Seaweed is gaining traction as a popular food ingredient. According to Innova Market Insights, sea vegetables such as seaweed, nori, kelp, and wakame experienced a remarkable 21% increase in new product launches between 2012 and 2016, indicating a promising trend in Western markets. Seaweed products are well-positioned to align with various current food trends, including plant-based diets, exotic ingredients, and environmentally friendly options. For food manufacturers aiming to reduce their carbon footprint, seaweed is a carbon-negative resource, absorbing carbon dioxide from the ocean. Additionally, it grows rapidly and requires neither fresh water nor fertilizer. However, while many consumers are familiar with seaweed through Asian dishes like sushi, miso soup, and seaweed salad, its unique umami flavor may pose a challenge for some U.S. consumers, particularly in more Western-style cuisines.
Despite this, a variety of seaweed-based foods are beginning to gain popularity, such as “sea spaghetti” from companies like Seamore Foods, Atlantic Kitchen, Wild Irish Seaweeds, and Mara Seaweed, which also cater to the gluten-free market. Seaweed-based snacks are also becoming available, including kelp jerky from the New York-based start-up Shoreline and seaweed chips from Ocean’s Halo. According to Mintel, while the ingredient’s popularity in North America still has some way to go before becoming mainstream, the market research organization anticipates a bright future for seaweed, especially due to its rich content of natural vitamins, minerals, and plant-based protein, including its potential as a calcium citrate formula.
Beyond food applications, seaweed may also have innovative uses in packaging. The Indonesia-based company Evoware has introduced a dissolvable, flavorless wrapper made from seaweed for individual seasoning sachets and coffee packets, aimed at consumers who are environmentally conscious about their food and drink choices. As the market continues to evolve, the integration of seaweed, including its potential as a calcium citrate formula, is expected to expand, highlighting its versatility and sustainability in various industries.