STEM: Seaweed Snack Taste Test — Let the Kids Rate It

Seaweed Snack Taste Test — Let the Kids Rate It

Seaweed snacks are a love-it-or-hate-it food, but they’re packed with nutrients and offer a fun way to introduce kids to ocean flavors! We decided to turn it into a family taste test challenge — complete with a rating system and some honest kid feedback (because kids don’t sugar-coat it!).

Why Seaweed?

Seaweed is full of vitamins, minerals, and natural umami flavor. It’s a staple in many cultures and comes in all sorts of flavors these days. Doing a taste test not only makes trying something new exciting but also helps kids explore their taste buds and talk about flavors.

Seaweed Flavors to Try

Here are some fun store-bought seaweed snack flavors you can easily find:

Classic Sea Salt – The original, simple flavor.

Wasabi – Spicy and bold (test this with older kids who like heat).

Teriyaki – Sweet and savory, often a kid favorite.

Sesame – Nutty and rich.

Sriracha or Spicy Chili – For adventurous palates.

BBQ or Smoked – A unique twist that tastes less like the ocean.

Sea Salt & Vinegar – Tangy and salty, like ocean chips.

Olive Oil or Avocado Oil – Light, crisp, and mild.

Coconut or Sweet Seaweed Chips – Sweet-savory fusion (great for younger kids).

Cheese Flavored Seaweed Chips – A quirky but fun option.

How to Set Up Your Taste Test

Gather the Snacks – Buy 5–8 different flavors. Cut sheets into bite-sized pieces.

Create a Rating Card – Use a printable sheet with categories like:

Yummy Level (1–5 stars)

Texture (Crispy? Chewy?)

Aftertaste (Good, Bad, or Weird?)

Would you eat it again? (Yes/No)

Blind Test – Label samples with letters (A, B, C…) so kids try them without knowing the flavor.

Discuss and Vote – Let each child share their thoughts and crown a “winner.”

Fun Additions

Pair the snacks with sticky rice balls to show how seaweed is used in sushi.

Create a "Seaweed Snack Board" with fruits, crackers, and cheese for a taste-test platter.

Take photos of the kids’ reactions for your blog or scrapbook.