In recent years, sea moss has been gaining significant traction in the consumer packaged goods industry, standing out as a nutrient-rich superfood and a versatile ingredient for personal care products.
According to Lauren Panoff, MPH, RD, co-founder of The Food Trends, this surge in popularity is driven by two main factors: the growing consumer preference for plant-based, natural health products and increasing research on the potential health benefits of sea moss.
“Specifically, seaweeds have been studied for their antioxidant and antimicrobial activity and possible benefits for things like skin health, blood sugar regulation, gut health and overall wellness,” Panoff added.
During the coronavirus pandemic, there was a noticeable shift in consumer focus toward wellness and self-care, prompting more people to explore the benefits of natural ingredients, said Dawn Fitch, founder and CEO of health and beauty brand Pooka Pure and Simple. This prompted Fitch to develop Pooka’s line of sea moss products, which include a facial bar, body butter and body bar.
“With so many people adopting a more plant-based diet, they’re not only looking for natural alternatives in their diet but in skin care as well,” said Fitch. “The fact that sea moss contains minerals and vitamins that promote health and wellness and make it an ingredient that health-conscious consumers are increasingly drawn to.”
What does it mean to be a superfood?
Often referred to as a superfood, sea moss fits seamlessly into the ever-expanding plant-based market. As more people shift to plant-based diets and look for natural health alternatives, the ingredient has found its place among other nutrient-dense foods like kale, chia seeds, and spirulina.
“Its main claim to fame is that it has a high mineral content, particularly of iodine, calcium, potassium and magnesium, compared to other superfoods,” said Panoff.
Sea moss is available in various supplement forms, including gummies, capsules, liquid extracts and gels. It is often combined with other superfoods or adaptogens like turmeric and ashwagandha to enhance its potential health benefits. Panoff recommends products displaying a third-party certification seal from organizations such as NSF International, ConsumerLab or USP, which verify purity, quality and safety.
The food is particularly attractive to those on a plant-based diet, as it can help fill potential nutritional gaps. This nutrient profile, combined with its versatility in supplement forms, has made it a go-to choice for those seeking both dietary and skin care benefits. One critical consideration for consumers is the iodine content of sea moss. Sea moss, like other seaweeds, contains high levels of iodine, which is essential for thyroid health. However, Oanoff cautions that excessive iodine intake can lead to health issues, particularly for those with thyroid conditions or for pregnant women.
How sustainable is the sea moss trend?
Incorporating sea moss into products isn’t just about tapping into the superfood trend; it also aligns with the broader shift toward sustainable and ethical sourcing. Sustainability is a key factor in ensuring sea moss remains a viable option for both supplements and skin care products. As consumers become more aware of the environmental and social impact of their choices, they are increasingly drawn to products that are sustainably sourced and harvested.
“Sea moss could remain a sustainable trend as long as the industry emphasizes responsible cultivation and harvesting, ethical business practices and environmental conservation,” Panoff argued.
Pooka Pure and Simple has prioritized the ethical sourcing of high-quality, wildcrafted sea moss from clean, nutrient-rich water in the Caribbean as well as Ireland.
“These places provide the ideal environment for sea moss to grow naturally, and ethical harvesting practices ensure that it’s collected without harming the marine ecosystem,” said Fitch.
As the superfood continues to grow in popularity, responsible sourcing and consumer education will be key to sustaining the trend and ensuring that it benefits both people and the planet.
“Consumers also play a role in sustainability, so consumer education on choosing sustainable sources of sea moss is key for the trend to stick around,” said Panoff.
Sea moss is poised to remain a popular choice for those on a plant-based diet or simply seeking natural alternatives. While research is still emerging, sea moss’ versatility and alignment with current wellness trends make it an attractive option for consumers looking for supplements and skin care solutions.
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