Built Bars Takes Legal Action Against Springville's Blue Unicorn Over Trade Secrets Dispute

A New Culinary Battle

More than a year after the cookie war in Utah concluded, a new conflict is stirring in the culinary world, this time involving protein bars.

The Lawsuit

Built Bars, LLC, a protein bar company based in American Fork, has filed a lawsuit against Blue Unicorn, a startup in Springville that produces plant-based protein bars. The lawsuit, initiated in November, accuses Blue Unicorn and food scientist Luke Tolley of misusing trade secrets and engaging in deceptive practices by misrepresenting their products.

According to the lawsuit, "Blue Unicorn's protein bar products were developed using the Built trade secrets," which include confidential information crucial for their production. Built Bars claims this has given them a significant competitive advantage in the market.

Background of the Dispute

Founded in February 2024 by Jason Christensen, Blue Unicorn is accused of acquiring sensitive information through Tolley, who previously worked for Built Bars. The lawsuit outlines that Tolley’s actions have caused irreparable damage to Built, harming their relationships with customers and suppliers.

Built Bars also alleges that Blue Unicorn unlawfully profited from their name by misrepresenting their products at local markets, causing consumer confusion regarding their origin.

Blue Unicorn's Response

In response to the allegations, Christensen described the situation as a "David vs. Goliath story," asserting that the lawsuit is an attempt to suppress competition rather than foster innovation. He argues that Blue Unicorn's products are fundamentally different from Built Bars, being plant-based and allergen-free compared to Built's whey-based offerings. Christensen remains defiant, stating that Blue Unicorn will continue to provide innovative protein products to meet consumer needs.

Built Bars filed a lawsuit against Blue Unicorn, claiming the smaller company misused trade secrets.