Dungarvan based company Sea of Vitality harvest their seaweed from the Wild Atlantic Way and produce a trio of multi award winning products including two seasonings and a bread mix, making it possible for everyone to introduce seaweed into their daily diet.
Sea of Vitality is owned and run by husband and wife team Tom and Ria Jones. Before becoming entrepreneurs Tom was soldier and Ria worked in finance. They left their respective jobs and moved to Waterford in 2007.
After attending a Seaweed Seminar run by the Irish Wildlife Trust, they learned how to sustainably harvest, wash, dry and grind it.
They started out selling seaweed smoothies and brown bread at a Dungarvan farmers’ market; the overwhelming response encouraged them to look at other products and occasions for using seaweed.
Sea of Vitality was launched in 2012 and to date has received two Blas na hEireann, two Great Taste and three McKenna’s Guides Award (2014, 2015 & 2016).
Sea of Vitality also supply a number of food service suppliers and restaurants – they have experienced an upsurge in demand recently as the industry show keen interested in recipe development with seaweed.
Why Seaweed?
Seaweed contains up to fifty times as many nutrients as land vegetables; Boasts antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties; Aids the optimal function of the immune system; Provide minerals, vitamins and essential elements for robust health; Rich in folic acid which helps the body product and maintain cells; Very low in sodium.
Makes an excellent salt replacement – no loss of flavor; Contains glutamate, a natural food enhancer. By adding seaweed to your food the glutamate arouses the ‘Umami’ receptors and excites the taste buds; Inclusion of seaweed in recipes also gives extra moisture – great news for those who find gluten free mixes a little dry!
Sea of Vitality is available from selected Supervalu and independent food stores nationwide.
