The Culinary Institute of America has filed a trademark-infringement lawsuit in federal court against the American Culinary Institute, a San Francisco-based concern that bestows endorsements of quality on restaurant supplies.
"The Culinary Institute of America is seeking to stop the use of the name 'American Culinary Institute' because we believe the name is too similar to our name," said CIA president Tim Ryan.
The ACI recently adopted that name after operating as the American Tasting Institute, among other identities. The company runs a program whereby restaurant suppliers can have their products considered for a Gold Medal seal of distinction as the best within its category. That designation can then be touted in marketing and promotional materials.
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