Yes, sea moss is alive when it's harvested and needs to be processed correctly to preserve it.
What is Sea Moss?
Despite its name, sea moss, often also called Irish moss or Irish sea moss (scientific name: Chondrus crispus), isn't actually a moss. It's a type of red algae that grows in the ocean and is known for its nutritional benefits and various uses. Because it is algae, it has living cells and the capacity for photosynthesis.
Living State of Sea Moss
Sea moss, like any other living organism, is alive when it's in its natural habitat and freshly harvested. It contains living cells that perform biological functions. To preserve sea moss for consumption or other uses, it is typically dried, which essentially stops its biological processes, similar to preserving other foods.
Processing and Preservation
The preservation process involves removing moisture, which inhibits the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that would cause the sea moss to decompose. While drying extends shelf life, fresh sea moss is undoubtedly alive.
Key Points
- Sea moss is a type of algae, not moss.
- Freshly harvested sea moss is alive.
- Drying sea moss is a preservation method that essentially stops its biological processes.
