Best Seaweed Crisps in the UK

Seaweed crisps are no longer a niche snack in the UK, they have become a mainstream choice for people who want something crispy, savoury, light, and naturally nutritious without the heaviness of traditional potato crisps.

However, the “best” seaweed crisps depend on what you value most: Flavour profile, ingredient simplicity, salt level, texture, pack size, or dietary needs.

This guide explains those factors clearly before recommending specific options.

Before diving into seaweed crisps, many shoppers also explore alternatives like vegetable, rice, and baked crisps, especially when comparing lighter snack categories.

How to Choose the Right Seaweed Crisps

Seaweed crisps differ more than their packaging suggests. Understanding a few key differences helps you avoid disappointment.

1. Seaweed Type & Source

Most UK seaweed crisps use nori or blended sea vegetables.
Nori gives a clean, savoury taste and lighter crunch, while blended seaweed often produces thicker, heartier crisps.

2. Cooking Method

Some brands lightly toast or bake their seaweed sheets, while others gently fry them.
This affects both texture and oil content.

3. Seasoning Balance

Good seaweed crisps never overwhelm the natural umami flavour.
The best products use minimal ingredients, often seaweed, oil, and sea salt, with optional natural flavourings.

4. Texture Preference

Some crisps are paper-thin and delicate, others slightly thicker with a more substantial bite.

If you’re curious how different crisp styles are classified across the market, this breakdown is helpful:
Types of Crisps Sold in UK Supermarkets

Quick Comparison (No Purchase Links)

Best Seaweed Crisps in the UK – Product Guide

Itsu Seaweed Thins (Sweet Soy & Sea Salt)

Itsu’s seaweed thins are extremely light, delicate, and crisp.
They suit people who want maximum crunch with minimal oil and calories, and the seasoning remains subtle rather than overpowering.

Best for: Clean snacking, low-calorie diets, gentle flavour lovers.

Emily Seaweed Crisps (Sea Salt)

Emily’s version delivers a slightly thicker crunch while keeping ingredients simple.
They balance natural umami with light sea salt, making them versatile for both solo snacking and serving with dips.

Best for: Everyday snacking, family sharing, balanced flavour.

Abakus Seaweed Crisps (Sea Salted)

Abakus offers a heartier texture with stronger savoury depth.
These feel more substantial in the mouth and satisfy those who normally prefer robust potato crisps.

Best for: Crunch lovers who still want a lighter alternative.

Shore Lightly Salted Seaweed Crisps

Shore focuses on very low calorie and restrained seasoning.
The texture remains crisp but softens gently as you chew, offering a lighter sensory experience.

Best for: Calorie-conscious snackers and simple ingredient fans.

Kirkland Signature Roasted Seaweed Snacks

Kirkland’s bulk packs provide consistent quality and mild flavour at scale.
They remain crisp, neutral, and easy to pair with meals.

Best for: Regular consumers and value-focused households.

Common Questions & Trade-Offs

Are seaweed crisps healthier than potato crisps?
They usually contain fewer calories and less fat, but portion size still matters.

Do they taste like fish?
No, good seaweed crisps taste savoury, slightly nutty, and umami-rich, not fishy.

Are they suitable for children?
Yes, though very thin crisps may crumble easily for younger children.

Why are some brands thicker than others?
Thickness depends on the seaweed blend and processing style.

Final Decision Guidance

Seaweed crisps are about balance , crispness, flavour, lightness, and ingredient integrity.
There is no single “best” brand for everyone, only the one that best fits your personal taste and lifestyle.

For shoppers comparing multiple light snack categories, you may also enjoy exploring lentil and chickpea crisps.

Choose the product that matches your texture preference, seasoning comfort, and dietary goals, and you will not go wrong.