Smucker Sues Trader Joe's Over PB&J Sandwich Similarity

In a move that's sure to ruffle feathers in the frozen food aisle, The J.M. Smucker Co. is taking Trader Joe's to court over its new PB&J sandwiches.

The lawsuit, filed Monday in federal court, claims the grocery chain's new frozen peanut butter and jelly sandwiches bear an "uncanny resemblance" to Smucker's iconic Uncrustables – both in design and packaging. For millions of families, Uncrustables have become a lunchtime staple since their debut in the late 1990s.

"Trader Joe’s has essentially copied the heart and soul of our product," said Smucker's CEO in a statement. "There's only so many ways you can wrap a peanut butter sandwich, and they've crossed the line."

The legal battle highlights how fiercely companies protect their "famous" food designs. Uncrustables generated over $500 million in sales last year, making them a crown jewel in Smucker's portfolio.

What This Means for Shoppers: While the lawsuit plays out, consumers may notice fewer PB&J options on freezer shelves. Industry analysts predict other brands could face similar design challenges if they venture too close to Smucker's intellectual property.

"This isn't just about sandwiches – it's about protecting American innovation in the kitchen," noted food industry lawyer Mark Thompson.

For now, both brands remain available in stores. But as this case winds through the courts, one thing's clear: the next time you reach for a frozen PB&J, there might be more to consider than just taste.

Read the original reporting on CNN