Iran eyes increase in seaweed production by early 2024

A senior official with Iran Fisheries Organization said the
country has plans underway to double seaweed (algae) production from
aquaculture by the end of the next year (early 2024).

“Development of aquaculture seaweed farming for processing,
human consumption and livestock feed is among the organization’s top
priorities,” Mehdi Shakouri said. 

Last year, Iran’s seaweed output stood at 7 tons and this
year will witness a 20 percent rise and reach 8 tons, he added.   

“The amount is expected to increase and reach 15 tons by the
end of the next year (early 2024)”, Shakouri said.

It’s been more than 40 years since various types of algae
(seaweed) were first consumed in the world. Different countries like China,
South Korea, Malaysia, Indonesia, and India produce 150 tons of the plant
annually for domestic consumption and export.

Seaweed can be used for human consumption and aquaculture.
Some microalgae are used as food for other aquatic creatures, while others are
exploited in scores of different products worldwide. Food, cosmetics and
hygienic products, medicine, agriculture, water purification, fodder,
supplementary foods, livestock, fisheries and many other industries are among consumers
of this valuable sea plant.

Iran has been importing seaweed annually for domestic
consumption while studies have recently shown that the Hormozgan Coast is an
ideal place to grow seaweed.