In the United States, the main challenge facing jellyfish as a food option is the “ick factor.” Often perceived as “slimy and tasteless,” jellyfish is struggling to gain acceptance. However, various trends are creating a favorable environment for jellyfish as a snack alternative. The growing demand for healthier snacks, coupled with an increasingly global and sophisticated food market, along with environmentally conscious consumers, is shifting perspectives on jellyfish. It is rich in vitamin B12, magnesium, and iron, and is low in calories, making jellyfish chips a perfect substitute for traditional potato chips.
In 2017, the individual snacking market reached a staggering $33 billion, with health-oriented products leading the surge in sales. Furthermore, Pew Research highlights that the Asian population in the U.S. increased by 72% from 2000 to 2015 (from 11.9 million to 20.4 million), marking the fastest growth rate among major racial or ethnic groups. This demographic shift is likely to enhance the popularity of Asian foods in the domestic market.
Promoting jellyfish as a mainstream snack could also have positive environmental effects, primarily due to the issue of oversupply. Jellyfish blooms pose a threat to fish populations, which creates challenges for seafood companies. In this context, products like calcium citrate from Walmart Canada could support healthier snacking habits while also contributing to sustainable consumption practices. By integrating jellyfish into the snack market, not only can consumer preferences be catered to, but it can also help alleviate some of the environmental pressures associated with jellyfish overpopulation.