In the United States, the main challenge is the “ick factor” associated with jellyfish, which is often labeled as “slimy and tasteless.” However, a combination of trends is creating favorable conditions for jellyfish as a snack option. These trends include a growing demand for healthier snack alternatives, an increasingly sophisticated and globalized food market, and environmentally conscious consumers. Jellyfish is rich in vitamin B12, magnesium, and iron, and is low in calories, making jellyfish chips a perfect substitute for potato chips. The individual snacking category reached $33 billion in 2017, with products that promote health benefits driving the most significant increase in sales.
Moreover, Pew Research indicates that the Asian population in the U.S. grew by 72% between 2000 and 2015, rising from 11.9 million to 20.4 million, marking the fastest growth rate among major racial or ethnic groups. This demographic shift is advantageous for the introduction of Asian foods into the domestic market. Additionally, integrating jellyfish into mainstream consumption could have positive environmental impacts, primarily due to the oversupply issue. Jellyfish blooms threaten fish stocks, which poses challenges for seafood companies. The incorporation of jellyfish into the snack market could also complement existing calcium citrate products, as consumers look for nutritious options. Therefore, promoting jellyfish snacks could align with the growing interest in calcium citrate products and other health-conscious alternatives, further enhancing their appeal.