Abstract: A spill resistant item of cutlery, the spill resistant item of cutlery being flexible and having a longitudinally extending elongate member that includes a tubular retaining portion proximate a first end thereof and a gripping portion having a rigid inner portion and a flexible outer portion proximate a second end opposing the first end. In the arrangement of the invention, the tubular retaining portion has an interior retaining surface defining a retaining portion cavity, and the tubular retaining portion further includes a food inlet in fluid communication with the retaining portion cavity. The spill resistant item of cutlery provides an apparatus and assistance member for assisted and self-feeding.

Abstract: A lid (1) for a drinks container has a mouthpiece (6) provided with a valve (2) which comprises a membrane (7) of resiliently flexible material formed generally at its center with at least one slit or other piercing (8) which is normally sealed. The membrane (7) is dished inwardly of the mouthpiece, but when suction is applied, it is caused to invert to allow liquid to be drawn through its slit(s) (8). The valve (2) may instead be provided in the top of a drinks carton or in the end of a drinking straw.

Abstract: A drinking vessel suitable for use as a trainer cup or the like comprises an open-mouthed generally cup-shaped container (2) and a lid (5) for the open mouth of the container. The lid has a mouthpiece (7) associated with it. Valve means (18) are provided to prevent flow of liquid from the interior of the container through the mouthpiece unless a predetermined level of suction is applied to the mouthpiece. Suction alone may be sufficient to withdraw liquid from the trainer cup.