We all know seaweed tastes great wrapped around a sushi roll, but what about all of those crazy packaged versions you encounter at your neighborhood bodega? Despite being packed with antioxidents, calcium and vitamins, we wanted to check out how it tastes in all of its forms. 

Po-Li Seasoned Seaweed (RMB 4.8)
“It’s leaving my mouth feeling super weird like it was just stung by a bee.”
“Like ocean-flavored plastic, that’s been sun-baked for some time.” 
“The package should never outweigh the content.”

Kkobangsi Seaweed (RMB 6)
“Not sure where the green tea flavor is, but it’s deliciously salty and a great pairing for a cold brew.” 
“It may look like a thin slice of the kraken, but it’s truly delicious.” 
“Tastes great, but I hate how these snacks are always skimpy on the portions. Am I a teenage girl?“

Haepyo Seaweed (RMB 12.5)
“Nicely seasoned and flaky.”
“For some reason the Koreans just know their weed.”
“Very thin, you would probably need a truckload to fill your stomach. Maybe seaweed producers are just really stingy.”

Sanshang Seaweed (RMB 4)
“This is probably what you find clogging up your shower drain, after a visit from Kermit the Frog.”
“Is it going to move if I touch it?”
“A single-celled organism that’s likely to take command of your brain. Who cares if it’s healthy?” 

Mimao Seaweed (RMB 2)
“The strong vinegar smell and the slimy texture bothers me.”
“Like Swamp Thing’s pubic hairs spiced with chilies.” 
“Probably healthier than the others but I can’t see a Westerner getting down with this.”

7-11 Tomato Flavored Seaweed (RMB 5.9)
“This seaweed is coated in a disgustingly synthetic tomato flavor.”
“Like tomato soup quickly dropped in the ocean then scooped out.”

“One of the first 7-11 products that I feel shouldn’t exist.”

Verdict
The Kkobangsi was by far our favorite. The important thing to remember is that along with being delicious, seaweed is an invaluable source of iodine, which keeps that pesky thyroid in check. It’s better to brave the taste than risk an unsexy case of goiters.

More stories by this author here.

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photos: Joey Guo