

In some examples, when the presently disclosed perforated device comprises a first enclosing wall comprising two perforated films, the method comprising obtaining the at least two perforated films, each of the at least two perforated films comprising a respective array of perforations, at least a portion of the at least two perforated films is water soluble; connecting said at least two perforated films together while maintaining the array of perforations of a first perforated film of said at least two perforated films offset with respect to the array of perforations of a second perforated film of said at least two perforated films adjacent said first perforated film, connecting the at least two perforated films with the at least one non-perforated film to form the first enclosing wall; and connecting the first enclosing wall and the second enclosing wall together along the first and second walls' perimeter, to define therebetween an enclosing space configured to receive and hold therewithin a thermosensitive substrate, while maintaining an opening between the first enclosing wall and second enclosing wall, to allow passage therethrough of the thermosensitive material when said thermosensitive material is in liquid state.

In some examples of the presently disclosed method, when at least one of the first enclosing wall and second enclosing wall comprises a film that is completely water soluble at a humidity of more than 30%, the method comprises introducing into the enclosing space a substrate that has a relatively low water content (i.e. not more than 30%).

In some examples of the presently disclosed method, obtaining the second enclosing wall comprises preparing the second enclosing wall in a same manner of preparing the first enclosing wall.

In some examples of the presently disclosed method, the preparing of the first enclosing wall and obtaining of the second enclosing wall includes preparing a single continuous enclosing wall in same manner as preparing the first enclosing wall, the first enclosing wall and the second enclosing walls and folding the continuous enclosing wall to form the enclosing space between a first portion of the single continuous enclosing wall that constitutes said first enclosing wall, and a second portion of the single continuous enclosing wall that constitutes said second enclosing wall.

In some examples of the presently disclosed method, the connecting comprises placing the non-perforated film proximal to the enclosing space.

In some examples of the presently disclosed method, the connecting of at least one perforated film, if such is used, with the non-perforated film together comprises welding portions of the films.

In some examples of the presently disclosed method, the connecting of the first enclosing wall and of the second enclosing walls together comprises welding the first enclosing wall and the second enclosing wall along part of each walls' perimeter.

The presently disclosed subject matter also concerns a method for preparing the presently disclosed protection article. The method comprises providing the carrier device of the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, where at least part of the first enclosing wall and the second enclosing wall are spaced apart to form a passage for introduction of liquid into the enclosing space between the first enclosing wall and the second enclosing wall; introducing into the enclosing space, through the passage, substrate forming material, when being in liquid state, typically it comprising a thermosensitive gel material; allowing the substrate forming material to solidify; and optionally sealing said passage.

In some examples, the method comprises heating the substrate gel material (i.e. thermosensitive gel when already including nutrient composition) to liquify the material, so as to allow its introduction or pouring into the interior space of the device that constitutes the enclosing device.

In some examples, the method comprises cooling of the thermosensitive gel once within the enclosing space of the device.

In some examples, the cooling is passive cooling, i.e. allowing the device including the gel in its enclosing space to cool at the surrounding, e.g. room, temperature.

In some examples, the cooling is active cooling, e.g. by placing the device including the gel in a cooling chamber or by blowing cooled air onto the carrier holding the gel.

In some examples, the passage is sealed by welding/gluing/machine fastening the first enclosing wall and the second enclosing wall, at least along each wall's perimeter to thereby provide the protection article of the third aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter.

Notably, cooling of the substrate forming material to allow it to solidify can be performed before, during as well as/or after said sealing of the passage.

The presently disclosed subject matter also concerns a method for preserving consumer, the method comprising holding a consumer goods in vicinity with the protection article of the third aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter.

In some examples, the method requires holding the consumer goods in vicinity with the protection article comprises placing the protection article and the consumer goods within a same package. It is to be understood herein that although the present description has been provided with respect to the carrier devices for receiving and holding preservation products in liquid state, the disclosed carrier devices can be used to receive and hold any thermosensitive gel material that require to be fed into the carrier device in its liquid state and requires the flow of microorganisms and water vapor therethrough, while the carrier device prevents flow of the thermosensitive gel material therethrough.

Reference is now made to Figures 1A-1C schematically illustrating components of a carrier device 10 according to some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, before assembly (Figs. 1A-1B) and after assembly (Fig. 1 C).

For simplicity, like reference numerals to those used in Fig. 1A, are used also in Figs. 1B-1C, with Fig. 1A illustrating unassembled components of a carrier device; Fig. IB illustrates unassembled components of a carrier device comprising one wall comprising two perforated films, according to the perforated device aspect disclosed herein; and Fig. 1C illustrates a carrier device from the components of Fig. 1 A, and holding the insert after the thermosensitive gel material solidified.

Specifically, as illustrated, components of carrier device 10 includes enclosing walls 12 and 22. In the schematic illustration of Fig. 1A, enclosing wall 12 is water insoluble, and enclosing wall 22 is water soluble.

Fig. IB illustrates that first enclosing wall 12 includes a first perforated film 12A and a second perforated film 12B. The first perforated film 12A and the second perforated film 12B, each comprise, respectively, array of holes 14A and 14B.

Second enclosing wall 22 includes a water soluble film.

Fig. 1C illustrates a protection article 100 including a carrier device 10 enclosing within the enclosing space formed between enclosing wall 112 and enclosing wall 122 a preservation insert G. The enclosing wall 112 and enclosing wall 122 are connected and seal the enclosing space by welding lines WL.

Claims

1. A carrier device comprising: at least a first enclosing wall and a second enclosing wall that are connected to each other at least along part of each walls' perimeter, said first enclosing wall and said second enclosing wall defining therebetween an enclosing space configured to receive and hold therewithin a substrate comprising a nutrient composition for microorganism growth, wherein, at least one of the first enclosing wall and second enclosing wall comprise a film having a water-soluble portion.

2. The carrier device of claim 1, wherein the first enclosing wall and the second enclosing wall are connected to each other along each walls' essentially entire perimeter.

3. The carrier device of claim 1 or 2, wherein said the water-soluble portion comprise a water-soluble film.

4. The carrier device of claim 3, wherein said water-soluble film comprises film forming material being completely soluble when exposed to a relative humidity of at least 65%.

5. The carrier device of claim 3 or 4, wherein said water-soluble film is selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), seaweeds, collagen, alginate, pectin, chitosan, pullulan, carrageenan, starch, soybean protein, wheat gluten, com zein, sunflower protein, gelatin, whey, casein.

6. The carrier device of claim 4, wherein said water-soluble film is made of seaweeds.

7. The carrier device of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein at least one of said first enclosing wall and second enclosing wall comprises a water insoluble film and the substrate is a thermosensitive gel.

8. The carrier device of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein at least one of the first enclosing wall and second enclosing wall comprises at least two films, at least one of the at least two films include an array of perforations, and the substrate comprises a thermosensitive gel.

9. The carrier device of claim 8, wherein the at least two films are connected to each other.

10. The carrier device of claim 8 or 9, comprising at least one film including said array of perforations and at least one non-perforated film; wherein said at least one film comprising said array of perforations is a water insoluble film, and said at least one non-perforated film is water-soluble.

11. The carrier device of claim 10, wherein said at least one non-perforated film is proximal to the enclosing space.

12. The carrier device of any one of claims 1 to 11 , wherein at least one of the first enclosing wall and the second enclosing wall comprises at least three films, at least two of the at least three films are perforated films connected to each other, each of the at least two perforated films comprising a respective array of holes, wherein the array of perforations of any first perforated film of the at least two perforated films is offset with respect to the array of perforations of an adjacent second perforated film of said at least two perforated films.

13. The carrier device of claim 12, wherein each hole of the array of perforations of the any first perforated film is offset with respect to each hole of the array of perforations of the adjacent second perforated film.

14. The carrier device of claim 12 or 13, wherein each perforation of each of the array of perforations comprises a corresponding perforation axis extending perpendicular to the perforated film, wherein each perforation axis of the array of perforations of the any first perforated film is spaced apart from each perforation axis of the array of perforations of the second perforated film at least when the any first perforated film extends parallel to the adjacent second perforated film.

15. The carrier device of any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein said offset between the array of perforations of said any first perforated film and the array of perforations of said adjacent second perforated film is configured to prevent leakage of substrate when said substrate is in liquid state within said enclosing space.

16. The carrier device of any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein said array of perforations of said any first perforated film and the array of perforations of the adjacent second perforated film are configured to allow free flow of microorganisms and moisture therethrough and into said enclosing space, once said water-soluble film is at least partially dissolved.

17. The carrier device of any one of claims 12 to 16 wherein the at least two perforated films are configured to at least partially move with respect to each other.

18. The carrier device of claim 17, wherein the connection between the at least two perforated films is configured to maintain the array of perforations of the any first perforated film offset with respect to the array of perforations of the adjacent second perforated film.

19. The carrier device of any one of claims 8 to 18, wherein each perforation has, independently, a maximum cross section within a range of between about 0.05mm and about 6 mm.

20. The carrier device of any one of claims 8 to 19, wherein the at least two films are partially connected to each other by welding.

21. The carrier device of any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the first enclosing wall and second enclosing wall are connected to each other by the welding.

22. The carrier device of any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the first enclosing wall and second enclosing wall constitute portions of a single continuous enclosing wall.

23. The carrier device of any one of claims 7 to 22, wherein said water insoluble film comprises one or more polymers selected from synthetic polymers, naturally occurring polymers and a combination of at least one synthetic polymer and at least one naturally occurring polymer.

24. The carrier device of claim 23, wherein said synthetic polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyolefins, polyacrylonitriles, polybutadienes, polycarbonates, polyamides, ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymers (EVOH), polypropylene, polyethylene, polystyrene, polyurethanes, polylactic acid polyhydroxyalkanoates, polyhydroxybutyrate.

25. The carrier device of claim 23, wherein said naturally occurring polymer is selected from polysaccharides, proteins, gelatin.

26. The carrier device of any one of claims 7 to 25, wherein said substrate comprises thermosensitive gel material.

27. The carrier device of claim 26, wherein said thermosensitive gel material is selected from the group consisting of alginate, methylcellulose (MC), hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC), hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC), carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), gum Arabic, chitosan, pectin, agar, guar gum, xanthan gum, gellan gum, carrageenan, gelatin, dextrin and starch.

28. The carrier device of any one of claims 7 to 27, wherein said thermosensitive substrate is in solid or semi solid state.

29. The carrier device of any one of claims 1 to 28, wherein said nutrient composition comprises one or more of nitrogen containing compounds, carbohydrates, inorganic minerals and salts, fatty acids and vitamins.

30. The carrier device of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein said enclosing wall comprises a at least one film, each of the at least one film being insoluble at a humidity level of up to 30% and is soluble at a humidity above 65% and the substrate contains less than 30% water.

31. The carrier device of any one of claims 1 to 30, being in a form of a sachet configured to hold therewithin the substrate.

32. A protection article comprising a carrier device and enclosed therewithin a substrate; the carrier device comprises an enclosing wall comprising at least a first enclosing wall and a second enclosing wall that are connected to each other at least along part of each walls' perimeter, said first enclosing wall and said second enclosing wall defining therebetween an enclosing space configured to receive and hold therewithin a substrate comprising a nutrient composition for microorganism growth, wherein, at least one of the first enclosing wall and second enclosing wall comprise a water-soluble portion.

33. The protection article of claim 32, wherein said carrier device is as defined in any one of claims 1 to 31.

34. The protection article of claim 32 or 33, wherein said thermosensitive gel material is a hydrogel.

35. The protection article of any one of claims 32 to 34, wherein said substrate comprises a thermosensitive gel material selected from the group consisting of alginate, methylcellulose (MC), hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC), hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC), carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), gum Arabic, chitosan, pectin, agar, guar gum, xanthan gum, gellan gum, carrageenan, gelatin, dextrin and starch.

36. The protection article of any one of claims 32 to 35, wherein said substrate is in solid or semi solid state at room temperature.

37. The protection article of any one of claims 32 to 36, wherein said nutrient composition comprises one or more of nitrogen containing compounds, carbohydrates, inorganic minerals and salts, fatty acids and vitamins.

38. The protection article of any one of claims 32 to 37, wherein the nutrient composition comprises at least nitrogen containing compounds.

39. The protection article of claim 38 wherein said nitrogen containing compounds comprise one or more of amino acids, peptides, polypeptides and protein hydrolysates.

40. The protection article of claim 38 or 39, wherein a source of said nitrogen containing compounds is any one or combination of animal extract, microorganism extract and plant extract.

41. The protection article of any one of claims 38 to 40, wherein the nutrient composition comprises one or more carbohydrate.

42. The protection article of claim 41, wherein said carbohydrates comprise any one of monosaccharides, di saccharides, oligosaccharides and combination of same.

43. The protection article of claim 42, wherein the carbohydrates are selected from the group consisting of mannitol, arabinose, xylose, glucose, galactose, maltose, raffinose, sucrose, lactose, fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS), sorbitol and combinations of same.

44. The protection article of any one of claims 38 to 43, wherein said nutrient composition comprises inorganic minerals and salts.

45. The protection article of claim 44, wherein said inorganic minerals and salts comprises any one or combination of salts of phosphate, potassium, calcium, zinc, magnesium, manganese and iron.

46. The protection article of any one of claims 38 to 45, wherein said nutrient composition comprises fatty acids.

47. The protection article of claim 46, wherein said fatty acids comprises any one or combination of caprylic acid, capric acid, lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, arachidic acid, behenic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate, polyoxyethylene (40) sorbitan monopalmitate, polyoxyethylene (60) sorbitan monostearate, polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate.

48. The protection article of any one of claims 38 to 47, wherein said nutrient composition comprises at least one vitamin.

49. The protection article of claim 48, wherein said at least one vitamin comprises any one or combination of niacin (Vitamin B13), Calcium Pantothenate (calcium salt of vitamin B5), Pyroxidine (Vitamin B6) and Vitamin B12.

50. The protection article of any one of claims 38 to 49, wherein said nutrient composition comprises a buffering agent.

51. The protection article of claim 50, wherein said buffering agent comprises any one or combination of phosphoric acid, citric acid, lactic acid and glycine.

52. The protection article of any one of claims 38 to 51, wherein said nutrient composition has a pH in a range of 5.5 and 7.

53. A consumer goods package comprising consumer goods to be preserved and a protection article according to any one of claims 32 to 52.

54. The consumer goods package of claim 53, wherein said consumer goods comprises food item.

55. The consumer goods package of claim 54, wherein said food item includes vegetables or fruits.

56. The consumer goods package of any one of claims 53 to 55, having a shelf life that is extended by at least 10% as compared to the same consumer goods, when the consumer goods are packed and stored under the same conditions, without the protection article.

57. The consumer goods package of any one of claims 53 to 56 comprising said protection article and a planter holding soil, the protection article being embedded within the soil.

58. A method for manufacturing a carrier device configured for receiving and holding therewithin a thermosensitive substrate, the method comprising: preparing an enclosing wall comprising at least a first enclosing wall and a second enclosing wall, at least one of the first enclosing wall and the second enclosing wall comprises a water-soluble portion; and connecting the first enclosing wall and the second enclosing wall together along the first and second walls' perimeter, to define therebetween an enclosing space configured to receive and hold therewithin a thermosensitive substrate, while maintaining an opening between the first enclosing wall and second enclosing wall, to allow passage therethrough of the thermosensitive material when said thermosensitive material is in liquid state.

59. The method of claim 58, comprising preparing the first enclosing wall by obtaining at least one perforated film and connecting said at least one perforated film comprising an array of perforations with at least one non-perforated film, the at least one non-perforated film comprising the water-soluble portion; and obtaining a second enclosing wall; and connecting the first enclosing wall and the second enclosing wall together along the first and second walls' perimeter, to define therebetween an enclosing space configured to receive and hold therewithin a thermosensitive substrate, while maintaining an opening between the first enclosing wall and second enclosing wall, to allow passage therethrough of the thermosensitive material when said thermosensitive material is in liquid state.

60. The method of claim 58, wherein said first enclosing wall comprises two perforated films, the method comprising obtaining the at least two perforated films, each of the at least two perforated films comprising a respective array of perforations; and connecting said at least two perforated films together while maintaining the array of perforations of a first perforated film of said at least two perforated films offset with respect to the array of perforations of a second perforated film of said at least two perforated films adjacent said first perforated film, connecting said at least two perforated films with said at least one non-perforated film to form the first enclosing wall, at least a portion of any of the at least two perforated films is water soluble; and connecting the first enclosing wall and the second enclosing wall together along the first and second walls' perimeter, to define therebetween an enclosing space configured to receive and hold therewithin a thermosensitive substrate, while maintaining an opening between the first enclosing wall and second enclosing wall, to allow passage therethrough of the thermosensitive material when said thermosensitive material is in liquid state.

61. The method of any one of claims 58 to 60, wherein obtaining the second enclosing wall comprises preparing the second enclosing wall in the same manner as preparing the first enclosing wall.

62. The method of any one of claims 58 to 60, wherein preparing the first enclosing wall and obtaining the second enclosing wall include preparing a single continuous enclosing wall in same manner as preparing the first enclosing wall, said first enclosing wall and said second enclosing walls and folding the continuous enclosing wall to form the enclosing space between a first portion of the single continuous enclosing wall that constitutes said first enclosing wall, and a second portion of the single continuous enclosing wall that constitutes said second enclosing wall.

63. The method of any one of claims 58 to 62, wherein said connecting comprises placing said non-perforated film proximal to said enclosing space.

64. The method of any one of claims 59 to 63, wherein connecting the at least one perforated film with the non-perforated film together comprises welding portions of the films.

65. The method of any one of claims 58 to 63, wherein connecting the first enclosing wall and the second enclosing walls together comprises welding the first enclosing wall and the second enclosing wall along part of each walls' perimeter.

66. A method for preparing a protection article for preserving consumer goods, the method comprising: providing a carrier device as defined any one of claims 1 to 31, where at least part of the first enclosing wall and the second enclosing wall are spaced apart to form a passage into the enclosing space between the first enclosing wall and the second enclosing wall; introducing into said enclosing space, through said passage, thermosensitive gel material in liquid state; allowing said thermosensitive gel material to solidify; and optionally sealing said passage.

67. The method of claim 66, wherein said solidification is by cooling said thermosensitive gel material.

68. The method of claim 66 or 67, wherein said passage is sealed by welding the first enclosing wall and the second enclosing wall, at least along each wall's perimeter.

69. A method for preserving consumer goods, the method comprising holding consumer goods in vicinity with a protection article as defined in any one of claims 32 to 52.

70. The method of claim 69, wherein said holding the consumer goods in vicinity with said protection article comprises placing said protection article and the consumer goods within a same package.