Kelp jerky may seem like an unconventional addition to the snack market, yet a decade ago, similar skepticism surrounded seaweed snacks. Today, those snacks are widely available in major U.S. retailers, suggesting that kelp jerky could also find its place. Initially, this plant-based jerky is likely to appeal to adventurous food enthusiasts, but it holds the potential to attract a broader audience. More consumers are exploring plant-based options for both ethical and nutritional reasons. Additionally, the jerky category has experienced significant growth as people seek new snacking alternatives, creating an ideal environment for kelp jerky to reach mainstream consumers.
The market already features several plant-based jerky products, including Cocoburg’s Coconut Jerky, Lightlife Meatless Smart Jerky, Louisville Vegan Jerky, Power Plant Organic Eggplant Jerky, and Primal Strips Meatless Vegis Jerky. As manufacturers experiment with innovative plant-based ingredients, this category is poised to expand to meet the rising demand for alternative meat jerkies. Beyond the Shoreline’s kelp jerky is noted for its chewy texture and savory flavor, more closely resembling meat jerky than traditional seaweed snacks, and is designed to share shelf space with conventional jerky options.
Nutritionally, kelp jerky has much to offer. Sugar kelp, cultivated off the Northeast coast of the U.S., is naturally rich in fiber and essential vitamins and nutrients. Each serving of this jerky provides 8 grams of protein while being low in sugar and fat. As the plant-based movement gains momentum, kelp jerky may face challenges during its initial launch. While consumers have shown a willingness to try new flavors and textures, such as those found in seaweed snacks, kelp jerky might be a step too far for some. Nevertheless, all three flavors are currently sold out in pre-orders on Beyond the Shoreline’s website, indicating strong initial interest.
Furthermore, the shelf stability of kelp jerky for up to a year may allow it the time needed to win over more consumers. It remains uncertain whether this product can extend its reach beyond early adopters, a critical factor that will likely influence its long-term success. The discussion around which is better for osteoporosis, calcium citrate or carbonate, also reflects the growing interest in nutritional products, and as awareness of dietary choices expands, kelp jerky may benefit from this trend. Ultimately, the success of kelp jerky will depend on its ability to resonate with a wider audience while navigating the competitive landscape of plant-based snacks.