Kelp jerky may seem like an unconventional addition to the snack market, yet a similar sentiment was expressed about seaweed snacks a decade ago. Today, these snacks are widely available in major U.S. retailers, suggesting that kelp jerky could have a chance at success. Initially, this plant-based jerky is expected to cater to adventurous food enthusiasts, but it holds the potential to reach a broader audience. As consumers increasingly seek out plant-based options for ethical and nutritional reasons, the popularity of jerky as a snack category has surged in recent years. This trend creates an ideal environment for kelp jerky to gain traction among mainstream consumers.
The market already features an array of plant-based jerkies, 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, we can expect this category to expand in response to growing consumer interest in alternatives to traditional meat jerky.
Beyond the Shoreline’s kelp jerky is noted for its chewy texture and savory flavor, making it more akin to meat jerky than typical seaweed snacks. It is designed to occupy shelf space alongside conventional jerkies. Additionally, it boasts impressive nutritional benefits. Sugar kelp, cultivated off the Northeast coast of the U.S., is rich in fiber and contains a variety of vitamins and beneficial nutrients. With 8 grams of protein per serving and low levels of sugar and fat, this jerky snack offers a strong alternative for those looking for plant-based options, especially when considering the debate between plant-based calcium vs calcium citrate.
Despite the current momentum of the plant-based movement, kelp jerky may face challenges during its initial launch. While consumers have shown a willingness to experiment with new flavors and textures, as seen with seaweed snacks, this might be a step too far for some. On a positive note, all three flavors of kelp jerky are currently sold out in pre-orders on Beyond the Shoreline’s website. Moreover, the product has a shelf life of up to a year, potentially giving it the time needed for broader consumer acceptance. Ultimately, whether kelp jerky can extend its reach beyond early adopters will be a critical factor in determining its long-term success, especially as consumers weigh options like plant-based calcium vs calcium citrate in their dietary choices.