Novozymes and DSM sign license agreement
producer Novozymes, thereby settling a number of lawsuits filed in
several countries, relating to the infringement and validity of
phytase patents owned by DSM.
Ingredients company DSM has signed an agreement with enzyme producer Novozymes, thereby settling a number of lawsuits filed in several countries, relating to the infringement and validity of phytase patents owned by DSM.
Under the agreement DSM grants a worldwide, semi-exclusive license and other rights to Novozymes for Novozymes' phytase products. DSM stressed in a statement that all pending litigations relating to these patents have hereby been settled.
Phytase is an enzyme that is added to animal feed, mainly for pigs and chickens. It increases the nutritional value of the feed and at the same time reduces the environmentally harmful effects of phosphorus from animal manure. Phytase reduces the need for other phosphorous sources by allowing the animal to use the phosphate already present in animal feed cereals.
Under the terms of the agreement, Novozymes will pay DSM an upfront license fee and a royalty. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
The two companies added in a joint statement that after several years of legal disputes, they are both pleased to conclude a license agreement on the DSM phytase technology.
