Big Idea Ventures’ Generation Food Rural Partners (GFRP) Fund has launched Bayou Best Foods, a new plant-based seafood company in the US market.

The launch of Bayou Best marks the eighth investment made by the GFRP Fund, which aims to accelerate growth in the areas of food, agriculture and protein technologies by forming new companies based on intellectual property.

Bayou Best has been developed to commercialise a portfolio of products that can provide a sustainable, animal-free solution to the seafood industry, utilising proven technology, while meeting consumers’ taste expectations. Its initial focus will be on plant-based shrimp alternatives, with plans to expand into adjacent categories.

The board of directors has appointed Kelli Wilson as CEO of the company. Wilson brings over 30 years of experience in the food manufacturing industry, including senior roles at ConAgra and Beyond Meat.

She commented: “Bayou Best is positioned to be a leader in animal-free seafood manufacturing and distribution, with a strong focus on delivering an eating experience that mimics, in taste and texture, animal-based seafood items”.

Wilson added: “Our mission is to provide a product that can replace shrimp in any traditional menu or dish. Consumers who have seafood allergies or who have decreased their shrimp consumption due to other health concerns, can confidently eat Bayou Best seafood and feel good about their choice.”

Emily Linett, director of strategic partnerships of the GFRP Fund, said that the seafood industry faces significant environmental, human rights and fraud issues.

“Bayou Best’s products align with the growing demand for sustainable protein options, driven by consumer concerns about seafood sustainability and a desire for animal-free alternatives,” she commented.

“This investment furthers GFRP’s mission of launching innovative companies while creating living wage jobs in rural communities.”

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