What claims did the federal judge dismiss in Ben & Jerry's lawsuit against Unilever, and which claims survived?

U.S. District Judge Kevin Castel dismissed seven claims and part of an eighth in Ben & Jerry's 10-count complaint, with the dismissed claims relating primarily to how Ben & Jerry's operates; the two claims that survived in full concern Unilever's alleged failure to pay $2.5 million to Ben & Jerry's and $2 million to support Palestinian almond farmers, as stipulated in a 2022 settlement over the sale of Ben & Jerry's trademark rights in Israel.

Why did Magnum replace Unilever as the primary defendant in the lawsuit?

Magnum replaced Unilever as the primary defendant because it acquired Ben & Jerry's after being spun off from Unilever last year, and Judge Castel ruled that Magnum — as the current owner — would take Unilever's place in the litigation.

Judge narrows Ben & Jerry's lawsuit accusing Unilever of silencing social activism

Aug 21, 2026

A US judge dismissed most claims in Ben & Jerry's lawsuit against Unilever regarding social activism censorship, retaining only payment disputes. Magnum will assume Unilever's role as the primary defendant in the case.

reuters

2026-07-17

Ben & Jerry’s Foundation to Shut Down Amid Parent Company Legal Dispute

2026-08-21

Judge narrows Ben & Jerry's lawsuit accusing Unilever of silencing social activism

Judge narrows Ben & Jerry's lawsuit accusing Unilever of silencing social activism

FAQ