Smucker Sues Trader Joe’s Over PB&J Sandwich Dispute
The J.M. Smucker Co. has initiated legal action against Trader Joe’s, claiming that the grocery chain’s new frozen peanut butter and jelly sandwiches infringe on its trademarks. The lawsuit was filed on a Monday in Ohio federal court. Smucker argues that Trader Joe’s sandwiches closely resemble its well-known Uncrustables in both design and packaging.
Allegations of Trademark Infringement
At the heart of the lawsuit, Smucker points out that Trader Joe’s offers round, crustless sandwiches featuring the same pie-like crimping as its Uncrustables. Furthermore, the packaging uses a blue color identical to that of Smucker’s products. This color is specifically used for the lettering on Uncrustables packaging.
Another similarity noted by Smucker is that Trader Joe’s boxes depict a sandwich with a bite taken out, which echoes the design of Uncrustables. “Smucker does not take issue with others selling prepackaged, frozen, thaw-and-eat crustless sandwiches. However, it cannot permit the use of its intellectual property,” the company stated.
Background on Uncrustables
Uncrustables were created in 1996 by two friends in Fergus Falls, Minnesota, and Smucker acquired the brand in 1998. The company secured patents for a “sealed, crustless sandwich” by 1999. Over the past twenty years, Smucker reports having spent over $1 billion on developing this brand.
- Uncrustables launched in 1996.
- Acquired by Smucker in 1998.
- Patent secured for product in 1999.
- Investment of over $1 billion in brand development.
Legal Precedents
This lawsuit is not Smucker’s first legal challenge regarding its Uncrustables brand. In 2022, the company sent a cease-and-desist letter to Gallant Tiger, a Minnesota company producing crustless sandwiches resembling its product. Notably, this legal move follows a similar lawsuit from Mondelez International against Aldi, alleging that Aldi’s packaging closely mimics that of Mondelez’s iconic brands.
Conclusion
As the case unfolds, it highlights the ongoing battle in the food industry over brand identity and trademarks. The outcome could have significant implications for both Smucker and Trader Joe’s, especially for consumers who may find the products confusingly similar.
