Seaweed flavouring ingredients in development by Cork company

The company, CyberColloids of Carrigaline, Co. Cork is currently researching a suite of products that include mildly processed Irish seaweeds as flavoursome ingredients.  

In Asia, seaweed already comprises up to 20 per cent of the diet and is recognised not only for its nutritional benefits but also for its unique flavours.    

“Irish seaweed is an underexploited, naturally nutritious food which has been labelled as a “super food” in the scientific literature because of its health giving properties,” said Ross Campbell of CyberColloids. 

“Our company recognised a significant commercial opportunity to develop high-value food products from Irish seaweeds that were not only nutritious, but tasty and appealing to western consumers. To do this, we needed to engage in new research, particularly regarding our ability to assess and utilise the flavour components of edible Irish seaweeds.”    

As a result of this work, a range of concept products have been identified, developed and screened by CyberColloids for commercial potential. Three condiment products are currently being assessed by an Irish food company with a view to commercialisation later this year.  

“Taste is still the key driver in the food industry,” said Ross Campbell, “and consumers will not compromise even for the most nutritious of foodstuffs.”