The J.M. Smucker Co. has filed a federal lawsuit against Trader Joe’s, accusing the grocery chain of copying its popular Uncrustables frozen sandwiches.
Filed Monday in Ohio federal court, the lawsuit argues that Trader Joe’s round, crustless sandwiches with crimped edges closely resemble Uncrustables. Smucker said it has no problem with competitors selling similar products — as long as they don’t copy its signature design.
“Smucker does not take issue with others in the marketplace selling prepackaged, frozen, thaw-and-eat crustless sandwiches,” the company said. “But it cannot allow others to use Smucker’s valuable intellectual property to make such sales.”
The lawsuit also accuses Trader Joe’s of infringing on Smucker’s trademarks with similar packaging. Smucker said the store’s use of blue lettering and an image of a sandwich with a bite taken out mimic Uncrustables’ recognizable design.
According to the complaint, the similarities have already caused customer confusion. Smucker pointed to a social media post where a shopper incorrectly claimed that Trader Joe’s sandwiches were made by Smucker under a private label.
Smucker is asking the court for restitution and an order requiring Trader Joe’s to turn over its sandwiches and packaging so they can be destroyed.
The company’s portfolio includes several major brands such as Folgers, Dunkin’, Café Bustelo, Jif, Uncrustables, Smucker’s, and Hostess.