What’s your superpower? People ask that a lot in the corporate world, especially during job interviews. A year from now, your response may very well be “my superpower is my ability to consistently consume large quantities of superfoods – like underwater vegetables, algae, kelp and seaweed.” Yep, there’s a lot of nutritional goodness under the sea, and most of it is plant-based. So if you can get past the association of seaweed with summers at the beach (and the accompanying stench) and stomach them, underwater plants could be just the superfoods you need right now. Here’s what you should know about the healthy eating trend of snacks and meals made of superfood underwater vegetables and plants like seaweed, kelp and algae.
underwater plants and vegetables like seaweed, algae and kelp are the new superfoods
Some call it pond scum and some call it a superfood. Algae, which range from floating specks of green plankton to undulating ribbons in the depths of the sea, is poised to become the next innovative food source. Not only is it nutrient dense, but as reported by National Geographic, it may also help feed the world’s growing population in a sustainable way that doesn’t exploit existing freshwater and land resources.
What you should know about the healthy eating trend of superfoods that are underwater vegetables and plants like seaweed, kelp and algae.
At a recent U.N. ocean conference, this protein-rich, chock full of vitamins sea plant was described as “revolutionary” and it was hypothesized that algae farms could produce all the protein the world will need in 2050. But, the real question is: Will people want to eat it instead of a cheeseburger?
What you should know about the healthy eating trend of superfoods that are underwater vegetables and plants like seaweed, kelp and algae.
Actually, many people — largely in Asia have already been appreciating its flavor and texture for thousands of years. Japanese life expectancy is the highest in the world which many sociologists have partly attributed to a diet low in red meat and rich in plant food and fish. And now, American start-ups like Umaro Foods and Sea Tangle are using seaweed to make meat alternatives like bacon and pasta substitutes like kelp noodles.
Here’s what you should know about the healthy eating trend of snacks and meals of underwater vegetables and plants like seaweed, kelp and algae. And 10 great ways to try them out for yourself.
10 underwater plant and vegetable superfoods to try right now
1. “Sea Grapes”
It’s not hard to see why this seaweed is named after grapes but with a salty, ocean flavor, it’s far from the green variety we are familiar with. The texture is crunchy with a caviar-like bubble that has a satisfying pop once bitten. Most varieties are not sold fresh but in dehydrated packs that simply need to be soaked in water and seasoned to enjoy in a salad or a veggie side.
What you should know about the healthy eating trend of superfoods that are underwater vegetables and plants like seaweed, kelp and algae.
BUY NOW – $14.29 for pack of 5.
2. Kelp Noodles
If you’re looking for an alternative to pasta and rice, kelp noodles are an easy to eat, raw option that happens to bee naturally fat-free and gluten-free. Add to salads, broth, casseroles and stir-fry for a healthy and tasty meal.
BUY NOW – $9.80.
3. Seaweed Snack
These packets have seaweed snacks are practically a staple in kids’ lunchboxes and for adults looking for a quick salty snack on the go. Roasted for an irresistible savory flavor, they definitely satisfy our craving for potato chips.
BUY NOW – $14.99 for pack of 20.
4. Kelp Burger
A “hamburger” made from seaweed? Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it. These nutritious patties have a toasty, umami flavor made from kelp but also, mushrooms, peas, and beans for a rich and satiating alternative to red meat.
What you should know about the healthy eating trend of superfoods that are underwater vegetables and plants like seaweed, kelp and algae.
BUY NOW – $54.99 for 12 pack.
5. Kelp Hot Sauce
Described as addictive and life-changing, this kelp-based hot sauce will certainly add some novelty to your pantry. But what other hot sauce can also give you unmatched nutrition with vitamins, minerals, iodine, and fiber — all from its first ingredient, Alaskan Bull Kelp?
BUY NOW – $12.99.
6. Sea Beet Kraut
Consider adding this condiment to your next barbecue. Combining the umami flavors of Maine seaweed with earthy, sweet ginger and beets, this kraut is a completely unique, delicious, and satisfying.
BUY NOW – $11.99.
7. Rice Seasoning
Growing up, whenever I didn’t like what was offered for dinner, my mom sprinkled this seaweed and sesame seasoning on top of a bowl of rice and I was a happy kid. It also tastes great with on top of popcorn, avocado toast, and scrambled eggs.
BUY NOW – $6.78.
8. Seaweed Bacon
Ask most vegetarians what meat they miss the most and the answer is usually bacon. This plant-based version just might be the most authentic yet. Made from a red seaweed protein, it has a satisfying crunch that melts into a smoky, umami flavor.
What you should know about the healthy eating trend of superfoods that are underwater vegetables and plants like seaweed, kelp and algae.
Currently available in select restaurants
9. Spirulina
Want the nutritional benefits of sea plants without having to really taste them? Just add a scoop of this powdered saltwater blue-green algae that’s rich in Amino Acids (Omega 3 6 9, GLA, Arginine), Vitamin A, Vitamin B Complex, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Biotin, Magnesium, Zinc, Calcium, Potassium to your smoothie and carry on.
BUY NOW – $21.95.
10. Chlorella
Chlorella is a freshwater green algae that can be taken in powder form like Spirulina or as a supplement. An excellent source of protein and Omega 3’s, it’s also gotten a lot of buzz for its ability to bind to heavy metals, helping the body “detox.”
BUY NOW – $13.47.
underwater plants and vegetables like algae, kelp and seaweed are the newest superfoods
That’s what you should know about the newest healthy eating trend of snacks and meals made of underwater vegetables and plants like seaweed, kelp and algae. Just like that, you’ve got 10 easy new ways to get in your daily greens!
