Dannon parent sues Chobani over yogurt protein claims

NEW YORK, June 15 (Reuters) – The parent of U.S. yogurt brand Dannon sued rival Chobani on Monday, accusing it of misleading consumers with claims about a ​higher-protein line of yogurt.

In a complaint filed in Manhattan federal court, Danone (DANO.PA), opens new tab ‌said Chobani inflates protein claims on labels on multiple-serving tubs of Chobani 20G Protein, which it said Chobani positions as a direct rival to Danone’s Oikos Pro in the ultra-high-protein yogurt ​category.

“This conduct is particularly insidious when Chobani knows that healthcare providers and ​the federal government are directing the public to choose foods that offer ⁠higher concentrations of protein to maintain their health,” Danone said.

Chobani and lawyers defending ​it against other false advertising litigation by Danone did not immediately respond to requests for ​comment.

Oikos Pro contains 20 grams of protein per 5.3-ounce serving, a standard industry size.

Danone said making dairy products with that protein density is “difficult and costly,” and ​Chobani chose to inflate serving sizes on yogurt tubs without increasing the amount ​of yogurt.

According to the complaint, Chobani servings would have fewer than 18 grams of protein if ‌that ⁠company followed U.S. Food and Drug Administration serving-size rules.

Danone said that left Chobani 20G Protein more akin to Oikos Triple Zero, a lower-priced brand with 15 to 18 grams of protein per serving.

“If consumers knew the truth, instead of choosing the ​Chobani product, they would ​choose either Oikos ⁠Pro for a true ultra-high-protein option, or Oikos Triple Zero for a better price,” the complaint said.

Danone is seeking unspecified ​damages and label changes.

The lawsuit is at least the fourth ​since 2016 ⁠between Danone and Chobani, two of the biggest sellers of Greek-style yogurt.

Chobani has asked a Manhattan federal judge to dismiss Danone’s separate lawsuit claiming it copied packaging and ⁠the “Bright & ​Mellow” slogan for a line of cold brew coffee.

Chobani ​is based in New York. Danone is based in Paris and its U.S. subsidiary is based in ​White Plains, New York.