Material profile: Kelp
Kelp farming in North America is growing, and fresh kelp degrades quickly after harvest. Here is how SSG approaches kelp handling, processing and validation.
General description
Kelp is a large brown seaweed in the family Laminariaceae, growing in underwater forests in cold, nutrient-rich coastal waters around the world. It provides habitat and food for many marine organisms and is harvested for food, fertilizer and biofuel applications. Rich in iodine, vitamins and minerals, it is a staple of several cuisines, especially in East Asia.
Opportunity
Kelp cultivation in North America is gaining traction but is still early compared with Asia. Government initiatives and private companies are developing kelp farming as sustainable aquaculture along the coasts of the United States and Canada.
Handling challenge
Fresh kelp degrades rapidly after harvest, which makes it hard for farmers and processors to bring a quality product to market in sufficient quantity. Stabilizing and processing the material close to the farm is key.
SSG approach
SSG provides process engineering, product development and validation services to emerging kelp cultivation and manufacturing companies. Our technical team develops kelp processing solutions for new and existing seaweed operations — private, academic or public.
SSG experience
In May 2024 SSG provided equipment and technical support for GreenWave's kelp processing and stabilization workshop in Kodiak, Alaska, attended by more than a dozen kelp farmers. Within a month, requests were being fulfilled to process over 10,000 kg of fresh kelp.