Beyond Biryani and Rasgulla: Protecting India’s Culinary Heritage Through IPR Law

Indian cuisine reflects the country's history, culture, religion, geography, and traditions, with regional dishes serving as symbols of local identity and heritage. As globalization and commercial food branding increase, traditional recipes and culinary practices face growing risks of imitation, misuse, and exploitation without proper recognition. This paper examines whether India's culinary heritage can be effectively protected through intellectual property law. It explores the applicability of various forms of intellectual property protection, including copyright, trademarks, patents, geographical indications, and traditional knowledge frameworks, in safeguarding traditional foods and recipes. The study highlights the strengths and limitations of each legal mechanism and evaluates their role in preserving India's rich culinary legacy while promoting cultural and economic interests.