Seaweed: the benefits of this eco-friendly algae

Seaweed has been used for health and medicine for thousands of years, and it is not only beneficial to humans. It can be used in a variety of ways, including as a source of novel protein, omega 3, macronutrients, vitamins, minerals and other bioactive substances.

Seaweed as a food source sits comfortably at the juncture of the emerging premium pet food category. It offers a sustainable alternative to the carbon and resource-intensive traditional livestock industries, while simultaneously catering to plant-based, healthy and natural features dog owners are currently seeking.

Why alternative proteins?

As global populations of humans and pets continue to increase, so too does the pressure on food and resources. In fact, pets are estimated to account for up to 20% of the world’s meat and fish consumption. Although a portion of pet meat and fish consumption includes by-products that might otherwise be wasted, there has been an increasing demand for human- grade and premium meat cuts being used in the pet industry.

It is expected that the global demand for protein will increase by 50% by 2050. An alarming figure, especially when it is widely accepted that reducing meat consumption is key to curbing greenhouse gas emissions.

Given these facts, the pet food industry needs to embrace innovation and sustainability as the way forward. In order to reduce our dependence on precious natural resources and habitats, this industry must look to the utilization of nutritious ingredients which offer a low carbon footprint.

Alternative proteins such as seaweed can play a powerful role in seeking such solutions. It offers a complete source of protein, requiring minimal resources to grow and having a fraction of the carbon footprint when compared to traditional livestock.

Environmental power

In fact, farmed seaweed offers an alternative protein source for pets and humans, without placing a demand on agricultural land and its many inputs. The power of these marine systems is immense, absorbing 50 times more carbon than land forests, while offering significant productive commercial benefits. This means that 50 times more seaweed can be produced on a hectare than wheat, and 10 times more protein per hectare than cattle farms.

Macronutrients, vitamins and minerals

Besides pet food, seaweed offers a source of nutrient- dense food and natural materials for human and animal feeds, biofertilizers, cosmetics, medical applications and bioplastics.

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) recognizes the ‘rich composition of macronutrients’ found in seaweed, such as sodium, calcium, magnesium, potassium, chlorine, sulfur and phosphorus, as well as micronutrients (iodine, iron, zinc, copper, selenium, molybdenum, fluoride, manganese, boron, nickel and cobalt) and vitamins (B12, A, K).

For dogs, seaweed offers a complete protein (50%) source, which contains all the essential amino acids that an animal requires.

In animal and human studies, seaweed carbohydrates have been shown to have a variety of other benefits, in particular in supporting intestinal health and the immune system. A recent study, from the University of Wollongong in Australia, demonstrates the anti-inflammatory nature and healthy microbiome shift linked to the supplementation of oral algal sulfated polysaccharides.

Other studies document how macro algae polysaccharides reinforce the intestinal barrier and activate immune cells, improving gut integrity and the immune response. These benefits can be harnessed to improve a pet’s metabolism and overall health.

Essential fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA) – of which marine algae are important sustainable sources – are essential for animal nutrition, as most animals, including humans, are not able to produce them; or, at least, not at the rate needed to meet metabolic demands.

However, the lipidic profile varies between seaweed species when compared to terrestrial plants. They present a higher abundance of highly unsaturated fatty acids, namely EPA, DHA and omega 6 ARA. Omega 3 is essential for healthy cardiovascular, brain and joint function in pets. In addition, Omega 3 is also a powerful anti-inflammatory, reducing the effect of skin allergies; it supports the skin barrier and improves coat health.

Supporting pet health

As the absolute number of pet dogs has risen across the globe, so too has the awareness of canine health conditions and dietary issues. Given the increasing rate of chronic health conditions of dogs, it is unsurprising that single protein diets, natural and veterinary diets are on the rise, as pet owners recognize the importance of nutrition for their pet’s health.

Seaweed, fungi and insects are all alternate ingredients that can be harnessed for their biological properties and proteins for supporting pet health and nutrition with minimal environmental impact.

Popularization in the premium segment

Pet food choices tend to mirror that of humans, and as Jorge Martinez Carrillo from ADM Animal Nutrition acknowledges: “Premiumization is more frequently expected by global pet owners, many of whom are interested in flexitarian lifestyles and sustainable food sources for themselves and their family members.”

He adds that this premium and super-premium trend is dominated by “all-natural and clean-label claims, including foods and treats made from organic and non-GMO ingredients without the use of artificial preservatives. Natural flavors and colors that look and taste great are also in demand.”

Alternative proteins are also a popular food choice within this premium food category according to Juan Gomez, global director at Alltech, given they are “encompassed within sustainability efforts”.

Conclusion

In summary, seaweed can be utilized as a sustainable plant-based source of protein, omega 3, macronutrients, vitamins and minerals, providing excellent nutritional benefits with a low carbon footprint.