Trader Joe's in Trouble? Smucker Sues Over 'Copy-Cat' PB&J and Demands Product Removal

The J.M.. Smucker Company has filed a federal lawsuit against Trader Joe's, accusing it of launching a crustless peanut butter and jam sandwich that closely resembles Smucker's flagship Uncrustables.

The Ohio-based firm argues that consumer confusion is inevitable due to the product's design, packaging, and branding. The lawsuit alleges that Trader Joe's design—including a round, crimped-edge sandwich and blue-themed packaging featuring a bite-mark graphic—is too close to Uncrustables' long-established trademarks.

Smucker contends that, while it does not oppose other crustless sandwiches, it must defend its intellectual property. The company is seeking a court order to stop Trader Joe's from selling the product, destroy related packaging, and recover profits made from the infringing sales.

The lawsuit highlights that Uncrustables generates nearly US$1 billion annually, with 1.5 billion sandwiches produced each year. Smucker emphasises the effort invested in developing the product's distinctive shape, sealed format, and branding imagery.

Legal experts suggest the case hinges on whether Trader Joe's design is functional (and therefore not protected) or sufficiently distinctive to serve as a brand identifier. Social media evidence, including posts where consumers mistake Trader Joe's product for Smucker's, could support claims of consumer confusion.

Trader Joe's has yet to comment publicly. Smucker states its action aims to protect its brand from deceptive imitation, not competition overall.

This case has wider implications for the food retail sector. It underscores how private-label products may face increased legal scrutiny—particularly when their design and branding resemble established brands. Both retailers and brand owners will be watching closely, as intellectual property rights in the grocery aisle become more contested.

While the claimed damages vary in reports, Smucker's legal challenge demonstrates its commitment to protecting its brand. The outcome could influence how aggressively retailers pursue private labels and how carefully brands guard their product's visual elements.

In short, Trader Joe's may have landed itself in a heated legal battle over a sandwich designed to mimic a popular lunchbox staple. Whether the court sides with Smucker or rules in Trader Joe's favour over functional design remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: in the snack world, shape, colour, and packaging matter as much as taste.