Stephanie See:
Chili crunch, chili crunch, whatever you want to call it, has been a staple in many Asian kitchens, including my own, for generations.
David Chang's Momofuku Chili Crunch is a relatively new player, hitting store shelves just a few years ago. However, his company has trademarked the name Chili Crunch. That means other brands that use Chili Crunch could also be liable for trademark infringement.
And indeed, some chili crisp manufacturers have received cease-and-desist letters.
For more on this hot topic, join James Park, who has written an entire cookbook dedicated to chilli crisps.
James, welcome to NewsHour.
I would like to apologize in advance for the puns that always come up in this conversation.
Please explain here the reactions you are hearing to Mr. Momofuku's legal action. Is it fair to say it's all the rage?
James Park, author of “Chili Crisp: 50+ Recipes to Satisfy Your Spicy, Crunchy, Garlic Cravings”: That's right.
This has been a hot topic in recent days, and the backlash since the news broke has been quite intense. And the community is a little disappointed and hurt by this action. Because Momofuku has been a pioneer and leader in this Asian food and product in the ever-growing chili crisp category and market.
And they even call him a trademark bully because he goes after small manufacturers, often run by just one or a few people. .
