Devon chocolate firm in trademark dispute with Cadbury owner over Snowballs product
Mondelēz says no legal action has been taken and it is open to an amicable resolution
A Devon-based chocolate company is facing a trademark dispute from the owner of Cadbury over its White Choccy Snowballs product.
Moo Free, which makes vegan and dairy-free chocolate, said in a social media post that Kraft Foods Schweiz Holding GmbH alleges the product infringes trademark rights associated with Cadbury Snow Balls.
Kraft Foods Schweiz Holding GmbH is part of the Mondelēz group, which owns Toblerone and Cadbury.
A Mondelēz International spokesperson said no legal action has been taken.
Moo Free said in a letter to them Mondelēz also alleges the company is taking advantage of the reputation associated with the Cadbury product and potentially causing confusion in the minds of shoppers.
The company said: "Moo Free takes intellectual property concerns seriously.
"However, we do not accept that any infringement has been established and have responded accordingly."
Moo Free added that Kraft has also asked it to remove the product from sale immediately.
It said: "Aside from the operational and practical challenges this would bring, doing so would cause significant financial damage to a family-run business of our size."
The company, which is based in Holsworthy, has been making vegan and dairy-free products since 2010.
It said this year it announced it is 'Free From 14', meaning its products are free from the top 14 allergens in the UK.
Moo Free said: 'We care passionately about, and remain committed to, creating products that are both delicious and safe for those with allergies and intolerances.'
A spokesperson for Mondelēz International said: "Cadbury Snowballs are one of our most popular Christmas products, enjoyed by households across the UK.
"No legal action has been taken, but we have been in touch with Moo Free to make them aware of our trademark.
"We are open to reaching an amicable resolution."