American Unagi

American Unagi, founded by Sara Rademaker in 2014, is the only producer and processor of locally sourced and harvested American Eel (Unagi) in the US. Located in rural Maine, the company operates a land-based aquaculture farm that grows and processes eels using recirculating aquaculture systems. American Unagi sources juvenile eels, known as glass eels or elvers, from licensed Maine harvesters and raises them to market size without the use of hormones or antibiotics. The company's production process takes between eight months to two years, allowing for weekly harvests.

In January 2023, American Unagi completed construction of a USD 10 million, 27,000-square-foot facility in Waldoboro, Maine. This expansion increased the company's production capacity to over 500,000 pounds (approximately 2 million eels) annually. The facility encompasses the entire production process, from growing the eels to filleting and smoking them. American Unagi's business model aims to disrupt the traditional eel supply chain by keeping the entire process within the US, rather than shipping juvenile eels overseas for growing and processing.

The company's approach focuses on sustainability, traceability, and supporting the local marine economy. American Unagi's products are traceable to the specific fisherman who harvested the juvenile eels from Maine's rivers, providing transparency in the supply chain. This commitment to local sourcing and production aligns with the increasing consumer demand for sustainable and traceable seafood, particularly within the growing market for Japanese cuisine in the US.

Key customers and partnerships

American Unagi's customer base includes Michelin-star restaurants, wholesalers, retailers, and other discerning consumers throughout the US. The company has established itself as a supplier of high-quality, locally sourced eel products to the sushi industry and other sectors of the food service market.

In terms of partnerships, American Unagi operates in collaboration with the local Passamaquoddy Tribe, demonstrating its commitment to community engagement and sustainable resource management. Additionally, in January 2024, the company received a strategic investment from RuralWorks Partners, LLC, an impact-driven investment firm focused on supporting rural community growth and environmental sustainability. This partnership aims to further American Unagi's expansion and its mission to provide a responsible and traceable alternative to imported eel products.