Novozymes and DSM announce the signing of an agreement under which DSM grants a worldwide, semi-exclusive license and other rights to Novozymes for Novozymes’ phytase products. The agreement settles a number of lawsuits filed in several countries, relating to the infringement and validity of phytase patents owned by DSM. All pending litigations relating to these patents have hereby been settled.
Go deeper with GlobalData
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.
The market for phytase enzymes used in animal feed is growing rapidly and both DSM and Novozymes will continue their respective businesses within this area.
Under the terms of the agreement, Novozymes will pay DSM a significant upfront license fee and a royalty. The terms of the agreement will not be disclosed.
DSM is the originator of the first phytase product (Natuphos®) for animal feed applications, which was introduced on the market some ten years ago. DSM has built a strong patent portfolio for its phytase products. After several years of legal disputes between the two companies, DSM and Novozymes are pleased to conclude a license agreement on the DSM phytase technology.
US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?
Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.
By GlobalDataDSM
DSM is a highly integrated international group of companies that is active worldwide in the field of life science products, performance materials, polymers and industrial chemicals. The group has annual sales of EUR 8.1 billion and employs about 22,000 people (year-end 2000) at more than 200 sites worldwide. By 2005 DSM aims to rank among the world’s leading players in the field of specialties characterized by a high added value, strong growth and more stable profit levels, with group sales of EUR 10 billion. At least 80% of this should be generated by specialties in which DSM holds global leadership positions.
Novozymes
Novozymes A/S is a biotech-based company and the world’s largest producer of enzymes for industrial use. Headquartered in Denmark, Novozymes employs more than 3,300 people. The company has its own activities in 20 countries, and sells its enzymes in more than 130 countries. Novozymes’ B shares are listed on the Copenhagen Stock Exchange. Novozymes was spun off from Novo Nordisk A/S in November 2000. For further company information, visit Novozymes at www.novozymes.com.
