UMARO Bacon Update | Shark Tank Season 13
Beth Zotter and Amanda Stiles set out to revolutionize plant-based protein with UMARO Bacon—a vegan bacon alternative made from red seaweed.
Their innovative product caught the attention of the Sharks in Shark Tank Season 13, and they walked away with a deal from Mark Cuban. But where is UMARO now?
Let’s dig into their Shark Tank journey, investment breakdown, and company updates post-show.
UMARO Bacon’s Shark Tank Pitch
- Entrepreneurs: Beth Zotter and Amanda Stiles
- Product: Plant-based bacon made from red seaweed
- Ask: $500,000 for 2% equity
- Deal: $1 million for 7% equity with Mark Cuban
Shark Reactions & Deal Breakdown
The Sharks were intrigued by UMARO’s mission to develop seaweed-based protein, a more sustainable alternative to traditional plant-based meats.
The bacon’s taste test received mixed reviews—some Sharks enjoyed the crispy version, while Robert Herjavec found the chewy texture unappealing.
The biggest challenge? No existing sales. Some Sharks hesitated to invest in a company without revenue data, but Mark Cuban saw potential in the innovation.
Here’s how each Shark responded:
| Shark | Offer | Reason |
| Mark Cuban | ✅ $1M for 7% equity | Believed in UMARO’s sustainability mission and future potential |
| Lori Greiner | ❌ $500K for 4% equity | Offered a lower deal but lost out to Mark Cuban |
| Kevin O’Leary | ❌ $500K for 8% equity | Wanted higher equity, which the founders declined |
| Robert Herjavec | ❌ No offer | Didn’t like the taste and was concerned about the valuation |
| Emma Grede | ❌ No offer | Agreed with Robert—lack of sales made investment risky |
Ultimately, Beth and Amanda negotiated with Mark Cuban, securing a $1 million deal for 7% equity.
UMARO Bacon After Shark Tank
Since appearing on Shark Tank, UMARO has made significant sales, distribution, and funding strides.
Sales & Revenue Growth
While exact sales numbers aren’t publicly available, UMARO has seen a steady expansion in food service, particularly in restaurants nationwide.
| Year | Sales Milestone |
| 2022 | UMARO Bacon launched in select restaurants |
| 2023 | Expanded to nationwide restaurant distribution |
| 2024 | Continued growth in wholesale and food service |
In addition to its Shark Tank funding, UMARO secured $4 million in investment in early 2022 and received backing from NBA star and vegan advocate Chris Paul.
Retail Expansion & Distribution
UMARO is currently focused on the food service market rather than direct-to-consumer retail.
However, their website allows restaurants to place wholesale orders and request samples.
| Year | Retail & Distribution Milestones |
| 2022 | First restaurant partnerships established |
| 2023 | Nationwide expansion to additional food service locations |
| 2024 | Plans to scale seaweed farming and production |
The company is also working on developing large-scale seaweed farming operations off the coast of Maine to support future production.
Key Factors Behind UMARO’s Growth
Several factors have contributed to UMARO’s success since Shark Tank:
- Innovative Product – UMARO Bacon stands out in the plant-based market by using seaweed, a more sustainable protein source than soy or pea-based alternatives.
- Strong Investor Support – With backing from Mark Cuban and Chris Paul, UMARO has secured the funding needed to scale.
- Restaurant-First Strategy – Instead of competing in crowded retail shelves, UMARO targeted chefs and restaurants, allowing for better brand exposure and customer adoption.
- Sustainability Appeal – With growing interest in sustainable foods, UMARO’s seaweed-based protein is well-positioned for long-term success.
Final Thoughts: What’s Next for UMARO Bacon?
UMARO has gained momentum since Shark Tank, expanding its restaurant presence and securing key investors.
While retail expansion hasn’t happened yet, their focus on food service and sustainability suggests a strategic, long-term growth plan.
With rising demand for plant-based proteins, UMARO Bacon could become a major player in the alternative meat industry.
As they continue developing sustainable seaweed farming, their impact could extend beyond just bacon—perhaps into other plant-based meat alternatives.
We’ll be keeping an eye on UMARO’s next steps. Will they expand into grocery stores? Introduce new products? Stay tuned for future updates!
What do you think about seaweed-based bacon? Would you try it? Let us know in the comments!
