Navigating Your First Seaweed Purchase: Expert Advice for Newcomers

1. Partner with a trusted knowledgeable supplier 
If buying seaweed is new to your purchasing team, having an expert supplier will pay dividends in supporting your needs. Chain of custody of credentials and traceability of raw material should be an easy ask. Ask for spec sheets, accreditations, and seek out knowledge. A team that comes back with information quickly and confidently is an immediate indicator of comfort. If you sense any doubt, follow your gut and walk away. Like all materials used in valuable supply chain decisions you should have complete trust in who you purchase from. 

2. Ensure quality matches or exceeds your expectations 
Your supplier should guarantee your seaweed is free from contaminants and sourced from clean, unpolluted waters. And be able to back that up. High-quality seaweed should retain its nutritional benefits and have a pleasant, natural taste. Sampling before purchase is a norm in our industry, so do ask. 

3. Be aware of natural product variations 
Just as no two carrots look the same, seaweed as a natural resource will vary in size, colour and possibly taste depending on their origins or impacts of weather, for example during growing seasons. Are these aspects important to you? If so, be aware of the balance of local sourcing versus natural variances in products, from growing region to subtle changes in annual crop features.

4.Ask about production methods 
The time from harvest to drying method and process employed is vital to the end quality of the seaweed. Factors such as drying temperature and air flow speed can impact the nutritional value and functionality. Optimal drying methods preserve the seaweed’s nutrients while ensuring a fine end product. Some primary processors, like our facility here in Fife, can be incredibly precise with settings and approach to support customers’ needs, positively impacting yield, properties, look and texture. What you need is conformance of process in how your seller stabilises water content and provides a finished good. 

5.Traceability is key 
Opt for products with transparent sourcing information whether its wild harvested seaweed or farmed. Knowing where the seaweed comes from and how it’s harvested helps in assessing its quality and environmental impact. If you spot sustainable green ocean claims that hint at greenwashing or anything that look irregular – ask. 

6.Consistency of supply 
Most seaweeds grow on an annual periods, with key seeding, growing or harvesting seasonality. Consider what volumes you need to service your products or customers and be sure to discuss this with suppliers, ideally in advance. Some small suppliers may need to build up stock of certain species to ensure monthly availability, others may have all biomass on contract order. With annual harvests, its best to consider a procurement cycle well over 12 months.

7. Take time to consider your product needs 
Consider the functionality you need from your final product. Different applications require specific properties from functionality, taste, or nutrient content. The fineness or coarseness, texture and appearance of seaweed, whether powder or flake will have a huge impact on what you are trying to achieve. 

Typically, powders are defined by their micron (μm) count, ranging from 100μm, 200μm or 400μm. The particle size affects texture and functionality in biorefining, biostimulant and manufacturing industries. Flakes are usually around 1-5mm with minimum powder outlined in specifications as a sign of quality through good practice sieving. Be sure to understand what formats suppliers can work within, how flexible their production abilities are and whether it meets your needs. 

8. Certification details 
What sector is your seaweed needed for and what claims, accreditations or certifications are required to retain value in the raw material? Some of the most recognised certifications seaweed buyers need are Organic, Vegan, SALSA or BRCGS. Be sure to understand them and what they offer for your customers.

By understanding these key factors, you can confidently navigate your first seaweed purchase and ensure you select the highest quality product, setting a strong holdfast for your seaweed journey. 

If you would like to discuss any aspect of buying seaweed, our team love to discuss individual needs, drop us a call, email on info@houseofseaweed.com or learn more about our house by downloading our trade brochure here.