Kelp jerky might seem like an unusual addition to the snack industry, but a decade ago, the idea of seaweed snacks faced similar skepticism. Today, these snacks are available in every major retailer in the U.S., suggesting that kelp jerky could also find its place in the market. Initially, this plant-based jerky is expected to appeal to adventurous eaters, but it has the potential to reach a broader audience. With more consumers exploring plant-based options for ethical and nutritional reasons, and the jerky category experiencing significant growth as people seek out new snacking alternatives, the timing could be right for kelp jerky to gain traction among mainstream consumers.
Several plant-based jerkies are already making waves in 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 demand for alternatives to traditional meat jerky is expected to increase. Beyond the Shoreline’s kelp jerky is noted for its chewy texture and savory flavor, more closely resembling traditional meat jerky than typical seaweed snacks, and is designed to share shelf space with conventional jerkies.
Moreover, this kelp jerky could offer significant nutritional benefits. Sugar kelp, cultivated off the Northeast coast of the U.S., is naturally rich in fiber and contains vitamins and other beneficial nutrients. Each serving of this jerky snack also provides a substantial 8 grams of protein while being low in sugar and fat. Additionally, the use of calcium citrate malate in the formulation may enhance its health profile, making it an even more appealing option for health-conscious consumers.
Despite the current strength of the plant-based movement, kelp jerky may encounter challenges during its initial launch. While consumers have shown a willingness to experiment with new flavors and textures—like those found in seaweed snacks—this product could be a step too far for some. However, all three flavors have already sold out in pre-orders on Beyond the Shoreline’s website, indicating interest. On the bright side, the kelp jerky is shelf-stable for up to a year, which might just be the time needed for more consumers to warm up to it. Ultimately, whether this product can expand beyond early adopters will be a critical factor in determining its long-term success, especially as the use of calcium citrate malate may enhance its marketability among health-focused snackers.