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Smucker lawsuit against Trader Joe’s frozen PB&J can proceed
A federal judge refused to dismiss the case or move it to California, and Smucker is seeking restitution plus destruction of competing products and packaging.
J.M. Smucker can proceed with a federal trademark lawsuit accusing Trader Joe’s of copying the appearance of Smucker’s Uncrustables with its frozen peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, according to Insurance Journal. A U.S. District Judge ruled Friday that Smucker has alleged enough to move forward, after filing the case in federal court in Ohio last fall.
Smucker claims Trader Joe’s PB&Js use a similar round design, crimped edges, and packaging elements that resemble Uncrustables, including color and a photo of a sandwich with a bite taken out. Trader Joe’s countered that its sandwiches are not round, but shaped as “squircles,” and said the crimped design helps keep the contents inside, while arguing Smucker should not get control of the design and that Smucker’s packaging lacks the fame required for dilution.
Trader Joe’s also sought to have the case moved to California, where it is headquartered and where the frozen sandwich supplier is located, but the judge declined. The Associated Press sought comment from both companies Monday.
Smucker is seeking restitution and a court order requiring Trader Joe’s to deliver products and packaging for destruction. Insurance Journal notes Smucker’s case follows other high-profile trademark litigation in the snack market, including a 2025 lawsuit by Mondelez against Aldi over store-brand cookie and cracker packaging.