Oatly’s “Post Milk Generation” Trademark Rejected by UK Court Amid Dairy Industry Pushback

The UK Court of Appeal has ruled against Swedish plant-based drink brand Oatly, stating that they cannot use the slogan “Post Milk Generation” on their food and beverage products. This decision comes after a prolonged legal dispute with Dairy UK, the trade association representing the UK’s dairy industry, who argued that the term “milk” should only be used to describe products derived from mammals. The court sided with Dairy UK, affirming that dairy terminology should be reserved exclusively for dairy products, as outlined in EU and UK regulations.

Oatly has expressed disappointment in the ruling, stating that it benefits Big Dairy and hinders the progress of plant-based alternatives. Despite the decision, Oatly has not ruled out further legal action, which could include an appeal to the Supreme Court. This ruling sets a precedent for plant-based labeling in the UK, sparking a broader debate about the use of terms like “milk” in plant-based product marketing.