AboutShannon Moore Expertise I am able to answer general questions pertaining to copyrights and patents, such as explanations of what they are & how to obtain them. I cannot answer specific legal questions.
Experience Since 1994, I have been the General Manager for TradeMark Express, which specializes in trademarks. Over the years, I've accumulated information pertaining to copyrights and patents.
Organizations TradeMark Express belongs to BBB, the Better Business Bureau, as well as INTA, the International Trademark Association
Expert: Shannon Moore Date: 6/14/2008 Subject: Copyright For a Drink
Question I have "invented" a special vitamin drink that I would like to market. I would like to protect the recipe. Do I need to copyright it and if yes, how. Thanks in advance.
Answer Dear Maria,
Recipes are a bit trickier & you may want to consult with a copyright attorney before moving ahead. Here's what the US Copyright Office has to say:
A mere listing of ingredients is not protected under copyright law. However, where a recipe or formula is accompanied by substantial literary expression in the form of an explanation or directions, or when there is a collection of recipes as in a cookbook, there may be a basis for copyright protection. Note that if you have secret ingredients to a recipe that you do not wish to be revealed, you should not submit your recipe for registration, because applications and deposit copies are public records.
