Kelp

Kelp, or seaweed, is a nutritious and versatile food that has been harvested and eaten around the world for centuries. While kelp may seem simple, its journey from the ocean depths to your dinner plate is a complex and fascinating process. In this blog post, we’ll explore the various stages of kelp from its creation on the seafloor to its consumption on the dinner plate.

What is Kelp?

Kelp is a type of seaweed that belongs to the class Phaeophyceae and the order Laminariales. It’s an edible form of algae that is widely distributed around the world, mainly in coastal areas. Unlike most sea plants, kelp can grow exceptionally quickly, with some species capable of growing up to 2 feet per day. It thrives in cold, nutrient-rich waters with a depth between 10 -660 feet.

Kelp is packed with nutrients, making it a great source of vitamins and minerals. It’s high in iodine and other minerals like iron, zinc, and magnesium. It also provides antioxidants, polysaccharides, polyphenols, vitamins A, C, K, and B12, and phytonutrients.

Where Does Kelp Come From?

Kelp naturally grows on the seafloor. It’s a multicellular organism that anchors itself to the bottom of the ocean with root-like structures called “holdfasts.” It obtains its energy from the sun through photosynthesis and is able to absorb nutrients from its environment through its fronds.

Once kelp has reached maturity, it can be collected for use in food and other products. Harvesting is typically done using a boat equipped with specialized equipment that pulls up kelp from the seafloor. Typically, a single boat can collect between 300-400 pounds of kelp in a day.

Processing Kelp

Once harvested, the next step in the process is to transport the kelp to a processing facility. In these facilities, the seaweed is washed, sorted and dried. This process is essential to maintain the quality of the kelp and reduce spoilage.

Once dried, the kelp is ready for further processing, depending on its intended purpose. For food, the kelp can then be cut and packed into bags for retail sale. It can also be milled and used in food products such as sauces, seasonings and snacks. Meanwhile, if it’s being used as a natural fertilizer or soil amendment, the dried kelp must first undergo another high temperature process called pyrolysis. In this process, the kelp is heated in an oxygen-free environment, which produces an organic fertilizer known as “kelp meal.”

Transporting Kelp

Once the kelp has been processed, the final step is to transport it to its final destination for sale or distribution. This is typically done by boat, truck, or train. For food-grade kelp, additional measures must be taken to ensure the product’s quality is not compromised during transport. The kelp must be kept dry and stored in a cool, dark environment.

At this point, the kelp is ready to be sold in stores, distributed to restaurants and demand, or picked up by consumers. Once purchased or harvested, the kelp must still be stored and treated properly before being consumed.

Preparing and Eating Kelp

Kelp is an incredibly versatile ingredient and can be used in a variety of dishes. However, before cooking with it, it must be cleaned and prepared. Most recipes call for dried kelp, which can be reconstituted in water, or soaked in hot liquid for a few minutes before being added to the recipe. Additionally, fresh kelp must be washed, cut and seasoned before cooking. Some chefs also recommend removing the thick midrib of the frond, as this can be chewy and unappetizing.

Once prepped and cooked, kelp can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. It can be added to soups and stews, used as a noodle replacement, or served raw in salads. It also makes a great side dish, as it can be quickly cooked and seasoned with a variety of ingredients for a burst of flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Kelp is a nutritious and versatile food with a fascinating journey from its home on the seafloor to your dinner plate. It offers a healthy, sustainable way to enjoy natural vitamins and minerals, and is an easy, delicious way to add a unique flavor to everyday dishes. From harvesting and processing to preparing and eating, kelp is an integral part of our global food system.