RiceTec (Texas)
"Texmati" Rice · 1997
RiceTec (Texas)
- Item
- "Texmati" Rice
- Year
- 1997
- Retail
- —
- Spin
- "American long-grain rice"
In 1997, a Texas-based firm, RiceTec, attempted to patent a rice variety named 'Texmati,' marketing it as an American long-grain rice. This move sparked significant international controversy, as it was perceived as an attempt to claim ownership over the genetic heritage and traditional knowledge associated with Basmati. India challenged the patent at the US Patent Office, leading to most of RiceTec's claims being struck down, but highlighting the vulnerability of traditional food names to biopiracy.
बासमती
Basmati
- Region
- Indo-Gangetic plain
- True Value
- —
- Category
- 05 · Culinary Rebranding
Basmati, meaning 'fragrant one' in Sanskrit, is a unique long-grain rice variety cultivated for centuries in the Indo-Gangetic plain. Its distinct aroma and delicate flavor are cherished in South Asian cuisine, particularly in biryanis and pilafs. Farmers in India and Pakistan have meticulously preserved its genetic purity and traditional cultivation methods, making it a cornerstone of their agricultural heritage and culinary identity.
FX reference: 1 USD ≈ ₹83 — for comparison only
The Story
In 1997, RiceTec, a Texas-based company, introduced "Texmati" rice, marketing it as an American long-grain variety. This product sparked international controversy due to its striking resemblance, both in name and characteristics, to a revered South Asian staple. The company sought to patent this new rice strain, claiming it as an original American innovation.
Basmati (बासमती) is a distinctive long-grain aromatic rice, deeply embedded in the culinary and cultural heritage of the Indo-Gangetic plain. Cultivated for centuries, its unique fragrance and slender grains are a result of specific agro-climatic conditions and traditional farming practices passed down through generations. It is not merely a food grain but a symbol of regional identity and agricultural expertise, often featured in celebratory meals and traditional dishes across India and Pakistan.
The introduction of "Texmati" and RiceTec's subsequent attempt to patent it ignited a significant international dispute. The Indian government, along with various agricultural communities and experts, vehemently challenged the patent application at the US Patent Office. Their core objection centered on the argument that "Texmati" was an appropriation of the genetic lineage and established identity of Basmati rice, representing a form of biopiracy and a threat to the livelihoods of traditional Basmati farmers.
India successfully fought the patent claims, leading to most of RiceTec's assertions being struck down at the US Patent Office.
A Texas firm tried to patent 'Texmati'. India fought it; most claims were struck down at the US Patent Office.