Publication
Protecting food industry innovations as the scope of patentable subject matter narrows
Strong intellectual property increases the value of a company. Copyrights, trademarks, patents, and trade secrets are some avenues to protect intellectual property, but understanding when they’re available and understanding their costs and benefits can be complicated. Over the last few years, the Supreme Court has narrowed the scope of “patentable subject matter”—the types of inventions that initially qualify for patent protection. The narrowed scope affects a wide range of patents, including those in the food industry. As the scope narrows, other types of protection, like trade secrets, can become more attractive.
About Snell & Wilmer
Founded in 1938, Snell & Wilmer is a full-service business law firm with more than 500 attorneys practicing in 16 locations throughout the United States and in Mexico, including Los Angeles, Orange County and San Diego, California; Phoenix and Tucson, Arizona; Denver, Colorado; Washington, D.C.; Boise, Idaho; Las Vegas and Reno, Nevada; Albuquerque, New Mexico; Portland, Oregon; Dallas, Texas; Salt Lake City, Utah; Seattle, Washington; and Los Cabos, Mexico. The firm represents clients ranging from large, publicly traded corporations to small businesses, individuals and entrepreneurs. For more information, visit swlaw.com.
