Saint Patrick’s Day started as a religious holiday for honoring the patron saint but is now a more general celebration of Irish culture. Certain items commonly associated with the holiday are subject to intellectual property protection. Indeed, in 1993, shamrock shaped sunglasses, worn by many celebrators, were patented. Additionally, “Green Coloured Beer and Method for Production Thereof” is also the subject of a patent using blue food coloring to transform the golden color of beer to green. Guinness has also taken steps to protect its iconic Irish product by trademarking their signature Irish harp logo. The company was also the first to patent the “beer widget” as “Improved Method of and Means for Dispensing Carbonated Liquids from Containers.” The widget is a small sphere, similar to a ping pong ball, aimed at achieving the perfect carbonation and consistency of beer. Lastly, every child’s favorite leprechaun, “Lucky” of Lucky Charms cereal has been registered as a trademark in addition to the cereal’s slogan “they’re magically delicious.” Moreover, the “Multi-Colored Aerated Confectionary Products,” or marshmallow candy, have been patented. #omnilegalgroup #patents #trademarks #StPatricksDay
