Two of the nation's largest potato product companies are locked in a legal dispute over the shape of their respective french fries.
The Times-News of Twin Falls, Idaho, reports that J.R. Simplot filed a federal lawsuit accusing rival McCain Foods of infringing on the patented design of its "Sidewinder" fries.
The complaint alleged that McCain introduced its “deceptively and confusing similar” product “Twisted Potatoes” in an effort to erode Simplot's market share and capitalize on the success of Sidewinders.
Attorneys for the company added that Simplot, based in Boise, invested resources to reconfigure its operations and add equipment to bolster Sidewinder production.
The lawsuit reportedly seeks triple damages plus interest, along with an injunction prohibiting McCain from using the shape in question.
“McCain’s conduct has caused and will cause great and irreparable harm to Simplot in an amount which cannot be adequately remedied by money damages," attorneys wrote, according to the Times-News.
McCain, based in suburban Chicago, had 21 days to file a response to the complaint.