Ben Cohen, co-founder of Ben & Jerry's, has stated that parent company Unilever prevented the brand from releasing an ice cream flavor in "solidarity with Palestine." Following this alleged block, Mr. Cohen announced plans to independently create a watermelon-flavored sorbet, symbolizing support for Palestinians. This development deepens an ongoing dispute between Ben & Jerry's founders and Unilever concerning the brand's social mission and operational independence.
Allegation Regarding Palestine-Themed Flavor
Ben Cohen, a co-founder of Ben & Jerry's, has claimed that Unilever, the brand's parent company, prevented the creation of an ice cream flavor intended to express "solidarity with Palestine." Mr. Cohen indicated that this alleged restriction prompted his decision to develop a new product independently.
Independent Product Initiative
In an Instagram video released on Tuesday, Mr. Cohen announced his intention to create a watermelon-flavored sorbet. The watermelon's colors (red, green, black, and white) are similar to those of the Palestinian flag and have made it a symbol of solidarity. Mr. Cohen stated his independent sorbet aims for "permanent peace in Palestine and calls for repairing the damage that was done there." This product is part of a personal series under his "Ben's Best" brand, which he stated is designed to address issues he alleges Ben & Jerry's was restricted from addressing publicly by Unilever. Ben's Best was established in 2016, previously creating a flavor in support of former US presidential candidate Bernie Sanders.
Context of Ongoing Dispute
This situation contributes to an existing dispute between the Ben & Jerry's co-founders and Unilever, which has owned the ice cream maker since 2000. The co-founders have previously stated that Unilever and its ice cream division, Magnum, have obstructed Ben & Jerry's social mission. Ben & Jerry's has a history of public engagement on social, political, environmental, and humanitarian matters, including the Israel-Gaza conflict. In 2021, the company announced it would cease selling its products in Israeli-occupied territories. Unilever subsequently sold the Israeli operation to a local licensee, allowing products to continue being sold in the West Bank.
Co-founder's Departure
In September, co-founder Jerry Greenfield resigned from Ben & Jerry's. He cited concerns that the company's independence had been compromised following Unilever's decisions regarding its social activism. At that time, Mr. Cohen stated his commitment to continue advocating within the company for its independence and the preservation of its founding social mission and values.