While wandering the dip aisle recently, I discovered something new —Costco Seaweed Salad. I hesitated to purchase because, as many of you think, when buying something in large quantities, it was hard to know if it was good. But the lovely couple near me insisted it was great, so I popped it into the cart.
After I brought it home, I realized I only had one idea, Poke bowls, to make with it. That got me thinking all about other uses for this Japanese side dish. I needed to know more about seaweed salad overall.
Is it healthy? What about this Califonia warning on the container? How do you use it? Here’s everything you need to know about Costco seaweed salad.
Does Costco Carry Seaweed Salad?
Within the warehouse’s walls are several different salads and sides, and yes, the retailer carries Azuma Gourmet Seaweed Salad. You will find it near the deli meats and cheese in the refrigerated section.
A 1.75 lbs (28 oz.) container costs $11.39.
Costco Seaweed Salad Ingredients
Azuma Gourmet Seaweed Salad contains the following ingredients: seaweed (farmed, Korea), sugar, agar-agar, kikurage mushroom, vinegar, sesame oil, sesame seeds, sea salt, chili pepper, xanthan gum, disodium 5’ – guanylate, FD&C yellow #5, FD&C blue #1, potassium sorbate to preserve freshness.
This product is gluten-free, cholesterol-free, does not contain trans fat, is vegetarian, and Kosher.
Seaweed Salad Costco Nutrition – Is Costco Seaweed Salad Healthy?
Everyone has different health goals, but Azuma Seaweed Salad contains lots of vitamins and minerals and is an excellent source of fiber.
One ½ cup serving has 110 calories, 6 grams of fiber, 6% daily value of Iron, and 10% potassium. It also has 600mg of sodium and 6 grams of added sugar.
Seaweed salad is low in calories while high in fiber which helps you feel fuller longer and may be suitable for weight loss. WebMD breaks down more of the specifics.
Does Costco Seaweed Salad Have Iodine?
According to recent research, fish, crustaceans, seaweed, and sea vegetables are the richest sources of Iodine. Since the main ingredient in this Japanese side dish is seaweed, it is safe to say it contains iodine. Seaweed is one of the few foods that naturally contain this mineral.
Iodine is necessary for the body to make thyroid hormones which assist with the creation of proteins and enzyme activity, as well as regulating normal metabolism.
Can You Eat Seaweed Salad Every Day?
You can have too much of a good thing, and seaweed salad is proof of that. The main ingredient, seaweed, contains high levels of iodine which, at high doses, can be harmful. Some experts suggest you consume it no more than three times a week.
But variety is the spice of life, and Costco has other excellent healthy products like acai bowls and edamame that are easy to prepare and provide excellent health benefits.
Azuma Seaweed Salad Cancer Warning
On the side of the square Costco seaweed salad container is a warning regarding “cancer and reproductive harm.” This notice relates to California’s Prop 65, which “requires businesses to provide warnings to Californians about significant exposures to chemicals that cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.”
This image can be confusing when you first read it, especially since there aren’t many details. The warning is on all products containing seaweed since the California Environmental Office of Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) alleges they contain levels of arsenic, cadmium, and or lead. I have not found any information on the amount of these elements seaweed contains.
The version of this salad Costco sells contained farmed seaweed from Korea. A study published in Food Chemistry in 2016 stated, “Edible seaweeds in Korea are safe and would not pose any threat to consumers.”
How to Store Costco Seaweed Salad
Costco seaweed salad must be refrigerated. When chilled, it was a 30-day shelf-life. It’s best to use it 5-7 days after opening. The manufacturer prints a use-by date.
Can You Freeze Costco Seaweed Salad?
Yes, Azuma Gourmet states that you can freeze its seaweed salad. When left in its original container, it’s good for two years. Once in the fridge, it’s okay for one month if sealed.
When you are ready to eat, defrost in the refrigerator, not on the counter. A slow thaw is always a great idea, but it’s crucial here since the product is in a plastic container. Drastic temperature changes can lead to brittle plastic.
An Honest Costco Seaweed Salad Review
The Azuma seaweed salad is a tasty option for a side dish high in vitamins and minerals. It has a pronounced sesame flavor and a tiny kick from the chili flakes.
It doesn’t taste as fresh as you would buy at a local seafood store, but it’s still good. We would recommend this product.
How to Use Costco Seaweed Salad – Recipes
Here are some great ways to use Costco seaweed salad.
- Poke Bowls — Most seafood shops can provide sushi-grade tuna or salmon if you ask. From there, the toppings are endless: cucumber, mango, white onion, cilantro, pickled ginger, and green onions. We love to use frozen rice from Trader Joe’s. It has a great consistency, and it’s ready in three minutes!
- Beef Bibimbap — This Korean dinner is healthy, easily customizable, and simple to prepare. Seaweed salad adds a wonderful flavor and texture to the dish.
- As an appetizer — Let’s be honest; this product is excellent. It doesn’t need too much fuss. Serve Costco Seaweed salad as a starter to a Japanese meal.
- Tofu — Pan-fried tofu, rice, and seaweed salad are a perfect vegan pairing. A Couple Cooks has a great tutorial on how to pan-fry tofu.
- Side Dish — Seaweed salad would be a great side dish to this Teriyaki salmon recipe from Natasha’s Kitchen.
- Lunch — Since seaweed salad should be eaten cold or at room temperature, it’s a great addition to a lunch box. Pair with a hard-boiled egg or chopped tofu for added protein.
Do You Eat Seaweed Salad Warm Or Cold?
Enjoy your seaweed salad cold or at room temperature. It’s a great addition to a bento box.
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