World Algae Day

Since 2017, 12th October has been marked as 'World Algae Day', a reminder of the importance and celebration of algae which contributes 50% of the world's oxygen production. They are also thought to be a future food source due to being a sustainable resource and ability to combat malnutrition. At Ashford Castle, we are proud to partner with VOYA who's organic products use hand-harvested seaweed from the Atlantic coastline in Ireland and seaweed has been used for over 300 years as a therapy for a variety of skin and rheumatic conditions.

Seaweed is a fantastic resource, with 80% of its composition being essential minerals, vitamins, and other bioactive compounds. It contains all the vital nutrients you would expect such as fibre, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and iron. It also contains iodine, which supports the maintenance of normal healthy skin.

The following vitamins can also be found in seaweed, A, B1, B2, B3, B6, and C. Uniquely, it also contains vitamin B12, which is usually naturally only found in animal produce!

Harvesting

VOYA uses extracts of wild seaweed which have been hand-harvested off the coast of Ireland. 

Fully renewable 

A natural and renewable source. VOYA do not use fertiliser, pesticides, or even soil in their process. They commit to a natural and sustainable process.

Similar to trees, seaweed naturally absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. It acts as a 'carbon sink', absorbing more carbon from the atmosphere than what it releases. 

Seaweed can help fight climate change by absorbing carbon emissions, regenerating marine ecosystems, creating biofuel and renewable plastics. Seaweed is also a great source of protein, measuring 6 grams of protein per 100 grams.

Organic

VOYA is certified organic; its products are certified by the Soil Association COMOS and the Irish Organic Association. Their products are also cruelty-free, paraben and phthalate-free, synthetic-free, and GM-free.