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fter the launch of Costco Wholesale Korea , local buyers investigated bringing more Korean favourites into the Kirkland Signature family . The resulting Kirkland Signature Organic Roasted Seaweed item is a market-leader in taste , nutrition and value .
“ When creating this item , it was extremely important to our Korean buying team to work with only the best local suppliers ,” explains Costco buyer Greg Mackay . “ The rule for all Kirkland Signature items is that they exceed the competition in quality and value , and I think they got it exactly right .”
Kirkland Signature Seaweed is sourced from the pristine waters of Shinan-Gun , Jeollanam-Do , in south-western South Korea . The county comprises 1004 islands and is renowned for its rich heritage in aquaculture , which combines the best of technology with traditional harvesting methods . The area is also recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Area .
“ Biosphere reserves are celebrated models of a sustainable future that protect and celebrate cultural and biological diversity , making it the perfect place to cultivate seaweed ,” says Costco seaweed supplier Nate Han .
Kirkland Signature Seaweed is only made using the highest quality USDAcertified organic seaweed , sourced exclusively from the winter harvest . Why is this important ? “ Because winter provides the optimal growth environment for South-Korean seaweed , allowing it to undergo a slow , natural growth , resulting in a rich-tasting finished product ,” Han explains . Following harvest , the seaweed is thoroughly inspected for quality and flavour , then roasted using traditional methods with delicious organic sesame oil , giving this favourite snack extra flavour and dimension .
“ Quality and consistency are paramount ,” says Han , adding that members can take comfort in knowing they can enjoy the highest quality seaweed
per pack they purchase . “ Our goal is to share Korea ’ s rich history and tradition of seaweed with the rest of the world .” Buyers chose to make this item snacksized , with the finished product containing 10 packs of seaweed weighing 17 grams each . Each pack contains 20 calories per serving and is rich in protein , fibre and polyphenols , as well as other vitamins absorbed from seawater , like magnesium , folate , vitamin K and iron . Packs are individually wrapped to maintain freshness , nutrition and quality , making them the perfect addition to lunch boxes .
“ It ’ s not only great value , but it ’ s something that makes shopping at Costco a unique experience ,” Mackay adds . “ We use our unique product sourcing and our global resources of the buying teams all around the world to bring members something that they can ’ t get elsewhere in the market . It ’ s part of what makes shopping at Costco a treasure hunt .”
COSTCO CONNECTION
Kirkland Signature Organic Roasted Seaweed 10 x 17g Item 1269099 is available in most warehouses .
COSTCO CONNECTION MAR / APR 2025 | 27