The Kachemak Kelp Innovation Hub processes regeneratively farmed seaweed from Kachemak Bay and Cook Inlet, developing products and markets that support Alaska’s growing kelp industry. From food-grade ingredients and skincare products to plant biostimulants, we create and test new applications while advancing processing methods and applied research. By building infrastructure, sharing knowledge, and paying fair prices to farmers, we are helping strengthen the future of Alaska kelp.
Research
We are constantly exploring new, innovative ways to make processing more efficient.
Finding & Sharing Solutions through Applied Research
We are continually testing and improving cost-effective, dockside seaweed processing solutions. We collaborate and work with a range of partners to refine processing approaches and research, develop value-added kelp products and markets, and share what we learn.
Beginning in 2022, we have focused on developing and testing energy efficient methods of stabilizing kelp post-harvest, including drying in a high tunnel greenhouse modified with supplemental air circulation, heat and dehumidifying capacity. We are also running trials to test the efficiency and effectiveness of different types of dryers, and different approaches to kelp stabilization.
Our work to increase market access includes connecting with existing businesses buying minimally processed kelp as a food or nutraceutical ingredient, for incorporating in textiles, bioplastics, or soil amendments, and as animal feed supplements. We’ve also developed and produced a collection of kelp seasonings and are working with partners to explore local production of skin care and plant biostimulant applications using Alaskan seaweed.
Boosting the Economy
We support local kelp farmers with fair prices and strong partnerships, leverage existing local infrastructure and talent in and around our working waterfront community, and cultivate new and existing markets.
