Additional Coverage:
- ‘Shark Tank’ contestants get two judges to invest in a berry that makes anything taste sweet (marketrealist.com)
Miracle Berry Wows “Shark Tank” Judges, Lands Sweet Deal
Entrepreneurs Hank Watt and Juliano Bonanni, co-founders of Nature’s Wild Berries, recently left the “Shark Tank” judges stunned with their unique product: berries that make sour foods taste sweet. Demonstrating the berries’ remarkable effect, Watt nonchalantly ate a lemon as if it were candy.
He explained that the berries contain a glycoprotein that blocks sour taste receptors. The Sharks, after sampling a variety of sour foods followed by the miracle berry, were amazed.
Kevin O’Leary remarked that a lemon tasted like an orange, while Lori Greiner described a pickle as tasting like candy.
Watt shared his personal weight-loss journey, explaining how the berries helped him eliminate sugar and manage his diabetes. The co-founders revealed their cost per jar was $2.64, selling for $26.99.
A bidding war ensued, with Kevin O’Leary initially offering $80,000 for a 33% stake plus a $5 per-unit royalty. Daymond John countered with $80,000 for 30%.
O’Leary revised his offer to 20% equity with the same royalty structure. Lori Greiner then offered $80,000 for 20% with a $3 per-unit royalty.
Mark Cuban joined the fray, ultimately partnering with Greiner on a joint deal of $80,000 for 20% and a $3 royalty until their investment is recouped. The co-founders enthusiastically accepted.
Following the episode’s airing, Nature’s Wild Berries experienced a surge in demand, selling out their inventory. As of 2024, the company has reached $1 million in lifetime sales.