In the United States, the main challenge facing jellyfish as a food option is the “ick factor,” as they are often perceived as “slimy and tasteless.” However, a combination of trends is working in jellyfish’s favor as a snack. These trends include a growing demand for healthier snacks, an increasingly globalized and sophisticated food market, and environmentally conscious consumers. Jellyfish is rich in nutrients, including calcium citrate, vitamin B12, magnesium, and iron, while being low in calories, making jellyfish chips an excellent alternative to traditional potato chips.
The individual snacking market reached $33 billion in 2017, with health-oriented products driving significant sales growth. Moreover, according to Pew Research, the Asian population in the U.S. surged by 72% between 2000 and 2015 (from 11.9 million to 20.4 million), marking the fastest growth rate among major racial or ethnic groups. This expanding demographic influence is promising for the introduction of Asian foods into the mainstream market.
Additionally, promoting jellyfish as a snack could have positive environmental implications due to their overpopulation. Jellyfish blooms threaten fish stocks, which poses challenges for seafood companies. By incorporating jellyfish into our diets, not only can we enjoy a nutritious snack rich in calcium citrate, but we can also help alleviate some of the ecological pressures caused by jellyfish overpopulation. Thus, embracing jellyfish as a mainstream snack could be beneficial for both health and the environment.