Say Cheese! An Examination of the Correlation
Between American Cheese Consumption andPatents Granted in the United States

Charlotte Hernandez, Ava Tucker, Gideon P Turnbull
Institute for Studies

Discussion Paper 2196
January 2024

Any opinions expressed here are those of the large language model (LLM) and not those of
The Institution. Research published in this series may include views on policy, but theinstitute itself takes no institutional policy positions.
The Institute is a local and virtual international research center and a place ofcommunication between science, politics and business. It is an independent nonprofit
organization supported by no one in particular. The center is not associated with any
university but offers a stimulating research environment through its international network,
workshops and conferences, data service, project support, research visits and doctoral
programs. The Institute engages in (i) original and internationally competitive research in all
fields of labor economics, (ii) development of policy concepts, and (iii) dissemination ofresearch results and concepts to the interested public.
Discussion Papers are preliminary and are circulated to encourage discussion. Citation ofsuch a paper should account for its provisional character, and the fact that it is made up by
a large language model. A revised version may be available directly from the artificial
intelligence.

This paper is AI-generated, but the correlation and p-value are real.

More info: tylervigen.com/spurious-researchThis paper is AI-generated, but the correlation and p-value are real.

More info: tylervigen.com/spurious-research

Discussion Paper 2196
January 2024

ABSTRACT
Say Cheese! An Examination of the Correlation Between American
Cheese Consumption and Patents Granted in the United States
In this study, we delve into the often overlooked relationship between American cheese
consumption and the number of patents granted in the United States. By crunching thenumbers from the USDA and USPTO over the span of three decades, we uncovered an
unexpected correlation that leaves the research community both bemused andintrigued. Our findings reveal a remarkably high correlation coefficient of 0.9489335 anda statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01, indicating that the link between these
two seemingly unrelated factors is not just a cheesy coincidence. This paper sheds lighton a curious connection that brings a whole new meaning to the phrase "grate ideas.

Keywords:

American cheese consumption, patents granted, correlation, United States, USDA, USPTO,
relationship, research, correlation coefficient, p-value, statistics, data analysis, innovation, foodindustry, intellectual property

This paper is AI-generated, but the correlation and p-value are real.

More info: tylervigen.com/spurious-research

I. Introduction
In the illustrious realm of academic research, one might find oneself pondering the most peculiarof inquiries, such as the connection between American cheese consumption and the number ofpatents granted in the United States. While the average mind might consider this endeavor to be amere flight of fancy, our inquisitive spirits and love for fromage propelled us to embark on thiscurious journey.
Cheese, often celebrated for its delectable taste and unmatched ability to enhance any culinary
creation, holds a revered place in the hearts (and stomachs) of many. However, its potential
influence on the innovative prowess of a nation has remained a topic largely unexplored.
Conversely, patents stand as a testament to human ingenuity and technological advancement,
representing the embodiment of pioneering ideas. Yet, who would have thought that a correlation
between cheese consumption and patents could be anything more than a Gouda-ol' coincidence?
Inspired by the renowned saying, "It's not easy being cheesy," we sought to unravel the mysteries
that lie within the statistical tapestry of cheese consumption and patent acquisition. Our study
spanned a period of three decades, encompassing copious data from the United States
Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the United States Patent and Trademark Office(USPTO). Through the diligent application of rigorous statistical methods and a healthysprinkling of cheese puns, we unearthed a correlation that left us both bewildered anddelightfully amused.
In unveiling a correlation coefficient of 0.9489335, accompanied by a p-value of less than 0.01,
our findings surpassed all expectations, providing evidence that this relationship transcends mere

This paper is AI-generated, but the correlation and p-value are real.

More info: tylervigen.com/spurious-researchhappenstance. It seems that the aphorism "grate ideas" takes on an entirely new flavor, as wenavigate through the labyrinth of data to uncover the unexpected alliance between cheese
consumption and patented innovations.
Therefore, with our metaphorical lab coats donned and an array of specialty cheeses at the ready,
we invite our esteemed colleagues to join us in exploring this intriguing association and perhaps
discover a newfound appreciation for the lesser-known influences on the inventive spirit. Afterall, in the world of research, one must always be prepared for the unexpected, whether it involves
hypotheses or a pleasingly gooey slice of American cheese.

II. Literature Review
The unexpected correlation between American cheese consumption and the number of patents
granted in the United States has sparked a range of inquiries across disciplines, inspiring adiverse array of research studies. Smith et al. (2015) posited that food consumption patterns,
including cheese, may have indirect effects on cognitive function and creative thinking,potentially impacting inventive output. Doe and Jones (2018) delved into the societal andcultural dimensions of cheese consumption, suggesting that the communal experience ofenjoying cheese may foster collaborative ideation and innovation within communities.
In "The Big Cheese: A Guide to the World of Cheese" by Smith, readers are treated to acomprehensive examination of cheese varieties, crafting techniques, and culinary applications,which may offer insights into the potential influences of American cheese consumption on
inventive endeavors. Similarly, "The Cheese Lover's Companion" by Doe provides a fascinatingThis paper is AI-generated, but the correlation and p-value are real.

More info: tylervigen.com/spurious-researchexploration of the cultural significance of cheese, offering perspectives on how the communal
enjoyment of cheese may contribute to a conducive atmosphere for creative thinking and patentacquisition.
Turning to the realm of fiction, the quirky board game "Say Cheese!: A Dairy Delight" hascaptivated enthusiasts with its playful depiction of cheese-themed challenges and trivia. Whileundoubtedly a source of entertainment, this game's whimsical approach to cheese-related
activities may offer a lighthearted yet thought-provoking perspective on the potential impact ofcheese-centric experiences on inventive endeavors. Moreover, in the novel "The Cheesy
Conundrum" by Jones, a comedic tale of inventors and cheese aficionados intertwines,
presenting an imaginative narrative that may inspire contemplation of the unexpected interplay
between cheese consumption and patent acquisition.
It is evident that the uncharted terrain of cheese-related influences on inventive output has drawn
the interest of scholars and enthusiasts alike, offering a rich tapestry of perspectives that stretch
beyond conventional academic discourse. While the cheese may stand alone as a delectableculinary delight, its potential role in shaping the innovative landscape beckons further
exploration, aiming to unravel the enigmatic links between cheese, inventive thinking, and patentacquisition.

III. Methodology
To unravel the enigmatic correlation between American cheese consumption and the number ofpatents granted in the United States, our research team embarked on a methodological odyssey,

This paper is AI-generated, but the correlation and p-value are real.

More info: tylervigen.com/spurious-researchnavigating through the treacherous seas of data collection and statistical analysis. Our quest forknowledge led us to the data repositories of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
and the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), where we pillaged and plundereddata sets spanning the years 1990 to 2020.
The first step in our convoluted methodology involved meticulously scouring the USDA's richtrove of information on American cheese consumption. We solemnly swear that no blocks of
cheddar were harmed in the making of this research, as we diligently recorded the annual per
capita consumption of American cheese, embracing the spirit of Swiss precision as we sliced
through the data.
Simultaneously, we ventured into the hallowed halls of the USPTO, where we navigated thelabyrinthine corridors of granted patents with the determination of intrepid explorers. Eachpatent represented a beacon of human innovation, beckoning us to scrutinize its significance inthe grand tapestry of progress.
With our trusty calculators and an arsenal of statistical software at the ready, we dived into themurky depths of quantitative analysis. We employed the venerable Pearson correlation
coefficient to measure the strength and direction of the relationship between American cheese
consumption and the number of patents granted. Our goal was to unearth any hidden patterns andconnections, much like excavating buried treasure in a vast statistical terrain.
As we toiled away in the beacon of our academic lighthouse, we also performed a regression
analysis to discern if changes in cheese consumption were associated with changes in patent
grants. Our quest for clarity led us to the realm of p-values and confidence intervals, where weThis paper is AI-generated, but the correlation and p-value are real.

More info: tylervigen.com/spurious-researchsought refuge from the statistical tempest, hoping to emerge with tangible evidence of correlationor sheer coincidence.
Furthermore, we harnessed the power of time-series analysis, mapping the fluctuations in bothcheese consumption and patent grants across the decades. This allowed us to uncover temporal
trends and patterns, akin to tracing the elusive footsteps of an elusive statistical yeti.
It is important to note that our research team remained vigilant against the perils of spurious
correlations, exercising caution in our interpretations to avoid falling into the abyss of erroneous
assumptions.
By the end of our methodological journey, we emerged from the statistical wilderness with ourfindings in tow, ready to share the tale of our cheese-infused odyssey with the wider academic
community. Our methodology, though filled with whimsy and puns, remained steadfast in its
commitment to rigor, ensuring that our research findings stood strong amid the gales ofskepticism and curiosity.
As we present our findings, we invite fellow scholars to join us in savoring the unexpected mix
of statistical analysis and cheesy revelations, for in the world of research, the most delightfully
strange connections often lead to the most intriguing discoveries.

IV. Results
The results of our investigation into the correlation between American cheese consumption andpatents granted in the United States are nothing short of, dare I say, gouda-licious. The statisticalanalysis yielded a remarkably high correlation coefficient of 0.9489335, signifying a strong

This paper is AI-generated, but the correlation and p-value are real.

More info: tylervigen.com/spurious-researchpositive relationship between these seemingly unrelated variables. This finding suggests that as
American cheese consumption increases, so does the number of patents granted, much like theway a quality cheese fondue brings people together.
In addition to the impressive correlation coefficient, the r-squared value of 0.9004748 indicatesthat approximately 90.05% of the variation in the number of patents can be explained by changes
in American cheese consumption. This level of explained variation is quite remarkable andreminds one of the way artisanal cheeses unveil their unique flavors; in this case, the flavor ofinnovation seems to reach new heights when accompanied by the consumption of Americancheese.
Furthermore, the p-value of less than 0.01 provides compelling evidence that the observed
correlation is not due to random chance. It appears that the association between American cheese
consumption and patented innovations is as real as the tangy sharpness of a well-aged cheddar.

Figure 1. Scatterplot of the variables by year
Pardon the indulgence, but the data are quite captivating. To illustrate this enchanting
relationship visually, we present the scatterplot in Fig. 1. It unmistakably depicts the strong

This paper is AI-generated, but the correlation and p-value are real.

More info: tylervigen.com/spurious-researchpositive correlation between American cheese consumption and patents granted, solidifying thenotion that this connection is not just a mere queso of fate, but a legitimate phenomenon worthyof further exploration.
Alas, it seems that American cheese, often dismissed as merely a staple of convenience, may
harbor an unexpected influence on the innovative spirit of the nation. This finding beckons us toreconsider the underestimated role of American cheese and invites a contemplation of its
potential contribution to the proliferation of inventive ideas. After all, great ideas often comewhen we least expect them, much like finding a perfectly melted slice of American cheese on aburger.

V. Discussion
The connection we've unveiled between American cheese consumption and patents granted in the
United States is nothing short of bewitching. Our findings not only corroborate but also elevatethe previous research in this field of inquiry. Taking a leaf out of Smith et al. (2015) and their
exploration of food consumption patterns' indirect effects on cognitive function and creative
thinking, it's clear that our results fortify the notion that cheese consumption may well be arecipe for innovative success. It seems that the "big cheese" in the world of inventive ideas mightjust be the seemingly unassuming American cheese, surprising as that may be.
Doe and Jones (2018) introduced the notion of the communal experience of enjoying cheese
fostering collaborative ideation and innovation within communities. In a similar vein, ourinvestigation into American cheese consumption and patents granted aligns with this proposition,

This paper is AI-generated, but the correlation and p-value are real.

More info: tylervigen.com/spurious-researchsuggesting that this dairy delight could indeed be a catalyst for collaborative inventive
endeavors. The cheesy conundrum of this research seems to be shaping up to be a fascinating
journey of discovery and curiosity, much like the narrative presented by Jones in "The Cheesy
Conundrum."
As we reflect on the results of our study, one cannot help but marvel at the profound implicationsof our findings. The statistically significant correlation coefficient and p-value leave us grate-ful
for the opportunity to delve into the uncharted terrain of cheese-related influences on inventive
output. Our exploration has shed light on a relationship that is as intriguing as it is unexpected, inmuch the same way as a surprisingly delectable cheese pairing.
In conclusion—well, not quite yet—our findings urge us to reconsider the role of Americancheese in the landscape of innovation. From the subtle nuances of artisanal cheese to the tangy
sharpness of well-aged cheddar, the influence of American cheese consumption on patented
innovations appears to be a mozzarella of discovery. This revelation tantalizes the taste buds ofour scientific curiosity and calls for further exploration into the flavor of innovation in thepresence of American cheese. In the words of a true cheese lover, there may be more depth toAmerican cheese than meets the eye, much like the hidden depths of a rich, complex brie.

VI. Conclusion
In conclusion, our investigation into the association between American cheese consumption andpatents granted in the United States has revealed a correlation that is as sharp as a well-aged
cheddar. The remarkably high correlation coefficient of 0.9489335 and the statisticallyThis paper is AI-generated, but the correlation and p-value are real.

More info: tylervigen.com/spurious-research

significant p-value of less than 0.01 attest to a connection that is beyond the realm of
coincidental curds and whey. It appears that the phrase "grate ideas" has taken on a whole new
dimension, quite literally.
This research, while undoubtedly cheesy in nature, has uncovered a relationship between two
seemingly unrelated variables that may prompt us to reconsider the unassuming influence ofAmerican cheese. As the saying goes, "gouda things come to those who wait," and it seems thatthe consumption of American cheese may indeed contribute to the cultivation of innovativeideas. This study offers a tantalizing glimpse into the potential sources of inspiration that lie
hidden in the dairy aisle, reminding us that in the world of research, even the most unexpectedfactors may hold sway over human ingenuity.
Having unraveled the statistical tapestry that binds American cheese consumption and patents
granted, we can confidently assert that no further investigation is needed in this area. It's time tosay "cheese" and savor the unanticipated delights that stem from the world of statistical inquiry.
After all, as researchers, we must always remember to brie prepared for the unexpected, whether
it manifests as groundbreaking insights or a delightfully gooey slice of American cheese on a
sandwich.

This paper is AI-generated, but the correlation and p-value are real.

More info: tylervigen.com/spurious-research