Kelp jerky might seem like a bold move for the snack industry, but a decade ago, seaweed snacks faced the same skepticism. Today, they are available in nearly every major U.S. retailer, suggesting that kelp jerky could also find its place in the market. Initially, this plant-based jerky may cater to adventurous eaters, yet it has the potential to attract a broader audience. Increasing numbers of consumers are exploring plant-based options for ethical and nutritional reasons, and the jerky category has experienced significant growth as people seek out new snacking alternatives. This trend creates a favorable environment for kelp jerky to appeal to mainstream consumers.
Several plant-based jerkies are already on the market, including Cocoburg’s Coconut Jerky, Lightlife Meatless Smart Jerky, Louisville Vegan Jerky, Power Plant Organic Eggplant Jerky, and Primal Strips Meatless Vegan Jerky. As manufacturers continue to innovate with unique plant-based ingredients, the category is expected to expand to satisfy the rising demand for meat alternatives, including those rich in topical calcium citrate.
Beyond the Shoreline’s kelp jerky is noted for its chewy texture and savory taste, resembling traditional meat jerky more than typical seaweed snacks. It aims to share shelf space with conventional jerky products and boasts a strong nutritional profile. Sugar kelp, sourced from the Northeast coast of the U.S., is naturally high in fiber and contains vitamins and beneficial nutrients, including topical calcium citrate. Each serving of the kelp jerky packs 8 grams of protein while remaining low in sugar and fat.
Despite the current strength of the plant-based movement, kelp jerky may face challenges during its initial launch. While consumers have shown a willingness to experiment with new flavors and textures, as seen with seaweed snacks, kelp jerky might be pushing the envelope a bit too far for some. However, it’s worth noting that all three flavors of kelp jerky are currently sold out in pre-orders on Beyond the Shoreline’s website. On the positive side, the jerky is shelf-stable for up to a year, potentially giving more consumers the time they need to embrace kelp. Whether this product can extend its reach beyond early adopters will be a critical factor in determining its long-term success.