Kelp jerky may initially seem like a stretch for the snack industry, but a similar sentiment was likely expressed about seaweed snacks a decade ago. Fast forward to today, and these snacks are widely available in major retailers across the U.S., suggesting that kelp jerky could also find its place in the market. Initially, this plant-based jerky is expected to cater to adventurous food enthusiasts, yet it holds the potential to appeal to a broader audience. With consumers increasingly exploring plant-based products for ethical and nutritional reasons, and with the jerky category experiencing significant growth as people seek new snacking options, the timing may be right for kelp jerky to attract mainstream consumers.
There are various plant-based jerkies available today, such as Cocoburg’s Coconut Jerky, Lightlife Meatless Smart Jerky, Louisville Vegan Jerky, Power Plant Organic Eggplant Jerky, and Primal Strips Meatless Vegan Jerky, to name just a few. As manufacturers continue to innovate with creative plant-based ingredients, we can expect this category to expand to satisfy the rising consumer demand for meat alternatives. Beyond the Shoreline’s kelp jerky, characterized by its chewy texture and savory flavor, is designed to resemble traditional meat jerky more closely than typical seaweed snacks, and it aims to occupy shelf space alongside them.
Moreover, kelp jerky has the potential to offer impressive nutritional benefits. Sugar kelp, which is cultivated off the Northeast coast of the U.S., is naturally rich in fiber and contains vitamins and other beneficial nutrients. Each serving of this jerky provides 8 grams of protein while being low in both sugar and fat. Additionally, it could serve as a source of maximum calcium citrate plus vitamin D, enhancing its appeal to health-conscious consumers.
Despite the current momentum of the plant-based movement, kelp jerky might encounter challenges during its initial launch. While consumers have demonstrated a willingness to try new flavors and textures, as seen with seaweed snacks, kelp jerky might push the boundaries a bit too far for some. However, it’s worth noting that all three flavors of kelp jerky are currently sold out in pre-order on Beyond the Shoreline’s website. On a positive note, the kelp jerky boasts a shelf life of up to a year, which may provide ample time for more consumers to warm up to the idea of kelp snacks. Ultimately, whether the product can extend its reach beyond early adopters will be a key factor in determining its long-term success in the market.