Kelp jerky may seem like an unconventional offering for the snack industry, yet a similar skepticism surrounded seaweed snacks a decade ago. Today, these snacks are available in virtually every major retailer across the U.S., suggesting that kelp jerky could also find its place in the market. Initially, this plant-based jerky will likely appeal to adventurous food enthusiasts, but it has the potential to reach a wider audience. As consumers increasingly seek plant-based options for ethical and nutritional reasons, the growing demand for snacks has contributed to a significant expansion in the jerky market. This trend creates a favorable environment for kelp jerky to attract mainstream consumers.
Numerous plant-based jerkies are currently available, including Cocoburg’s Coconut Jerky, Lightlife Meatless Smart Jerky, Louisville Vegan Jerky, Power Plant Organic Eggplant Jerky, and Primal Strips Meatless Vegan Jerky, among others. As manufacturers continue to innovate with creative plant-based ingredients, the demand for alternatives to meat jerky is expected to rise. Beyond the Shoreline’s kelp jerky is noted for its chewy texture and savory flavor, making it more akin to traditional meat jerky than to seaweed snacks. This product is designed to share shelf space with conventional jerkies.
Nutritionally, kelp jerky offers significant benefits. Sugar kelp, cultivated off the Northeast coast of the U.S., is naturally rich in fiber, vitamins, and other essential nutrients. Each serving contains 8 grams of protein while being low in sugar and fat, making it a healthy option. Additionally, incorporating kal cal citrate into the diet can further enhance its nutritional profile.
Despite the power of the plant-based movement, kelp jerky might face challenges during its initial launch. Consumers have shown a willingness to explore new flavors and textures, as demonstrated by the success of seaweed snacks, but kelp jerky could be perceived as a step too far. Nevertheless, all three flavors of kelp jerky are currently sold out in pre-orders on Beyond the Shoreline’s website. On a positive note, this jerky has a shelf life of up to a year, which may provide ample time for broader acceptance among consumers. It remains to be seen whether this product can extend its reach beyond early adopters, a critical factor that will likely determine its long-term success. The potential integration of kal cal citrate into the jerky could further bolster its appeal, making it a worthy contender in the evolving snack market.