Disposable perforated straw

Abstract

A perforated straw having a tubular body, which is sealed at one end. The straw has perforations in the body near the lower sealed end. These perforations allow for fluid to pass into the straw while preventing the passage of solids present in the beverage. The size and configuration of the perforations determines which, if any, solids pass through the straw and which remain within the beverage container.

1 - 15 . (canceled)  
   
   
       16 - 21 . (canceled)  
   
   
       22 . A perforated straw comprising a tubular body having an upper end and a lower end, wherein a lower terminus of said lower end is sealed, and wherein said body comprises at least one perforation proximate said lower end, said perforation operative to allow fluid to enter said body of said straw and to prevent solids from entering said body.  
   
   
       23 . The perforated straw of  claim 22 , wherein said straw comprises a plurality of perforations.  
   
   
       24 . That perforated straw of  claim 22 , wherein said perforation has a width of between 1 mm and 5 mm.  
   
   
       25 . The perforated straw of  claim 22 , wherein said straw is made of plastic.  
   
   
       26 . The perforated straw of  claim 22 , wherein said perforation has a narrow elongated shape.  
   
   
       27 . The perforated straw of  claim 22 , wherein said lower terminus is heat-sealed.  
   
   
       28 . A method of using a straw having a tubular body with an upper end and a lower end, wherein a lower terminus of said lower end is sealed, and wherein-said body comprises at least one perforation proximate said lower end, said perforation operative to allow fluid to enter said body of said straw and to prevent solids from entering said body, said method comprising: 
 a) placing said lower terminus in a liquid;    b) inserting said upper end a user's mouth; and    c) sucking on said upper end so as to cause said liquid to enter said user's mouth.    
   
   
       29 . The method of  claim 28 , wherein said straw comprises a plurality of perforations.  
   
   
       30 . The method of  claim 28 , wherein said perforation has a width of between 1 mm and 5 mm.  
   
   
       31 . The method of  claim 28 , wherein said straw is made of plastic.  
   
   
       32 . The method of  claim 28 , wherein said perforation has a narrow elongated shape.  
   
   
       33 . The method of  claim 28 , wherein said lower end