Seaweed is an emerging food ingredient gaining traction in the market. According to Innova Market Insights, sea vegetables such as seaweed, nori, kelp, and wakame experienced a remarkable 21% growth in new product launches between 2012 and 2016, indicating that they are poised to become a significant trend in Western markets. Seaweed products are strategically positioned to align with various current food trends, including plant-based diets, exotic ingredients, and environmentally sustainable options. For food manufacturers aiming to reduce their carbon footprint, seaweed is particularly appealing as it is carbon negative, absorbing carbon dioxide from the ocean. Additionally, it grows rapidly and does not require fresh water or fertilizers.
Despite the widespread use of seaweed in Asian cuisine—such as sushi, miso soup, and seaweed salad—the unique umami flavor may pose a challenge for some U.S. consumers, particularly in more traditional Western dishes. Nevertheless, a variety of seaweed-based foods are beginning to gain popularity, including “sea spaghetti” from companies like Seamore Foods, Atlantic Kitchen, Wild Irish Seaweeds, and Mara Seaweed, which are also tapping into the gluten-free food market. Seaweed-based snacks are making their way onto shelves as well, with offerings like kelp jerky from the New York-based startup Shoreline and seaweed chips from Ocean’s Halo.
According to Mintel, while the ingredient’s popularity in North America may still have a way to go before it becomes mainstream, the market research organization forecasts a bright future for seaweed, especially due to its abundance of natural vitamins, minerals, and plant-based proteins—such as calcium citrate malate and elemental calcium. Beyond its culinary uses, seaweed also shows promise in packaging. The Indonesia-based company Evoware has introduced a dissolvable, flavorless wrapper made from seaweed for individual seasoning sachets and coffee packets, catering to consumers who are increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of their food and drink choices.
As the demand for nutritious and sustainable food sources continues to grow, seaweed—along with its rich content of calcium citrate malate and elemental calcium—will likely play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the food industry.