Monterey Club Irish Moss Cut & Sifted, Wild Crafted 454G 1LBS

Irish moss is a type of red algae harvested from the Atlantic coastline of North America, Great Britain, Iceland, and, as the name suggests, Ireland.

Also known as carrageen moss, Irish moss is a rich source of protein and various minerals. Because Irish moss becomes jelly-like when boiled in liquids, it is used to thicken puddings and custards.

The flakes of dried Irish sea moss can also be sprinkled directly onto foods or into simmering soups and stews.

a.
quick look

information at a glance

approximate cups to one pound	4
origin	Peru
active compounds	Polysaccharides, Iodine, Amino Acids, Bromine.
plant part used	whole herb
processing	cut & sifted

b.
buying & keeping

general guidelines and tips

storage tips	Keep in a sealed container in a cool, dark cabinet or pantry.
appearance & aroma	Flaky and deep russet in color.

c.
uses

try something new

cosmetic	Decoct for use in soaps, shampoos and other formulations for skin and hair.
culinary	Sprinkle into soup, stews and casseroles.

d.
flavor profile

cut & sifted
irish moss

Has a salty bite. Use with other herbs and spices in seasoning blends.

e.
formulas & recipes

cut & sifted
irish moss

coming soon

f.
what else you should know

cut & sifted
irish moss

Despite the name, Irish moss not a moss at all but a variety of red seaweed or marine algae. The small, fan-shaped plant thrives along the rocky shores of the Atlantic coasts of North America and Europe, especially Great Britain and Ireland. Harvested by hand in the fall, Irish moss is washed and then spread out to dry in the sun.

Irish moss, also known as carrageenan, has been used for centuries as a vegetable and seasoning for soups and stews. In fact, during the Irish famine of the 19th century, it became a life-saving dietary staple.

Today, carrageenan is a common thickening agent used in the food industry, especially in dairy products. It is also used in the cosmetics industry as a stabilizer and moisturizing ingredient in soaps, lotions and other personal care products.

Why is it called Irish Moss if it’s not Chondrus crispus?

Irish Moss is a common name recognized and associated with red seaweeds (Rhodophyceae) that include Chondracanthus chamissoi (formerly known as Gigartina chamissoi).

Chondracanthus chamissoi, a Rhodophyta from the same Gigartineacea family as Chondrus crispus and other Gigartina species, contains the same carrageenan types as other Gigartina species.

Background: Irish moss is commercially to help bind chemicals together. The most popular product it's used in is toothpaste.

Description: Irish moss is a seaweed that grows up to 10 inches high. It is native to the coasts of Europe and North America on the Atlantic coastline. It can be found on rocks below the water. Irish moss is usually harvested in the summer and then dried for herbal use.