The path to working in seaweed isn’t always straightforward. For Majid, CEO of Canadian Pacifico Seaweeds, it all started with an unexpected connection—moose.
A Curious Connection Between Moose and Kelp
While studying sustainable food production systems, Majid wasn’t initially focused on marine ecosystems. Instead, his research centered on ranching moose in British Columbia. One of the biggest challenges was their diet—traditional feeds weren’t providing the necessary nutrients, making ranching an impractical solution.
During his studies, he came across an unusual fact: moose are willing to dive up to 20 feet underwater just to eat kelp. This led to a breakthrough—perhaps seaweed could solve the dietary issue. As he explored further, he discovered that kelp offers an ideal balance of nutrients that moose naturally seek out in the wild. Not only do they prefer it over other food sources, but kelp also provides essential health benefits, including antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
A Shift Towards Sustainability
What started as a study on moose quickly expanded into something much bigger. If kelp could be a solution for animal nutrition, what other applications could it have? Majid began to see seaweed not just as a food source but as a powerful tool for sustainability, with potential benefits for ecosystems, human health, and climate resilience.
This realization changed the trajectory of his work. Instead of focusing on land-based food production, he turned his attention to the ocean, exploring how seaweed could be cultivated, harvested, and used to create sustainable solutions for multiple industries.
From Research to Industry Leadership
That initial curiosity about moose diets led to the founding of Canadian Pacifico Seaweeds, a company dedicated to advancing seaweed-based solutions. Today, Majid and his team are involved in projects that push the boundaries of what seaweed can do, from ecosystem restoration to food innovation and climate mitigation.
It’s a reminder that sometimes, the smallest discoveries—like a moose’s love for kelp—can lead to unexpected and transformative breakthroughs.