In the world of entrepreneurial success stories, few tales are as captivating as the journey of Brazi Bites. This Oregon-based company, founded by Cameron MacMullin and Junea Rocha, took the culinary world by storm when they appeared on the hit TV show “Shark Tank” in 2014. With their irresistible Brazilian cheese bread, they not only won the hearts of the Sharks but also captured the attention of millions of viewers across the nation.
But what happened to Brazi Bites after their momentous Shark Tank appearance? In this article, we delve into the post-Shark Tank trajectory of Brazi Bites, exploring their remarkable growth, strategic partnerships, and the enduring impact of their delectable snacks on the market.
What Is Brazi Bites?
Brazi Bites encompass a delectable assortment of all-natural, genetically unmodified constituents, completely devoid of gluten, soy, preservatives, trans fat, or sugar. The carefully selected elements comprise of cheddar and parmesan cheese, safflower oil, milk, eggs, salt, yucca root, and tapioca flour.
Consequently, the expansion materialized with an Empanada collection and, most recently, the introduction of their novel Homestyle Breakfast Sandwiches, culminating in the ultimate Latin-inspired food company devoted to your well-being.
About the Founders Of Brazi Bites
Are you interested in launching a high-value food-focused enterprise in the United States? It’s remarkably straightforward. Merely take an ancestral culinary formula that has been passed down for generations and introduce it to a global audience.
The Brazi Bites, which will be showcased in the upcoming Episode 711 of Shark Tank, encapsulate an age-old family recipe for “Pão de Queijo” (translated as Cheese Bread) hailing from Brazil.
The ingenious entrepreneurs behind the introduction of Brazi Bites to the American market in 2010 are Cameron MacMullin and Junea Rocha, hailing from Portland, Oregon. They will both be featured on Shark Tank’s Episode 711 this Friday night.
Initially, Brazi Bites embarked on their entrepreneurial journey when the couple decided to unveil Junea’s treasured family recipe at a local culinary exhibition.
Astonishingly, midway through the event, the Brazi Bites had already vanished, leaving the attendees clamoring for more. Fast forward just five years from that pivotal moment of validating their concept, and Brazi Bites are now available in numerous stores across the nation, even prior to their official recognition as a Shark Tank Product.
The Pitch Of Brazi Bites At Shark Tank
Junea and Cameron confidently stepped onto the stage of the Shark Tank, introducing themselves as the entrepreneurs behind Brazi Bites and proudly representing their hometown of Portland, Oregon. With a firm ask in mind, they informed the Sharks that they were seeking a $ 200,000 investment in exchange for a 10% equity stake in their business. Junea, originally from Brazil, shared her passion for the country’s remarkable cuisine and vibrant culture, emphasizing her deep connection to Brazilian cheese bread, a delectable treat known for its fluffy interior and crispy exterior [3].
She highlighted that this bread was naturally gluten-free, a quality she couldn’t find after moving to the US. Cameron chimed in, expressing his belief that such a remarkable product deserved to be shared with the American public. Drawing from Junea’s family recipe, they had crafted the best Brazilian cheese bread available.
On the screen, six distinct packages of Brazilian cheese bread were showcased, resembling freezer bags. Cameron proudly mentioned that they offered six delightful flavors that could be easily baked in the oven. Original, garlic Asiago, and jalapeno pepper jack were just a few of the enticing options. Junea excitedly informed the Sharks that Brazi Bites had a loyal customer base who couldn’t get enough of their product.
She playfully asked the Sharks who among them wanted to join their venture. Robert eagerly encouraged them to bring the samples, sparking the interest of the entire panel. Junea skillfully presented a large tray adorned with various flavors of Brazi Bites. Robert and Lori appeared particularly pleased with their respective choices.
Junea proceeded to explain that instead of using traditional white flour, Brazi Bites were made with tapioca flour, a natural and gluten-free alternative. However, the Sharks seemed too immersed in savoring the treats to fully absorb her words. Kevin, ever the pragmatist, inquired about the calorie content of each bite. Junea clarified that the recommended serving size was three pieces, containing a total of 120 calories.
She further emphasized that Brazi Bites contained only eight ingredients, free from artificial additives and preservatives. Kevin then inquired if the product could be cooked in the microwave, to which Junea responded with a negative. Given that Brazi Bites were sold as frozen dough, baking was necessary. She reassured the Sharks that the process was uncomplicated, stating, “If you can make frozen pizza at home, you can make Brazi Bites”.
Robert inquired about the product’s retail presence, wanting to know how many grocery stores carried Brazi Bites. Junea proudly disclosed that their product was available in 700 grocery stores across the United States.
Notably, Brazi Bites had even secured placements in renowned establishments like Sprouts and Whole Foods.
Intrigued, Robert delved deeper, seeking insight into their business strategies and the presence of dedicated sales representatives. Junea revealed that she and Cameron had personally undertaken the legwork for those deals, actively establishing relationships with retailers.
Robert then questioned how long they had been in business, and Cameron disclosed that they had embarked on this venture three years prior. He further elaborated that they had achieved consistent revenue growth, tripling their earnings every year.
Their revenue had reached $ 60,000 in the first year, followed by $ 200,000 in the second year, and $ 600,000 in the previous year. Cameron confidently declared that they were on track to surpass the million-dollar mark in the current year. Robert appeared genuinely impressed by their accomplishments [4].
Daymond, unsure if he could offer additional value to their already successful business, chose to bow out, acknowledging their substantial progress and potential growth within Whole Foods Market. However, he advised them to consider expanding their sales online, where they could retain a higher profit margin.
Kevin, somewhat perplexed, questioned whether they would ship the product frozen, expressing skepticism about the idea. Daymond, recognizing an opportunity, proposed linking them with a business he had recently invested in, a company generating substantial revenue through successful sales on QVC.
They possessed an established infrastructure and a substantial customer base, creating an ideal platform for selling food products online. Daymond, valuing his time and expertise, made an offer to invest $ 200,000 in exchange for a 25% stake in the business. Cameron sought confirmation if this was an official offer, and Daymond confirmed it was indeed.
Grateful for the offer, Cameron expressed his gratitude and expressed his desire to explore other potential offers on the table. Kevin, not one to be left out, announced his own offer of $ 200,000 for a 20% equity share. Lori, intrigued by the opportunity and drawing from her recent investment in a business that produced stuffed bagel balls, expressed her interest in making an offer as well. She voiced concerns about potential competition between the two ventures and how they could integrate with each other. Lori requested clarification on the key differences between Brazi Bites and the stuffed bagel company.
Junea appeared momentarily stumped, but Cameron swiftly stepped in, highlighting that Brazi Bites’ key distinction was its gluten-free nature. Lori agreed, acknowledging the unique selling point. Robert commended them on their response, while Daymond admitted to feeling nervous on their behalf.
Intrigued, Lori decided to make an enticing offer, matching Daymond’s proposal of a 25% equity share in exchange for the $ 200,000 investment [5]. Kevin, not one to back down, dropped his equity ask to 15%, injecting an element of competition. Robert couldn’t resist a pun, remarking on the feeding frenzy Brazi Bites had incited among the Sharks.
The other Sharks looked at them expectantly. The announcer reminded everyone that all the Sharks were still in play, but only three had made offers. Junea, seeking more clarity, inquired about Kevin’s vision for their company beyond the financial investment.
Kevin acknowledged the company’s potential to succeed in standard grocery stores, while Lori interjected, suggesting they focus on targeting natural and organic food retailers to establish a strong brand presence. She believed that once Brazi Bites had gained recognition in the natural food sector, it would pave the way for easier entry into traditional grocery stores due to existing brand familiarity.
Daymond, curious about their financial situation, asked if they had taken any outside funding. Cameron admitted that they had taken out a loan to establish their production facility. Mark questioned the extent of their current debt, and Cameron disclosed it amounted to approximately $ 200,000. He reassured the Sharks that they were in the process of transitioning their production, which involved selling off some equipment and lowering costs.
David inquired about their plans for manufacturing and whether they had found a reliable co-packing partner. Cameron confirmed they had secured a co-packing partner and admitted that the partner had made a 50-50 investment in the business. Daymond sought clarification on whether the co-packer would also own a portion of the company, to which Cameron affirmed that they would.
The Sharks appeared surprised by this revelation. Daymond raised concerns about their 50% ownership, while the couple acknowledged the significant involvement of their co-packing partner in terms of financing and equipment procurement. Robert, unable to trust a partner he didn’t know, decided to bow out, sharing his appreciation for the food but indicating that the deal had fallen apart for him. Mark followed suit, stating that the risk-reward ratio did not meet his criteria. The couple thanked them for their consideration.
Cameron addressed the remaining Sharks, acknowledging the value they could bring to the table but expressing reluctance to part with a 25% equity share. However, he seemed to overlook Kevin’s offer. Robert encouraged them to counteroffer, and Lori noted that coming into the Shark Tank after giving away 50% of their business made negotiations challenging. Junea asked Lori if she would match Kevin’s 15% equity ask. Kevin interjected, stating that he was willing to reduce his offer further to 12.5% to make it more enticing. Lori believed this was a fair response and indicated she might be willing to accept a 20% stake.
Robert reminded the couple to make a decision soon. Junea asked Lori if the 20% offer was final, while Kevin interjected that 12.5% was his lowest offer. Daymond matched Lori’s offer of 20%, and Lori countered with an 18% equity share. After discussing amongst themselves, Cameron and Junea proposed 15% to Lori, who shook her head in refusal. Lori expressed her concern, acknowledging their current success as a brand but emphasizing the challenges they still faced.
Ultimately, she made a final offer of $ 200,000 for a 16.5% equity share. Both Kevin and Daymond opted out of the deal. Junea and Cameron gratefully accepted Lori’s offer, sealing the deal. As they embraced, Lori remarked on her surprise that such delicious snacks were also gluten-free, appreciating their unique taste.
Brazi Bites After The Shark Tank
That’s great to know that Brazi Bites has continued to thrive and expand its product offerings since its appearance on Shark Tank. The company’s partnership with Target and availability in most supermarkets across the United States demonstrates its success in capturing a wide market.
The introduction of new products like Pizza Bites, Empanadas, and breakfast sandwiches shows their commitment to innovation and diversifying their product line. These additions cater to different tastes and provide customers with more options beyond their original Brazilian cheese bread [6].
It’s worth noting that Brazi Bites has maintained its gluten-free certification and commitment to using natural ingredients, which has been a key selling point for its products. The positive customer reviews on platforms like Amazon further indicate that their snacks have been well-received by consumers.
For those interested in ordering directly from their website, the variety packs offer a convenient way to sample a range of Brazi Bites products. The inclusion of dry ice in the shipping process ensures that the products arrive frozen and fresh, maintaining their quality.
Overall, it seems that Brazi Bites has successfully built a strong brand presence and a loyal customer base, continuing to grow and provide delicious gluten-free snacks to consumers across the United States.
The positive news is that Brazi Bites, the beloved Brazilian Cheese Bread Snacks, are already present in numerous stores nationwide, conveniently located in the freezer section. Unfortunately, the downside emerges as it becomes apparent that the nearest locations are over 50 miles away from their home.
The hope remains that retailers, including Whole Foods Market, will realize the immense value in stocking this exceptional product across all their stores, even if it’s on a smaller or more limited scale, well before its anticipated appearance on the esteemed Shark Tank Show.
It is evident that the customer’s local store is growing weary of their persistent inquiries about the availability of new Shark Tank products, often responding with a hopeful but uncertain “maybe in the near future”.
The Net Worth Of Brazi Bites
Brazi Bites made its initial debut in 2010, and by 2014, just before their appearance on the television show, they achieved sales of $ 600,000. Following their feature on “Shark Tank”, the company experienced a remarkable surge, generating an impressive $ 30 million in revenue in 2021.
Junea Rocha revealed to the magazine that the brand witnessed explosive growth following their appearance on the show, raking in $ 8.5 million in 2016. She also confessed to CNBC that within a mere three days of the episode airing, their products were completely sold out in grocery stores across the nation – a truly unbelievable feat. However, she acknowledged the challenges of swiftly meeting the overwhelming demand.
In the food industry, adapting rapidly is no easy task. Rocha stated, “We moved as fast as we could. If we had been able to pivot more quickly, we could have achieved even greater financial success”, as disclosed in the interview with Inc.
Brazi Bites Products and Flavors
Brazi Bites, a company founded by a Brazilian native woman, Katia Pardini, aims to bring a taste of Brazil to America through its line of delicious and unique products. The company’s specialty is Brazilian Cheese Bread, which comes in different flavors and is gluten-free [8].
Brazi Bites’ most popular product is its Brazilian Cheese Bread, which comes in several delicious flavors.
The original flavor, Cheddar & Parmesan, is a delicious blend of two of the most popular cheese varieties in the world. The combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheese creates a perfectly balanced, savory flavor that is irresistible.
Garlic Asiago offers a more complex taste with garlic and Asiago cheese, while Cheese Pizza provides a delicious take on traditional pizza toppings. Classic Ranch is a delightful option for those who love the popular ranch flavor.
Another popular product from Brazi Bites is their Pizza Bites. These bite-sized treats come in Pepperoni and Four Cheese flavors and are the perfect snack for pizza lovers. Made with all-natural ingredients, these Pizza bites are ideal for those looking for a quick and tasty snack.
In addition to their range of cheesy snacks, Brazi Bites also offer Empanadas, a popular street food in Brazil. Their Empanadas come in two delicious flavors: Chicken & Cheese and Black Bean & Cheddar.
The Chicken & Cheese empanadas are filled with seasoned chicken, and cheese, and wrapped in a crispy crust, while the Black Bean & Cheddar empanadas offer a tasty vegetarian option.
All the products from Brazi Bites are made from all-natural ingredients and contain no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. Their Gluten-free Brazilian Cheese Bread is a perfect choice for anyone following a gluten-free diet.
Their Empanadas and Breakfast Sandwiches are also made with high-quality ingredients and are a delicious and healthy option for a quick snack or meal.
Alternatives To Brazi Bites:
- Yoki Cheese Bread Mix: For those who prefer a homemade touch, the Yoki Cheese Bread Mix is an excellent choice. This mix allows you to create your own Brazilian cheese bread right in the comfort of your kitchen. With its authentic taste and easy preparation, you can enjoy the warm and cheesy goodness of Pão de Queijo whenever you desire;
- Schar Gluten-Free Cheese Bites: If gluten-free options are a priority for you, Schar Gluten-Free Cheese Bites could be the perfect alternative. These delectable bite-sized snacks are made with high-quality ingredients and offer a satisfying crunch with every bite. Whether you have dietary restrictions or simply enjoy gluten-free snacks, Schar has got you covered;
- Trader Joe’s Brazilian Style Cheese Bread: Trader Joe’s is known for its wide variety of unique and tasty snacks, and their Brazilian Style Cheese Bread is no exception. With its authentic flavor and convenient packaging, these cheese bread bites are a great option for a quick and savory snack. Just pop them in the oven, and you’ll be treated to a delightful culinary experience;
- Chebe Brazilian Cheese Bread Mix: Another option for homemade Brazilian cheese bread is the Chebe Brazilian Cheese Bread Mix. This mix is gluten-free, grain-free, and easy to prepare. With its blend of authentic ingredients, you can enjoy a fresh batch of cheesy delights in no time;
FAQ:
- Are Brazi Bites authentic?
Yes, Brazi Bites is known for its authentic Brazilian Cheese Bread recipe. The founder, Katia Pardini, was born in Brazil and wanted to share the taste of Brazilian cuisine with the world, which is why she created Brazi Bites. The company uses traditional Brazilian ingredients and flavors, such as tapioca flour and a blend of cheeses, to create its products.
- How much are Brazi Bites at Costco?
The price of Brazi Bites at Costco may vary depending on the location and the specific product. However, based on available information, a 62-ounce bag of Brazi Bites Brazilian Cheese Bread at Costco costs around $ 9.99.
- Why is Brazilian food so good?
Brazilian cuisine is known for its bold, flavorful dishes and diverse ingredients. The country’s cuisine is influenced by a blend of indigenous, African, and European cultures, resulting in a unique and delicious food culture. Brazilian cuisine is also known for its use of fresh ingredients and herbs, spices, and marinades, which add a depth of flavor to dishes.
- Can you air fry Brazi Bites?
Yes, Brazi Bites can be cooked in an air fryer. To cook the Brazilian Cheese Bread, preheat the air fryer to 400°F and cook for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown. For the Pizza Bites, preheat the air fryer to 350°F and cook for 4-5 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
- How many calories are in a Brazi bite?
The number of calories in a Brazi Bite depends on the specific product. For example, a serving of the Cheddar & Parmesan Brazilian Cheese Bread has 100 calories, while a Pepperoni Pizza Bite has 50 calories per serving.
- What do Brazi Bites taste like?
Brazi Bites products have a unique and savory flavor profile that is difficult to compare to other foods. The Brazilian Cheese Bread has a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior with a mild cheesy flavor. The Pizza Bites have a crispy crust and a combination of cheese and toppings for a burst of flavor in every bite.
- What are Brazi Bites made of?
Brazi Bites products are made from all-natural ingredients. The Brazilian Cheese Bread is made from tapioca flour, eggs, milk, cheese, and seasoning. The Pizza Bites feature a crispy crust and a blend of cheese and toppings, such as pepperoni or four cheese. Brazi Bites also offers Empanadas, Breakfast Sandwiches, and other products made with high-quality, natural ingredients.
- Where can I buy Brazi Bites products?
Brazi Bites products can be found at many retailers throughout the United States, including major grocery stores such as Walmart, Target, and Costco. They can also be purchased on the Brazi Bites website and on Amazon.
- Are Brazi Bites available outside of the U.S.?
Brazi Bites is primarily sold in the United States, but they do offer international shipping to select countries. However, the availability of their products may vary depending on the location.
- Is it okay to eat these products cold?
Brazi Bites’ products are best when heated up, but they can be eaten cold as well. However, they may not have the same texture and flavor as when heated.
- How long can Brazi Bites products sit on the counter and outside of the freezer?
Brazi Bites products should be stored in the freezer until ready to cook. After cooking, they should be consumed within a few days and refrigerated if not eaten immediately. Leaving Brazi Bites products out of the freezer or refrigerator for an extended period of time is not recommended.
- Do you plan to make a dairy-free or vegan version of Brazi Bites products?
Brazi Bites does not currently offer a dairy-free or vegan version of their products, but they are always looking into ways to expand their product line to meet the needs and preferences of their customers.
- Are Brazi Bites certified kosher?
Brazi Bites products are not currently certified kosher.
- Are these ingredients GMO-free?
Brazi Bites uses non-GMO ingredients in their products, and they are committed to using natural, high-quality ingredients in all of their products.
- Are Brazi Bites products nut-free?
Brazi Bites products do not contain any nuts, but they are produced in a facility that also processes tree nuts.
- What should I do if Brazi Bites are stuck together?
If Brazi Bites are stuck together, simply separate them before cooking. This can be done by gently pulling them apart or using a knife to separate them.
- Can I cook Brazi Bites products in the microwave?
Brazi Bites can be cooked in a microwave, but they will not have the same texture and crispiness as when they are cooked in an oven or an air fryer. However, if using a microwave, it is recommended to cook them on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel and to cook them in 30-second increments until they reach the desired temperature.
- How do I properly store Brazi Bites products?
Brazi Bites products should be stored in the freezer until ready to cook. After cooking, any leftovers should be refrigerated and consumed within a few days.
- Can Brazi Bites be reheated?
Yes, Brazi Bites can be reheated in an oven, microwave, or air fryer. It is best to follow the cooking instructions on the package and adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure that they are heated through.
- Are Brazi Bites products gluten-free?
Brazi Bites offers a gluten-free line of their products, which are made with tapioca flour instead of wheat flour. These products are also certified gluten-free by the Gluten Intolerance Group.
- Can I cook Brazi Bites from frozen?
Yes, Brazi Bites can be cooked straight from frozen. It is recommended to cook them at a slightly lower temperature and for a few minutes longer than if cooking thawed Brazi Bites.
- Are Brazi Bites products suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all Brazi Bites products are suitable for vegetarians as they do not contain any meat or animal by-products.
- How many Brazi Bites come in a bag?
The number of Brazi Bites per bag varies depending on the product and the size of the bag. For example, the Cheddar & Parmesan Brazi Bites come in a bag of 36, while the Pizza Brazi Bites come in a bag of 18.
- Are Brazi Bites products spicy?
Brazi Bites offers a variety of products, including some that are flavored with spicy ingredients such as jalapenos or chili flakes. However, not all of their products are spicy, and the level of spiciness may vary depending on personal taste.
Useful Video: The Brazi Bites Post Shark Tank Update
References:
- https://allsharktankproducts.com/shark-tank-products-food-and-drink/brazi-bites-brazilian-cheese-bread/
- https://gazettereview.com/brazi-bites-update-happened-shark-tank/
- https://brazibites.com/faq/
- https://www.inc.com/magazine/202109/graham-winfrey/brazi-bites-junea-rocha-shark-tank-private-equity-sale-exit.html
- https://www.sharktanksuccess.com/brazi-bites/
- https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/smallbusiness/what-happened-to-brazi-bites-after-shark-tank/ar-AA123Q9v
- https://www.cnbc.com/2018/09/30/where-brazi-bites-is-today-after-its-feeding-frenzy-on-shark-tank.html
- https://www.mashed.com/1017563/what-happened-to-brazi-bites-after-shark-tank/
- https://2paragraphs.com/2017/10/brazi-bites-lands-222-target-store-deal-2-years-after-shark-tank/
