What was the outcome of Toast-It Arepas’ appearance on Shark Tank Season 15? Toast-It Arepas successfully secured a deal with Daniel Lubetzky on Shark Tank Season 15. The final deal was for $150,000 for 20% equity in the company.
Summary
- Toast-It Arepas is a company bringing Latin American food staples to the US market.
- The co-founders are sisters Maria Fernanda Römer Cabezas and Maria Corina Cabezas.
- The sisters’ mission is to make authentic Latin American food easily accessible.
- Toast-It Arepas appeared on Shark Tank Season 15.
- The sisters secured a deal with Daniel Lubetzky for $150,000 for 20% equity.
Toast-It Arepas Update | Shark Tank Season 15
Toast-It Arepas was born out of a shared passion for authentic Latin American cuisine and the desire to make it easily accessible to everyone. The company was founded by two sisters, Maria Fernanda Römer Cabezas and Maria Corina Cabezas, who hail from Caracas, Venezuela.
As immigrants to the United States, they found themselves yearning for the familiar tastes of home but were often disappointed by the lack of convenient and authentic options available in the market. This ignited a spark within them, leading to the creation of Toast-It Arepas.
The sisters embarked on a culinary journey, drawing inspiration from their family recipes and traditions to develop a line of “better-for-you” Latin American food staples that are ready to eat in just 10 minutes. Their flagship product, the arepa, is a versatile cornmeal bread that can be filled with various savory ingredients.
Toast-It Arepas offers different arepa varieties, including traditional corn, chia flaxseed, and cassava, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences.
The Founders’ Mission
At the heart of Toast-It Arepas is a mission to celebrate and share the rich culinary heritage of Latin America. The founders are driven by a deep sense of pride in their roots and a desire to introduce the vibrant flavors of their culture to a wider audience. They believe that food has the power to connect people, bridge cultural gaps, and create lasting memories.
“We want to make authentic Latin American food accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or culinary skills,” says Maria Fernanda. “Our products are designed to be convenient and easy to prepare, so that people can enjoy the delicious flavors of our culture without the fuss.”
Toast-It Arepas is more than just a food company; it’s a cultural ambassador, bringing the warmth and hospitality of Latin America to kitchens across the United States. The founders are committed to using high-quality, wholesome ingredients and supporting sustainable practices.
They also actively engage with the Latin American community, collaborating with local chefs and artisans to create unique and authentic flavor profiles.
Toast-It Arepas on Shark Tank Season 15
1. The Pitch
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Entrepreneurs | Maria Fernanda Römer Cabezas & Maria Corina Cabezas |
| Business | Toast-It Arepas |
| Ask | $100,000 for 5% Equity |
| Deal | $150,000 for 20% Equity |
| Sharks | Mark Cuban, Barbara Corcoran, Kevin O’Leary, Lori Greiner, Robert Herjavec, Daniel Lubetzky |
| Season/Episode | Season 15, Episode 2 |
| Original Air Date | October 6, 2023 |
| Website | Toast-It Arepas |
| Key Points of Pitch |
|
| Why Sharks Accepted |
|
2. The Sharks’ Reactions
The sisters’ enthusiastic pitch and the delicious samples of their arepas quickly captivated the Sharks. Mark Cuban and Barbara Corcoran expressed admiration for the sisters’ passion and the potential of the Latin food market.
Kevin O’Leary, known for his sharp business acumen, was initially hesitant due to the competitive nature of the food industry but was impressed by the sisters’ drive and the uniqueness of their product.
Lori Greiner, with her expertise in consumer products, saw the appeal of Toast-It Arepas’ convenience and health-conscious approach. Robert Herjavec, a technology entrepreneur, was intrigued by the scalability of the business model.
3. The Final Deal
Ultimately, it was Daniel Lubetzky, the founder of KIND Snacks and an immigrant himself, who connected most deeply with the sisters’ story and mission.
“I understand the challenges and opportunities that come with bringing a taste of home to a new market,” he said. “Your passion and dedication to authentic flavors are truly inspiring.”
Lubetzky offered $150,000 for 20% equity in Toast-It Arepas, recognizing the potential for the brand to become a leader in the Latin food space.
The sisters, thrilled to have found a partner who shared their vision, eagerly accepted the deal, marking a significant milestone in their entrepreneurial journey.
Toast-It Arepas Product Line
Toast-It Arepas offers a range of Latin American food staples, each crafted to bring the authentic flavors of the region to your kitchen table:
1. Arepas
The heart of Toast-It Arepas’ product line is their diverse selection of arepas. Made from simple, wholesome ingredients, these pre-cooked cornmeal patties are ready to be toasted to crispy perfection in minutes. They offer three delicious varieties:
- Corn Arepas: The classic arepa, made with traditional white cornmeal, offering a neutral base for both sweet and savory fillings.
- Chia Flaxseed Arepas: A nutritious twist on the traditional arepa, enriched with chia seeds and flaxseed for added fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Cassava (Yuca) Arepas: A gluten-free option made from cassava flour, providing a slightly sweet and earthy flavor.
“Arepas are incredibly versatile,” says Maria Corina, co-founder of Toast-It Arepas. “You can enjoy them for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even as a snack. They’re a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.”
2. Pandebonos
In addition to arepas, Toast-It Arepas also offers Pandebono Bites. These bite-sized delights are made from a combination of yuca flour, cheese, and eggs, resulting in a soft and cheesy treat that is both savory and satisfying.
“Pandebonos are a beloved Colombian specialty,” explains Maria Fernanda. “They’re perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying as a quick snack on the go.”
3. Buñuelos
While not currently available on their online store, Toast-It Arepas has mentioned plans to introduce buñuelos to their product line.
These deep-fried dough balls, often served with a sprinkle of sugar or a drizzle of honey, are a popular holiday treat in many Latin American countries.
“Buñuelos are a symbol of celebration and togetherness,” says Maria Corina. “We’re excited to bring this traditional dessert to the US market and share a taste of our festive traditions.”
What Makes Toast-It Arepas Unique?
Toast-It Arepas has carved out a distinct niche in the Latin American food market, offering a combination of convenience, authentic flavors, and better-for-you ingredients that sets them apart from their competitors.
1. Convenience
In today’s fast-paced world, convenience is key. Toast-It Arepas recognizes this and has made it their mission to bring the delicious flavors of Latin America to busy individuals who crave authentic meals without the hassle of time-consuming preparation.
Their pre-cooked arepas are ready to toast in just 10 minutes, making them a perfect option for quick breakfasts, lunches, dinners, or snacks. This convenience factor has resonated with consumers, particularly those with busy lifestyles who are seeking healthier alternatives to processed convenience foods.
“Toast-It Arepas are a game-changer for busy families like mine,” says renowned food blogger and recipe developer, Erica Dinho. “They offer a convenient way to introduce my kids to the vibrant flavors of Latin America without spending hours in the kitchen.”
2. Authentic Flavors
Authenticity is at the core of Toast-It Arepas’ brand identity. The founders, drawing inspiration from their Venezuelan heritage, are committed to using traditional recipes and high-quality ingredients to deliver the true essence of Latin American cuisine.
Their arepas are made with simple, wholesome ingredients like cornmeal, chia seeds, flaxseed, and cassava flour, ensuring a genuine taste that transports consumers to the heart of Latin America.
“Toast-It Arepas capture the authentic flavors of my childhood,” says Chef Eduardo García, a celebrated Latin American cuisine expert. “Their arepas are a testament to the rich culinary traditions of the region.”
3. Better-for-You Ingredients
Toast-It Arepas goes beyond convenience and authenticity by prioritizing the health and well-being of their customers.
Their products are made with “better-for-you” ingredients, free from artificial preservatives, additives, and added sugars.
They are also a good source of fiber and protein, making them a nutritious choice for health-conscious consumers.
“As a nutritionist, I’m always looking for healthy and convenient food options for my clients,” says Emily Johnson, a registered dietitian. “Toast-It Arepas are a great addition to a balanced diet, providing essential nutrients without compromising on taste or convenience.”
The Future of Toast-It Arepas
The future looks bright for Toast-It Arepas, with ambitious expansion plans, exciting new product developments, and a strategic partnership with Daniel Lubetzky, the founder of KIND Snacks and a seasoned entrepreneur.
1. Expansion Plans
Toast-It Arepas has set its sights on expanding its reach beyond its current markets. The company aims to increase its retail presence in grocery stores across the United States, making its products more accessible to consumers nationwide.
They also plan to explore international markets, bringing the authentic flavors of Latin America to a global audience.
“We see tremendous potential for growth in both domestic and international markets,” says Maria Fernanda, co-founder of Toast-It Arepas. “Our goal is to become a household name for convenient and delicious Latin American food.”
2. New Product Development
Innovation is a key driver of growth for Toast-It Arepas. The company is constantly experimenting with new flavors and product variations to keep its offerings fresh and exciting.
They are also exploring opportunities to expand beyond arepas, venturing into other Latin American staples like empanadas, cachapas, and tequeños.
“We’re always looking for ways to innovate and introduce new flavors to our customers,” says Maria Corina, co-founder of Toast-It Arepas. “We want to create a diverse and exciting product portfolio that reflects the richness and diversity of Latin American cuisine.”
Toast-It Arepas also plans to leverage its partnership with Daniel Lubetzky to gain insights into consumer trends and preferences.
Lubetzky’s extensive experience in the food industry and his deep understanding of consumer behavior will be invaluable as Toast-It Arepas continues to develop new and innovative products.
3. Partnership with Daniel Lubetzky
The partnership with Daniel Lubetzky is a significant turning point for Toast-It Arepas. Lubetzky, a successful entrepreneur and a passionate advocate for social impact, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table.
He is known for his ability to build brands with a purpose, and his guidance will be instrumental in shaping the future of Toast-It Arepas.
“We’re thrilled to have Daniel Lubetzky as our partner,” says Maria Fernanda. “His entrepreneurial spirit, his commitment to social impact, and his deep understanding of the food industry are invaluable assets for our company.”
Lubetzky’s involvement goes beyond financial investment. He is actively engaged in mentoring the sisters, providing strategic guidance, and leveraging his network to open doors for Toast-It Arepas.
His influence is already evident in the company’s renewed focus on social impact initiatives, such as supporting sustainable farming practices and empowering women in the food industry.
With a solid foundation, ambitious expansion plans, a commitment to innovation, and the guidance of a seasoned entrepreneur like Daniel Lubetzky, Toast-It Arepas is poised for continued success.
The company’s dedication to bringing authentic Latin American flavors to the world, combined with its focus on convenience and healthy ingredients, positions it as a rising star in the food industry.
FAQs
Where can I buy Toast-It Arepas?
While Toast-It Arepas products are not yet available for online purchase, they can be found in various grocery stores across the United States. For a list of retailers, please visit their website.
Are Toast-It Arepas gluten-free?
Yes, all Toast-It Arepas products are gluten-free, making them a suitable option for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
How do I prepare Toast-It Arepas?
Toast-It Arepas are pre-cooked and can be prepared in just 10 minutes. You can toast them in a toaster, oven, or pan until they are warm and crispy.
What are some popular ways to serve Toast-It Arepas?
Arepas are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Some popular options include:
- Breakfast: Top with eggs, cheese, avocado, or chorizo.
- Lunch/Dinner: Fill with shredded chicken, beef, beans, or vegetables.
- Snack: Spread with butter or jam, or pair with guacamole or hummus.
The Bottom Line
Toast-It Arepas is more than just a food company; it’s a culinary and cultural bridge, connecting people to the rich flavors and traditions of Latin America. Their commitment to convenience, authenticity, and healthy ingredients has resonated with consumers, propelling them to success on Shark Tank and beyond.
With their ambitious expansion plans, exciting new product developments, and strategic partnership with Daniel Lubetzky, Toast-It Arepas is well-positioned for continued growth and innovation. As they continue to introduce the world to the delicious and versatile world of arepas, they are sure to become a staple in kitchens across the globe.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of Latin American cuisine or a curious newcomer, Toast-It Arepas invites you to embark on a culinary adventure and experience the warmth and hospitality of their culture through their delicious and convenient products.
