"Momofuku's Trademark Controversy: The Chili Crunch Drama Unpacked"

Momofuku, founded by celebrity chef David Chang, is embroiled in a trademark dispute over "chili crunch" with smaller Asian-owned businesses, sparking backlash from the AAPI community and food lovers. The company sent cease-and-desist letters to several brands using similar names, leading to public outcry and calls for boycotts. Critics accuse Momofuku of trademark bullying and hypocrisy, given the condiment's Chinese roots and Chang's own culinary influences. The controversy has brought attention to AAPI-run chili crunch businesses and raised questions about trademarking cultural food products.