With a sample of nearly 18,611 utility patents, this paper studies the technology
mix of 90 of the world’s leading food and beverage multinationals (FBMs) over
1969-1994. It explores the statistical association between patenting in food
technology and in non-food technological fields. Food patenting is always associated
with patenting in Biotech, Chemistry, Machinery and Other patenting, whatever
the home country of the company. The strength of the association, however, could
vary. Herfindahl indices show that capabilities in core technology and in
Machinery and Other fields are spread among many FBMs. Though to a lesser
extent, technical capabilities in Biotechnology, Packaging and Refrigeration are
also dispersed. By contrast, patenting in Tobacco, Chemistry and Drugs is
concentrated.