Abstract:
A packaging system for food stuff comprising a primary container and a secondary container wherein said primary container is adapted for enclosure of said secondary container; said secondary container attached to an openable portion of said primary container.

Description:
[0001]    The present invention relates to edible compositions or combinations and packaging of food items and, more particularly of such food items for pet animals. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    The keeping for pleasure, companionship and in some case usefulness of animals is a feature of many societies. The practice of feeding of such animals ranges from reliance of scraps and scavenging by the animal to specially prepared “gourmet” dishes, particularly for domestic pet animals such as cats and dogs. 
         [0003]    The industry providing pre-cooked and packaged foods, particularly for cats and dogs is very large and extremely competitive. Manufacturers are continually in search of new marketing opportunities, products and packaging presentation. 
         [0004]    Many such food preparations are of a consistency where they are messy and inconvenient to extract from their packaging and often a wasteful residue is left clinging to the inside surfaces of the packaging in such cases. Moreover many do not provided for a balanced diet desirable to maintain the health of an animal. 
         [0005]    Yet other pet food preparations are of a single dry composition offering little variety in the diet of the consuming animal. 
         [0006]    Animals frequently require vitamin, conditioning and regular various preventative and curative medicinal supplements. These are often difficult to administer and require inconvenient additional acquisition, storage and a discipline regime to maintain correct and regular dosage. 
         [0007]    It is an object of the present invention to address or ameliorate some of the above disadvantages. 
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION 
       [0008]    Accordingly in one broad form of the invention there is provided a packaging system for food stuff comprising a primary container and a secondary container wherein said primary container is adapted for enclosure of said secondary container; said secondary container attached to an openable portion of said primary container. 
         [0009]    Preferably said primary container is a plastic container provided with a plastic peel-off cover. 
         [0010]    Preferably said secondary container is a plastic sachet attached to the underside of said plastic peel-off cover. 
         [0011]    Preferably said sachet is provided with a line of weakness adapted to split so as to provide an opening in at least one surface of said sachet when said plastic peel-off cover and said sachet are suitably manipulated. 
         [0012]    Preferably said primary container is a tin can. 
         [0013]    Preferably said secondary container is a plastic sachet attached to the underside of one end of said tin can. 
         [0014]    Preferably said primary container is filled with prepared main ingredients for a meal. 
         [0015]    Preferably said sachet is filled with an ancillary ingredient. 
         [0016]    Preferably said ancillary ingredient is a sauce. 
         [0017]    Preferably said ancillary ingredient is a gravy. 
         [0018]    Preferably said ancillary ingredient is a condiment. 
         [0019]    Preferably said ancillary ingredient is a flavouring agent. 
         [0020]    Preferably said ancillary ingredient is a vitamin supplement. 
         [0021]    Preferably said ancillary ingredient is a medicinal supplement. 
         [0022]    Preferably said primary container filled with said prepared main ingredients is made available with a range of ancillary ingredients in said sachet. 
         [0023]    Preferably said primary container is provided with indicia indicating contents of said sachet. 
         [0024]    Accordingly in a further broad form of the invention there is provided a method of supplying an ancillary ingredient with prepared foodstuffs; said method including the steps of:
       (a) providing a container system comprising of a primary container enclosing a secondary container,   (b) filling said primary container with main ingredients for a prepared meal,   (c) filling said secondary container with an ancillary ingredient for said prepared meal.       
 
         [0028]    Preferably said primary container is a plastic container with a peel-off lid. 
         [0029]    Preferably said secondary container is a sachet attached to an underside of said peel-off lid. 
         [0030]    Preferably said primary container is a tin can. 
         [0031]    Preferably said secondary container is a sachet attached to an underside of one end of said tin can. 
         [0032]    In yet a further broad form of the invention there is provided a food product comprising an arrangement of packaging and a composition of food; said composition of food comprising at least one outer edible portion and at least one inner edible portion; said outer edible portion providing at least a partial containing enclosure for said at least one inner edible portion so as to allow extraction of said composition of food from said packaging in one contiguous whole. 
         [0033]    Preferably said outer edible portion is comprised of a layer of crust-like material of a shape conforming to inside surfaces of at least a portion of said packaging. 
         [0034]    Preferably said crust-like material is comprised of a hardened base portion and softer upwardly extending side portions. 
         [0035]    Preferably said outer edible portion is adapted to retain said shape for the shelf life of said composition and between removal from said packaging and consumption. 
         [0036]    Preferably at least one outer edible portion and said at least one inner edible portion are enclosed in a foil sachet; said sachet formed as an elongate sleeve of oval section; said sleeve closed at a first top end and a second bottom end; said closed top end provided with a tear off portion. 
         [0037]    Preferably said at least one outer edible portion comprises a first outer portion and a second outer portion; each of said first and second outer portions shaped so as to leave a generally cylindrical space between them for filling with said a said inner edible portion; each of said outer and inner edible portions extending substantially the length of said elongate sleeve. 
         [0038]    Preferably said composition of food is comprised of any ingredients suitable for consumption by domestic pet animals. 
         [0039]    Preferably said composition of food includes a separate food ingredient. 
         [0040]    Preferably wherein said separate food ingredient is a gravy. 
         [0041]    Preferably said separate food ingredient is a sauce. 
         [0042]    Preferably said separate food ingredient is enclosed in a sachet. 
         [0043]    Preferably said separate food ingredient is enclosed in a second compartment located in lower section of said packaging. 
         [0044]    Preferably said packaging is comprised of a base portion and a closure portion. 
         [0045]    Preferably said base portion is provided with a first closure portion sealing against an upper rim of said base portion and a second closure portion sealing said second compartment. 
         [0046]    Preferably said first closure portion is comprised of a sheet foil or plastic peel-off lid attached to said rim of said base portion by suitable adhering means. 
         [0047]    Preferably said second closure portion is a sheet of foil attached at an intermediate step or shoulder of said base portion so as to seal said second compartment. 
         [0048]    Preferably said sachet is attached to the underside of said peel-off lid. 
         [0049]    Preferably said sachet is provided loose; said sachet lying in a depression under said peel-off lid. 
         [0050]    Preferably said packaging is a cylindrical can. 
         [0051]    Preferably said sachet is attached to the inside surface of the upper end of said cylindrical can. 
         [0052]    Preferably said sachet is provided loose; said sachet lying in a depression under said upper end of said cylindrical can. 
         [0053]    Preferably said at least one inner edible portion is comprised of a biscuit-like material. 
         [0054]    Preferably said at least one inner edible portion is provided with a cavity adapted to retain a protein source. 
         [0055]    Preferably said biscuit-like material is formed in the likeness of a bone. 
         [0056]    Preferably said outer edible portion is substantially comprised of a meat preparation. 
         [0057]    Preferably said packaging is comprised of a plastic sheath shaped so as to resemble a sausage. 
         [0058]    Preferably said plastic sheath is provided with a zipper portion extending substantially the length of said sheath; said zipper portion adapted to allow ejection of said edible composition from said sheath as a contiguous whole. 
         [0059]    Preferably said composition of food includes a separate supplement. 
         [0060]    Preferably said supplement is a vitamin supplement. 
         [0061]    Preferably said supplement is a condition enhancing supplement. 
         [0062]    Preferably said supplement is a curative medicinal supplement. 
         [0063]    Preferably said supplement is a preventative medicinal supplement. 
         [0064]    Preferably said supplement is retained in a cavity formed in an edible portion of said composition of food. 
         [0065]    Preferably said supplement is retained in a sachet. 
         [0066]    Preferably said sachet is attached to the inside of a cover portion of said packaging. 
         [0067]    In yet a further broad form of the invention there is provided a method of presenting a food composition to a domestic pet animal; said method including the steps of:
       (a) preparing said food composition as an inner edible portion and an outer edible portion,   (b) including said food composition in a packaging comprising a base portion and a peel-off lid portion,   (c) removing said food composition from said packaging,   (d) placing said food composition for consumption by said animal.       
 
         [0072]    Preferably said outer edible portion is in the form of a layer of crust-like material shaped so as to conform to inside surfaces of said packaging. 
         [0073]    Preferably said inner edible portion is comprised of any composition of food ingredients suitable for feeding of said domestic pet animal. 
         [0074]    In yet a further broad form of the invention there is provided a method of presenting a packaged food composition and a mixable separate food ingredient to a domestic pet animal; said method including the steps of: 
         [0075]    (e) preparing said food composition for enclosure in a package comprising a base portion and a peel-off lid portion,
       (f) enclosing said mixable separate food ingredient in a sachet,   (g) attaching said sachet to the underside of said peel-off lid portion,   (h) removing said food composition from said package,   (i) removing said mixable food ingredient from said sachet for distribution over said food composition.       
 
         [0080]    In yet a further broad form of the invention there is provided a nutritional composition for animals comprising three juxtaposed nutrient structures; a first nutrient structure comprising a liquid carrier containing a protein source; a second nutrient structure comprising a substantially solid carrier containing a fibre source; a third nutritional structure comprising a bulk gel carrier containing a carbohydrate source. 
         [0081]    Preferably said protein source is at least partially provided in a separate gravy food ingredient. 
         [0082]    Preferably said protein source is at least partially provided in a separate sauce food ingredient. 
         [0083]    Preferably said fibre source is substantially provided in a biscuit-like portion of said composition. 
         [0084]    Preferably said carbohydrate source is substantially provided in said biscuit like portion of said composition. 
         [0085]    Preferably said substantially solid carrier forms at least a partial enclosure for said bulk gel carrier; said partial enclosure including a base portion and side portions. 
         [0086]    Preferably said substantially solid carrier forms a complete enclosure of said bulk gel carrier. 
         [0087]    Preferably said composition is enclosed in packaging. 
         [0088]    Preferably said liquid carrier is enclosed in a sachet included within said packaging. 
         [0089]    Preferably said packaging is comprised of a base portion and at least one closure portion. 
         [0090]    Preferably said base portion and said at least one closure portion are formed of plastic or foil. 
         [0091]    Preferably said liquid carrier is enclosed in a cavity provided in said substantially solid carrier. 
         [0092]    Preferably said liquid carrier is enclosed in a second sealed compartment of said packaging. 
         [0093]    Preferably said substantially solid carrier is enveloped in said bulk gel carrier. 
         [0094]    Preferably said composition is enclosed in packaging. 
         [0095]    Preferably said packaging is comprised of a plastic sheath. 
         [0096]    In yet a further broad form of the invention there is provided a nutritional composition for animals comprising two juxtaposed nutrient structures; a first nutrient structure comprising a liquid carrier containing a protein source and a second nutrient structure comprising a substantially solid carrier containing a fibre source. 
         [0097]    Preferably said composition includes a further nutrient structure comprising a bulk gel carrier containing a carbohydrate source. 
         [0098]    In yet a further broad form of the invention there is provided a nutritional composition for animals comprising two juxtaposed nutrient structures; a first nutrient structure comprising a substantially solid carrier containing a fibre source and a second nutritional structure comprising a bulk gel carrier containing a carbohydrate source. 
         [0099]    Preferably said composition includes a further nutrient structure comprising a liquid carrier containing a protein source. 
         [0100]    In yet a further broad form of the invention there is provided a nutritional composition for animals comprising two juxtaposed nutrient structures; a first nutrient structure comprising a liquid carrier containing a protein source and a second nutritional structure comprising a bulk gel carrier containing a carbohydrate source. 
         [0101]    Preferably said composition includes a further nutrient structure comprising a substantially solid carrier containing a fibre source. 
         [0102]    In yet a further broad form of the invention there is provided a packaging for a nutritional composition for animals; said packaging comprising at least a first sheet and a second sheet of a foil material; each said first sheet and said second sheet wrapped to form an elongate generally oval section envelope wherein corresponding pairs of opposing edges of each said sheet are brought together to form a common seam extending the length of said oval section so as to define a first inner enclosure and a second outer enclosure. 
         [0103]    Preferably upper and lower ends of each said elongate oval section of said inner and outer enclosures are sealed. 
         [0104]    Preferably an upper portion of said packaging is provided with a frangible area adapted for removal of said upper portion. 
         [0105]    Preferably said inner enclosure is adapted to contain a flowable nutritional substance; said second outer enclosure is adapted to contain a relatively solid kibble composition. 
         [0106]    In a further broad form of the invention there is provided a packaging for a nutritional composition for animals; said packaging formed of layers of at least three generally rectangular sheets of a foil material; each of said sheets joined together at corresponding first pairs of opposing edges; and wherein dimensions between said first pairs of opposing edges of successive sheets increase from a first uppermost sheet to a lowermost sheet; said first uppermost sheet forming a generally flat surface with each successive lower sheet assuming a concave form so as to form a first enclosure between said uppermost sheet and an intermediate lower sheet and a second enclosure between said intermediate lower sheet and said lowermost sheet. 
         [0107]    In yet a further broad form of the invention there is provided a packaging for a nutritional composition for animals; said packaging shaped in section as dog bone; said packaging divided into three compartments comprising two outer compartments and middle compartments; said packaging further comprising a rear closure panel and a front closure panel. 
         [0108]    Preferably said front closure panel includes a removable portion. 
         [0109]    Preferably said outer compartments are adapted to contain relatively solid kibble nutritional compositions; said middle compartment adapted to contain a flowable substance. 
         [0110]    Preferably said flowable substance is a gravy. 
         [0111]    Preferably said flowable substance is a therapeutic substance. 
         [0112]    Preferably said two outer compartments contain relatively flowable edible compositions. 
         [0113]    In yet a further broad form of the invention there is provided a packaging for a nutritional composition for animals; said packaging shaped in section as a fish; said packaging divided into three compartments comprising two outer compartments and a middle compartment; said packaging comprising a base portion; said outer compartments and a middle compartment defined by an outer shell with dividing elements extending upwards from said base portion; said packaging further including a sealing cover releasably attached to upper edges of said outer shell and said dividing elements. 
         [0114]    Preferably said outer compartments are adapted to contain flowable edible compositions; said middle compartment adapted to contain a relatively solid kibble nutritional composition. 
         [0115]    Preferably said flowable composition is a gravy. 
         [0116]    Preferably said flowable composition is a therapeutic substance. 
         [0117]    Preferably said middle compartment contains a relatively flowable edible compositions; said two outer compartments containing a relatively solid edible composition. 
         [0118]    In yet a further broad form of the invention there is provided a packaging containing at least two edible compositions for pet animals; said packaging in the form of a container comprising a base portion and side portions extending upwardly from said base portion; said container divided into an upper compartment containing a first of said at least two edible compositions, and a lower compartment containing a second of said at least two edible compositions; said upper compartment and said lower compartment separated by a dividing element; wherein a first of said at least two edible compositions comprises an outer edible portion at least partially enclosing an inner edible portion, and wherein a second of said at least two edible compositions comprises a flowable nutritional substance. 
         [0119]    Preferably said outer edible portion comprises a crust of biscuit-like material forming a base portion and at least upwardly extending side portions; said base portion and said side portions substantially conforming to inner surfaces of said upper compartment. 
         [0120]    In yet a further broad form of the invention there is provided an edible composition and packaging for pet animals; said packaging in the form of a bowl-like outer shell comprising a base portion and sides extending upwardly to an outer peripheral rim; said packaging including an integrally formed internal receptacle extending upwardly from said base portion to an inner peripheral rim; said bowl-like outer shell and said internal receptacle forming a first outer edible composition containing portion and a second internal edible composition containing portion. 
         [0121]    Preferably said outer rim and said inner rim lie in a common plane. 
         [0122]    Preferably said packaging further includes a cover portion adapted for sealing engagement with said outer rim and said inner rim. 
         [0123]    Preferably said outer edible composition comprises a generally solid food composition. 
         [0124]    Preferably said inner edible composition comprises a flowable food composition. 
         [0125]    Preferably said generally solid food composition comprises an outer crust of biscuit-like material at least partially enclosing an inner kibble and gel composition. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
         [0126]    Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein: 
           [0127]      FIG. 1  is a sectioned elevation view of a packaging for an edible composition according to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0128]      FIG. 2  is a perspective view of the packaging of  FIG. 1  at a first stage of use. 
           [0129]      FIG. 3  is a perspective view of the packaging of  FIGS. 1 and 2  at a second stage of use. 
           [0130]      FIG. 4  is a cross sectioned elevation view of a packaging for an edible composition according to a second preferred embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0131]      FIG. 5  is a perspective view of the packaging of  FIG. 4  at a first stage of use. 
           [0132]      FIG. 6  is a cross section elevation through a preferred embodiment of an edible composition and packaging according to the invention. 
           [0133]      FIG. 7  is a perspective view of the edible composition and packaging of  FIG. 6  with the peel-off cover portion removed. 
           [0134]      FIG. 8  is a side elevation view of the edible composition and packaging of  FIGS. 6 and 7  with the peel-off cover portion partially removed from the packaging revealing a sachet of separate food ingredient attached to the underside of the cover. 
           [0135]      FIG. 9  is a sectioned view of a further embodiment of an edible composition and packaging according to the invention. 
           [0136]      FIGS. 10 and 11  are sectioned views of further embodiments of an edible composition and packaging according to the invention. 
           [0137]      FIG. 12  is a sectioned view of yet a further embodiment of an edible composition and packaging according to the invention. 
           [0138]      FIG. 13  is a sectioned view of a further embodiment of an edible composition and packaging. 
           [0139]      FIG. 14A  is a sectioned view of a further embodiment of an edible composition and packaging. 
           [0140]      FIG. 14B  is a perspective view of the edible composition and packaging of  FIG. 14A . 
           [0141]      FIG. 15A  is a sectioned view of a further embodiment of an edible composition and packaging. 
           [0142]      FIG. 15B  is a perspective view of the edible composition and packaging of  FIG. 15A . 
           [0143]      FIG. 16A  is a sectioned view of a further embodiment of an edible composition and packaging. 
           [0144]      FIG. 16B  is a perspective view of the edible composition and packaging of  FIG. 16A . 
           [0145]      FIG. 17A  is a sectioned view of a further embodiment of an edible composition and packaging. 
           [0146]      FIG. 17B  is a perspective view of the edible composition and packaging of  FIG. 17A  with a front closure panel removed. 
           [0147]      FIG. 17C  is a perspective view of the edible composition and packaging of  FIG. 17A  with a pull-off portion of a front closure panel removed, 
           [0148]      FIG. 18  is a perspective view of a further preferred embodiment of a packaging for an edible composition, 
           [0149]      FIG. 19  is a sectioned view of the packaging of  FIG. 18  with two edible compositions. 
           [0150]      FIGS. 20A and 20B  are perspective views of a further preferred embodiment of a packaging for an edible composition, 
           [0151]      FIG. 21  is a plan view of the packaging of  FIGS. 20A and 20B  with cover removed. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
       [0152]    The present invention seeks to provide combinations of three main elements desirable in a pet food, that is, taste, texture and nutrition, in a variety of compositions and packaging. The three elements according to the present invention may be incorporated in any one or in all of a number of disparate edible components within any of the preferred embodiments of packaging described in detail below. 
       First Preferred Embodiment 
       [0153]    With reference to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , a packaging system  10  according to a first preferred embodiment of the invention comprises a plastic primary container  12  with a peel-off plastic cover  14 . Typically, plastic cover  14  may be provided with a pull-up tab  16  provided at a corner of the container  12 , or in the case of a circular or oval container, at a suitable projecting extension. Such a tab typically also overlies a tab portion  18  of the rim  20  of the container  12  and divided from the main part of the rim  18  by a weakened line  22  adapted to allow the tab portion of the rim to be separated and together with the tab portion of the cover provide a grasping portion for pulling the cover free of the rim. 
         [0154]    Primary container  12  and cover  14  enclose a secondary container attached to the underside of the cover  14  in the form of a sachet  24 , for containing ancillary ingredient  26 . Preferably, sachet  24  is so sized relative to the volume of container  12  as to provide a satisfactory effect of the ancillary ingredient on the primary ingredients  28  of the container when the contents of the sachet are applied to those contents. 
         [0155]    In this first embodiment, as best seen in  FIG. 3 , the sachet  24  is accommodated by a depression  30  in primary contents  28 . In at least one preferred form of this embodiment, sachet  24  may be provided with a split line  32  substantially extending the length of the underside  34  of the sachet. Split line  32  is a zone of weakened plastic adapted to split when the flexible peel-off cover  14  is manipulated by bending action transverse to the direction of the split line so as to provide an opening for the ejection of the ancillary ingredient. 
       Second Preferred Embodiment 
       [0156]    In a second preferred embodiment with reference to  FIGS. 4 and 5 , a packaging system  100  comprises a tin can  102  having bottom and top ends  104  and  106  respectively and cylindrical sides  108 . In this embodiment, ancillary ingredients  108  or contained in a sachet  110  attached to the under side of top end  106 . In this embodiment also, the volume of sachet  110  is sized relative to the volume of tin can  102  so as to provide a satisfactory effect of the ancillary ingredient on the primary ingredients  112  of the container when the contents of the sachet are applied to those primary ingredients. 
         [0157]    In at least one preferred form of this embodiment, sachet  110  is detachable from the underside surface  114  of top end  106  by means of a pull-tab  116 . Sachet  110  may then be opened by means of for example, an area of weakness susceptible to manipulation and parting so as to provide an opening in the sachet, or by cutting off a corner of the sachet with a suitable cutting instrument. 
         [0158]    A sachet containing an ancillary ingredient may be attached to an inside surface of any suitable container of foodstuff, and need not be restricted to the containers of the two embodiments described above. Thus a sachet with flavouring for example may be attached to the inside of an ice cream container, or a variety of sauce may be supplied inside a tin of fish. 
         [0159]    A particular primary ingredient may be suitable for consumption with a variety of ancillary ingredients. Primary containers may then be supplied with indicia indicating the nature of the particular ancillary ingredient contained in the sachet. 
         [0160]    In further preferred embodiments of the present invention the sachet may be used as a carrier for supplements of vitamins as well as both preventative and curative medicinal compounds. 
       Third Preferred Embodiment 
       [0161]    With reference to  FIG. 6  a packaged edible composition of pet food  210  is comprised of an outer edible portion  212  and an inner edible portion  214  enclosed in a package  216  comprised of outer shell  218  and peel-off cover portion  220 . 
         [0162]    The edible outer portion  212  is, in at least one preferred form of this embodiment, composed of a layer of crust-like material forming a container adapted to at least partly enclose and retain the edible inner portion  214  such that the inner edible portion  214  is not in contact with the inner surface  222  of outer shell  218  of package  216 . The layer of crust-like material may be a biscuit composition for example and is shaped to conform to the inner surface  222  of the outer shell  218  of package  216 . In at least one further preferred form, the edible outer portion  212  may be a pastry type crust. 
         [0163]    Preferably, though not necessarily, the base portion  224  of outer edible portion  212  is of a thicker or harder composition then the upwardly extending edge portions  226 . In at least one preferred form, outer edible portion  212  or at least the base portion thereof is of a composition adapted to provide fiber in the diet of the animal. 
         [0164]    Regardless of the composition of outer edible portion  212 , it is adapted to retain its original shape as packaged as well as its properties of retention of the inner edible portion for the shelf life of the product. As well, its properties are such as to not stick to the inner surface  222  of the package so that both inner and outer edible portions are readily removable from the package when required for use and the shape of the edible composition retained until addressed by a consuming animal. 
         [0165]    The inner edible portion  214  may be comprised of any suitable pet food such as for example chunks of meat held in a matrix of a gel and is formulated for properties of taste, texture and nutrition. Alternatively, the inner edible portion may consist of dry palletized food ingredients. 
         [0166]    Also with reference to  FIG. 6 , packaged edible composition  210  includes a mixable separate food ingredient  228 . Food ingredient  228  is contained in a sachet  230  and, as may best be seen in  FIG. 7 , is so arranged as to fill a depression  232  generally in the middle of the upper surface  234  of inner edible portion  214 . In at least one preferred form of this embodiment as shown in  FIG. 8 , sachet  230  is attached to the underside  236  of peel-off cover portion  220  of package  216 . 
         [0167]    Separate food ingredient  228  may be a gravy for example or a sauce adapted to add flavour, moisture and nutrition to both the inner edible and outer edible portions of the edible composition. Separate food ingredient  228  may further be formulated as an additional protein source. 
         [0168]    The outer shell  218  of package  216  is preferably formed of compactable and recycled plastic or foil. The peel-off cover portion  220  may be of a suitable foil or plastic sheet material and attached to the rim  238  of outer shell  218  by any suitable means such as for example, an adhesive, or heat or ultrasonic welding. For convenience, package  216  may be provided with an outwardly extending tab portion  240  on outer shell  218  (shown in broken outline in  FIG. 7 ) and a corresponding tab portion  242  on peel-off cover portion  220  as best seen in  FIG. 8 . The base portion tab  240  may be provided with perforations  242  adapted to allow tab  240  to snap off when sufficient force is applied and, by remaining attached to the peel-off cover tab portion  242 , provide a convenient grasping element allowing the peeling off of the cover  220 . 
         [0169]    Package  216  may be of any convenient shape such as circular as shown in  FIGS. 6 to 8  for example, or it may be of oval, square, rectangular, diamond or cylindrical shape. 
         [0170]    In use, the peel-off cover portion  220  is removed from the outer shell  218 . This also pulls the sachet  230 , if attached to the underside of the cover portion, from the depression  232  in inner edible portion  214 . Edible outer portion  212  and edible inner portion  214  are then readily slid out of outer shell  218  of package  216  as a contiguous whole and cleanly deposited for example in the feed bowl of an intended animal consumer. The sachet  230 , may then be pierced and its contents spread over the inner and outer edible portions. 
       Fourth Preferred Embodiment 
       [0171]    In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the outer edible portion is provided as a complete enclosure of the inner edible portion, this being then comprised of a base portion and sides with a lid portion of the same edible composition. 
         [0172]    A particular advantage of the arrangement is its improved shelf life. 
       Fifth Preferred Embodiment 
       [0173]    In yet a further preferred embodiment of the invention with reference to  FIG. 9 , an edible composition  300  comprised of an inner edible portion  310  in the form of a biscuit-like preparation and an outer edible portion  312  substantially in the form of a meat preparation. 
         [0174]    Inner edible portion  310  may for example be shaped as a bone and in at least one preferred form of this embodiment, may include a central cavity  314  filled with an edible gel. The edible gel may range in consistency from a viscous slurry to a near solid. 
         [0175]    Inner edible portion  310  is further preferably formulated so as to provide a source of carbohydrate and fiber to the animal and as well provide a chewable element conducive to its dental health. 
         [0176]    Edible composition  300  in this embodiment is enclosed in packaging comprising a sheath or outer shell  316  of plastic, preferably to provide a sausage shaped package  320  provided with a tear open zipper (not shown). In use the zipper which extends substantially the length of the package is adapted to allow the whole of edible composition  300  to be ejected from the package for placement for example in the feed bowl of an intended animal consumer. 
         [0177]    Edible composition may further be formulated for frozen or refrigerated storage prior to sale and prior to use. 
       Sixth Preferred Embodiment 
       [0178]    In a further preferred embodiment of the invention with reference to  FIGS. 10 and 11 , a packaged edible composition of pet food  400  is comprised of an inner edible portion  402  and an outer edible portion  404  enclosed in a cylindrical sealed can  406 . Outer edible portion  404  in at least one preferred form of this embodiment is composed of a biscuit-like layer conforming to the inside surfaces of at least the sides and base of the can  406 , but may also completely envelop inner edible portion  402  as shown in  FIG. 11 . The inner edible portion may then be comprised of any suitable pet food such as for example chunks of meat in a matrix of a gel. Alternatively, the inner edible portion could be in the form of dry palletized food ingredients. 
         [0179]    In this preferred embodiment also, a mixable separate food ingredient  408  may be supplied in a separate sachet  410  retained between a circular upper end  412  of the can  406  and a depression  414 , either in the upper surface of inner edible portion  414  or, as shown in  FIG. 11 , in a suitable depression in upper portion  416  of outer edible portion  404  where outer edible portion  404  completely encloses the inner edible portion  402 . 
         [0180]    Mixable separate food ingredient may be supplied in a sachet releasable attached to the inside of the circular upper end  412  so that when the lid is removed from the can the sachet is pulled from its retaining depression  414 . 
       Seventh Preferred Embodiment 
       [0181]    With reference to  FIG. 12  packaged edible food composition  500  is provided in a cylindrical can  506  and comprises an outer edible portion  304  and an inner edible portion  502 . In this embodiment it is the inner edible portion  502  which is composed of a biscuit-like material and may be formed for example in the shape of a bone. The outer edible portion  504  may then be comprised of any suitable pet food such as for example chunks of meat held in a matrix of a gel, but could also be comprised of dry pelletized food ingredients. 
         [0182]    A mixable separate food ingredient  508  may be provided in a sachet  510  retained between the circular upper end  512  of can  506  and a depression  514  in the upper surface of outer edible food portion  504 . In this embodiment also, the sachet  510  may be attached to the inside of circular upper end  512 . 
         [0183]    In at least one other preferred form of this embodiment the inner edible portion  502  may be provided with an internal cavity  516  adapted to contain a preferred food supplement such as for example a protein rich composition. 
       Eighth Preferred Embodiment 
       [0184]    With reference to  FIG. 13 , a packaged edible food composition  600  comprises at least two edible compositions  601  and  603 . The first edible composition  601  shown in this embodiment, comprises an inner edible portion  602  and outer edible portion  604  retained in a first upper compartment  606  of packaging  608 . Outer edible portion  604  at least partly encloses inner edible portion  602 , and in the illustrated example comprises a base part and upwardly extending side portions to form a pie-like structure. Packaging  608  is sealed by a peel-off foil or plastic sheet  610  applied to the upper rim  611  of outer shell  612  of the packaging. 
         [0185]    Located in a lower part of outer shell  612  is a second lower compartment  614  of packaging  608 , separated from first upper compartment  606  by a peel-off foil or plastic sheet  616  applied to the inside surface of step or shoulder  618 . 
         [0186]    Outer edible portion  604  may again be formulated as a crust of biscuit-like or pie crust material, substantially conforming to the inner surfaces of the upper compartment  606 , adapted to retain its shape and provide a receptacle for inner edible portion  602 . Inner edible portion may be a meat and gel composition or comprise a dry kibble. 
         [0187]    Second lower compartment  614  may then contain a separate food ingredient, for example a nutritional supplement in liquid or flowable form as a sauce or gravy, for addition to the contents of the first upper compartment  606 . 
         [0188]    In use, the foil or plastic sheet  610  is firstly peeled off the upper rim  611  and the outer and inner edible portions removed. The foil or plastic sheet  616  sealing the second section  614  can then be peeled off shoulder  618  to allow the application of the nutritional supplement or gravy. Alternatively, sheet  616  may be provided with a frangible line (not shown) along a central portion of its surface, which, with manipulation can be pierced to release the nutritional supplement, gravy or sauce retained in second section  614 . 
       Ninth Preferred Embodiment 
       [0189]    With reference to  FIGS. 14A and 14B , an edible food composition  700  is provided in a foil sachet  702 . Sachet  702  is in the form of an elongate sleeve of flattened oval section and is divided into two outer edible food portions  704  and  706  by a third, central inner edible food portion  708 . Each end of sachet  702  is sealed by top and a bottom foil portions  710  and  712  respectively, with the top foil portion  712  arranged for tearing off for use. 
         [0190]    The two outer edible portions  704  and  706  each comprise a substantially solid food composition of kibble pellets suspended in a matrix of nutritional gel, pre-moulded so as to leave between them, when inserted into sachet  702  a cylindrical cavity forming a third portion  708  which may then be filled with a flowable gravy, sauce or nutritional supplement, prior to sealing the sachet, to form an inner edible portion. 
         [0191]    In one preferred form of this embodiment, outer edible portions  704  and  706  are separated by a tubular compartment for containing the flowable gravy. Each of the outer and the inner edible portions extend the length of the elongate sleeve of the sachet  702 . 
         [0192]    Preferably the two kibble-in-gel compositions are of different selected flavours. The sachet may be provided in a range of sizes so as to contain one complete meal for an intended pet animal. 
       Tenth Preferred Embodiment 
       [0193]    With reference to  FIGS. 15A and 15B , an edible composition  800  is contained in an outer foil enclosure  810  forming an elongate oval sectioned shape as best seen in the sectioned view of  FIG. 15A . Sides  812  are formed of a single sheet of foil wrapped to form the oval section shape with opposing edges  814  and  815  brought together to form a seam  818  extending the length of enclosure  810 . 
         [0194]    A similar but smaller dimensioned inner enclosure  820  is also formed from a single sheet of foil wrapped to form an oval section shape with the opposing edges of the sheet also brought together and held between edges  814  and  815  of the outer enclosure  810 . 
         [0195]    The several sheet edges of the inner and outer enclosures are joined together, for example by heat welding, to form an airtight common seam. A base portion  822  may be formed of a separate piece of foil heat welded to the lower edges of the sides of the outer and inner enclosures, but more preferably the lower edges of the two enclosures may be brought into contact and welded to form a lower airtight seam. 
         [0196]    Similarly, the top  824  is also provided with an airtight closure, but here there is provided proximate to the upper end of the enclosures, a frangible tear line  826  or strip by means of which the upper portion of the enclosures may be detached so as to access the contents of the outer and inner enclosures for use. 
         [0197]    Preferably, the smaller volume of the inner enclosure may contain a flowable nutritional supplement  828  such as a gravy, while the larger volume of the outer enclosure contains a relatively solid kibble composition. Flowable supplement  828  may be formulated to include particular dosage of vitamins or therapeutic substances. 
         [0198]    Although the enclosure so far described is for a two part enclosure, it will be appreciated that the invention encompasses embodiments allowing for three separate compartments by the addition of a fourth sheet, for three distinct edible compositions. 
       Eleventh Preferred Embodiment 
       [0199]    In this further preferred embodiment with reference to  FIGS. 16A and 16B , a dual enclosure structure  900  is formed of three separate generally rectangular sheets of foil. A lower outer sheet  910 , an intermediate sheet  912  and an upper outer sheet  914  as best seen in  FIG. 16A . 
         [0200]    The three sheets are gathered together at the opposing longer edges of the sheets and joined, for example by heat welding, to form airtight seams  916  and  918 . Each of ends  920  and  922  are sealed, either by separate pieces of suitably shaped foil or by a gathering together of the corresponding opposing edges and forming airtight end seams. One end  922  is provided with a frangible line or strip by means of which that end of the enclosures may be removed to gain access to the contents. 
         [0201]    The width of each sheet increases from the narrowest of sheet  914  to the widest of sheet  912 , so that the “bellying” of lower outer sheet  910  and, to a lesser extent, that of intermediate sheet  912 , form between them first volume  924  for a first edible composition and second volume  926  for a second edible composition respectively. 
         [0202]    In this embodiment also, it will be appreciated that a third edible composition could be accommodated by providing a further internal looping sheet of foil. 
       Twelfth Preferred Embodiment 
       [0203]    In a further embodiment of an edible composition and packaging with reference to  FIGS. 17A to 17C , a package  1000  is formed in section as an outer shell  1002  with a traditional dog bone shape. Internally, the packaging is divided into three compartments by dividing elements  1001  to form larger volume outer compartments  1004  and  1006  and smaller volume middle compartment  1008 . 
         [0204]    Package  800  is preferably extruded in a relatively flexible plastic material and provided with a rear foil closure panel  1010  (hidden) and a front closure panel  1012 . At least a portion  1014  of front panel  1012  is removable by tearing along a friable line or strip  1016 . Alternatively, the base portion and outer shell  1002  and dividing elements  1001  may be integrally moulded. 
         [0205]    The three compartments of packaging  1000  may be filled with three different edible compositions. Thus for example the two larger volume outer compartments  1004  and  1006  may contain a relatively solid kibble composition while the middle compartment  1008  is filled with a flowable substance such as a gravy. Alternatively, middle compartment  1008  could be used for providing a therapeutic substance either in addition to the flowable substance or as a powder for example. 
         [0206]    When required for use, the pull-off portion  1014  of front panel  1012  is removed and the contents of the package may then be squeezed from it. 
         [0207]    Although the example described above and illustrated in  FIGS. 17A to 17C  is for a dog bone shaped package, it will be readily understood that the internal arrangements may be incorporated in other shapes of packaging, such as for example a fish-shaped package for cat food. 
       Thirteenth Preferred Embodiment 
       [0208]    In still a further preferred embodiment of an edible composition and packaging  1100 , with reference to  FIGS. 18 and 19 , an outer shell  1110  forms a bowl  1112  provided with an integrally formed internal receptacle  1114 . The rims  1116  and  1118  of the outer shell  1110  and the internal receptacle  1114  respectively, lie in a common plane such that a cover portion  1120  can be sealably applied to both rims  1116  and  1118 . The bowl portion  1112  may then be filled with, for example a kibble and gel food composition as described in previous embodiments above, and the internal receptacle  1114  filled with a flowable food composition such as a gravy or a nutritional supplement. 
         [0209]    In one preferred form of this embodiment, the bowl may be provided with projecting stabilising elements  1122  as can be seen in  FIGS. 18 and 19 , allowing it to be used directly as a food bowl for the consuming animal. 
       Fourteenth Preferred Embodiment 
       [0210]    In this preferred embodiment shown in  FIGS. 20A ,  20 B and  FIG. 21 , the arrangement of the packaging  1200  is similar to that described above for the twelfth embodiment, in that the packaging is provided with internal divisions  1210  and  1212  allowing the provision of three separate edible compositions  1214 ,  1216  and  1218  within the one package. 
         [0211]    In a particularly preferred arrangement, the external shell  1220  of the packaging  1200 , is shaped in section as the profile of a fish, and the contents intended primarily, though not necessarily, for consumption by cats. 
         [0212]    The two outer compartments  1222  and  1224  provided by the internal divisions  1210  and  1212 , allow for the provision of two edible compositions, such as two formulations of kibble and gel for example, while the middle smaller compartment  1226  may contain a gravy, sauce or some specific dietary or medicinal supplement. Alternatively, the middle compartment may contain a relatively solid edible composition with the two outer compartments containing flowable edible compositions. 
         [0213]    As shown in  FIGS. 20A and 20B , the packaging comprises the outer fish-shaped shell  1220 , a fish-shaped base (not visible) with sides  1230  and internal divisions  1210  and  1212  rising upwardly from the base. The shell and its internal divisions may be formed by extrusion from a suitable plastic material for example, with the base formed of a foil or film applied to the base, either by an adhesive, heat sealing or other suitable means. Alternatively, the base, outer shell and internal divisions may be integrally moulded. 
         [0214]    The upper edges of the outer shell  1220  and internal divisions  1210  and  1212  lie in a common plane substantially parallel to the base. After the contents have been added to the package, a film or foil sealing cover  1232  is adhesively or otherwise applied to the edges of the outer shell  1220  and internal divisions  1210  and  1212 , so as to maintain separation between the disparate contents prior to use. 
         [0215]    In a preferred arrangement of the consistencies of the three separate contents of the packaging  1200 , the two outer edible compositions  1214  and  1216  are in a flowable state, as are the contents of the central smaller compartment  1226 . By this means the contents of the two outer compartments  1224  and  1226  can first be discharged from the package by peeling back the film or foil cover  1232  as shown in  FIG. 20B , by grasping the package by the “tail”  1234  and peeling the cover  1232  back far enough to allow flowing egress of the contents from the two outer compartments  1222  and  1224 , thus delaying the egress of the contents of the central compartment  1226 . 
       Nutritional Structure 
       [0216]    The composition of the various elements of the food ingredients of the above described embodiments rely on a balanced juxtaposition of nutritional structures. Broadly, these may be considered as consisting of three main sources comprising a carrier containing a protein source, a carrier containing a fibre source and a carrier containing a carbohydrate source. 
         [0217]    The fibre and carbohydrate sources may primarily be provided in the biscuit-like portions of the packaged edible food compositions of the above described embodiments. The other edible portion may also provide both fibre and/or carbohydrate depending on the chosen composition of the suitable pet food. Likewise this portion will carry at least some of the protein. 
       Composition of Supplement 
       [0218]    Additional protein may be provided in the separate food ingredient of the gravy or sauce for example. 
         [0219]    Alternatively, the sachet may be used in any one of the above embodiments as a carrier for additional vitamin supplements, or a conditioning, curative or preventative medicinal compound. 
         [0220]    The above describes only some embodiments of the present invention and modifications, obvious to those skilled in the art, can be made thereto without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.