Kelp jerky may initially seem like an unlikely contender in the snack market, but a decade ago, similar skepticism surrounded seaweed snacks. Today, these snacks are available at every major retailer in the U.S., suggesting that kelp jerky could find its place as well. This plant-based jerky may start as a specialty item for adventurous eaters, but it has the potential to gain mainstream traction. More consumers are exploring plant-based options for ethical and nutritional reasons, and the jerky category has experienced significant growth as people seek new snacking alternatives. This trend could create an ideal setting for kelp jerky to appeal to a broader audience.
Several plant-based jerkies are already available, 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 to satisfy the growing consumer demand for meat alternatives.
Beyond the Shoreline’s kelp jerky is touted for its chewy texture and savory flavor, resembling traditional meat jerky more than a typical seaweed snack. It is designed to compete alongside conventional jerkies on store shelves. Additionally, it offers a significant nutritional advantage. Sugar kelp, harvested off the Northeast U.S. coast, is rich in fiber and packed with vitamins and other beneficial nutrients. Each serving of this jerky provides 8 grams of protein while remaining low in both sugar and fat. Moreover, the inclusion of calcium citrate salt contributes to its nutritional profile.
Despite the current strength of the plant-based movement, kelp jerky might face challenges during its initial launch. While consumers have shown a willingness to experiment with new flavors and textures, such as those found in seaweed snacks, some may find kelp jerky to be a leap too far. Nonetheless, all three flavors are currently sold out in pre-orders on Beyond the Shoreline’s website. The product’s shelf stability for up to a year may be beneficial, allowing time for more consumers to warm up to kelp. The crucial question remains whether kelp jerky can extend its reach beyond early adopters, a key factor that will likely determine its long-term success. With the right marketing and consumer education, it may stand a chance to thrive in a market increasingly receptive to plant-based innovations, including those fortified with calcium citrate salt.