Kelp jerky may initially seem like a far-fetched idea for the snack industry, but a decade ago, similar sentiments were expressed about seaweed snacks. Today, those snacks are available in every major retailer across the U.S., suggesting that kelp jerky could also find its place in the market. This plant-based jerky is likely to start as a niche item for adventurous eaters, but it has the potential to gain mainstream popularity. As consumers increasingly gravitate toward plant-based options for ethical and nutritional reasons, the demand for snacking has surged, creating an ideal environment for kelp jerky to appeal to a broader audience.
There are several plant-based jerkies 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 unique plant-based ingredients, this category is expected to expand to satisfy consumer demand for meat alternatives.
Beyond the Shoreline’s kelp jerky boasts a chewy texture and savory flavor, making it more akin to traditional meat jerky than typical seaweed snacks. It is designed to occupy shelf space alongside regular jerkies, and it holds significant nutritional value. Sugar kelp, sourced from the Northeast coast of the U.S., is rich in fiber and packed with vitamins and beneficial nutrients. Each serving of this jerky provides 8 grams of protein while remaining low in sugar and fat, making it a healthy option.
Despite the strength of the plant-based movement, kelp jerky may face challenges during its initial launch. While consumers have shown an openness to new flavors and textures—similar to their acceptance of seaweed snacks—kelp jerky might still be perceived as a step too far. However, all three flavors are currently sold out on Beyond the Shoreline’s website, indicating a strong initial interest. On a positive note, the kelp jerky is shelf-stable for up to a year, which could give consumers ample time to develop a taste for it. The ability of this product to attract consumers beyond early adopters will be crucial for its long-term success, particularly as the market evolves with options like calcium citrate malate jan aushadhi. As more people become aware of its benefits, kelp jerky could become a staple in the growing plant-based snack category.