Exploring the rise of seaweed crisps in modern snacking

Discover how Shore Seaweed is transforming perceptions of seaweed snacks.

Introduction to seaweed snacks

In recent years, the snacking industry has witnessed a remarkable shift towards healthier options, with seaweed crisps emerging as a popular choice among health-conscious consumers. Shore Seaweed, a brand dedicated to promoting Scottish seaweed, is at the forefront of this trend. Their mission is to make seaweed not only accessible but also enjoyable for everyone.

The journey of Shore Seaweed

Founded with the vision of introducing more people to the benefits of locally harvested seaweed, Shore Seaweed faced initial challenges in changing consumer perceptions.

Keith Paterson, the head of the Shore team, explained that many people were unfamiliar with how to incorporate seaweed into their diets. “There was a barrier to people eating locally harvested seaweed,” he noted, emphasizing the need for innovative products that would encourage consumption.

To address this, Shore Seaweed developed a range of crisps that combine the nutritional benefits of seaweed with appealing flavors. The process begins with harvesting seaweed from the shores of Wick, where a specific type of brown seaweed is collected.

This sustainable practice ensures that only the tops of the plants are taken, allowing them to regrow for future harvests.

Crafting the perfect seaweed crisp

After harvesting, the seaweed undergoes a meticulous process to retain its nutrients. It is washed, air-dried, and then milled into a fine powder. This powder is mixed with quinoa flour to create the crisps, providing a satisfying crunch while delivering the unique flavor of seaweed. Keith explained, “The flour adds that texture, that bite and crunch, and the seaweed delivers the flavour and nutrition.”

Shore Seaweed launched their crisps in 2020 after overcoming initial setbacks with their first product. The new flavors, including Peking duck and sriracha, have been designed to appeal to a wide range of consumers, particularly those who may be hesitant to try seaweed. “A lot of consumers associate seaweed with Asian flavours,” Keith noted, highlighting the brand’s strategy to connect with familiar culinary experiences.

Consumer reception and future prospects

The reception of Shore Seaweed crisps has been overwhelmingly positive, with three distinct types of consumers emerging. The first group consists of seaweed enthusiasts eager to try new products. The second group is more skeptical but open to experimentation, while the third group remains resistant to the idea of seaweed snacks. Keith expressed his excitement about converting the second group, stating, “Those are the ones we can win over.”

As the brand continues to innovate and expand its product line, the future looks bright for Shore Seaweed. With a commitment to sustainability and health, they are not only changing the way people perceive seaweed but also paving the way for a new category of snacks that are both delicious and nutritious. The journey of Shore Seaweed is a testament to the power of creativity and determination in the ever-evolving food industry.