United States-based barramundi producer Australis Aquaculture's new Hand-Cut Taco Strips are a natural extension for the company, according to Jonathan Daen, CFO of the company.

Foodservice operators have been using Australis Aquaculture's products in fish tacos for several years before the taco strips were introduced in a ready-made form this year, he told IntraFish.

"We trialed it with a number of customers and then introduced it into our standard product lineup this year," said Daen. "Our seafood distributors are just starting to take the taco product on."

Each strip is cut from premium barramundi portions, and then flash frozen to lock in peak flavor and freshness.

He said the taco strips are geared to any foodservice operator wanting to serve a premium taco, taco bowl or any other entree that can use a cut piece.

"The beauty of our taco strips is that it's a high performing product that gets great consumer response at an attractive price point. We also offer price stability and consistent availability year round," he said.

The product has been named one of four finalists in the Seafood Excellence Awards in the foodservice category at the upcoming Boston Seafood Show.

Australis Aquaculture is competing against Azuma, Thai Union/Chicken of the Sea and Trident Seafoods in the category.

The winners of the Seafood Excellence Awards will be announced March 11.

"We have been attending the Boston show every year since 2005. It is a very important part of our sales effort that gives us the opportunity to meet with many existing and new customers in one place," he said.