Seaweed Flavor Market

Seaweed Flavor Market Size

The global seaweed flavor market size was valued at USD 224.7 million in 2023 and is projected to grow from USD 237.0 million in 2024 to USD 374.5 million by 2031, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.75% during the forecast period. The market is experiencing steady growth due to surging demand for vegan snacks and plant-based food among health-conscious individuals, along with growing awareness of seaweed’s nutritional benefits.

In the scope of work, the report includes services offered by companies such as Acadian Seaplants Ltd., Annie Chun's, Inc., Atlantic Holdfast Seaweed Company, Dulse & Rugosa, Symrise AG, McCormick & Company, Inc., Maine Coast Sea Vegetables, Ocean's Halo, Seamore Holding B.V., Vitamin Sea Seaweed, and others.

Increasing consumer awareness and rising focus on health and wellness are driving the growth of the market. As health-conscious consumers increasingly seek natural, nutrition-rich food options, seaweed has emerged as an ideal choice due to its rich nutritional profile, including high levels of vitamins, dietary fibers, and minerals.

• According to the National Library of Medicine, U.S. adults consume one to three snacks daily. This underscores the growing demand for convenient, flavorful, and healthy snacking options that appeal to diverse tastes and preferences.

Rising focus on health benefits has fueled the demand for these food products as they are eco-friendly and versatile in nature. Additionally, the rising popularity of plant-based diets has further boosted the demand for seaweed-based food products.

Seaweed offers a refined and distinctive flavor profile, rooted in its marine origins. Its natural essence, grown in the ocean, makes it a highly valued ingredient in culinary applications, renowned for adding a rich, savory taste to dishes. The flavor is often described as savory, salty, sweet, and with umami.

The high mineral content, including iodine, magnesium, and potassium, gives seaweed its maritime flavor. Seaweed offers a diverse flavor profile, ranging from mild and nutty to salty and earthy, depending on the variety (such as nori, kombu, or wakame).

Its adaptability has positioned seaweed as an emerging trend in the flavor industry, appealing to health-conscious consumers seeking distinctive, umami-rich tastes in snacks, seasonings, and innovative culinary applications.

Analyst’s Review

Changing lifestyles, evolving taste preferences, and rising health awareness have led to increased demand for seaweed products. Companies are increasingly focusing on innovation and product diversification, with seaweed flavor being incorporated into skin and hair care products. To grow seaweeds, seaweed farmers in North America are adopting numerous inventive techniques such as vertical or 3D farming, utilizing water columns for seaweed cultivation.

• For instance, in March 2024, Symrise AG and Virchow Group announced a partnership to enable an Indian pharmaceutical business to produce personal care chemicals from Symrise's portfolio. The new entity will be named Vizag Care Ingredients Private Limited.

Companies are forming partnerships to expand their regional presence, thereby creating favorable conditions for expansion.

Seaweed Flavor Market Growth Factors

The surging demand for nutraceuticals is fueling the growth of the seaweed flavor market as these products are increasingly used for disease prevention, anti-aging, and enhancing life expectancy. Chronic health issues, such as diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases, are major concerns.

While synthetic drugs and chemotherapy are common treatments, they often have side effects such as drug tolerance, toxicity, and metabolic disorders. Natural bioactive ingredients are emerging as alternatives for disease prevention, with governments also implementing initiatives to support treatment.

• For instance, in December 2023, the Government of India’s ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) launched two patented seaweed-based nutraceuticals. One targets antiviral immunity, while the other addresses high cholesterol and dyslipidemia, offering valuable health and wellness solutions.

Seaweed is a rich source of biologically active metabolites, including phenols, peptides, terpenoids, unsaturated fatty acids, and polysaccharides, which exhibit antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant, and antitumor properties.

The market faces significant challenges due to sourcing issues and supply chain disruptions. This industry is heavily reliant on raw material supply, and factors such as geopolitical issues, overharvesting, and climate change create instability in seaweed availability.

Transportation delays and regulatory obstacles further increase costs and lead to supply inconsistencies. These disruptions impact manufacturers' and suppliers' ability to meet demand in industries such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food and beverages. To address these issues, leading industry players are forming strategic partnerships with seaweed suppliers, investing in sustainable aquaculture practices, and improving supply chain transparency to ensure a reliable and high-quality supply.

Seaweed Flavor Industry Trends

The growing demand for seaweed flavors is fueled by partnerships between seaweed snacks, and packaging, and supplier companies with food companies. Seaweed's increasing recognition as a versatile ingredient with nutritional benefits has led food companies to integrate seaweed extracts into their products.

This integration enhances flavor, boosts nutritional value, and meets consumer preferences for natural ingredients. Its rich umami taste and essential nutritional properties make it a highly adaptable food industry ingredient.

• For instance, in October 2023, The Seaweed Company partnered with Jordà Food Group to leverage the expertise of a seaweed farmer and food producer. The collaboration aims to develop, manufacture, and market nutritious, sustainable food products derived from locally grown seaweed. The partnership includes investment in innovative processing technologies, R&D initiatives, and the introduction of new seaweed-based flavor and ingredients.

The increasing focus on environmental conservation is propelling the seaweed flavor industry growth. As people become more environmentally conscious, there is a greater need for sustainable and eco-friendly food products. Seaweed, as a sustainable and nutrient-dense marine resource, aligns with these objectives.

Its production requires minimal freshwater, land, and fertilizer, making it a low-impact plant that promotes marine biodiversity. The growing recognition of seaweed's health benefits, including its rich content of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, has boosted its use in the food and beverage industry. This combination of sustainability and nutrition is accelerating the incorporation of seaweed into a wide range of products, reflecting a shift toward environmentally-conscious consumer preferences.

Segmentation Analysis

The global market has been segmented based on material, form, application, distribution channel, and geography.

By Material

Based on material, the market has been categorized into kombu, bacon, nori/laver, and wakame. The kombu segment led the seaweed flavor industry in 2023, reaching a valuation of USD 65.8 million. Kombu is a rich source of nutrients that support digestive and heart health.

It is commonly utilized in Asian cuisines in dishes, including snacks, soups and broths, seasonings, and ready-to-eat meals. Increasing demand for vegan and clean-label products has fostered its adoption in both traditional and innovative culinary applications, particularly in countries such as Korea and Japan. 

By Form

Based on form, the seaweed flavor market has been bifurcated into powder and liquid. The powder segment captured the largest share of 73.91% in 2023. This powder is valued for its ability to deliver authentic umami flavors, making it a preferred ingredient in soups, snacks, salad dressings, and seasoning mixes.

Growing consumer demand for health-conscious, natural ingredients rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants is fostering its popularity. The powder’s convenience and extended shelf-life make it suitable for both domestic and foodservice applications. With increasing health consciousness in regions such as Europe, and North America, the consumption of this powder is increasing.

• For instance, in August 2024, Scoular and SEADLING formed an exclusive partnership to supply North American pet food manufacturers with fermented dried seaweed powder, an innovative ingredient designed to enhance canine health.

By Application

Based on application, the market has been segmented into food & beverages, nutraceuticals & supplements, cosmetics & personal care, and others. The food & beverages segment is expected to garner the highest revenue of USD 112.9 million by 2031, fueled by versatile applications and rising consumer demand for natural and healthy food ingredients.

Seaweed flavors, which enhance umami taste and nutritional value, are utilized in sauces, soups, snacks, beverages, and dairy products. The increasing preference for clean-label products and the rise of plant-based diets further boost their adoption in the food & beverages industry. Rich in minerals and vitamins, seaweed is also used in teas, smoothies, and functional drinks.

By Distribution Channel

Based on distribution channel, the market has been categorized into supermarkets/hypermarkets, retailers, and online. The supermarkets/hypermarkets segment is expected to garner the highest revenue of USD 145.4 million by 2031. Supermarkets & hypermarkets offer a wide range of seaweed-flavored products, from snacks to seasonings, catering to both everyday consumers and culinary professionals.

Their extensive presence in both urban and suburban areas ensures accessibility, while reasonable pricing and frequent promotions enhance consumer appeal. Partnerships with local and international businesses expand products, attracting a broader customer base. Additionally, in-store sampling and strategic product placement in high-traffic areas promote impulsive purchases while the integration of online platforms allows consumers to conveniently explore and purchase products remotely. 

Seaweed Flavor Market Regional Analysis

Based on region, the global market has been classified into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, MEA, and Latin America.

Asia-Pacific seaweed flavor market accounted for the largest revenue share of 34.01% in 2023, valued at USD 76.4 million. The growing use of seaweed in traditional cuisines and rising demand for natural and plant-based flavorings are supporting this expansion.

Countries such as Japan, China, and South Korea lead in production and consumption owing to rich culinary heritage and established seaweed farming practices. Ongoing R&D efforts are improving seaweed processing capabilities, allowing for the extraction of natural flavors and bioactive compounds while maintaining their integrity, thus aiding regional market expansion.

• For instance, in 2023, Japan allocated USD 45 million for research and development in the seaweed sector, focusing on biotechnological advancements to improve farming methods, enhance production, and promote sustainability.

Government initiatives promoting sustainable aquaculture, coupled with the region’s growing food industry, are bolstering market expansion.

North America seaweed flavor industry is anticipated to witness substantial growth, registering a CAGR of 6.99% over the forecast period. This growth is largely attributed to the growing emphasis on health benefits and increasing demand for sustainable and plant-based food products.

The U.S. dominates the market due to its high prevalence of cardiovascular and chronic diseases, with seaweed consumption offering potential health benefits.

The surging vegan population, increased use of seaweed flavors in soups, snacks, and beverages, along with technological advancements in seaweed farming and flavor extraction, are stimulating regional market expansion.

Competitive Landscape

The seaweed flavor industry report will provide valuable insight with an emphasis on the fragmented nature of the industry. Prominent players are focusing on several key business strategies such as partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, product innovations, and joint ventures to expand their product portfolio and increase their market shares across different regions.

Companies are implementing impactful strategic initiatives, such as expanding services, investing in research and development (R&D), establishing new service delivery centers, and optimizing their service delivery processes, which are likely to create new opportunities for market growth.

List of Key Companies in Seaweed Flavor Market

• Acadian Seaplants Ltd.
• Annie Chun's, Inc.
• Atlantic Holdfast Seaweed Company
• Dulse & Rugosa
• Symrise AG
• McCormick & Company, Inc.
• Maine Coast Sea Vegetables
• Ocean's Halo
• Seamore Holding B.V.
• Vitamin Sea Seaweed

Key Industry Developments

• March 2023 (Acquisition): JRS Group, a producer of functional ingredients extracted from plant raw materials, acquired Algaia SA, a manufacturer specializing in renewable produced hydrocolloids, and algae extracts. This acquisition positions JRS Group to meet the increasing global demand for natural, renewable, and biodegradable solutions across industries such as food, feed, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, home and personal care, surface coatings, and agriculture.
• November 2022 (Acquisition): OCEANIUM, a biotechnology company headquartered in Scotland, launched high-fiber seaweed-based ingredient as a sustainable alternative to methylcellulose in plant-based meat products. This ingredient is also suitable for use in gluten-free bread and beverages.

The global seaweed flavor market has been segmented as:

By Material

• Kombu
• Bacon
• Nori/Laver
• Wakame

By Form

• Powder
• Liquid

By Application

• Food & Beverages
• Nutraceuticals & Supplements
• Cosmetics & Personal Care
• Others

By Distribution Channel

• Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
• Retailers
• Online

By Region

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
  • Mexico
• Europe
  • France
  • UK
  • Spain
  • Germany
  • Italy
  • Russia
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Rest of Asia Pacific
• Middle East & Africa
  • GCC
  • North Africa
  • South Africa
  • Rest of Middle East & Africa
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Argentina
  • Rest of Latin America