A U.S. District Judge in Ohio has cleared the way for J.M. Smucker Co. to pursue its trademark claim against grocery chain Trader Joe’s. The case centers on Trader Joe’s frozen peanut‑butter‑and‑jelly sandwiches, which Smucker alleges copy the iconic round shape, crimped edges, and packaging of its Uncrustables line.
Background of the dispute
Smucker filed the suit in federal court last fall, asserting that Trader Joe’s product is so visually similar that consumers are likely to associate it with Uncrustables. The complaint also points to the sandwich’s packaging, which features a color scheme and a bite‑taken photograph that Smucker says mirrors its own box introduced in 2024.
Trader Joe’s defense
In its filing, Trader Joe’s described the frozen sandwiches as “squircles”—a blend of square and circle—rather than true circles. The retailer argued the crimped design is functional, keeping the filling inside, and that Smucker should not be allowed to monopolize a shape that serves a practical purpose. Trader Joe’s also contended that the Uncrustables packaging has not yet achieved the level of fame required for a federal trademark dilution claim.
Judge’s ruling
Judge John Adams rejected Trader Joe’s arguments, noting that Smucker has devoted significant resources over the past 20 years to develop and protect the Uncrustables brand. The judge found that consumers have come to associate the sandwich’s distinctive design with Smucker, satisfying the legal standard for trademark protection. He also denied Trader Joe’s request to transfer the case to California, where the retailer’s headquarters and its third‑party sandwich supplier are located.
Potential outcomes
Smucker is seeking monetary restitution and a court order requiring Trader Joe’s to destroy any remaining products and packaging that infringe on the Uncrustables trademarks. The case remains pending, and both parties are expected to continue negotiations and possible settlement discussions.
Related trademark actions
This lawsuit follows a recent high‑profile trademark dispute in which snack giant Mondelez International sued Aldi over packaging that allegedly mimics its well‑known cookie and cracker brands. That case, filed in May 2025, is still in settlement talks.
The outcome of the Smucker‑Trader Joe’s case could have broader implications for food manufacturers seeking to protect product designs and packaging, especially as retailers expand their private‑label frozen offerings.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
