Our seaweeds start as spores that are cultivated from kelp samples taken from Maine's coastline. They are cared for in a hatchery until they are ready to be planted in the ocean. All of the seaweed we grow is native to Maine and support our natural ecosystem.

We should think of seaweeds as high-protein vegetables. They are notoriously high in vitamins E & A, and are especially rich in calcium, phosphorus, potassium, iron, iodine, and other trace minerals. They stimulate & strengthen the skin, hair, and nails, as well as nourish the endocrine system, particularly the thyroid and adrenal glands.

Seaweed is often referred to as sea vegetables, but technically, it is not a vegetable. Seaweed is a type of marine algae that is commonly consumed as a food in many cultures around the world. Unlike vegetables, which are grown on land and belong to the plant kingdom, seaweed is a complex organism that belongs to the protist kingdom. Seaweeds come in many varieties, and some are more commonly used in food, while others are used for their health and skincare benefits. Despite not being a true vegetable, seaweed is still a highly nutritious food that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Incorporating seaweed into your diet can be a great way to add variety to your meals while also reaping the many health benefits it has to offer.

If you're looking for a natural source of iodine, seaweed can be an excellent option to consider. Iodine is an essential mineral that is crucial for maintaining a healthy thyroid gland and regulating metabolism. Seaweed is one of the richest natural sources of iodine, with some varieties containing up to 45 times more iodine than other types of seafood. Eating seaweed regularly can help ensure that you are getting enough iodine in your diet, which is especially important for those who follow a plant-based diet or who may have limited access to iodized salt. However, it's important to note that consuming too much iodine can also have negative effects on the body, so it's best to consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet.

Seaweed is a highly sustainable crop due to its ability to grow rapidly without the need for land, freshwater, or fertilizers. Seaweed grows in the ocean, where it can be farmed in coastal areas, making it an excellent alternative to traditional land-based agriculture. Additionally, seaweed can absorb and store large amounts of carbon dioxide, which can help mitigate the effects of climate change. Seaweed farming can also have a positive impact on the marine ecosystem by providing a habitat for fish and other marine animals, improving water quality, and reducing the risk of harmful algal blooms. Unlike traditional crops, seaweed does not require any pesticides or herbicides, making it an environmentally friendly option. The ability to cultivate seaweed without degrading the environment or depleting natural resources makes it a highly sustainable crop that can help meet the growing demand for food and other products in a way that is both environmentally and economically viable.

Seaweed and kelp are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. Seaweed is a general term that refers to a wide range of marine plants and algae that grow in oceans and other bodies of water. Kelp, on the other hand, is a specific type of seaweed that belongs to the brown algae family. While all kelp is seaweed, not all seaweed is kelp. Kelp is typically larger and more robust than other types of seaweed, with a thick, rubbery texture and a brownish-green color. It is also a rich source of nutrients, including iodine, magnesium, and calcium, and is commonly used in a variety of food and skincare products.

When properly stored in an airtight container away from heat & sunlight, dried seaweeds are non-perishable.

The white powder sometimes seen on dried seaweeds is created from an amino acid and is simply nutrients coming to the surface of the blade.

Both look similar when flaked, but Sugar Kelp produces mannitol, a natural sugar that can bring out a sweet flavor when the kelp is dried. Sugar Kelp has a salty, savory and umami flavor profile. Alaria on the other hand has a mild, nutty flavor when dried.

Our seaweeds can be used in a wide variety of ways. The simpliest option is to use them as a salt alternative, but they can be used in more complex ways as ingredients as well. Check out our recipes here.

Additionally, our seaweeds can also be used in selfcare practices. Everything from bath soaks to face masks and more.

Here at Nautical Farms we practice what is called polyculture farming. That means we are able to grow multiple crops simultaneously or in rotation on suspended lines in the ocean. We've chosen to focus on sugar kelp, alaria, skinny kelp, and mussels so far. Poly farms have better nutrient utilization as different species provide and use different nutrients to grow. They also take up less space as multiple things are growing alongside each other, increasing biodiversity.

While sea moss is primarily found in the Atlantic Ocean along the coasts of Ireland, Scotland, and Canada, it is possible for Irish moss to be found on the coast of Maine. However, we currently do not grow this type of seaweed on our polyculture lines.

We do. Please email hello@nauticalfarms.com for more information.