There is often a misconception that the only intellectual property protection available for food-related technologies is a trade secret. While a trade secret is an IP right commonly used as a means to protect food-related technologies, a utility patent is also an option.
A utility patent directed to edible products and food-related processes and compositions is commonly known as a food patent. The federal statutes related to patent law encourage innovation in all fields, including the food industry, and the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) regularly grants food-related patents. Inventors of novel and marketable food products and food processes should consider applying for a patent.