What is seaweed?

Plants

	Tweet	Pin It

2

by Mya Kagan (whyzz writer) >> more about the author

“Seaweed” is a term used to loosely describe various types of algae that live in the sea. Algae are special, unique life-forms that scientists classify in lots of different ways, but which are similar to plants in many aspects.

You’ll often see seaweed floating at the top of the water or washed up on the beach, but if you could see all the way to the bottom of the water, you’d see that some seaweed is also attached to the ocean-floor, sort of like how plants are planted into the ground.

However, one of the main differences between seaweed and other plants is that even though seaweed is often “planted” into the ocean-floor, it doesn’t have roots! The reason seaweed can survive without roots is that it’s able to get water by just absorbing the water all around it!

Seaweed is usually green, red, or brown and is very important to underwater life. Many fish and other sea creatures eat seaweed, while others might use it for shelter or protection!

Seaweed ice cream?!

Did you know that some ice cream is made using a special ingredient that comes from seaweed??! It might be hard to believe that this slimy, salty green plant could be a part of your delicious, smooth, creamy ice-cream, but it’s true!

There is a type of gum called “carrageenan” which can be made from seaweed. Because seaweed is so good at absorbing and holding on to water, the carrageenan gum made from seaweed is good at doing the same thing. By using carrageenan in ice cream, it helps the ice cream to hold on to its water so that it stays thick, fluffy, and delicious!

Posted by MyaKagan on 2011-01-31 17:08:38

Thanks for your great question, Adami! I looked into it for you and found out some more information about seaweed.

A big reason that seaweed is an important part of Japanese food has to do with Japan's geography. Because Japan is an island, they have access to lots of seaweed, which is likely why it became such a popular food.

Similarly, other cultures who traditionally eat seaweed also tend to be those who live on islands! Today, even many non-island cultures and countries eat seaweed because its thought to be healthy and many people find it tasty! Seaweed has also become a common ingredient for certain processed foods, like ice cream!

Hope that helps!
- Mya Kagan, whyzz Writer & Editor

Sources & Links:
Matsuri St. James: Seaweed
HealthRecipes.com: Keep the Doctor Away! Eat Seaweed Every Day!

Posted by adami on 2010-11-15 06:05:16

How did seaweed become part of sushi and other Japanese cuisine? Do other cultures have seaweed as part of their diet?