The slimy staple that could be the future of your diet

Seaweed is being pitched as a low-calorie, nutrient-rich food that could help feed a growing world population as crops face climate, pest and labor pressures. Experts say the marine algae grows along U.S. coastlines and is inexpensive: snack packs of six small sheets are typically under $3, while larger sushi-style sheets are about $5. The article notes vitamins A and E, vitamin C, several B vitamins including folate (B9) and B12, plus fiber, potassium, iron and iodine. One sheet provides roughly 80% of the daily recommended adult B12 amount, and the snack packs contain no sugar and 0–1% saturated fat. Still, seaweed farms can spread disease and suffer during marine heat waves.