NUTRITION
Protein
Dulse is a valuable source of protein, with a dry weight protein content ranging from 7% to 19%, depending on growth conditions. This makes it higher in protein than many brown seaweeds.
When it comes to amino acids, dulse boasts a high proportion of essential amino acids (EAAs), making it a nutritionally rich option. EAAs make up 27% to 44% of its total amino acid content, with glutamate and aspartate being the most abundant. It also provides key amino acids like alanine, arginine, glycine, leucine, and valine, as well as plant-limited EAAs such as methionine, lysine, threonine, and tryptophan. However, some, like cysteine and histidine, may be lower or absent depending on the season.
With around 10% of its amino acids in free form, dulse’s rich protein profile has captured interest from both the food industry and everyday consumers. Its potential as a functional ingredient has made it popular in health-focused diets, while its high-quality protein also makes it a valuable addition to animal feed.
Antioxidants
Dulse is a red macroalga known for its strong antioxidant properties, which have been widely studied in both water- and ethanol-based extracts.
Several key compounds contribute to dulse’s antioxidant activity:
- Phenolic Compounds – These play a major role in dulse’s antioxidant effects. A phenolic-rich extract (DULEXT) has been shown to reduce oxidative stress by lowering reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and related enzyme activity.
- Peptides – Naturally occurring peptides in dulse may enhance its antioxidant potential, especially when enzymatically treated with proteases.
- Polysaccharides – These compounds further contribute to dulse’s antioxidant properties, which can be amplified through enzymatic processing.
- Mycosporine-like Amino Acids (MAAs) – Known for their antioxidant activity, these compounds help protect cells from oxidative damage.
- Polar Lipids – A lipid-rich extract from dulse has also demonstrated antioxidant benefits.
With its diverse bioactive compounds, dulse shows promise as a functional ingredient for enhancing the nutritional value of foods.
Vitamins & Minerals
Dulse is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, making it a valuable addition to a nutrient-rich diet.
Vitamin Content:
- Dulse is a good source of B vitamins, particularly B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), and B12 (cobalamin). Just 1g of dried dulse can provide about 10% of the WHO’s recommended daily intake of B12, making it a potential option for vegetarians and vegans.
- It is also rich in β-carotene (provitamin A) and vitamin K.
- While it contains some vitamin C, it’s not considered a major source.
- There are currently no records of its vitamin D content.
Mineral Content:
- Dulse is mineral-rich, containing sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, iodine, and manganese.
- It has higher potassium than sodium, which is beneficial for heart health.
- The iodine content is high for red seaweed but lower than kelp, making it a safe option for regular consumption.
With its nutrient density, dulse is a powerhouse ingredient that supports a balanced diet.
Prebiotic
Dulse is a rich source of prebiotic fiber, thanks to its high content of the polysaccharide xylan. This complex fiber plays a key role in supporting gut health and fostering beneficial gut bacteria.
How Dulse Supports Gut Health:
- High in Prebiotic Fiber: Dulse provides complex dietary fiber that promotes a healthy gut microbiome.
- Xylan as a Prebiotic: As the main component of dulse’s cell walls, xylan passes through the digestive tract intact and serves as fuel for beneficial gut bacteria.
- Supports Probiotic Growth: Xylan helps nourish probiotics like Lactobacillus, contributing to microbial diversity.
- Boosts Short-Chain Fatty Acid (SCFA) Production: These acids support digestion, metabolism, and overall gut health.
- Gut-Brain Benefits: Prebiotic compounds in dulse may positively impact brain health through the gut-brain axis.
Dulse’s prebiotic properties make it a valuable addition to a gut-friendly, health-conscious diet.