A new TikTok trend has seen influencers promoting sea moss as a superfood, claiming it can cure acne and gut issues. However, nutrition experts are warning that the hype is not backed by strong evidence and that natural products are not necessarily safe.
Sea moss, a type of algae often sold in jars for upwards of $35, is being touted as containing 92 essential nutrients. Dr Margaret Murray, course director for Swinburne University’s bachelor of nutrition, notes that while algae are nutrient-dense, most research is on animals or cells, with few human studies. She says an average person is unlikely to see significant benefits.
Associate Professor Evangeline Mantzioris, an accredited dietitian, adds that sea moss can contain high levels of iodine, posing risks for those with thyroid issues, and may accumulate heavy metals from seawater. Both experts emphasise that 'natural' does not mean safe, citing examples like death cap mushrooms.
The algae products market is expected to reach $5.2bn by 2034, but Murray advises getting nutrients from whole foods first. 'Adding chlorella or sea moss to an otherwise suboptimal dietary pattern is not going to completely counteract poor dietary habits,' she says.
