Mozuku

もずく

Roughly 99% of Japan's mozuku is grown in Okinawa, with annual aquaculture production around 20,000 tonnes. At just 4 kcal per 100g it is extraordinarily low-calorie, while delivering fucoidan (a sulfated polysaccharide) — making it a popular superfood ingredient internationally. Okinawan staples include mozuku-su (vinegared), mozuku tempura, and mozuku soup.

Taste & Texture

A thin, slippery brown seaweed traditionally served with vinegar-soy or sanbai-zu sauce. Very low in calories and rich in fucoidan (a sulfated polysaccharide). Distinctive crisp texture with mild oceanic finish.

Season

MONTHLY AVAILABILITY

Apr - Jun

PEAK

※ Season is based on domestic field-grown availability

How to Choose

  • For Okinawa-grown fresh mozuku, choose strands with vivid color and firm texture.

  • Salt-cured mozuku should not appear overly dried out; pre-seasoned packs should have a recent expiration date.

  • "Okinawa Mozuku" labels indicate the thicker Cladosiphon okamuranus species with stronger texture..

How to Store

  • Salt-cured mozuku keeps 1-2 months refrigerated; once opened, use promptly.

  • Fresh mozuku needs salt-rinsing or cooking within 1-2 days.

  • Frozen (after rinsing, in single-serve portions) keeps 3-4 weeks.

  • Follow expiration dates on pre-seasoned packs..

Shelf life Salt-cured: 1-2 months refrigerated; fresh: 1-2 days; frozen: 3-4 weeks

Nutrition Facts

Top Landing Prefectures

Okinawa99.6%
Kagoshima0.4%
10%+
5%+
2%+
0.1%+
None

Map data: National Land Numerical Information (MLIT Japan)

#
Prefecture
Production (t)
Share
1
20,084
99.6%
2
82
0.4%

Source: MAFF Marine Fisheries Production Statistics (aquaculture) (2023)

Top 5 Prefecture Production Trends (2018-2023)

Okinawa
Kagoshima