Seaweed research has gained considerable traction over recent years, owing to the versatile applications of macroalgae in food systems, animal nutrition, and the development of novel bioactive compounds. Traditional diets in various coastal cultures have long utilized seaweed for its nutritional and health benefits, and modern science is uncovering the molecular foundations behind these effects. Recent studies have demonstrated the efficacy of seaweed as a sustainable protein source, a feed additive that can enhance animal health and mitigate methane emissions, and a reservoir of compounds with antiviral, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities. Despite growing interest, several gaps persist in understanding the full nutritional profile, bioavailability, and functional potentials of seaweed, as well as in optimizing its cultivation and processing for maximal benefit.
This Research Topic aims to bring together cutting-edge research, innovative methodologies, and comprehensive reviews that explore the multifaceted uses of seaweed as food, animal feed, and as a source of bioactive molecules. Key objectives include elucidating novel processing techniques, investigating the mechanisms behind health-promoting effects, exploring environmental benefits, and addressing quality and safety considerations. This initiative seeks to connect multidisciplinary perspectives—from biology and chemistry to agronomy, aquaculture, and food science—in order to foster a holistic view of seaweed's potential to support human and planetary health.
The scope of this research topic is focused on seaweed species with applications in the food and feed sectors and the identification and functional evaluation of their bioactive compounds. Submissions are welcome that provide new insights or synthesis in these core areas, but studies should be directly relevant to edible or feed-grade macroalgae. We welcome contributions addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Nutritional profiling and novel processing of seaweed for food products
- Seaweed as functional ingredients in animal feed: impacts and safety
- Characterization and mechanisms of action of seaweed-derived bioactive compounds
- Advances in sustainable seaweed farming, harvesting, and supply chains
- Food safety, quality assurance, and regulatory considerations for seaweed-based products
- Consumer acceptance and market trends for seaweed innovations
We welcome original research articles, reviews, systematic reviews, methods papers, and perspectives. Authors are encouraged to share interdisciplinary studies and innovative approaches that can drive the field forward.
Article types and fees
This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:
Brief Research Report
Case Report
Classification
Clinical Trial
Editorial
FAIR² Data
FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
General Commentary
Hypothesis and Theory
Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.
Article types
This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:
Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
