Remember being told not to copy someone’s homework? Well, what about their sandwiches? Across Northwest Kansas — and really, the entire country — you’ll often find an Uncrustables sandwich tucked into lunchboxes or weekend snacks. The frozen peanut butter and jelly staple has been a go-to for families for decades.
Now, J.M. Smucker Co., the maker of Uncrustables, has filed a federal lawsuit against Trader Joe’s, claiming the retailer copied its signature crustless sandwich. The lawsuit, filed October 13, accuses Trader Joe’s of trademark infringement and unfair competition.
According to Reuters, Smucker says Trader Joe’s new crustless peanut butter and jelly sandwich mimics the round shape, crimped edges, and packaging design of Uncrustables. The company also claims Trader Joe’s product features a bitten sandwich image that reveals the filling, similar to Smucker’s marketing.
Smucker produces about 1.5 billion Uncrustables each year and says the brand is on pace to reach $1 billion in annual sales. The company is asking the court to stop production of Trader Joe’s sandwiches, destroy existing inventory, and award damages. The case is pending in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio.
In Goodland, shoppers can find Smucker’s Uncrustables at Walmart, along with tools for families who prefer to make their own version at home.
As the case moves forward, it highlights how far companies will go to protect even the simplest ideas — including a childhood favorite that’s become a lunchbox classic.
Rachel Redlin is a columnist, author, journalist, and award-winning radio host. She lives in Northwest Kansas with her husband and five children, where she writes about faith, food, and the simple everyday life. Want to read more or contact us? You can subscribe to the FREE newsletter at www.simplybloominggrace.com
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