Allegations against former scientist
In the complaint, J.M. Smucker Co., headquartered in Orrville, alleges that former employee and scientist Paul‑Yvann Djamen improperly retained and removed proprietary information related to the formulation and production of its Uncrustables frozen peanut butter and jelly sandwiches after his termination for poor performance. The company claims he had access to confidential data and technology covering ingredients, processing parameters and methods that give Uncrustables their distinctive texture, shelf life and mass‑production consistency.
According to the lawsuit, Smucker contends that Djamen downloaded or kept documents, electronic files and other materials containing trade secrets instead of returning or destroying them as required under company policies and post‑employment obligations. The filing alleges his actions created a risk that competitors could gain insight into the company’s intellectual property, potentially undermining years of research and hundreds of millions of dollars invested in the Uncrustables brand.
Trade secrets at the center
While specific formulas and processes are redacted or described only in general terms, Smucker characterizes the disputed information as trade secrets that provide a competitive edge in the crowded frozen snack and sandwich market. These include proprietary details on how to seal the sandwiches, manage moisture and achieve a uniform product that can be shipped frozen, thawed and eaten without compromising safety or quality.
Smucker’s filing argues that this information is not publicly known, is subject to strict internal safeguards and would be difficult for another company to replicate independently without access to its research and development work. The company asserts that any disclosure or use of the alleged trade secrets could accelerate a rival’s ability to launch competing products that emulate Uncrustables’ performance and consumer appeal.
What Smucker is asking the court to do
Smucker is asking the court to order the return of all devices, files and documents it says contain its trade secrets, along with the destruction of any materials or products created using that information. The lawsuit also seeks injunctive relief to prevent any further use or disclosure of its confidential data, as well as unspecified damages and other remedies permitted under trade secret and unfair competition laws.
In its filing, the company frames the case as part of a broader effort to protect one of its fastest‑growing brands, which has become a key profit driver and a major focus of its long‑term growth strategy. Smucker has in recent years expanded Uncrustables production capacity and marketing, positioning the crustless sandwiches as a convenient, ready‑to‑eat option for families, schools and on‑the‑go consumers.
Part of a larger IP push
The lawsuit against the former scientist comes as Smucker has taken an increasingly aggressive stance in defending its intellectual property around Uncrustables. The company has separately pursued legal action against retailers and manufacturers it accuses of copying the look, packaging and design of the round, sealed sandwiches, alleging trademark infringement and unfair competition.
Legal experts say cases like Smucker’s underscore how valuable proprietary formulas, processes and product designs have become in the competitive packaged‑food industry, where convenience brands can reach billion‑dollar scale. The newly filed trade‑secret lawsuit will now move through the courts, where a judge will decide whether to grant Smucker’s requests for emergency and long‑term relief while the underlying claims are litigated.