You can freely build on How Pringles Potato Chips Are Stacked and Packaged
This patent expired in 1987. Every claim — 0 independent, 0 dependent — is now unenforceable. Anyone can use, reproduce, manufacture, sell, or offer for sale this technology without a license.
Original assignee
Procter and Gamble Co
Patent granted
1970
Expired
1987
Forward citations
83
What this patent covers
The patent describes a method for packaging snack chips that are uniform in shape, specifically the hyperbolic paraboloid or saddle shape. By creating chips that nest perfectly within one another, the invention allows them to be stacked in a column rather than poured loosely into a bag. This stacking mechanism is designed to minimize air space and prevent the chips from fracturing during shipping and storage, as the nested structure provides structural integrity to the entire stack.
What is now free to use
All 0 claims of US 3498798 are in the public domain. Specifically:
The 0 dependent claims add narrowing limitations and are also free.
What is NOT covered
Patent expiry frees this specific invention. Separately-patented improvements made after expiry may still be protected.
Does not cover standard potato chips that are irregular in shape or size.
Does not cover flexible packaging methods like traditional plastic or foil bags.
Does not cover the specific chemical recipe or dough composition used to create the chips.
Does not cover non-cylindrical container shapes that do not support the nested stack.
Who is building on this today
Procter and Gamble held this technology for decades before selling the Pringles brand to Kellogg Company in 2012. Today, Kellogg continues to utilize these fundamental stacking and packaging principles.
Products built on expired version of this technology
Pringles original potato crisps
Generic store-brand stackable potato crisps
How to cite this patent in your documentation
Procter and Gamble Co. US Patent 3498798. Packaging of chip-type snack food products. Granted 1970, expired 1987. Now in the public domain.
Note: This is a convenience citation. Consult a patent attorney for formal freedom-to-operate analysis.
PatentBrief is an educational resource and does not provide legal advice. Patent expiration information is derived from USPTO records and may not reflect continuation patents, divisional filings, or separately-patented improvements. For commercial use or production decisions, obtain a formal freedom-to-operate (FTO) opinion from a registered patent attorney.