PROTEIN COMPOSITIONS FOR FOODSTUFFS; WORKING-UP PROTEINS FOR FOODSTUFFS; PHOSPHATIDE COMPOSITIONS FOR FOODSTUFFS

Description

A23J covers the preparation, processing, and formulation of protein-based ingredients and compositions intended for food applications, including extraction, purification, modification, and functional enhancement of proteins from plant or animal sources. This classification also encompasses phosphatide (phospholipid) compositions designed as food components or additives. Technologies within this scope include protein isolation methods, texturization processes, protein-based meat or dairy analogues, and formulation of protein-enriched food products, but exclude general food processing techniques covered in A23L or protein chemistry outside food contexts.

Filing statistics

CPC subclass A23J recorded 19,815 patent applications worldwide between 2013 and 2023. Annual filings grew from 925 in 2013 to 2,020 in 2023 (+118%), peaking at 2,923 applications in 2022. The most active applicants in class A23 are NESTLE (5,075 applications), NESTEC (3,916 applications) and DSM IP ASSETS (DUTCH STATE MINES IP ASSETS) (2,558 applications).

Source: EPO PATSTAT, worldwide filings