Facts about Chondrus crispus 

Chondrus crispus is a small red alga, typically measuring between 10 to 20 centimetres in length. It can vary in colour from greenish yellow to dark purple. It originates from a discoid holdfast and branches into fan-shaped fronds. The texture is firm, cartilaginous and smooth. 

Chondrus crispus usually resides in the lower intertidal and shallow subtidal zones, flourishing in regions with strong water movement and clear waters. It is widely distributed along the rocky shores of the Atlantic Ocean, stretching from the coasts of Iceland and Norway down to Morocco. Additionally, it has been found along the North American coast from Newfoundland to New Jersey, and has also been recorded in the Bering Sea, Alaska, Antarctica, and New Zealand. 

Chondrus crispus is abundant in the polysaccharide carrageenan, which is commonly used as a thickener and stabilizer in the food industry. It is also popular as a health supplement due to its rich content of bioactive compounds with antioxidant properties. Additionally, it is packed with essential minerals like iodine and sulphur, which are crucial for thyroid health and overall well-being, as well as folate (Vitamin B9) that supports DNA synthesis and repair. Moreover, C. crispus exhibits antiviral, anticoagulant, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a highly beneficial addition to a nutritious diet.