The Metaverse Menu: Food Brands Take a Bite
As the digital realm of Web3, NFTs, and the Metaverse expands, food companies are racing to secure their spots in this virtual playground. Recently, a number of renowned brands have filed trademark applications to explore opportunities in nonfungible tokens and other digital assets, indicating a commitment to evolving with the times.
Kraft Foods and the Weinermobile
Leading the charge is Kraft Foods Group, which filed a trademark application on October 12 for its iconic hot dog-shaped Weinermobile. This whimsical vehicle is set to transition from the streets to the digital landscape, with plans that include:
- NFTs and Digital Tokens
- NFT Marketplaces
- Virtual Foods, Drinks, and Restaurants
- Online Stores for NFTs and Virtual Goods
The application hints at a virtual restaurant operation where users can enjoy Kraft’s offerings in both the real and virtual worlds—just remember, you can’t ketchup with those virtual condiments!
In-N-Out Burger Joins the Digital Fry-Up
Not far behind, In-N-Out Burger is taking a similar route with a trademark application filed on October 6. The beloved fast-food chain plans to open an online retail store featuring virtual goods, including:
- NFTs and NFT-backed media
- Virtual Foods and Drinks
- Retail Stores for Virtual Goods
- NFT and Digital Token Exchanges
According to the filed documents, In-N-Out aims to provide online, non-downloadable software to access and manage these virtual goods. Now you can enjoy an In-N-Out burger while lounging in the comfort of your digital living room!
Del Monte’s Digital Expansion
Following suit, Del Monte Foods filed eight trademark applications on October 10 for both “Del Monte” and “The Del Monte Shield.” This iconic brand is also stepping into the Web3 space with plans for:
- NFTs and NFT-backed media
- Online Virtual Marketplaces
- Virtual Restaurants and Stores
- Virtual Foods and Drinks
Del Monte’s application includes ambitions to dive into Web3 software, encompassing everything from managing digital currency to handling virtual objects and services. Who knew canned corn would have a future in the Metaverse?
The Big Picture: Trademark Surge in the Food Industry
The recent explosion of trademark applications from these food titans reflects an increasing interest in Web3 and NFT technologies. In fact, a substantial rise in U.S. trademarks associated with cryptocurrencies and virtual assets has been reported over the past year. As we inch closer to a fully digital existence, could our favorite snacks make their way onto virtual tables across the Metaverse?
Conclusion: A Digital Future for Food
With Kraft, In-N-Out, and Del Monte tapping into the possibilities of NFTs and virtual goods, it’s clear the food industry is setting the stage for a digital revolution. As laws and regulations evolve to accommodate these new business models, consumer engagement in virtual spaces might truly change the way we view—and taste—food in the future.
