Patent Publication Number: US-2022227538-A1

Title: Methods, assemblies, and compositions for solid beverage flavorants

Description:
CROSSREFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/139,229 entitled “SOLID BEVERAGE FLAVORANT COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS OF MAKING SOLID BEVERAGE FLAVORANT COMPOSITIONS” and filed on Jan. 19, 2021, which is incorporated herein by reference for any purpose. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The present disclosure relates to methods, assemblies, and compositions for solid beverage flavorants. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Flavored beverages are traditionally made by adding one or more flavorings to a liquid. In some instances, the liquid can be water, such as for making tea or coffee, the liquid can be alcohol to create a flavored cocktail or other alcoholic drink. In some instances, a recipe may call for several different ingredients requiring multiple steps to produce the desired drink. 
     Currently available flavorings are produced in powder form or are frozen or refrigerated. Frozen beverage cubes can result in a diluted or weaker tasting beverage than desired. A need exists for a room temperature stable solid beverage flavorant composition that does not dilute or weaken the flavor of a desired beverage and provides consistently flavored drinks. 
     SUMMARY 
     A sleeve and tray assembly may include a transparent sleeve having a rectangular geometry and defining a cavity between four sidewalls and two end walls, according to various embodiments. A transparent tray may be disposed within the cavity. The transparent tray may include a base, a first sidewall extending from a first edge of the base, a second sidewall extending from a second edge of the base opposite the first edge, and an end stop extending from a third edge of the base extending between the first edge and the second edge, wherein the base, the first sidewall, and the second sidewall define a channel terminated by the end stop. A plurality of cubes may include a flavorant with a surface texture of the flavorant visible through the tray and the sleeve. The tray may be visually obscured by the sleeve and the surface texture of the flavorant. 
     In various embodiments, the flavorant may comprise sugar, flavoring, water, emulsion, dye. The flavorant may be stable at room temperature. The flavorant may include a garnish or dehydrated botanical ingredient that is visible through the tray and the sleeve. The flavorant may be formed into cubes with substantially smooth surfaces. The surfaces may show the surface texture of the flavorant. The first sidewall of the tray may be between 0 millimeter and 3 millimeters shorter than the sidewall of the sleeve adjacent the first sidewall. An edge of the first sidewall of the tray may contact one of the sidewalls of the sleeve. The tray may comprise rounded corners to reduce interference in response to insertion of the tray into the cavity defined by the sleeve. The end stop of the tray may urge the cubes out of the sleeve in response to the tray translating out of the sleeve. A tab may be formed integrally with the base of the tray and may extend from the sleeve in response to the sleeve and tray assembly being in a closed position. The tray may be configured to translate out of the sleeve in response to a pulling force exerted on the tab. The tab may define an opening to hang the sleeve and tray assembly. 
     A sleeve and tray assembly may include a sleeve defining a cavity between the sleeve sidewalls and the sleeve end walls, according to various embodiments. A transparent tray may be disposed within the cavity. The transparent tray may include a base, a first sidewall extending from a first edge of the base, a second sidewall extending from a second edge of the base opposite the first edge, and an end stop extending from a third edge of the base. The base, the first sidewall, and the second sidewall may define a channel terminated by the end stop. Cubes may be disposed in the channel. 
     In various embodiments, the cubes may have substantially smooth surfaces including a surface texture of at least one of sugar, a garnish, or a botanical ingredient. The sleeve and the cubes may visually obscure the edges of the tray in response to the sleeve and tray assembly being in a closed configuration. 
     A method of packaging a solid beverage flavorant may include the step of placing a mold comprising individual sections onto a tray, according to various embodiments. The method may include combining one or more dehydrated botanical ingredients and one or more wet ingredients to form a mixture. The mixture may be packed into an individual section of the mold having a cuboid geometry. An exposed surface of the mixture may be smoothed to form a substantially smooth surface. The mixture may be dried to form a solid beverage flavorant composition having a cuboid geometry with substantially smooth surfaces. The solid beverage flavorant composition may be stable at room temperature. 
     In various embodiments, the method may include placing a dehydrated botanical ingredient or garnish into the individual section of the mold to expose the dehydrated botanical ingredient or garnish from the substantially smooth surfaces. The mixture may be dried in a dehydration apparatus at 65° C. for 8 hours. The solid beverage flavorant composition may be placed into a tray having a rectangular base, two rectangular sidewalls extending from the base, and a rectangular end stop extending from the base. The method may also include sliding the tray containing the solid beverage flavorant into a sleeve. The tray and the sleeve may be transparent or translucent. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The subject matter of the present disclosure is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the concluding portion of the specification. A more complete understanding of the present disclosure, however, may best be obtained by referring to the detailed description and claims when considered in connection with the drawing figures. 
         FIG. 1  illustrates a process flow for a solid beverage flavorant composition, in accordance with various embodiments. 
         FIG. 2  illustrates a perspective view of a solid beverage flavorant in a sleeve and tray assembly, in accordance with various embodiments. 
         FIG. 3A  illustrates a sleeve and tray in a flat configuration, in accordance with various embodiments. 
         FIG. 3B  illustrates a sleeve and tray arranged in a 3-dimensional configuration, in accordance with various embodiments. 
         FIG. 4A  illustrates a top-side perspective view of sleeve and tray assembly with the tray extending from the sleeve, in accordance with various embodiments. 
         FIG. 4B  illustrates an end perspective view of a distal end of a sleeve and tray assembly with the tray extending from the sleeve, in accordance with various embodiments. 
         FIG. 5A  illustrates a top-side perspective view of a sleeve and tray assembly with the tray contained within the sleeve, in accordance with various embodiments. 
         FIG. 5B  illustrates an end perspective view of a distal end of a sleeve and tray assembly with the tray contained within the sleeve, in accordance with various embodiments. 
         FIG. 5C  illustrates a detailed view of a sleeve and tray assembly with the tray contained within the sleeve, in accordance with various embodiments. 
         FIG. 6  illustrates a front elevation view of a solid beverage flavorant arranged in a sleeve and tray assembly, in accordance with various embodiments. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The detailed description of exemplary embodiments herein makes reference to the accompanying drawings which show exemplary embodiments by way of illustration and their best mode. While these exemplary embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the inventions, it should be understood that other embodiments may be realized and that logical, chemical, and mechanical changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the inventions. Thus, the detailed description herein is presented for purposes of illustration only and not of limitation. For example, the steps herein recited in any of the method of process descriptions may be executed in any order and are not necessarily limited to the order presented. Furthermore, any reference to singular includes plural embodiments, and any reference to more than one component or step may include a singular embodiment or step. Also, any reference to attached, fixed, connected or the like may include permanent, removable, temporary, partial, full and/or any other possible attachment option. Additionally, any reference to without contact (or similar phrases) may also include reduced contact or minimal contact. 
     In various embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition is provided. In embodiments, preparing a flavored beverage using a solid beverage flavorant composition may improve the ratio of ingredients and may allow for consistency in a prepared beverage. In embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may reduce any variation between a flavored beverage prepared multiple times resulting from inaccurate measuring and the addition of multiple separate ingredients. A single use solid beverage flavorant composition may result in a consistently and authentically flavored beverage. 
     In embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may be used by a consumer in any setting. In embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may be prepared by a barista or the like in a coffee or tea establishment. In embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may be prepared by a bartender, mixologist or the like in a bar, restaurant, public house, club or the like. In embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may be prepared by a consumer in a residential home. 
     In various embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may provide a consumer the ability to prepare multiple flavored beverages at home without the need of a mixologist or barista, or the associated cost of having a mixologist or barista prepare a flavored drink. In embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may allow a consumer the ability to create a flavored beverage that suits their specific tastes. In embodiments, a consumer may either reduce or increase the volume of an added liquid, such as tea, coffee or alcohol, to the addition of a solid beverage flavorant composition to adjust the final flavor to suit an individual taste. In embodiments, a consumer may use a solid beverage flavorant composition to prepare multiple beverages without the usual time, number of multiple different ingredients, or multiple tools and hardware, or measurement steps, or mixing steps typically involved in preparing multiple different flavored beverages. 
     In various embodiments, the solid beverage flavorant composition may be stable at room temperature. In various embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may not degrade without storage at either refrigerated or frozen conditions or without freeze-drying to maintain the integrity and flavor of the solid beverage flavorant composition. A solid beverage flavorant composition may be prepared with a higher amount of non-perishable or dry ingredients and the use of liquid or perishable ingredients may be reduced to allow for storage at room temperature. A solid beverage flavorant composition may be stored at room temperature for prolonged periods of time without any effect on the integrity or stability of the solid beverage flavorant composition or the resulting flavor. In embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may be stored at room temperature for at least about twelve (12) months. In embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may be stored at room temperature for at least about twelve (12), eighteen (18), or twenty-four (24) months. In embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may be stored at room temperature for at least about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 years or more. 
     In embodiments, the solid beverage flavorant composition may be added to a liquid of choice to flavor the liquid. In embodiments, the solid beverage flavorant composition may be stored at room temperature and added to the liquid at room temperature. In embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may dissolve or disperse into a liquid without diluting the liquid or the final flavor or taste. 
     In various embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may be used to flavor any liquid or solution. In embodiments, a liquid may include, but is not limited to, water (for example, still, carbonated or sparkling), tea, coffee (for example, black coffee, flavored coffee, latte, Frappuccino, macchiato, and the like), juice, cocoa, hot chocolate, milk, dairy-free milk (for example, almond milk, coconut milk, cashew milk, soy milk and the like), matcha (for example, green tea powder) or any type of alcohol including, but not limited to any liquor, beer, wine, champagne and the like. In embodiments, the solid beverage flavorant composition may dissolve or disperse in a liquid or solution. 
     In embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may be comprised of sugar, a flavoring, water, emulsion, a dye and any combination thereof. 
     In various embodiments, sugar may include, but is not limited to, refined sugar. In embodiments, sugar may include, but is not limited to, white sugar, bleached sugar, unbleached sugar, brown sugar, natural sugar, raw sugar, or any combination thereof. 
     In various embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may include one or more flavorings. In embodiments, a flavoring may be a powder, an oil, extract, an emulsion or any combination thereof. In embodiments, a flavoring may be any flavor or combination of flavors. A flavoring may include, but is not limited to, orange, lemon, pumpkin, pumpkin spice, clove, vanilla, lavender, rose, caramel, salted caramel, strawberry, raspberry, peach, grapefruit, apple, apple cider, peppermint, white chocolate, mocha, beet, black cherry, ginger, lime, agave, blueberry, banana, cranberry, honey, ancho, turmeric, matcha, latte, nut (for example, hazelnut, peanut, cashew, peanut butter, almond) and cinnamon. Other flavorings may include, but are not limited to, ground ginger, allspice, vermouth extract, angostura bitters, spiced cherry bitters, orange bitters, arcadia orange, olive brine, crème de menthe, triple sec extract, cinchona bark, lime leaf iconic mixer, and ginga syrup iconic mixer. A solid beverage flavorant composition may include any one or more flavorings in any combination. 
     In various embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may be flavored to produce a cocktail or specialty flavored beverage and may include, but not be limited to, seasonal flavorings (for example, pumpkin in the fall or autumn, spiced flavoring for the holidays). In embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may include, but is not limited to, latte, Frappuccino, macchiato, matcha, Moscow mule, old fashioned, Manhattan, mint julep, mojito, cosmo, cosmopolitan, mimosa, London fog, black rose, Irish cream, beer, shandy, black cherry anise, martini, margarita, or any combination thereof. 
     In various embodiments, the type of flavoring may affect the structure and resulting flavor of the solid beverage flavorant composition. In embodiments, a powder flavoring may result in the ability to reduce the volume of wet ingredients  104  that may be added to a solid beverage flavorant composition. In embodiments, an oil flavoring may result in improving the ability of a dehydrator apparatus to dry the solid beverage flavorant composition and may produce a solid beverage flavorant composition that is stable at room temperature. 
     In embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may include one or more nutritional supplements or dietary supplements. In embodiments, a nutritional or dietary supplement may include, but is not limited to, vitamins, minerals, proteins, amino acids, herbs or other botanicals, or other nutritional supplements. In embodiments, a nutritional or dietary supplement may include, but is not limited to, acai, antioxidants, arginine, vitamin A, beetroot, bee pollen, beta-alanine, beta-carotene, biotin, vitamin B1, vitamin B12, caffeine, calcium, chamomile, cinnamon, clove, cod liver oil, coenzyme Q10, cranberry, creatine, vitamin C, dandelion, vitamin D, echinacea, evening primrose oil, elderflower, elderberry, vitamin E, garlic, ginger, ginkgo, ginseng, glucosamine, goji, grape, hibiscus, horse chestnut, iron, vitamin K, lavender, licorice root, magnesium, manganese, mangosteen, melatonin, omega fatty acids, oregano, pea protein, peppermint oil, pomegranate, probiotics, rose hip, sage, soy, St. John&#39;s wort, thiamin, turmeric, whey, wheatgrass, zinc, and the like, or any combination thereof. 
     In embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may include a coloring agent. In embodiments, a coloring agent may be used to provide a color to a drink prepared using a solid beverage flavorant composition. In embodiments, a coloring agent may be a botanical or natural coloring agent. In embodiments, a coloring agent may be a powder, gel or liquid. In embodiments, a coloring agent may include, but not be limited to, pitaya powder (for example, dragonfruit powder), butterfly pea powder, beetroot powder, activated charcoal powder, matcha powder, spirulina powder (for example, blue spirulina), dunaliella sauna powder, curcumin powder, and the like. In embodiments, one or more coloring agents in any combination may be added to a solid beverage flavorant composition. 
     In embodiments,  Cannabis, Cannabis -derived, hemp or  Cannabis  extract may be added to a solid beverage flavorant composition. In embodiments,  Cannabis  may include, but not be limited to, any part of the  Cannabis sativa  plant. In embodiments, one or more cannabinoids may be added to a solid beverage flavorant composition. In embodiments, a cannabinoid may include, but is not limited to, tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidolic acid (CBDA), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN), cannabigerol (CBG), cannabichromene (CBC), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabidivarin (CBDV), and the like, and any combination thereof. In embodiments, a cannabinoid may be extracted from the  Cannabis sativa  plant or may be synthetically manufactured. In embodiments, hemp may include, but not be limited to, hemp seed products (for example, hulled hemp seed, hemp seed protein powder, hemp seed oil), derivatives, extracts, cannabinoids, isomers, acids, salts, and salts of isomers. In embodiments, hemp may have a delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol concentration of 0.3% or less on a dry weight basis. 
     In various embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may include one or more dyes. The one or more dyes may be included to provide an authentic color to the solid beverage flavorant composition such that once dissolved in a liquid or solution, an authentic colored beverage may be produced. In embodiments a dye may include, but is not limited to, blue dye, red dye, pink dye, red/pink dye, orange dye, eggshell dye, yellow dye, green dye, copper dye (or copper food paint), caramel dye, or any combination thereof. 
     In various embodiments, dehydrated botanical ingredients may be added to a solid beverage flavorant composition. In embodiments, a dehydrated botanical ingredient such as a leaf, flower part (for example, petals), bark (for example, cinnamon bark), peppercorn or peel (for example, orange, lemon or grapefruit peel) may be added. In embodiments, one or two flower petals or several smaller portions of a flower may be added to a solid beverage flavorant composition. 
     In various embodiments, further edible ingredients may be added to a solid beverage flavorant composition. In embodiments, edible glitter may be added to enhance the flavor or add to the authenticity of a solid beverage flavorant composition. 
     In embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may not use a binder or other excipient to maintain the shape and integrity of the solid beverage flavorant composition. In embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition does not include added fat or an emulsifier to retain the shape of the solid beverage flavorant composition or the flavor. The addition of a binder or other such excipient may result in a solid beverage flavorant composition not being dispersed in a uniform manner in the liquid or solution into which it is added or may alter the taste or flavor of the resulting beverage. In embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition excludes a binder. 
     In embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may include tartaric acid (for example, dihydroxybutanedioic acid, or salt for example, cream of tartar). In embodiments, the addition of tartaric acid may add a sharp tart flavor to a solid beverage flavorant composition. In embodiments, the addition of tartaric acid may aid in the forming of a solid beverage flavorant composition structure. In embodiments, the presence of tartaric acid may act as a preservative and increase the stability of a solid beverage flavorant composition stored at room temperature. In embodiments, the addition of tartaric acid may inhibit, reduce or prevent bacterial growth in a solid beverage flavorant composition. 
     In various embodiments, a method for preparing a solid beverage flavorant composition is provided. In various embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may be formed as a cube structure. In embodiments, a cube structure may have substantially smooth surfaces. In embodiments, a cube structure may be stable at room temperature. In embodiments, a cube structure be stored without refrigeration or freezing temperatures and still maintain the integrity, structure, and flavor of the cube or solid beverage flavorant composition. 
     In various embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may be a cube structure of a certain size. In embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may be prepared as a cube measuring two inches in width, two inches in length and two inches in height (for example, 2×2×2 inches). In embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may be prepared in a strip of individual cube structures. A strip of individual cube structures may measure ⅝ inch in width, ⅝-inch height and 4¼ inches in length (for example, ⅝×⅝×4¼ inches). In embodiments, a strip of individual cube structures may measure ⅝ inch in width, ⅝-inch height and 8 inches in length (for example, ⅝×⅝×8 inches). In embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may have the appearance of a sugar cube. In embodiments, a sugar cube may have substantially smooth surfaces. 
     In various aspects, a method for preparing a solid beverage flavorant composition may comprise a multistage process with a series of discontinuous steps to prepare a solid beverage flavorant composition where the solid beverage flavorant composition is a solid cube. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 1 , a method  100  of preparing a solid beverage flavorant composition is shown, in accordance with various embodiments. In embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may be prepared using a mold having one or more individual sections. In embodiments, a mold may be placed into a tray during the preparation process. In embodiments, one or more individual pieces of a dehydrated botanical ingredient or garnish may be placed into one or more individual sections within the mold. In embodiments, one or more dry ingredients  102  are combined together. In embodiments, one or more wet ingredients  104  are combined together. In embodiments, the wet ingredients  104  are added to the dry ingredients  102  and combined to form a mixture  106 . In embodiments, the mixture  106  may be placed into one or more individual sections within the mold. In embodiments, the mixture  106  is placed into the mold to fill to the top surface of the mold. In embodiments, the mixture  106  is packed into the mold to compress the mixture  106  into the mold and form the shape of the mold. In embodiments, the top surface of the mixture  106  in the mold may be smoothed to form a substantially smooth surface at the top of the mold. In embodiments, the mold may be placed into a dehydration apparatus  108  to dry the mixture  106 , remove the moisture and form a solid beverage flavorant composition. 
     In embodiments, the individual steps of the process of preparing a solid beverage flavorant composition may be performed at room temperature. In embodiments, the process of preparing a solid beverage flavorant composition may be performed under low humidity to remove any excess moisture present in the air from affecting the formation of the solid beverage flavorant composition. 
     In various embodiments, a dehydrated botanical ingredient or garnish may be added to a solid beverage flavorant composition. In embodiments, a dehydrated botanical ingredient can include, but is not limited to, an edible leaf, edible flower part (for example, petal), bark (for example, cinnamon bark), peel (for example, orange, lemon or grapefruit peel), or dried fruit (for example, freeze-dried fruit). In embodiments, one or more dehydrated botanical ingredients, for example, a flower petal, or several smaller portions or sections of a dry ingredient or garnish, for example, sections of several flower petals, may be added to a mold to produce a solid beverage flavorant composition having a dry ingredient contained within the structure. In embodiments, the addition of a dehydrated botanical ingredient or garnish may be added such that it is embedded in the structure of the solid beverage flavorant composition. A dehydrated botanical ingredient or garnish may be embedded throughout the structure of a solid beverage flavorant composition or may be embedded within one or more surfaces of a solid beverage flavorant composition. In embodiments, a dehydrated botanical ingredient or garnish may be added to the bottom surface of a mold and the solid beverage flavorant composition mixture  106  added on top of the dehydrated botanical ingredient or garnish. In embodiments, the dehydrated botanical ingredient or garnish does not alter the surface profile of a solid beverage flavorant composition and a solid beverage flavorant composition may retain a substantially smooth surface. 
     In various embodiments, other edible ingredients may be added to a solid beverage flavorant composition. In embodiments, edible ingredients include, but are not limited to, edible glitter. In embodiments, edible glitter may be any color. 
     In various embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may include a design on the external surface of the solid beverage flavorant composition. In embodiments, a design may be a pattern, lettering, numbering, or a design representing an occasion or theme (for example, holiday theme, sports team, baby shower theme, bridal shower theme, and the like). 
     In various embodiments, the mixture  106  may be packed into a mold manually using hands, hand tools, or using mechanized tools or equipment. In embodiments, mechanical, hydraulic or pneumatic action may be used to pack the mixture  106  into a mold and form the solid beverage flavorant composition. 
     In various embodiments, a dehydration apparatus may be used to dry the mixture  106  to form a solid beverage flavorant composition in a mold. In embodiments, a dehydration apparatus may use hot air to remove moisture (for example, water) from a solid beverage flavorant composition. The dehydration apparatus may include a heating element that raises the temperature inside the apparatus and a fan that evenly circulates the heat to remove the moisture whilst preserving the flavor in the solid beverage flavorant composition. The removal of the moisture by the dehydration apparatus may also prevent any bacterial, yeast or mold growth on a solid beverage flavorant composition increasing its shelf-life and allowing for storage at room temperature for prolonged periods of time. 
     In various embodiments, a dehydrator may be used at a set temperature for a set amount of time to dry the mixture  106 . In embodiments, a dehydrator may be used at about 50° C., 55° C., 60° C., 65° C., 70° C., 75° C., 80° C. or higher. A dehydrator may be used for about 4 hours, 5 hours, 6 hours, 7 hours, 8 hours, 9 hours, 10 hours, 11 hours, 12 hours, 13 hours, 14 hours, 15 hours, 16 hours, 17 hours, 18 hours, 19 hours, 20 hours, 21 hours, 22 hours, 23 hours or 24 hours to dry a mixture  106 . In embodiments, a dehydrator may be used at 65° C. for 8 hours. 
     In embodiments, a dehydration apparatus may remove substantially all of the moisture from a solid beverage flavorant composition. In embodiments, a dehydration apparatus may remove about 80%, 85%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% or 100% of the moisture from a solid beverage flavorant composition. In embodiments, a dehydration apparatus may improve the surface texture of a solid beverage flavorant composition and produce a solid beverage flavorant composition having substantially smooth surfaces. In embodiments, the use of a dehydration apparatus to remove the moisture may result in the formation of a solid beverage flavorant composition having substantially smooth sides that does not degrade when stored at room temperature conditions for prolonged periods of time. 
     In various embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition is provided in a first packaging material. Packaging material may include a sleeve and tray assembly as described in greater detail below. In embodiments, a first packaging material may include one, two, three, four, five, six or more solid beverage flavorant compositions. In embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition in a first packaging material may be stored at room temperature without refrigerated or freezing conditions. In embodiments, a first packaging material may be prepared from plastic. In embodiments, plastic packaging material may be composed of high-density polyethylene, low density polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, or any combination thereof. In embodiments, a first packaging material may be produced as a rectangular cuboid structure or a single cube structure. In embodiments, a first packaging material may be composed of substantially transparent material to expose the solid beverage flavorant composition provided within. In embodiments, the full packaging material may be substantially transparent, or a partial section of the packaging material may be see through (e.g., transparent or translucent). In embodiments, a solid beverage flavorant composition may be provided in a first packaging material that is placed within a second packaging container. In embodiments, a second packaging container may be composed of plastic, paper, cardboard or any combination thereof. In embodiments, a second packaging material may be a box containing sections formed at a lower level to allow for insertion of the first packaging material. In embodiments, a second packaging material may be a pouch or a bag. A second packaging container may include a see-through section to expose the solid beverage flavorant compositions contained within the first packaging container. In embodiments, a second packaging container may include one or more first packaging containers. In embodiments, a second packaging container may include one, two, three, four, five, six or more first packaging containers, where the first packaging containers includes one, two, three, four, five or six solid beverage flavorant compositions. In embodiments, a second packaging material may further include a decorative element, for example a ribbon tied around the packaging material. In embodiments, the ribbon or other decorative element may be any color, shape, texture or material. 
     EXAMPLES 
     EXAMPLE 1 
     Solid Beverage Flavorant Composition Production 
     It has been surprisingly discovered that a solid beverage flavorant composition may be prepared that is stable at room temperature. It has been discovered that using a dehydration apparatus to dry and dehydrate a solid beverage flavorant composition produces a stable solid beverage flavorant composition that retains its shape, appearance, and flavor when stored at room temperature for prolonged periods of time. The solid beverage flavorant composition produced using the method set forth are stable at room temperature for at least twelve (12) months. No change in taste, appearance or consistency of the solid beverage flavorant composition or the finished beverage product made using the solid beverage flavorant composition has been observed after storage at room temperature for at least twelve (12) months. 
     A solid beverage flavorant composition was prepared using the following method. The steps may be performed sequentially or may be performed in any order. Any one or more of the steps may be repeated. Standard sanitary procedures were followed for production, including, for example, handwashing and wearing of hairnets, gloves and face masks by personnel. 
     A tray was filled with one or more molds (for example, a tray may include 12 molds to a tray). A tray may be one batch that may yield about 18 molds. Optionally, garnish was placed into the mold, for example, about 1-3 pieces of garnish per cube were placed into an individual section of the mold. Sugar was weighed out for the batch being processed (for example; 1648 grams of sugar may be used per batch). The dry ingredients  102  other than sugar were added to the sugar (when applicable) as per the recipe. The dry ingredients  102  were mixed thoroughly. The wet ingredients  104  were combined separately from the dry ingredients  102 . The wet ingredients  104  may include one or more of water, essential oils, and food coloring. The wet ingredients  104  were thoroughly mixed. The wet ingredients  104  were added to the dry ingredients  102  and mixed to combine and form a mixture  106  of the appropriate consistency. For example, the mixture  106  may resemble a wet beach sand in texture and any added color may be evenly distributed. The mixture  106  was mixed via hand. The mixture  106  was sprayed lightly with water and pressed into the molds using an acrylic tamp. The molds were packed to fill the molds and tools to set the mixture  106  to form a solid beverage flavorant composition. The surface of the mixture  106  was smoothed to form a substantially smooth surface. The mold was transferred to a clean tray for drying. The molds were either dried on drying racks or placed into a dehydrator to dry. 
     The molds were placed into a dehydrator set at 65° C. and dried for at least 8 hours. In some cases, the solid beverage flavorant compositions were dried in the dehydrator for more than 8 hours. The dehydration step resulted in a solid beverage flavorant composition having a smooth even surface around the resulting cube. The resulting solid beverage flavorant compositions had the appearance of a sugar cube with a smooth surface. As used herein, a substantially smooth surface of a cube of flavorant may be a flat surface that includes the texture of sugar, the texture of exposed garnish, or the texture of exposed botanical ingredients. 
     The solid beverage flavorant compositions were packaged in various packaging, for example, as a singular solid beverage flavorant compositions (for example, sugar cube), in a strip of six or twelve solid beverage flavorant compositions, or in a see-through bag. The packaging was wrapped with a ribbon, for example, gold, silver or copper ribbons. The strip of solid beverage flavorant compositions may be placed into a box or see-through bag to form a kit of solid beverage flavorant compositions of different flavors. 
     EXAMPLE 2 
     Stability of Solid Beverage Flavorant Compositions 
     The stability of solid beverage flavorant compositions at room temperature is tested using industry standard testing protocols. The stability of the solid beverage flavorant compositions is tested under various temperature and humidity conditions over time to determine the stability of the solid beverage flavorant compositions. Parameters including, but not limited to, material degradation, active ingredient stability, shelf-life evaluation, raw material and chemical stability, sensory evaluation (for example, odor, flavor, appearance, texture, color and taste), and microbiological testing may be determined under various conditions. 
     A long term, intermediate and/or accelerated stability study may be performed to determine the shelf-life stability of the solid beverage flavorant compositions over time. The solid beverage flavorant compositions are incubated at 25° C., 30° C., and/or 40° C. The temperature may be varied at ±2° C. The relative humidity (RH) may be varied at 60% , 65%, and/or 75%. The relative humidity may be varied at ±5%. 
     The solid beverage flavorant compositions may be stored at the following temperature and humidity conditions. 
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
               
             
               
                   
                 TABLE 1 
               
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 Study 
                 Storage Condition 
                 Time Period 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
            
               
                   
                 Long Term 
                 25° C. ± 2° C./60% RH ±5% or 
                 12 months  
               
               
                   
                   
                 30° C. ± 2° C./65% RH ±5% 
               
               
                   
                 Intermediate 
                 30° C. ± 2° C./65% RH ±5% 
                 6 months 
               
               
                   
                 Accelerated 
                 40° C. ± 2° C./75% RH ±5% 
                 6 months 
               
               
                   
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     Samples may be taken at time zero and after 1 week, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, 4 weeks, 5 weeks and 6 weeks storage at the various temperature and RH. The solid beverage flavorant compositions may be stored for 1 month, 2 months, 3 months, 4 months, 5 months, 6 months and up to and including 12 months. Samples may be taken each week for weeks 1 to 4 and each month for months 2 to 6. The samples are compared against the sample at time zero and any change in stability is determined. A change in stability may be measured as degradation of the solid beverage flavorant composition, or a reduction or change in the flavor, texture, color or taste of a solid beverage flavorant composition. 
     Microbiological growth is determined using standard techniques to measure common microbes such as bacteria. The presence of pathogenic bacteria such as Enterobacteriaceae,  Escherichia coli, Clostridium perfringens, Bacillus cereus  and other  Bacillus  species,  Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Campylobacter  spp.,  Salmonella  spp. and  Listeria monocytogenes  may be tested. The acceptable levels of bacteria present in a solid beverage flavorant composition may be either not detected (ND) or at or below 10 2  to 10 6  colony forming units (cfu) per gram. 
     The integrity or stability of a solid beverage flavorant composition may be tested using chromatography analysis to determine any reduction or change in the quantity of the ingredients in a solid beverage flavorant composition. A high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) column may be used to compare the presence of ingredients in a solid beverage flavorant composition stored over time and at varied temperatures and RH. A sample of a solid beverage flavorant composition may be diluted in Milli-Q water and analyzed using a HPLC to quantify the amounts of certain ingredients in the solid beverage flavorant composition. The quantity of sugar and any flavoring may be measured and quantified using a HPLC. 
     A Brix refractometer may be used to measure the sucrose or sugar content of a liquid to which a solid beverage flavorant composition has been added using refraction. The sugar content may be measured as degrees Brix (° Bx) for the number of grams of sugar present per 100 grams of liquid. The amount may be measured on a scale of one to 100. A Brix value may be used to as an objective measure of a subjective criteria related to flavor or sweetness. 
     EXAMPLE 3 
     Preparation of Flavored Solid Beverage Flavorant Compositions 
     Solid beverage flavorant compositions were prepared using the method of Example 1. Various flavored solid beverage flavorant compositions were prepared according to the following ingredients. Any one or more ingredients may be combined to prepare a solid beverage flavorant composition. 
     Vanilla Sugar Cube 
     Sugar, vanilla bean and water were mixed together. The vanilla sugar cubes were placed into a dehydrator for 8 hours at 65° C. to dry the sugar cubes. 
     Initially the vanilla sugar cubes were prepared using vanilla extract. The vanilla extract was unable to bind in the original sugar cubes. The ingredients were modified to use vanilla bean powder in place of the vanilla extract. The use of vanilla bean powder instead of a vanilla extract reduced the volume of wet ingredients  104  in the sugar cube and formed a solid cube with smooth sides that was stable at room temperature. 
     London Fog Sugar Cube 
     Two cornflower petals are placed into each cube of the mold. Stems are removed from the petals. Lavender sugar was prepared by mixing sugar, lavender oil, blue dye, red/pink dye and water together. 
     A batch of vanilla sugar was made separate from the lavender sugar. A quarter (¼) teaspoon of lavender sugar was added into each prepped mold and pushed down with a square stick, focusing on pushing the sugar down into the four corners of the mold. The remainder of the mold was filled with vanilla sugar. The London fog sugar cubes were placed into a dehydrator for 8 hours at 65° C. to dry the sugar cubes. 
     Rose Sugar Cube 
     About one whole rose petal with any stems removed was placed into each cube mold. Broken pieces of rose petals were combined into the cubes. Sugar, crumbled rose petals, rose oil, red dye and water were mixed together. 
     The rose sugar cubes were placed into a dehydrator for 8 hours at 65° C. to dry the sugar cubes. 
     Initially rose sugar cubes were prepared using an alcohol-based rose extract. The rose flavor evaporated, and the rose sugar cubes did not dry sufficiently and produced crumbly sugar cubes. The alcohol-based rose extract was substituted with an oil-based rose extract and the amount of rose oil was increased. The substitution of the oil-based rose extract resulted in solid rose sugar cubes with smooth surfaces that were stable at room temperature. 
     Salted Caramel Sugar Cube 
     Sugar, caramel powder, orange dye and water were mixed together. Once cubes were dry, the cubes were removed from molds and arranged close together on a tray. The cubes were misted lightly with water and sprinkled with fleur de sel. Each cube was sprinkled with some salt sprinkles. The cubes were misted lightly again and set to dry. The sugar cubes were either allowed to dry for two (2) hours at room temperature to set or were placed into a dehydrator for 8 hours at 65° C. before packaging. 
     A batch of sugar cubes may be produced in triple. For a triple batch the amount of orange or beet dye was multiplied by six. 
     Champagne Sugar Cube Recipes 
     Strawberry Sugar Cube 
     A piece of freeze-dried strawberry was placed into the molds. The freeze-dried pieces were no bigger than the size of a pea. For extra small pieces, two pieces are placed in the same cube of the mold. Sugar, strawberry powder, strawberry emulsion and hot water were mixed together. 
     The strawberry sugar cubes were placed into a dehydrator for 8 hours at 65° C. to dry the sugar cubes. 
     Initially the strawberry sugar cube was made using a strawberry powder. These strawberry sugar cubes did not dissolve in a carbonated liquid as expected or desired. The strawberry flavor was substituted with a water-soluble strawberry emulsion. This produced strawberry sugar cubes that dissolved in carbonated liquid. 
     Raspberry Sugar Cube 
     A clump of freeze-dried raspberry was placed into the molds. The freeze-dried clumps were no bigger than the size of a pea. For extra small clumps, two clumps were placed in the same cube of the mold. Sugar, tartaric acid, water and raspberry emulsion were mixed together. 
     The raspberry sugar cubes were placed into a dehydrator for 8 hours at 65° C. to dry the sugar cubes. 
     Initially the raspberry sugar cubes were prepared using a raspberry extract. These raspberry sugar cubes did not have any raspberry flavor. The raspberry extract was substituted with a water-soluble raspberry emulsion and the amount of emulsion was increased. The amount of water added was also reduced and tartaric acid was added to the mixture  106 . This produced a raspberry flavored sugar cube with smooth surfaces that was stable at room temperature. 
     Peach Sugar Cubes 
     A piece of freeze-dried peach was placed into the molds. The freeze-dried pieces were no bigger than the size of a pea. For extra small pieces, two freeze-dried pieces are placed in the same cube of the mold. Sugar, peach extract or flavor, orange dye and water were mixed together. 
     The peach sugar cubes were placed into a dehydrator for 8 hours at 65° C. to dry the sugar cubes. 
     A batch of peach sugar cubes may be produced in triple. For a triple batch the amount of orange dye was multiplied by six. 
     Citrus Sugar Cube Recipes 
     Grapefruit Sugar Cube 
     Sugar, tartaric acid, citric acid, grapefruit oil, red/pink dye, red dye, pink dye and water were mixed together. The grapefruit sugar cubes were allowed to dry at room temperature, the cubes were removed from the molds, arranged close together on a tray and lightly sprayed with water. The grapefruit sugar cubes were dusted lightly with “rainbow” edible glitter. No second spray of water was applied to the sugar cubes. The grapefruit sugar cubes were not placed in the dehydrator to dry. The sugar cubes were allowed to set for two (2) hours prior to packaging. 
     A batch of sugar cubes may be produced in triple. For a triple batch the amount of dye was multiplied by six. 
     Initially, these grapefruit sugar cubes did not produce vibrantly colored sugar cubes. The orange dye originally added was removed and replaced with red/pink dye, red dye and pink dye. This produced a vibrantly colored grapefruit sugar cube with smooth surfaces that was stable at room temperature. 
     Lemon Sugar Cube 
     Sugar, tartaric acid, citric acid, lemon powder, lemon oil, eggshell dye, yellow dye and water were mixed together. The lemon sugar cubes were allowed to dry at room temperature, the cubes were removed from the molds, arranged close together on a tray and lightly sprayed with water. The lemon sugar cubes were dusted lightly with “citrus” edible glitter. The lemon sugar cubes were not sprayed a second time with water. The lemon sugar cubes were not dehydrated. The lemon sugar cubes were allowed to dry for two (2) hours before packaging. 
     Arcadia Orange Sugar Cube 
     Sugar, tartaric acid, citric acid, orange oil, orange dye, red/pink dye and water were mixed together. The Arcadia orange sugar cubes were allowed to dry at room temperature, they were removed from the molds, arranged close together on a tray and lightly sprayed with water. The Arcadia orange sugar cubes were dusted lightly with “orange crush” edible glitter. The Arcadia sugar cubes were not dried in a dehydrator. 
     A batch of sugar cubes may be produced in triple. For a triple batch the amount of orange dye was multiplied by six. 
     Specialty Cocktail Sugar Cube Recipes 
     Old-Fashioned Sugar Cube 
     A small chunk of orange peel was placed into each cube of the mold. Sugar, tartaric acid, orange oil, orange bitters, angostura bitters, orange dye and hot water were mixed together. 
     Initially, these old-fashioned sugar cubes did not dry fully and produced sugar cubes that crumbled easily. The amount of Angostura bitters and orange bitters was decreased, and the amount of water was increased. The old-fashioned sugar cubes were dried in a dehydrator for 12 hours at 65° C. or higher. This produced an old-fashioned sugar cube that dried completely and resulted in an old-fashioned sugar cube with smooth surfaces that was stable at room temperature. Old fashioned sugar cubes that were left to dry at room temperature produced sugar cubes that crumbled easily and were not solid. The use of the dehydrator solved this problem. 
     Moscow Mule Sugar Cube 
     Sugar, ground ginger, tartaric acid, citric acid, ginger juice, lime juice and lime oil were mixed together. The Moscow mule sugar cubes were placed into a dehydrator for 8 hours at 65° C. to dry the sugar cubes. 
     After the Moscow mule sugar cubes were dried, they were removed from the molds and arranged in a grid on a tray. The Moscow mule sugar cubes were sprayed with a copper spray topping. 
     Copper Spray Topping 
     1. One bottle of copper food paint was poured into a small spray bottle.
 
2. The empty food paint bottle was filled with hot water and shaken well.
 
3. The food paint was poured back into the spray bottle.
 
4. A black spray bottle was filled with hot water.
 
5. The spray bottle was shaken well with every use.
 
     Initially these Moscow mule sugar cubes did not produce an adequate flavor. The amount of ginger juice was increased, the amount of lime juice was decreased, and the amount of lime oil was decreased. Citric acid was also added. These Moscow mule sugar cubes produced satisfactory authentic flavored Moscow mule sugar cubes. 
     Manhattan Sugar Cube 
     Sugar, hot water, caramel dye, black cherry extract, vermouth extract, orange oil, angostura bitters and spiced cherry bitters were mixed together. The caramel dye was mixed with the hot water to melt the dye before adding to the mixture  106 . The Manhattan sugar cubes were placed into a dehydrator for 8 hours at 65° C. to dry the sugar cubes. 
     Mojito Sugar Cube 
     Ground mint leaves were placed into the molds sparingly. Sugar, unground mint leaves (spearmint leaves), tartaric acid, lime juice, lime oil and spearmint oil were mixed together. 
     The mojito sugar cubes were placed into a dehydrator for 8 hours at 65° C. to dry the sugar cubes. 
     Mint Julep Sugar Cube 
     Sugar, spearmint oil, orange dye, yellow dye and hot water were mixed together. The mint julep sugar cubes were placed into a dehydrator for 8 hours at 65° C. to dry the sugar cubes. 
     Initially these mint julep sugar cubes were not drying fully and produced sugar cubes that were crumbly. The amount of water was increased to 5 times the original amount, the amount of spearmint oil was decreased to 2-3 times the original amount, the amount of orange dye was decreased to 1-2 times the original amount and the amount of yellow dye was decreased from to half the original amount. This resulted in a dry mint julep sugar cube with smooth surfaces that was stable at room temperature. 
     Cosmo Sugar Cube 
     Sugar, citric acid, tartaric acid, beet powder, cranberry powder, orange oil, beet juice, cranberry concentrate and hot water were mixed together. The Cosmo sugar cubes were placed into a dehydrator for 6 hours at 65° C. to dry the sugar cubes. 
     Once the Cosmo sugar cubes were dry, they were removed from the molds, arranged close together on a tray and lightly sprayed with water. The Cosmo sugar cubes were sprinkled with “Hollywood red” edible glitter. The Cosmo sugar cubes were not sprayed with water a second time. The Cosmo sugar cubes were allowed to set for two (2) hours before packaging. 
     Sleeve and Tray Assembly 
     The present invention may include a sleeve and tray assembly suitable for packaging, transporting, displaying, dispensing, or retaining products including the solid beverage flavorants described herein. Sleeve and tray assemblies described herein may retain an arrangement of cubes made available for removal in response to sliding the tray containing the cubes from the sleeve. 
     With reference to  FIG. 2 , a sleeve and tray assembly  200  is shown in an assembled configuration including flavorant  202  formed into cubes  203 , in accordance with various embodiments. Sleeve  204  of sleeve and tray assembly  200  may comprise a rectangular cuboid geometry. Sleeve  204  may include four adjacent rectangular sides  206 , also referred to herein as sidewalls. The four rectangular sides  206  may be substantially perpendicular to the adjoining rectangular sides  206  in an assembled configuration such that the body of sleeve  204  has a square cross-section. The square cross-section of the body may be similar to or congruent with end walls  208 . End walls  208  may be disposed at either end of rectangular sides  206 . End sides  208  may comprise a rectangular or square geometry. 
     In various embodiments, a tray of sleeve and tray assembly  200  may comprise four sides. Cubes  203  may be disposed in the tray and sleeve  204  in an assembled configuration. The tray may slide into and out from sleeve  204  to urge cubes into or out of sleeve  204 . The tray may be visually obstructed or hidden by the edges of sleeve  204  and the texture and color of flavorant  202 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 3A and 3B , sleeve  304  and tray  310  of sleeve and tray assembly  300  are shown, in accordance with various embodiments. Sleeve  304  and tray  310  may be substantially flat before assembly, as shown in  FIG. 3A . Sleeve  304  and tray  310  may be cut or stamped from a sheet of substantially flat material. The material used to form tray  310  and sleeve  304  may comprise plastic, paper, cardboard, sheet metal, or another suitable material with sufficient rigidity to maintain the shape of sleeve and tray assembly  200  (of  FIG. 2 ) in response to assembly. The material used to form tray  310  and sleeve  304  may be transparent, translucent, colored, or opaque. For example, tray  310  and sleeve  304  may be formed by stamping, scoring, cutting, or manipulating a sheet of transparent plastic. In that regard, flavorant  202  (of  FIG. 2 ) retained in sleeve and tray assembly  200  (of  FIG. 2 ) may be visible through walls of sleeve  204  (of  FIG. 2 ) and tray  210  (of  FIG. 2 ). 
     In various embodiments, sleeve  304  in a flat configuration may comprise scoring, creases, or be predisposed to bending along the boundaries defining various sides. Sleeve  304  may include four sidewalls  306  having similar dimensions. For example, all sidewalls  306  may be rectangles approximately 17 mm by 108 mm. Tray  310  may comprise sidewalls  314  and base  312  that are rectangles approximately 16 mm by 106 mm. Tray  310  may have dimensions slightly smaller than sleeve  304  such that the assembled tray may fit completely within the assembled sleeve. As used herein in reference to dimensions, approximately may mean +/−5%, +/−10%, +/−15%, +/−20%, or +/−25%. Walls of tray  310  may have dimensions 0 to 3 millimeters, 1-2 millimeters, or 1 millimeter shorter than adjacent walls of sleeve  304 . The tray of the present example may be configured to retain six cubes  203  (of  FIG. 2 ). Cubes  203  (of  FIG. 2 ) may have edges slightly smaller than the dimension of sidewall  314 . For example, cubes  203  may comprise an edge length of approximately 15 mm to fit within the tray having an edge length of approximately 16 mm. 
     In another example, all sidewalls  306  may comprise rectangles approximately 205 mm by 17 mm. Tray  310  may comprise sidewalls  314  and base  312  that are rectangles approximately 16 mm by 203 mm. The tray of the present example may be configured to retain twelve cubes  203  (of  FIG. 2 ). The foregoing examples are not intended to be limiting and are given for purposes of illustration only. 
     In various embodiments, sleeve  304  may comprise flaps  307  disposed at the distal ends of sleeve  304 . Sleeve  304  may also comprise end walls  308  disposed between flaps  307 . End wall  308  may be formed integrally with the adjacent sidewall  306 . Flaps  307  may also be formed integrally with the adjacent sidewalls  306 . End tab  309  may extend from end wall  308 . 
     In various embodiments, assembly tab  305  may extend longitudinally along adjacent sidewall  306 . Assembly tab  305  may comprise notched end  303 . Notched end  303  may shorten the length of assembly tab  305  relative to adjacent sidewall  306 . Notched end  303  may tend to reduce interference during assembly. Assembly tab  305  may be fixed to the sidewall  306  disposed on the opposite side of sleeve  304 . Assembly tab  305  may be fused, glued, fastened, or otherwise adhered to sidewall  306  on the inside or outside of sleeve  304  in the assembled configuration. 
     In various embodiments, tray  310  may comprise base  312 , sidewalls  314 , and end stop  316 . Pull tab  313  may extend from base  312  at a distal end opposite end stop  316 . Pull tab  313  may define an opening  315  suitable for hanging an assembled sleeve and tray assembly. Tray  310  may translate in response to a pulling force or a pushing force exerted on tab  313 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 3B , sleeve and tray assembly  300  is shown in a partially assembled configuration, in accordance with various embodiments. Adjacent components of sleeve  304  and tray  310  may be folded together at approximately 90-degree angles to form an elongated box and tray in response to being assembled. As used herein in reference to angles, approximately may mean +/−5 degrees, +/−10 degrees, or +/−15 degrees. Sleeve  304  and tray  310  may comprise scoring, creases, or be predisposed to bending along the boundaries defining various sides and features to facilitate folding during assembly. For example, base  312  of tray  310  may be surrounded by scoring along four edges to allow adjacent sides to fold at 90 degrees relative to base  312 . 
     In various embodiments, sleeve  304  may define a cavity  322  to receive tray  310 . Cavity  322  may be defined between four sidewalls  306 . In that regard, cavity  322  may be elongated and may span the length of sleeve  304 . Tray  310  may define a channel  320  to receive cubes  203  (of  FIG. 2 ). Tray  310  may slide into cavity  322 . End walls  308  may be folded into a closed position to completely enclose tray  310  and cubes  203  in sleeve and tray assembly  300 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 4A and 4B , sleeve and tray assembly  300  is shown with sleeve  304  and tray  310  in an assembled configuration, in accordance with various embodiments. Tray  310  may extend from sleeve  304  in the depicted configuration. Tray  310  may define channel  320  between sidewalls  314  and base  312 . End stop  316  operate as the terminus of channel  320 . End stop  316  may translate along cavity  322  in response to tray  310  sliding into or out from sleeve  304 . In that regard, tray  310  with end stop  316  may urge contents of channel  320  (e.g., cubes of solid flavorant) along, into, or out from sleeve  304  in response to tray  310  translating relative to cavity  322  defined by sleeve  304 . Rounded corners  317  of tray  310  may reduce interference when inserting the leading end of tray  310  into sleeve  304 . 
     In various embodiments, sidewalls  314  of tray  310  may contact sidewall  306  of sleeve  304  disposed opposite base  312 . Tray  310  may fit snugly into sleeve  304  in a press fit arrangement. Contents of tray  310  (not shown) may tend to press sidewalls  314  of tray  310  into adjacent sidewalls  306  of sleeve  304 . Base  312  of tray  310  may tend to press against an adjacent sidewall  306  of sleeve  304 . Base  312 , sidewalls  314 , and the edge  324  of sidewalls  314  opposite base  312  may slideably engage sidewalls  306  of sleeve  304  in response to tray  310  translating into or out from cavity  322 . Operators may use tab  313  to grip tray  310  and motivate translation of tray  310  in sleeve  304  by applying a pushing or pulling force. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C , sleeve and tray assembly  300  is shown in a closed configuration, in accordance with various embodiments. Tray  310  may slide completely into cavity  322 . Flaps  307  may fold inward towards tray  310 . End wall  308  may close downward toward tab  313  to cover and retain flaps  307  in a closed position. End tab  309  may slide over base  312  and between sidewalls  314  of tray  310 . End tab  309  may rest beneath a cuboid payload in the closed position. Friction between end tab  309 , the payload, base  312 , and sidewalls  314  may tend to retain end wall  308  in a closed position. Tab  313  defining opening  315  may protrude from sleeve  304  in the closed position. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 5C , a detail view of tray  310  engaging sleeve  304  is shown in a closed configuration, in accordance with various embodiments. End wall  308  may form the outermost layer of material in sleeve and tray assembly  300 . Flaps  307  may sandwich between end wall  308  of sleeve  304  and end stop  316  of tray  310 . End tab  309  may be pinched between tray  310  and a sidewall  306  of sleeve  304  to retain end wall  308  in a closed position. 
     In various embodiments, rounded corners  317  may reduce interference between tray  310  and sleeve  304  during closure of flaps  307  and end wall  308 . Edge  324  of sidewall  314  may contact edge  325  of sidewall  306 . Edge  324  of sidewall  314  and edge  325  of sidewall  306  may define a gap  326  between them. Gap  326  may be zero where edge  324  contacts edge  325 . Gap  326  may be small enough to visually obscure the presence of tray  310  in sleeve  304  (e.g., 1 millimeter, 2 millimeters, or 3 millimeters). In that regard, edge  324  of tray  310  may be visually obstructed by edge  325  of sleeve  304  in the closed configuration. A gap between end stop  316  and edge  327  of sleeve  304  may be similarly small or zero. Some or all edges of tray  310  may be visually obstructed in a similar or same manner by adjacent edges of sleeve  304 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 6 , sleeve and tray assembly  400  is shown containing solid flavorant  402  formed into cubes  403 , in accordance with various embodiments. Cubes  403  may be visible through sleeve  404  and tray  410 . The textures or colors of flavorant  402  may be visible through tray  310  and sleeve  304 . The textures or colors of flavorant  402  may serve to obscure the edges and corners of tray  310  and sleeve  304 . 
     In various embodiments, edge  424  of sidewall  414  of tray  410  may contact or define a small gap between edge  425  of sleeve  404 . Edges of tray  410  may be substantially hidden within sleeve  404  to inhibit visual detection of tray  410  in sleeve  404  in the closed configuration. The presence of cuboid payload may obscure the edges and walls of tray  410  in sleeve  404 . In that regard, the snug fit between tray  410  and sleeve  404  along with the textured surfaces of flavorant  402  may visually conceal the presence of tray  410  in response to a transparent or translucent sleeve and tray assembly  400  being in a closed configuration. Sleeve and tray assembly  400  may tend to minimize degradation of flavorant  402  and store flavorant  402  in a stable state. 
     Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described herein with regard to specific embodiments. Furthermore, the connecting lines shown in various figures contained herein are intended to represent exemplary functional relationships and/or physical couplings between the various elements. It should be noted that many alternative or additional functional relationships or physical connections may be present in a practical system. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any elements that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as critical, required, or essential features or elements of the inventions. The scope of the inventions is accordingly to be limited by nothing other than the appended claims, in which reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless explicitly so stated, but rather “one or more.” Moreover, where a phrase similar to “at least one of A, B, or C” is used in the claims, it is intended that the phrase be interpreted to mean that A alone may be present in an embodiment, B alone may be present in an embodiment, C alone may be present in a single embodiment; for example, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C. Different cross-hatching is used throughout the figures to denote different parts but not necessarily to denote the same or different materials. 
     Systems, methods and apparatus are provided herein. In the detailed description herein, references to “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, “an example embodiment”, etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described. After reading the description, it will be apparent to one skilled in the relevant art(s) how to implement the disclosure in alternative embodiments. 
     Furthermore, no element, component, or method step in the present disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether the element, component, or method step is explicitly recited in the claims. No claim element herein is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. 112(f), unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for.” As used herein, the terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method or article, or apparatus.