From the Ocean to the Plate – Showcasing new Seaweed recipes

Apia, Samoa – 09 February 2024: The Fisheries Division of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries is currently working with researchers from the University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC) – Australia to develop limu recipes to promote health and wellbeing through every day cooking.

The recipes will display two local edible seaweeds, limu fuafua (sea grapes, Caulerpa species) and limu a’au (red seaweed, Halymenia species). This event has offered the public an opportunity to taste new limu recipes and learn about the health and nutrition benefits that limu offers.

Dr Libby Swanepoel, Research Leader for UniSC’s Australian Centre for Pacific Islands Research, stated that ‘research outcomes from a recent project funded by the Australian Centre for International Agriculture Research (ACIAR) found that limu has many nutritional benefits and when used in everyday cooking can improve health and wellness’.

Limu grown on trays at the bottom of the ocean as part of the Fisheries Division’s Limu aquaculture project.

Dr Seuseu Tauati, Chief Executive Officer – MAF, said that he welcomed the opportunity to work alongside researchers from UniSC and stated that he would like to see more that focuses on men’s health and stamina.

He welcomed the idea of a seaweed recipe book on “reducing Samoa’s dependence on flour is important for combating health risks, such as kidney disease and diabetes.” He encouraged new recipes that were healthy and nutritious, as well as quick and easy to make.

Sapeti Tiitii, Principal Fisheries Officer, says that “the limu showcase is part of a broader activity to develop a recipe book that can be used by the Samoan people to encourage the consumption of limu as a healthy local food.”

The Fisheries Team prepared a luncheon for the Prime Minister and Cabinet showcasing a variety of limu recipes. The Prime Minister acknowledged that there is a positive way forward for limu aquaculture to promote economic growth and prosperity in Samoa.

The aim of the free tasting event was to gauge public interest for a limu recipe book that people can use in their everyday cooking. The emphasis will be on quick and easy recipes that are full of flavour and health benefits.

The event was held at the Apia Fish Market and Fugalei Agricultural Market on Wednesday 7 February and is held at the Salelologa Fish Market, Friday 9 February 2024.

The event is open to the public to sample free recipes highlighting Samoan limu fuafua and limu a’au.

Working with village fishermen grow seaweed as a valuable food source.