Can seaweed bask in the sun?

Seaweed can be sun dried, but the drying time and light intensity need to be controlled. Fresh seaweed can dehydrate and extend its shelf life through moderate sun exposure, but sun exposure can cause nutrient loss and texture hardening. Seaweed is rich in vitamins, minerals, and active substances unique to algae. Short term mild sun exposure helps with water evaporation, making it easy to store and can stimulate some aromatic substances. In traditional processing, fishermen often lay seaweed flat on bamboo mats and place them in a well ventilated area to dry in the shade. If the sunlight is soft, it can also be exposed to light for 1-2 hours. Attention should be paid to avoiding direct sunlight at noon, as ultraviolet rays can damage chlorophyll and vitamin B groups, causing the color of seaweed to turn white and the taste to become woody. If seaweed is exposed to sunlight for a long time, its quality will significantly decrease. High temperatures promote the oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids to produce a halal flavor, and the degradation of phycoerythrin causes the purple color to fade to yellow brown. Industrial production usually adopts low-temperature drying technology. For homemade dried seaweed, it is recommended to air it in the early morning or evening when the sunlight is weak, and regularly flip it to ensure uniform dehydration. Dried seaweed should be sealed and stored away from light to prevent moisture and spoilage.

For daily consumption of seaweed, it is recommended to choose dried products produced by reputable manufacturers and consume them as soon as possible after opening. When making homemade dried seaweed, attention should be paid to environmental cleanliness. After drying, it can be stored in a sealed container in a cool place. When paired with soup or cold dishes, the soaking time should be controlled according to taste preferences to retain more water-soluble nutrients. People with weak gastrointestinal function should avoid consuming large amounts of sun dried seaweed on an empty stomach to prevent crude fiber irritation.