Spain’s Supreme Court has rejected two appeals, confirming a lower court ruling that favored supermarket chain Mercadona, its horchata supplier Panach, and dairy group Lactalis Puleva.
What happened
The high court dismissed an extraordinary appeal alleging procedural errors and a cassation appeal challenging the Provincial Court of Valencia’s decision. Both appeals were filed by parties opposing the companies’ labeling of horchata, a traditional drink.
Why it matters
The ruling ends a five-year legal dispute over how the beverage can be marketed. By upholding the lower court’s judgment, the Supreme Court allows Mercadona and its partners to continue using their current packaging and promotional language.
Background
The conflict began when competitors argued that Mercadona’s horchata labeling misled consumers about the product’s origin and composition. The case moved through Spain’s judicial system, reaching the Supreme Court after the Provincial Court of Valencia ruled in favor of Mercadona, Panach and Lactalis Puleva.
What comes next
With the Supreme Court’s decision, the companies can maintain their existing branding. Opponents may consider other legal avenues, but the precedent reinforces current labeling practices for similar dairy‑based drinks in Spain.