Patent, Trademark Trends in Healthy Aging

Many innovations containing natural product ingredients are directed to mitigating age-related disorders. By combining specific search terms along with categories of active natural product ingredients, companies can identity market trends, as well as areas open to new innovations. Patent applications for nutritional supplements are often classified according to their main active ingredient.

The number of patent applications directed to healthy aging innovations has been relatively consistent since 2001, averaging about 130 applications per year. However, it appears application filing peaked in 2012 and is on a downward trend if 2016 is an indicator of the future.

Using the terms “age” or “aging” in trademarks are clear indications a product is related to healthy aging. Successfully registered trademarks have included these terms along with less descriptive terms. The less descriptive terms such as “quencher,” “response” and “optimal” can convey products are anti-aging products, if the consumer uses some thought or imagination.

During the last five years, the terms “age” or “aging” have been used 77 times. In each of the three previous five-year periods, the terms have been used no more than 90 times and no less than 59 times. This indicates a consistent trend. Brand owners have realized the value of these terms in conveying their products will help meet the needs of aging consumers.

To continue reading this article, along with other market information, check out Natural Products Insider's Healthy Aging Digital Magazine.  

Attorney Andreas Baltatzis is a director at KramerAmado PC, a boutique law firm specializing in intellectual property (IP). He represents a number of innovative nutritional supplement and nutraceutical companies that improve people’s lives every day. Baltatzis also helps companies prepare and implement IP strategies by obtaining patents and trademarks that protect their innovations and cash flow, as well as advising clients on successfully launching new products and brands.

Gideon Eckhouse is a senior associate at KramerAmado, with more than 10 years of experience in patents and trademarks. He assists innovative nutritional supplement and nutraceutical companies in protecting their IP throughout the world. Eckhouse counsels and implements global trademark strategies for new brand launches. Additionally, he prepares and prosecutes patent portfolios protecting new products coming to market.