Sausage makers settle dust-up over 'backyard brat'

Bratwurst and sauerkraut
The classic combination of sauerkraut served atop a bratwurst and bun was popular during Sauerkraut Days in Henderson, Minn. Two Wisconsin sausage companies have settled their legal battle over who can call their product a "backyard brat."
Jennifer Simonson | MPR News File 2014

Two Wisconsin sausage companies have settled their legal battle over who can call their product a "backyard brat."

Klement Sausage Co. sued Johnsonville Sausage in federal court for trademark infringement. The Milwaukee company says it trademarked "backyard bratwurst" in 2009 and that Johnsonville's use of the phrase "backyard grilled brat" violated federal and state law.

The Sheboygan Falls company says it has agreed to stop using the term and that it dropped the phrase following a cease-and-desist notification from Klement last May.

WLUK-TV reports that Johnsonville says it has destroyed all labels, signs, packaging or other materials that violated the copyright.

Klement sponsors the popular Racing Sausages that appear at Milwaukee Brewers' home games.

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.