Assessment of Nutritional Profile of <i>Sargassum muticum</i> Alga from the Spanish Coastline

Macroalgae, or seaweed, has a long history of use in human diets, especially in Eastern nations. However, the present interest in these species is driven by their remarkable bioactive and nutritional qualities and their significant availability and underutilization, making them incredibly alluring to people following alternative dietary patterns like vegetarianism and veganism. <i>Sargassum muticum</i>, also known as Japanese wireweed or Asian seaweed, is considered edible and has been consumed in some cultures, popular as a soup ingredient in Korea. This brown macroalgae found in marine environments has been introduced in various regions outside its native range, including Europe and North America. Moreover, this species could be helpful in feeding animals or as soil fertilizer. In this study, the nutritional properties of this marine macroalga were investigated. Nutritional parameters such as protein, sugar, and fiber content were analyzed using classical techniques. In addition, its proximate composition was also determined in terms of moisture, fixed and volatile carbon, and ash content using thermogravimetry, and their major minerals, including calcium, potassium, and magnesium, was determined using the ICP-OS technique. In terms of its mineral content, it was found to have a high mineral content (21% of ash), which consisted mainly of calcium (9 g/kg dw), potassium (77 g/kg dw), and magnesium (12 g/kg dw). In addition, this study determined the presence of iodine using ICP-MS, and 106 mg/kg dw of this essential element was quantified in these algae. The results of this study highlighted the potential nutritional benefits of the tested marine algae. Their composition revealed significant concentrations of vital elements, making them highly advantageous for human/animal dietary requirements with possible health benefits.