Too good to be true?
I don’t believe in that.
I do firmly believe in the old standby, “Innocent until proven guilty”, so if scientists are saying that this seaweed tastes just like bacon but is way better for you, then I will firmly believe them – because I want to.
Researchers from Oregon State University’s Hatfield Marine Science center say they have created a brand new type of seaweed in hopes of it becoming the next new, huge superfood.
Anyone who has done their research on nutrition – specifically vegetarian/vegan nutrition – will know that seaweed is highly regarded as an excellent source of plant-based protein as well as being chockfull of essential nutrients and minerals.
While this is all well and good, the selling point to this product will be vastly different. As stated earlier, it’s going to taste just like bacon. Yes, it’s true.
Apparently the creation is a new strain of “dulse”, a new strain of red marine algae that looks like red lettuce.
What is dulse? Normally growing along the Pacific and Atlantic coastlines, this strain is actually supposed to be TWICE as good for you than kale, according to Chuck Toombs, a facultyy member in OSU’s College of Business as told by TIME.
While dulse alone was not enough to entice enough buyers (think about how many Americans purchase seaweed on its own), this new strain seemed to be popular enough to create sufficient possibility. Is it because of the bacon flavor? Probably.
They have apparently received a grant from the Oregon Department of Agriculture and even been working with the university’s Food Innovation Center in Portland and several chefs to find out how it can be used in recipes and dishes.
Are we excited for this? Of course! Seaweed on its own is pretty good, but this new bacon-flavored iteration is enough to incite interest from a greater audience. More people eating seaweed? That’s something to get excited about.
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Would you try this seaweed superfood?
