Kelp is a type of seaweed and staple ingredient in Japanese, Korean and Chinese cuisines. Although it is only gaining popularity in the West recently, kelp has been named a ‘Superfood’ due to its impressive health benefits. It is rich in iodine – a trace mineral found in seawater. Eating foods rich in iodine may enhance metabolism and support cognitive function.
Westpoint carries an Atlantic Kelp Powder sourced from the Atlantic Ocean within Canada. The harvest is done at low tide and the seaweed is cut at a minimum 15 cm from the holdfast. Only 15 to 20% of the total biomass is harvested and the harvest sites are exploited every 3 years. The sickles, serrated knives, specialized cutter-rakes, or mechanical equipment the harvesters use are chosen for their ability to minimize the damage to holdfasts and the seaweed substrate. When pruning seaweed fronds, harvesters take care to leave enough for future regrowth and regeneration.
