Anyone who has spent time in a damp, shaded corner of nature knows the fuzzy brown carpet that often covers fallen trees, rocks, and soil. If you ever picked up that moss, you may wonder if it is edible.
Not all moss is safe to eat, but a few types can be prepared and served as a delicacy. Eating moss often has benefits that other foods lack. So, if you are a survivalist, hiker, or bush crafter who likes to live off the land, knowing these edible moss types can come in handy.
Is moss edible? Here is what you need to know about if you can eat it, where you can find it, and how to prepare it for the table.
Locations and Types of Edible Moss
Some mosses are edible, and others are not. Still, some are partially edible and can be consumed only if eaten the right way.
Use this section to learn about a few types of edible moss, what they look like, and where you may find them in the wilderness.
Spanish Moss
This moss lives in the Southeastern United States through Argentina and looks like a chain or net as it grows.
It has many health properties for pregnant women and infants but does not have a ton of nutritional value otherwise. This means it is not ideal for outdoor survival purposes.
Iceland Moss
This variety exists in the mountains of Northern European countries like Iceland and Wales. This moss is unique as the entire plant can be eaten, stalk to top.
Sea Moss / Irish Moss
Sea moss, which people harvest from the ocean, delivers iron and omega-3 fatty acids. It is great for energy, immune health, and even weight loss.
The Health Benefits of Moss
Mosses have been known to help with ailments ranging from infant epilepsy to constipation.
Irish moss, among others, can be a source of omega-3 fatty acids. These are great for your heart and blood pressure.
Cooking Moss: How to Prepare Moss for Eating
Is moss edible? Yes, and it’s great for you too. But you can’t just pluck moss right off the tree and eat it.
Use these tips to safely prepare moss for cooking and eating.
Select The Right Moss
How do you know to select the right moss? Well, first you’ll want to ensure that you have identified it properly. If you are ever not sure that you have identified an edible variety, it is best to avoid it altogether rather than take any chances.
Next, it is important that you select fresh, rather than old or decayed moss. Be sure to avoid sliminess or brown parts as this can indicate decay.
Clean and Strain
Scrape your moss from its position on a tree, rock, or otherwise using scraping tools, or pluck it using tongs. Then shake it free of any dirt and debris.
You’ll want to wash and strain the moss to prepare it for cooking.
Cooking Moss
The best way to prepare most mosses is by boiling. Boiling is a simple form of outdoor cooking that only requires a pot and an open flame.
Boiling effectively cleans and cooks the moss. Boil for between twenty and thirty minutes until it is soft and easy to consume.
The boiling process makes it softer as well as eliminates any bitter taste that may be present.
Is Moss Edible? Add Moss To Your Diet Today
There are many mosses you can eat, so be sure to use this guide to help you add moss to your diet. Instead of wondering “is moss edible?” you’ll be reaping its many benefits.
Check out our recipes blog to learn more delectable ways to get new foraged foods into your diet.
Gourmets Food 