Should I wash the dried seaweed I bought

Dried seaweed usually does not need to be cleaned, it can be soaked or cooked directly. Dried seaweed has been processed through high-temperature drying and ultraviolet sterilization, with minimal surface impurities. Direct use does not affect safety and taste. If you are not confident about the storage environment or find obvious dust, you can quickly rinse with clean water and squeeze out the water. The production process of dried seaweed includes multiple steps such as cleaning, chopping, dehydration, and drying, and it meets food safety standards before leaving the factory. The small amount of seawater crystals or fine sand particles attached to the surface of seaweed will naturally precipitate after soaking. Filter the water before cooking. The secondary heating during high-temperature soup cooking or cold mixing can also effectively kill bacteria, while excessive cleaning may result in the loss of umami substances and some water-soluble vitamins. Some bulk dried seaweed may be contaminated with dust due to improper transportation and storage, or for people who are sensitive to the fishy smell of seaweed, they can be quickly rinsed with cold water for 5 seconds. Pay attention to squeezing out the water after rinsing and use immediately to avoid prolonged soaking that may cause the texture to become soft and the freshness to be lost. If seaweed is not treated in a timely manner after coming into contact with tap water, it is easy to breed bacteria or produce mucus.

Dry seaweed should be sealed and moisture-proof for daily storage, and consumed as soon as possible after opening. Seaweed is rich in iodine, calcium, and dietary fiber, making it suitable for making soup, mixing rice, or baking. However, individuals with thyroid dysfunction should control their intake. If mold, odor, or obvious impurities are found in seaweed, it is recommended to discard it and no longer consume it.