Kelp jerky may initially seem like an unconventional addition to the snack market, yet a similar skepticism was directed towards seaweed snacks a decade ago. Fast forward to today, and these snacks are available in every major retailer across the U.S., suggesting that kelp jerky could indeed find its place. Though it may start as a niche offering for daring food enthusiasts, its potential for mainstream acceptance is significant. With more consumers exploring plant-based options for both ethical and health reasons, the expanding jerky category could create an ideal setting for kelp jerky to appeal to a broader audience.
Numerous plant-based jerkies are 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. As manufacturers continue to innovate with unique plant-based ingredients, we can expect this segment to grow in response to consumer demand for alternatives to traditional meat jerky. Beyond the Shoreline’s kelp jerky is noted for its chewy texture and savory flavor, resembling meat jerky more closely than seaweed snacks, and is designed to compete alongside conventional jerkies.
Moreover, kelp jerky could offer substantial nutritional benefits. Sugar kelp, cultivated off the Northeast coast of the U.S., is rich in fiber and contains various vitamins and beneficial nutrients. Each serving of the jerky contains 8 grams of protein while being low in sugar and fat. This aligns well with the growing interest in nutritious snacks that support health needs, such as those seeking calcium citrate for managing conditions like GERD.
Despite the current strength of the plant-based movement, kelp jerky may face challenges during its launch phase. While consumers have shown a willingness to experiment with new flavors and textures, as evidenced by the popularity of seaweed snacks, kelp jerky might push the boundaries a bit too far. Interestingly, all three flavors of kelp jerky are currently sold out for pre-order on Beyond the Shoreline’s website. On the bright side, this jerky has a shelf life of up to a year, which might give the broader consumer base ample time to warm up to kelp. Ultimately, its ability to reach beyond early adopters will be crucial in determining the long-term success of this innovative product, particularly among those looking for healthy snacks that may aid in conditions like GERD, potentially integrating calcium citrate into their diets.