Minus Cal, the fat-blocking protein bar and supplement startup, is no longer in business as of 2026. The company, founded in 2017 by Crom Carmichael and Barrett Jacques, appeared on Shark Tank Season 11, Episode 1 in 2019 seeking $500,000 for 20% equity. The pitch ended without a deal, and Mark Cuban's on-air criticism proved devastating.
What Was Minus Cal?
Minus Cal was a Nashville, Tennessee-based health and wellness startup that claimed its bars and supplements could block fat absorption using a proprietary ingredient called Choleve. The product was available in flavors such as Chocolate, Peanut Butter, and Apple Cinnamon, as well as in pill form. The founders described Choleve as an all-natural blend derived from fermented tea that allegedly blocked fat absorption and helped lower cholesterol by 17 to 20 percent.
Founders of Minus Cal
Crom Carmichael and Barrett Jacques, both alumni of Vanderbilt University, founded Minus Cal. Crom earned a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, while Barrett earned a business degree. Carmichael previously worked as a columnist and political commentator, while Jacques had a background as a recording artist and business development executive.
Shark Tank Pitch
During the pitch, the founders claimed clinical studies showed that Choleve inhibits fat breakdown in the small intestine. Mark Cuban was the first to question the product, implying the name could mislead consumers. He warned viewers not to buy it. Guest shark Daniel Lubetzky exited first, followed by Kevin O'Leary, Lori Greiner, and Robert Herjavec. Cuban's final warning was a direct blow to the brand.
Shark Tank Effect
After the show, Minus Cal products were sold on Amazon, but reviews were overwhelmingly negative. Consumers complained about taste and called the product a scam. The company's Instagram went dark in 2019, and the online store closed in 2020. The business officially went bankrupt, and its website is offline.
Current Status
Minus Cal is no longer in business as of 2026. The net worth is $0. Products are unavailable on Amazon, Walmart, or any retail stores. The founders have moved on: Crom Carmichael is CEO of Nashai Biotech LLC and runs Soltea, while Barrett Jacques leads Shield Health.
FAQs
- What happened to Minus Cal after Shark Tank? The brand failed to secure investment, and Mark Cuban's criticism led to negative reviews and closure by 2020.
- Is Minus Cal still in business? No, it is defunct as of 2026.
- Did Minus Cal get a deal on Shark Tank? No, all sharks declined.
- Who are the founders? Crom Carmichael and Barrett Jacques.
