The Different Types of Sea Moss and Their Benefits

Let me school y'all real quick. There's alot of misinformation floating around the internet about Sea moss. A lot of people are turned off from the benefit of consuming it because they don't understand it. So over the next few paragraphs, I will go into explain a bit of the information I've learned after making and selling different sea moss gels for the last five years.

(Above pictured) Gold, Green, and Purple Sea Moss variants.

Sea moss, also called Irish moss, jamaican moss, gold moss, or african moss, is a nutrient-rich seaweed known for supporting wellness, digestion, and energy. With over 90 minerals, it’s often used in smoothies, gels, and even skincare. One of the highest mineral concentrations in sea moss is iodine, an essential trace element that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. Iodine is essential for the production of thyroid hormones (thyroxine and triiodothyronine), which regulate metabolism, growth, and development. 

Here’s your guide to the most popular varieties:

1. Chondrus Crispus (True Irish Moss)

• Grows in cold Atlantic waters near Ireland, Canada, and the U.S. East Coast.

• Fan-shaped with flat, branching leaves.

• Stronger ocean flavor and more potent mineral profile.

• Commonly processed into carrageenan, a natural food additive extracted from red seaweed that functions as a thickener, gelling, and stabilizing agent in many processed foods, including dairy, meat, and non-dairy products.

This type of sea moss is not as nutrient dense as the others, but it is the most commonly used type of sea moss commercially.

2. Gracilaria (Caribbean Sea Moss)

• Found in warm Caribbean waters like Jamaica and St. Lucia.

• Thin, stringy strands with a lighter texture.

• Mild taste, perfect for smoothies and juices.

This type of sea moss is more commonly available for DIY and most natural food stores use this variant for their sea moss offerings. People prefer this sea moss because it is the least oceanic in taste, and the most versatile in profile, all different types of colors are present in the Caribbean sea, gold being the most present.

3. Gold Sea Moss

• Sun-dried and harvested from shallow waters.

• Neutral flavor, versatile in recipes.

• Popular choice for everyday use.

Most sea moss gel that is available uses gold sea moss as the base. JUGO FRESCO's sea moss is made from Tanzanian Gold Sea moss wild-harvested in Africa.

4. Purple Sea Moss

• Grows deeper in the ocean with less sunlight.

• Rich in antioxidants from natural pigments.

• Stronger, earthy flavor profile.

Purple Moss has more depth, is typically more dense, and is in less direct sunlight; this moss boasts the presence of pigments like anthocyanins (antioxidants); this moss boasts a stronger color, more antioxidants, stronger flavor; prized for its “superfood” feel.

5. Green Sea Moss

• High in chlorophyll, giving it a vibrant green color.

• Potent detoxifying properties.

• Distinct, stronger ocean taste.

The amount of chlorophyll present is sometimes due to growth near the surface or in nutrient conditions that favor green pigments, such as near other mosses or sea plants. This moss is the rarest of them all and is not usually as readily available as the other variants.

6. Full-Spectrum Sea Moss

• A natural mix of gold, purple, and green.

• Contains a wide range of minerals and antioxidants.

• Perfect for colorful, nutrient-rich gels.

This is the most natural way to find and receive sea moss. Full-spectrum, boasting a rainbow of colors, is for sure the healthiest version as it has a vast nutrient profile in the seaweed.

Comparing Chondrus vs Gracilaria

Because both species are commonly sold as “sea moss” or “Irish moss,” it’s good to know their differences:

• Nutrient potency: Chondrus crispus is often considered “higher potency” by some, due to its dense texture and the cold water environment, which may affect nutrient density.

• Growth & availability: Gracilaria tends to be more available and sustainable for commercial use, especially grown in warm, accessible waters; Chondrus is more seasonally harvested and often more expensive.

• Taste / smell: Chondrus is more pungent; Gracilaria tends to be milder.

Where to Get Sea Moss Gel in Baltimore

Whether you prefer the mild taste of gold sea moss, the antioxidant-rich purple variety, or a nutrient-packed full spectrum blend, there’s a type for everyone.

If you’re in Baltimore, you don’t have to prepare it at home. JÜGO FRESCO Juice Bar offers various flavored sea moss gels, all crafted from Gold Sea Moss wild-harvested in Tanzania made fresh for you to enjoy conveniently. Stop by, taste different flavors, and boost your wellness naturally, or visit the supplement tab on our website to place an order for yours from your trusted sea moss dealers!