Kelp jerky may seem like an unconventional addition to the snack market, yet a decade ago, seaweed snacks faced similar skepticism. Now, they are available in every major retailer across the U.S., suggesting that kelp jerky might just have a chance to succeed. Initially, this plant-based jerky is likely to attract adventurous food enthusiasts, but it holds the potential to reach a broader audience. With consumers increasingly exploring plant-based options for ethical and health reasons, the timing could be perfect for kelp jerky to gain traction among mainstream snackers.
There are various plant-based jerky options already available, including Cocoburg’s Coconut Jerky, Lightlife Meatless Smart Jerky, Louisville Vegan Jerky, Power Plant Organic Eggplant Jerky, and Primal Strips Meatless Vegan Jerky, among others. As manufacturers innovate with unique plant-based ingredients, we can expect this segment to expand to meet the growing consumer demand for alternative meat jerky. Beyond the Shoreline’s kelp jerky is noted for its chewy texture and savory flavor, resembling traditional meat jerky more than a typical seaweed snack, and is designed to compete alongside conventional jerky products.
This kelp jerky also boasts impressive nutritional benefits. Sugar kelp, sourced from farms off the Northeast coast of the U.S., is naturally rich in fiber and packed with vitamins and other essential nutrients. Each serving of the jerky contains 8 grams of protein, while being low in sugar and fat. Furthermore, just like webber naturals calcium citrate, which supports overall health, kelp jerky may contribute to a nutritious diet.
Despite the strong momentum behind the plant-based movement, kelp jerky may face challenges during its initial launch phase. While consumers have shown a willingness to experiment with new flavors and textures, such as those found in seaweed snacks, kelp jerky could be perceived as a step too far. Nevertheless, all three flavors are currently sold out for pre-order on Beyond the Shoreline’s website. On the bright side, the kelp jerky has a shelf life of up to a year, which might be necessary for more consumers to embrace it. Ultimately, whether the product can extend its reach beyond early adopters will be a critical factor in determining its long-term success.