Researchers at the Oregon State University (OSU) in the US have patented a new strain of succulent red marine algae called dulse, which tastes like bacon.
The protein-rich dulse, which is usually grown in the wild along the Pacific and Atlantic coastlines, is used as a cooking ingredient or nutritional supplement.
Grown for the past 15 years, the new strain looks like translucent red lettuce and is rich in minerals, vitamins and antioxidants. It is being tested as a fresh product, offering potential in both its raw form and as a food ingredient.
OSU researcher Chris Langdon said: "The original goal was to create a super-food for abalone, because high-quality abalone is treasured, especially in Asia.
"We were able to grow dulse-fed abalone at rates that exceeded those previously reported in the literature. There always has been an interest in growing dulse for human consumption, but we originally focused on using dulse as a food for abalone."
Big Island Abalone Corporation has already implemented the technology of growing abalone and dulse on a commercial scale.
OSU College of Business faculty member Chuck Toombs said: "Dulse is a super-food, with twice the nutritional value of kale.
"And OSU had developed this variety that can be farmed, with the potential for a new industry for Oregon."
