EPO Validates Isoflavone Patent

LONDERZEEL, BelgiumThe European Patent Office (EPO) upheld the validity of the main application patent for the use of isoflavones in consumer products.

Patent EP 0656786 covers the use of the isoflavones genistein, daidzein and their natural derivatives for health indications such as menopausal symptoms and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Consumer products containing from 20 to 200 mg (daily dosage) of isoflavones that are marketed for these health indications may fall under the protection of this patent.

Womens health, and specifically the treatment of menopausal symptoms, is the most common indication for products containing isoflavones, said David Hart, product manager of Frutaroms SoyLife, the sole licensee of the patent. We intend to work in cooperation with potential customers to ensure that they can use the positioning covered by the patent. This is a validation of our strategy of investing in and developing Intellectual Property, including patents and scientific studies, to support SoyLife and the isoflavone market.