Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A.-based North Coast Seafoods has launched Seaweed Kelp Balls – a new plant-based product designed to imitate meatballs – in Sysco’s Cutting Edge Solutions (CES) Program.
Sysco runs the CES program annually to highlight innovative, sustainable products that simplify food preparation.
North Coast said the new product is the only product of its kind made with kelp, plant-and is intended to be the center of a meal, moving seaweed and kelp from the condiment and side dish categories to the entree role.
“The WOW factor lies in the incredible story of kelp – a truly game-changing ingredient that delivers a win from every perspective,” North Coast Chef Director of Research and Development Andrew Wilkinson said. “The kelp meatball is delicious, but the story behind kelp makes it unforgettable.”
The product is made with kelp grown in the U.S., and North Coast said it is free of any dyes, additives, or food coloring.
“This product is disrupting the plant-based category by harnessing this renewable vegetable from the sea. Kelp is one of the only ingredients on the planet that doesn’t take from the environment – it actively restores it,” Wilkinson said. “By helping to rebuild and preserve the ocean, combating climate change, promoting health, and supporting local coastal communities, kelp embodies sustainability at its finest.”.
The company said it is also helping U.S. coastal economies and fishing families by allowing for greater product diversification on the waterfront.
“By utilizing domestically grown seaweed, they support U.S. coastal economies and American fishing families by diversifying their incomes in the face of climate change and helping to strengthen and safeguard our vital coastal communities,” the company said.
North Coast said Seaweed Kelp Balls are available now throughout the U.S. through Sysco.
