Stage 3 of 4
Primary Processing
Washing, drying, cleaning, sorting, and grading. Often carried out by the harvesters themselves.
BC sector insight
Processing capacity for cultivated kelp is limited across Canada. Existing infrastructure is concentrated in wild harvest and biostimulant sectors. Food-grade processing for cultivated kelp remains a critical gap.
Key operators and stakeholders
Harvesters (self-processing)
Many harvesters carry out initial washing, sorting, and drying on-site or at the landing before sale.
Co-packers
Contract processors handling primary processing (washing, drying, grading) for producers without their own facilities.
Quality assurance staff
Ensure product meets grading standards and food safety requirements at the point of primary processing.
Community perspective
Where are the hidden opportunities in post-harvest processing?
Seaweed Economy surfaces collective knowledge from across the sector. Your perspective helps build a clearer picture.