Abstract: A nozzle, such as a nozzle for use as a part of a beverage preparation package. The nozzle may include a nozzle body with a conduit, the conduit having an inlet end and an outlet end. The nozzle may also include a plug that is connected to the nozzle body in a detachable manner. The plug and the conduit may be configured such that, when the plug is detached from the nozzle body, the plug is adapted to travel along the conduit and be retained within the conduit at the outlet end such that fluid can flow through the conduit from the inlet end towards the outlet end.

Abstract: A paper cup and a method of forming the same. The paper cup may include a sidewall and a floor portion that collectively define a cavity. In one aspect, the paper cup may include a rim that is coated with a rigid shell that encapsulates the rim. In another aspect, a void defined by a rim of the paper cup may be filled with a rigid filler material, and the rigid filler material may be one that expands upon application of heat thereto. In yet another aspect, the paper cup may include a separate rim component that is attached to the sidewall. The separate rim component may be formed from molded pulp fibers, and it may include a flange portion that is attached to the sidewall and a rim portion that protrudes from the sidewall.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a nozzle (240). In particular, a nozzle for use as part of a beverage preparation package. The nozzle comprises a nozzle body (246) with a conduit (242), the conduit having an inlet end (254) and an outlet end (256), and a plug (248) that is connected to the nozzle body in a detachable manner. The plug and the conduit are configured such that, when the plug is detached from the nozzle body, the plug is adapted to travel along the conduit and be retained within the conduit at the outlet end such that fluid can flow through the conduit from the inlet end towards the outlet end.