PELAKITA.ID – Seaweed is a highly nutritious and versatile marine resource that offers numerous health, environmental, and economic benefits. It is increasingly being recognized as a valuable ingredient in food innovation, including tortilla making.
Additionally, seaweed farming plays a crucial role in women’s empowerment programs, particularly in coastal communities where it provides a stable source of income and economic independence.
Seaweed is packed with essential nutrients, including iodine, calcium, magnesium, iron, and vitamin B12.
Its high fiber content supports gut health and digestion, while its abundance of polyphenols provides powerful antioxidant properties that combat oxidative stress and inflammation. Moreover, its dietary fiber promotes satiety, making it beneficial for weight management.
Incorporating seaweed into tortilla recipes not only enhances their nutritional profile but also contributes to sustainability. Seaweed-enriched tortillas provide a boost of iodine, fiber, and protein, making them a healthier alternative to traditional varieties.
Additionally, seaweed serves as a natural salt substitute due to its umami flavor, reducing the need for added sodium.
Some seaweed species contain hydrocolloids, such as alginate, which improve the texture and moisture retention of tortillas, resulting in a softer and more durable product.
Furthermore, seaweed cultivation requires no freshwater, fertilizers, or land clearance, making it an eco-friendly alternative that helps conserve resources and reduce deforestation.
Beyond its health and environmental benefits, seaweed farming plays a pivotal role in empowering women in coastal communities.
As a vital livelihood, it offers economic opportunities by providing a stable source of income and reducing gender-based financial disparities.
Women involved in seaweed farming and processing can leverage their skills to start cooperative businesses, gaining leadership roles and financial independence in West Lombok Regency, Indonesia.
Since seaweed cultivation is relatively low-cost and does not require advanced equipment, it remains accessible to women in low-income areas, promoting sustainable livelihoods.
The financial stability gained through seaweed farming allows women to invest in essential needs such as education, healthcare, and improved living conditions for their families.
Seaweed is not just a powerhouse of nutrition but also a sustainable and innovative food ingredient with the potential to revolutionize staple foods like tortillas. Its cultivation and integration into food products provide meaningful opportunities for women, fostering economic empowerment and promoting sustainable development in coastal communities.
Images by K. Azis from the IFAD Project in West Lombok, Indonesia.
