How do I protect my intellectual property rights when selling food in New Zealand?

When selling food in New Zealand, branding and unique product recipes/formulations can be your key IP assets. It's important to trademark your brand name, logo, and any distinct packaging designs through the Intellectual Property Office of New Zealand (IPONZ) at https://www.iponz.govt.nz/. If you have unique food formulations or production processes, consider their eligibility for patents through the same office. Ensure that any marketing or product descriptions are copyrighted in New Zealand. If collaborating with chefs, manufacturers, or marketers, have clear contracts detailing IP ownership. It's crucial to maintain secrecy around proprietary recipes or processes using Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) with employees or partners. Regularly monitor the market for similar products or branding, and in case of potential infringements, engage with our IP legal professionals in New Zealand for guidance and action.