Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to the field of sustainable and eco-friendly edible cups designed to serve as biodegradable and consumable alternatives to traditional disposable beverage containers. This innovation falls within the domain of food-grade materials and environmental conservation, aiming to address issues associated with waste generation and resource consumption in the beverage service industry.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
In recent years, there has been a growing global awareness of the environmental impact caused by disposable packaging products, including traditional paper and plastic cups. These conventional cups contribute significantly to waste in landfills and the depletion of natural resources, given their single-use nature and non-biodegradable properties.
To combat these issues, there has been an increasing interest in developing sustainable alternatives that reduce environmental footprints. One promising approach is the creation of edible cups—innovative containers made from natural, biodegradable ingredients that can be consumed after use. Edible cups not only eliminate the need for disposal but also provide an additional layer of functionality and consumer enjoyment.
Prior art has introduced various edible containers, but these inventions often face limitations in terms of material stability, flavor compatibility, and practical application across different beverage types and settings. There is a need for a more advanced solution that combines enhanced structural integrity with diverse flavor options and broader applicability.
The present invention addresses these needs by offering an improved edible cup composition that provides better stability and versatility. This invention leverages a combination of food-grade ingredients, including flour, sweeteners, natural flavorings, gelatin or agar-agar, and edible oils and fats, to create a cup that can be used for both hot and cold beverages. This innovation aims to set a new standard for sustainable packaging, combining environmental benefits with practical and sensory advantages for the consumer.
By integrating these advanced materials and methods, the invention seeks to contribute to the reduction of environmental waste, promote sustainable living practices, and enhance the overall consumer experience.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to the field of sustainable and eco-friendly edible cups designed to serve as biodegradable and consumable alternatives to traditional disposable beverage containers. This innovation falls within the domain of food-grade materials and environmental conservation, aiming to address issues associated with waste generation and resource consumption in the beverage service industry.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the present disclosure. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
Unless the context requires otherwise, throughout the specification which follow, the word “comprise” and variations thereof, such as, “comprises” and “comprising” are to be construed in an open, inclusive sense that is as “including, but not limited to.”
Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.
The headings and abstract of the invention provided herein are for convenience only and do not interpret the scope or meaning of the embodiments.
The present disclosure relates to the field of sustainable and eco-friendly edible cups designed to serve as biodegradable and consumable alternatives to traditional disposable beverage containers.

Composition of the Edible Cup
The edible cup is composed of a carefully selected mixture of ingredients that contribute to its stability, flavor, and biodegradability. The primary components include:

1. Flour: Various types of flour, such as wheat flour, rice flour, or other grain flours, form the structural base of the cup. These flours provide the necessary rigidity and shape retention.
2. Sugar or Natural Sweeteners: Added for sweetness and to enhance flavor. Natural sweeteners such as honey or agave syrup may also be used to replace refined sugars.
3. Natural Flavorings: Flavorings such as vanilla, chocolate, coffee, or fruit extracts are incorporated to impart taste and aroma. These can be customized based on the intended use or consumer preference.
4. Gelatin or Agar-Agar: These gelling agents are included to improve the structural integrity and stability of the cup, allowing it to hold both hot and cold beverages without collapsing.
5. Edible Oils and Fats: Oils and fats are used to provide moisture, improve texture, and enhance the mouthfeel of the cup. Examples include vegetable oil, coconut oil, or butter.

Manufacturing Process
The manufacturing process of the edible cup involves several key steps:

1. Preparation of Ingredients: Ingredients are measured and mixed according to the desired recipe. The mixture may be blended to ensure a homogeneous consistency.
2. Molding: The mixture is poured into cup-shaped molds. The molds can be designed in various shapes and sizes to cater to different beverages and occasions.
3. Baking/Cooling: The filled molds are then baked or otherwise treated to achieve the desired texture and firmness. The baking process may vary based on the composition of the mixture and the specific properties of the cup.
4. Flavoring and Coating: After baking, additional flavorings or coatings may be applied to enhance taste and appearance. These can include coatings of edible chocolate, sugar glazes, or flavor-infused sprays.
5. Packaging: The finished edible cups are cooled, inspected for quality, and packaged in a hygienic manner to ensure freshness and safety.

Uses and Applications
The edible cup can be used in various settings:

1. Beverage Service: Suitable for serving both hot and cold beverages, including coffee, tea, smoothies, juices, and cocktails. The cup is designed to maintain its structure and prevent leakage under typical beverage conditions.
2. Events and Catering: Ideal for events such as parties, weddings, and festivals where reducing waste is a priority. The cups can be customized with different flavors and shapes to match the theme of the event.
3. Restaurants and Cafes: Offers a sustainable alternative to conventional cups, enhancing the dining experience while promoting environmental responsibility.
4. Personal Use: Perfect for eco-conscious individuals who seek to minimize their environmental footprint while enjoying a unique beverage experience.
5. Promotional Items: Businesses can use edible cups as promotional items to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability. Custom branding or messaging can be added to the cups for marketing purposes.
Benefits
1. Environmental Impact: The edible cup reduces waste by eliminating the need for disposal. It is biodegradable and compostable if not consumed, breaking down naturally without harming the environment.
2. Health and Safety: Made from non-toxic, food-grade materials, ensuring safety for consumers. The absence of harmful chemicals compared to traditional cups contributes to a healthier choice.
3. Sustainability: Ingredients are often sourced from renewable resources, promoting sustainable agriculture. The production process also requires less water and energy compared to traditional disposable cups.
4. Economic Considerations: While the initial cost may be higher, long-term savings on waste disposal and environmental taxes can offset these costs. The unique nature of the product also offers market differentiation and appeals to eco-conscious consumers.
5. Consumer Experience: The novelty factor and added flavor enhance the overall beverage experience, making it more enjoyable and memorable.

The edible cup represents a significant advancement in sustainable product design, offering an innovative solution to the problem of disposable cup waste. By integrating this invention into various sectors, we can contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly future while enhancing consumer experiences.

Claims:

1. An edible cup comprising:
- a composition of flour, sugar or natural sweeteners, natural flavorings, gelatin or agar-agar, and edible oils and fats;
- wherein the edible cup is biodegradable and consumable after use.
- wherein the formulation is used for management of hyperlipidemia.

2. The edible cup as claimed in claim 1, wherein the flour is selected from the group consisting of wheat flour, rice flour, and other grain-based flours.

3. The edible cup as claimed in claim 1, wherein the gelatin or agar-agar is present in an amount sufficient to provide stability to the cup at temperatures up to 80°C.

4. A method for manufacturing an edible cup comprising:
a. Mixing flour, sugar or natural sweeteners, natural flavorings, gelatin or agar-agar, and edible oils and fats to form a dough;
b. Shaping the dough into a cup form;
c. Baking or setting the shaped dough to achieve structural integrity;
d. The edible cup is suitable for holding beverages and is consumable after use.