Euchema Cottonii

E. cottonii, also known as Jamaican purple sea moss, is a class of red algae that is commonly found in tropical and subtropical coastal areas, including in, the Caribbean, Africa, Southeast Asia, and South America. It is known for its high carrageenan content and its economic importance for the communities that cultivate it.

E. cottonii is rich in iodine and is considered to be a valuable crop due to its high growth rate and tolerance to various environmental conditions. It is also relatively easy to cultivate and harvest, making it a valuable resource for the local communities that depend on it.
E. cottonii is harvested by farmers using traditional methods, usually from the shallow water of the coastal areas, because of its high carrageenan content and its economic importance for the communities that cultivate it throughout the Caribbean, Africa, Southeast Asia, and South America.

When E. Cottonii is harvested, it is usually sun-dried to preserve the natural nutritional value of the seaweed. However, depending on the drying method, the moisture content can vary. E. Cottonii is moist with 30-35% moisture content in this case. This means that 65-70% of the seaweed's weight is water, and the remaining 65-70% is dry.

Having a higher moisture content means that this E. Cottonii has a fresher taste and shorter shelf-life. The seaweed should be stored in a cool, dry place and consumed within a year of purchase. Alternatively, it can be stored in the freezer to extend its shelf life.
The high moisture content might also affect the texture and consistency of the product. It is essential to follow the instructions of the vendor or producer on how to use and store this type of product.