A solids package 10 comprises a linear elongate tubular structure 15 which is sealed at an upper end 11 and a lower end 12 thereof, the structure including an integral gripping portion 14 proximate the upper end and a foraminous portion 16, a predetermined amount of a solid material contained within the tubular structure 15, the solid material having a particle size greater then the openings in the foraminous portion, the structure having sufficient overall rigidity so as to permit at least the foraminous portion to be immersed in a liquid and by holding the gripping portion 14, stirring the package so as to cause the solid material to be dispersed, dissolved or infused into the liquid.