Seaweed Snacks Market Size, Share, Growth, And Industry Analysis, By Type (Strips, Flakes, Bars, Others), By Application (Supermarkets, Convenience Store, Specialty Stores, Online Stores), Regional Insights and Forecast From 2026 To 2035

• 

  Download Free Sample to learn more about this report

SEAWEED SNACKS MARKET OVERVIEW

The global seaweed snacks market size is anticipated to be worth USD 2.67 Billion in 2026, projected to reach USD 6.51 Billion by 2035 at a CAGR of 10.46% during the forecast from 2026 to 2035.

The Seaweed Snacks Market is expanding as consumers increasingly prefer nutritious, plant-based, and low-calorie snack products. Seaweed snacks contain essential minerals, vitamins, iodine, and antioxidants, making them attractive alternatives to conventional snack products. Approximately 42% of seaweed snack consumers prefer products positioned around health benefits, while 31% seek plant-based food options. The Seaweed Snacks Market Report highlights increasing adoption across retail channels, foodservice applications, and online platforms. Rising awareness regarding sustainable marine ingredients, clean-label products, and functional foods is influencing the Seaweed Snacks Market Analysis and creating new opportunities for manufacturers focusing on innovative flavors and packaging formats.

The United States represents a growing market for seaweed snacks due to increasing demand for healthy alternatives, Asian-inspired foods, and plant-based nutrition products. Approximately 38% of U.S. consumers are interested in healthier snack choices, while 29% show preference for snacks containing natural ingredients. The Seaweed Snacks Market Research Report indicates that supermarkets, specialty stores, and online platforms are major distribution channels supporting market expansion. Demand is increasing among younger consumers, fitness-oriented buyers, and individuals seeking low-calorie snack options. The U.S. market is also witnessing product innovation involving organic seaweed, flavored varieties, and sustainable sourcing practices.

KEY FINDINGS

LATEST TRENDS

The Seaweed Snacks Market Trends are increasingly influenced by rising consumer interest in healthy snacks, plant-based diets, sustainable food sources, and functional nutrition products. Seaweed snacks are gaining popularity because they offer minerals, dietary fiber, antioxidants, and low-calorie nutritional benefits. Approximately 46% of consumers choose seaweed snacks because of health-related advantages, while 33% prefer products with natural ingredients. The Seaweed Snacks Market Report highlights that manufacturers are introducing innovative flavors, organic varieties, and convenient packaging formats to attract broader consumer groups.

The demand for clean-label and sustainable snacks is significantly affecting product development strategies. Seaweed cultivation requires fewer agricultural resources compared with traditional crops, increasing interest among environmentally conscious consumers. Approximately 36% of new seaweed snack launches emphasize sustainability claims, while 29% focus on organic certification and natural processing methods. Online retail platforms are becoming important distribution channels for seaweed snack brands because consumers increasingly purchase specialty food products digitally. The Seaweed Snacks Market Analysis indicates that digital channels improve product accessibility and support direct-to-consumer strategies. Manufacturers are also expanding product portfolios with flavored seaweed sheets, roasted seaweed snacks, seaweed chips, and blended snack formats.

Download Free Sample to learn more about this report

SEAWEED SNACKS MARKET SEGMENTATION

By Type

Based on Type, the global market can be categorized into Strips, Flakes, Bars, Others.

• Strips: Seaweed strips represent the largest product category within the Seaweed Snacks Market Size due to their traditional format, convenience, and broad consumer acceptance. Seaweed strips are commonly available as roasted sheets, seasoned snacks, and individually packed products. Approximately 48% of global seaweed snack consumption is associated with strip-based products because of their familiarity and easy consumption pattern. The Seaweed Snacks Market Analysis indicates that strips are particularly popular among consumers seeking low-calorie snacks with natural ingredients. Manufacturers are introducing different flavors, including spicy, salted, barbecue, and sesame varieties, to expand consumer interest. Approximately 35% of new strip-based product launches focus on flavor diversification and improved packaging formats. The popularity of seaweed strips is also supported by demand from Asian markets, where seaweed has been consumed traditionally for several decades.

• Flakes: Seaweed flakes represent an emerging segment within the Seaweed Snacks Market Report due to increasing use as toppings, seasoning ingredients, and snack components. Approximately 22% of seaweed snack demand is associated with flakes and similar fragmented products. These products are gaining attention among consumers who prefer flexible food applications beyond traditional snack consumption. The Seaweed Snacks Market Trends indicate that flakes are increasingly used in rice dishes, salads, soups, and mixed snack combinations. Manufacturers are developing flavored and fortified seaweed flakes to attract consumers interested in convenient meal enhancement products. Approximately 28% of new flake-based products focus on improving nutritional characteristics and expanding application possibilities.

• Bars: Seaweed snack bars represent a developing category within the Seaweed Snacks Market Growth landscape, combining seaweed with grains, seeds, nuts, and other nutritional ingredients. Approximately 15% of consumers interested in functional snacks show preference for innovative bar formats. These products are gaining attention among consumers seeking convenient energy sources for travel, fitness activities, and workplace consumption. The Seaweed Snacks Market Insights indicate that bars appeal to consumers who may not regularly consume traditional seaweed sheets. Manufacturers are combining seaweed with protein ingredients, natural sweeteners, and plant-based components to create diversified products. Approximately 26% of new seaweed bar launches focus on improving nutritional value and taste acceptance.

• Others: Other seaweed snack products include chips, mixed snacks, flavored clusters, and specialty products designed for specific consumer groups. This category represents approximately 15% of the market and continues gaining attention through product diversification. The Seaweed Snacks Market Forecast identifies this segment as an important area for innovation due to increasing demand for unique snack experiences. Manufacturers are introducing seaweed-based chips and blended products containing vegetables, grains, and plant proteins. Approximately 30% of new products in this category emphasize innovative combinations and premium positioning. These products are designed to compete with traditional snack categories while offering nutritional advantages.

By Application

Based on application, the global market can be categorized into Supermarkets, Convenience Store, Specialty Stores, Online Stores.

• Supermarkets: Supermarkets represent the leading application segment in the Seaweed Snacks Market Share because they provide high consumer visibility and broad product accessibility. Approximately 45% of seaweed snack purchases occur through supermarket channels due to organized retail expansion and availability of multiple product varieties. The Seaweed Snacks Market Analysis indicates that supermarkets support consumer trial by offering different brands, flavors, and packaging sizes. Retailers are expanding healthy snack sections to meet increasing demand for plant-based and functional foods. Approximately 34% of supermarket buyers show interest in healthier snack alternatives.

• Convenience Store: Convenience stores represent an important distribution channel for consumers seeking quick and portable snack options. Approximately 24% of seaweed snack purchases occur through convenience channels, particularly among urban consumers and younger demographics. The Seaweed Snacks Market Trends indicate that convenience stores benefit from increasing demand for ready-to-eat snacks. Seaweed products are suitable for these outlets because of their compact packaging, longer shelf life, and easy consumption format. Manufacturers are introducing smaller packages and single-serving products specifically designed for convenience retail. Approximately 29% of convenience-focused product launches emphasize portability and on-the-go consumption. Urbanization and changing lifestyles continue influencing convenience store growth. Consumers with busy schedules increasingly prefer snacks that provide nutritional benefits without requiring preparation. Seaweed snacks align with these preferences due to their lightweight format and functional attributes.

• Specialty Stores: Specialty stores contribute approximately 18% of seaweed snack sales and play an important role in premium and health-focused product distribution. These stores attract consumers interested in organic foods, international products, and functional nutrition. The Seaweed Snacks Market Research Report highlights that specialty retailers provide opportunities for premium seaweed brands to communicate product benefits. Approximately 31% of specialty store consumers actively seek natural and sustainable food products. Manufacturers use specialty stores to introduce innovative products such as organic seaweed snacks, flavored varieties, and premium packaging formats. These channels help brands build customer loyalty among health-conscious consumers. The increasing popularity of wellness-focused shopping is supporting specialty store expansion. Companies are targeting these outlets to reach consumers willing to explore new plant-based snack options.

• Online Stores: Online stores represent one of the fastest-growing application segments within the Seaweed Snacks Market Opportunities due to increasing digital purchasing behavior. Approximately 13% of seaweed snack purchases are completed through online channels, with strong adoption among younger consumers. The Seaweed Snacks Industry Report indicates that online platforms provide advantages including wider product selection, direct customer engagement, and access to international brands. Approximately 37% of online snack buyers prefer purchasing specialty health products digitally. Manufacturers are using online channels to introduce new products, collect consumer feedback, and expand geographic reach. Subscription models and direct-to-consumer strategies are also supporting category development. The increasing use of digital commerce is expected to strengthen online sales opportunities within the Seaweed Snacks Market Outlook, especially for premium, organic, and innovative seaweed snack products.

MARKET DYNAMICS

Driving Factors

Increasing demand for healthy and plant-based snack alternatives

The primary driver of the Seaweed Snacks Market Growth is increasing consumer preference for healthier snack options with nutritional benefits. Consumers are shifting from conventional processed snacks toward products containing natural ingredients, minerals, and functional properties. Seaweed snacks are considered attractive because they provide iodine, vitamins, antioxidants, and dietary fiber while maintaining low-calorie characteristics. Approximately 46% of consumers prioritize health benefits when selecting snacks, supporting demand for seaweed-based products.

The Seaweed Snacks Market Analysis indicates that rising adoption of vegan and vegetarian lifestyles is strengthening market expansion. Plant-based food trends are encouraging manufacturers to introduce seaweed snacks as sustainable alternatives to animal-based and heavily processed products. Younger consumers, fitness communities, and health-focused buyers are major contributors to category growth. Food manufacturers are investing in product innovation by developing flavored seaweed sheets, roasted varieties, and mixed snack formats. Approximately 35% of new product launches focus on improving taste profiles, while manufacturers continue expanding distribution through supermarkets, convenience stores, and online channels. The increasing popularity of functional foods is expected to support further development within the Seaweed Snacks Industry Analysis.

Restraining Factor

Limited consumer awareness and taste preferences

The Seaweed Snacks Market faces challenges due to limited consumer familiarity in some regions and differences in taste preferences. Although seaweed snacks are widely consumed in several Asian countries, adoption remains slower in markets where consumers have limited experience with marine-based food products. Approximately 34% of potential consumers indicate lack of awareness as a barrier, while 27% identify unfamiliar flavors as a challenge.

The Seaweed Snacks Market Research Report highlights that some consumers perceive seaweed flavors as unusual compared with traditional snack products. Manufacturers must invest in consumer education, flavor adaptation, and marketing strategies to increase acceptance. Product developers are responding by creating barbecue, cheese, spicy, and other familiar flavor profiles. Pricing can also affect consumer adoption because premium seaweed products may cost more than conventional snacks. Organic cultivation, specialized processing, and sustainable packaging contribute to higher production expenses. Companies are focusing on improving supply chain efficiency and increasing production scale to make products more accessible.

Expansion of sustainable and functional snack products

Opportunity

The Seaweed Snacks Market Opportunities are increasing due to growing demand for sustainable food products and functional nutrition solutions. Seaweed is gaining attention as an environmentally responsible ingredient because cultivation requires limited freshwater and agricultural land compared with many traditional crops. Approximately 36% of new product developments emphasize sustainability benefits, creating opportunities for brands targeting environmentally conscious consumers. The Seaweed Snacks Market Forecast highlights opportunities in organic products, fortified snacks, and premium health-focused categories. Manufacturers are developing products containing additional nutritional ingredients such as seeds, grains, and plant-based proteins to increase consumer appeal. Approximately 32% of product innovations focus on improving nutritional value and expanding usage occasions.

Retail expansion represents another opportunity area, with companies increasing availability through supermarkets, specialty food stores, and online marketplaces. Growing demand for convenient snacks among working professionals and younger consumers is supporting new product launches. The Seaweed Snacks Market Insights indicate that companies focusing on sustainability, innovation, and consumer education can capture emerging opportunities.

Supply chain complexity and quality consistency

Challenge

The Seaweed Snacks Industry Report identifies supply chain management and quality control as important challenges affecting manufacturers. Seaweed production depends on marine ecosystems, cultivation conditions, harvesting methods, and processing technologies. Variations in raw material quality can influence taste, nutritional composition, and product consistency. Approximately 31% of manufacturers identify raw material management as a key operational challenge. The Seaweed Snacks Market Analysis indicates that companies must maintain strict quality standards because consumers increasingly demand transparency regarding sourcing and processing methods. Issues such as contamination risks, seasonal availability, and transportation requirements can affect production efficiency.

Manufacturers are investing in advanced processing technologies, sustainable cultivation practices, and supplier partnerships to improve reliability. Approximately 28% of companies are focusing on improving processing efficiency and quality monitoring systems. The development of standardized production methods remains important for expanding global market acceptance. The Seaweed Snacks Market Outlook shows that overcoming supply chain challenges will require investments in sustainable farming, improved logistics, and advanced food processing technologies. These strategies will help companies maintain product quality while meeting increasing global demand.

• Download Free Sample to learn more about this report

•  

SEAWEED SNACKS MARKET REGIONAL INSIGHTS

• North America

North America represents a rapidly developing region in the Seaweed Snacks Market Analysis due to increasing consumer awareness regarding healthy eating, plant-based nutrition, and sustainable food alternatives. The region accounts for approximately 26% of global seaweed snack demand, supported by rising adoption in the United States and Canada. The Seaweed Snacks Market Research Report indicates that changing dietary preferences among millennials, fitness consumers, and health-focused buyers are contributing to market expansion. The United States is the largest contributor within North America due to strong retail infrastructure and growing demand for innovative snack products. Approximately 38% of U.S. consumers actively seek healthier snack options, supporting demand for seaweed-based products. Supermarkets, specialty food retailers, and online platforms are major distribution channels supporting product accessibility.

The region is witnessing increasing product innovation, including flavored seaweed sheets, organic products, and snack combinations containing grains, seeds, and vegetables. Approximately 35% of new product introductions in North America focus on improved flavors and nutritional benefits. Manufacturers are adapting traditional Asian seaweed snacks to local consumer preferences by introducing familiar flavors such as barbecue, chili, and cheese. The Seaweed Snacks Industry Report highlights sustainability as an important factor influencing North American purchasing decisions. Consumers are increasingly interested in environmentally responsible food products, encouraging manufacturers to adopt sustainable sourcing practices. Approximately 30% of regional product launches emphasize eco-friendly packaging and responsible production methods. Retail expansion is supporting the Seaweed Snacks Market Growth in North America. Online platforms are becoming increasingly important because consumers use digital channels to discover specialty food products. Approximately 37% of younger consumers purchase health-focused snacks online, creating opportunities for direct-to-consumer brands.

• Europe

Europe is an emerging market for seaweed snacks due to increasing demand for plant-based foods, clean-label products, and sustainable ingredients. The region contributes approximately 16% of global Seaweed Snacks Market Share, with countries including the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Scandinavian markets showing rising consumer interest. The Seaweed Snacks Market Report highlights that European consumers are increasingly exploring alternative snack categories with nutritional and environmental benefits. The European food industry is experiencing growth in functional snacks as consumers focus on wellness and balanced diets. Approximately 33% of European consumers show interest in snacks containing natural ingredients. This trend is supporting the adoption of seaweed snacks as manufacturers position them as mineral-rich and low-calorie alternatives. Organic and sustainably sourced seaweed products are particularly attractive in European markets. Approximately 31% of new seaweed snack launches in Europe emphasize organic certification, sustainable harvesting, and environmentally friendly packaging. Manufacturers are investing in product transparency to meet consumer expectations regarding sourcing and production processes.

The Seaweed Snacks Industry Analysis indicates that specialty stores and supermarkets are the primary channels supporting market development. Premium food retailers are introducing international snack products to meet increasing demand for unique flavors and healthier options. Online retail is also expanding access to imported and specialty seaweed snack brands. European manufacturers are focusing on product adaptation by introducing flavors suited to regional preferences. Approximately 28% of new products emphasize localized flavor profiles and innovative formats. The increasing popularity of vegan diets and sustainable food choices continues creating opportunities within the Seaweed Snacks Market Forecast.

• Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific dominates the global Seaweed Snacks Market Size due to strong cultural acceptance, established consumption habits, and significant seaweed production capabilities. The region accounts for approximately 52% of global market share, making it the largest regional market. Countries including China, Japan, South Korea, and Thailand represent major contributors to production and consumption activities. The Seaweed Snacks Market Analysis indicates that seaweed has been consumed traditionally in Asia for several decades through products such as roasted seaweed sheets, seaweed soups, and seasoning ingredients. This established food culture provides a strong foundation for market development. Approximately 45% of regional consumers are familiar with seaweed-based food products. South Korea and Japan are major innovation centers for seaweed snacks, with manufacturers introducing multiple flavors, packaging formats, and premium product varieties. Approximately 36% of new product launches in Asia-Pacific focus on flavor innovation and convenience improvements.

China represents a significant production hub due to extensive seaweed cultivation capabilities. The availability of raw materials supports large-scale manufacturing and supply chain development. The region benefits from advanced processing technologies and established distribution networks. The Seaweed Snacks Market Insights show that rising disposable income, urbanization, and changing lifestyles are increasing demand for packaged snacks across Asia-Pacific. Younger consumers are adopting modern snack formats while maintaining traditional preferences for seaweed-based foods. Online retail growth is further supporting market expansion. Approximately 34% of younger Asian consumers purchase specialty snacks through digital platforms, creating additional opportunities for manufacturers. Sustainable cultivation practices and premium product development are expected to influence future Seaweed Snacks Market Opportunities in the region.

• Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa region represents an emerging segment within the Seaweed Snacks Market Outlook, supported by increasing awareness of healthy foods, international cuisine trends, and premium snack categories. The region accounts for approximately 6% of global market share, with demand concentrated in urban areas and higher-income consumer groups. The Seaweed Snacks Market Research Report indicates that changing dietary preferences are encouraging consumers to explore new snack categories. Approximately 27% of urban consumers in the region show interest in healthier packaged food options. This trend is supporting opportunities for imported and locally distributed seaweed snack products.

Countries including the United Arab Emirates and South Africa are experiencing growing demand due to expanding modern retail infrastructure. Supermarkets and specialty stores are becoming important channels for introducing international snack brands. Approximately 25% of regional sales occur through organized retail channels. Manufacturers are focusing on adapting products to regional tastes by introducing different seasoning profiles and packaging formats. Approximately 22% of new product strategies emphasize flavor customization to improve consumer acceptance. The region also presents opportunities for online retail expansion. Increasing smartphone adoption and digital shopping platforms are improving access to specialty food products. The Seaweed Snacks Industry Report identifies Middle East & Africa as a developing market where health awareness, premium food consumption, and international food trends will continue supporting future growth.

LIST OF TOP SEAWEED SNACKS COMPANIES

• Eden Foods
• Oceans Halo
• KPOP Foods
• SeaSnax
• SEAWEED MARKET OÜ
• Frito-Lay North America, Inc(PepsiCo)
• Singha Corporation Co., Ltd.(Boon Rawd Brewery)
• Pringles
• Kimnori U.S.A. Inc.
• Annie Chun?s, Inc.(CJ Cheil Jedang)
• Taokaenoi Food & Marketing PCL
• Gimme Health Foods Inc.
• Roland Foods

Top Two Companies With The Highest Market Share

• Taokaenoi Food & Marketing PCL: Taokaenoi holds approximately 12% share in the global packaged seaweed snack category and is recognized as one of the largest seaweed snack producers.

• Frito-Lay North America, Inc. (PepsiCo): Frito-Lay contributes approximately 9% share in organized seaweed snack distribution through its extensive snack manufacturing and retail network.

INVESTMENT ANALYSIS AND OPPORTUNITIES

The Seaweed Snacks Market Opportunities are expanding as investors focus on sustainable food production, plant-based nutrition, and functional snack categories. The market is attracting investment in seaweed cultivation, processing facilities, packaging innovation, and product diversification. Approximately 38% of industry investments are directed toward sustainable sourcing and cultivation improvements, while 30% focus on processing technology upgrades. The Seaweed Snacks Market Analysis identifies sustainable marine agriculture as an important opportunity area due to increasing consumer demand for environmentally responsible food products.

Investment opportunities are emerging in advanced seaweed farming methods, including offshore cultivation systems, controlled harvesting technologies, and improved processing infrastructure. Seaweed requires fewer agricultural resources compared with many land-based crops, increasing interest among companies seeking sustainable ingredient solutions. Approximately 32% of manufacturers are exploring improved cultivation methods to secure long-term raw material availability. The expansion of plant-based food consumption is creating additional opportunities for seaweed snack manufacturers. Consumers are increasingly seeking snacks with nutritional benefits, natural ingredients, and functional properties. Approximately 41% of health-focused consumers show interest in snacks positioned around wellness benefits, supporting new product investments.

NEW PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

The Seaweed Snacks Market Trends are strongly influenced by continuous product development focused on improving taste, nutrition, sustainability, and consumer convenience. Manufacturers are introducing innovative seaweed snack products designed to attract wider consumer groups beyond traditional seaweed consumers. Approximately 36% of new product launches emphasize flavor innovation, while 31% focus on nutritional enhancement and functional ingredients. Companies are developing flavored seaweed snacks using ingredients such as chili, barbecue seasoning, sesame, garlic, and vegetable blends. These innovations help address consumer concerns regarding unfamiliar seaweed flavors. Approximately 34% of product development activities involve creating new taste profiles to improve market acceptance.

Organic and clean-label seaweed snacks are another major innovation area. Consumers are increasingly interested in products with simple ingredient lists and sustainable sourcing practices. Approximately 30% of newly developed products highlight organic ingredients, natural processing, and environmentally responsible packaging. Manufacturers are also introducing hybrid snack formats combining seaweed with grains, nuts, seeds, and plant proteins. These products target consumers seeking higher nutritional value and convenient eating options. Approximately 27% of new product developments focus on combining seaweed with other functional ingredients.

FIVE RECENT DEVELOPMENTS (2023-2025)

• March 2023: Gimme Seaweed announced the launch of new organic roasted seaweed snack varieties featuring globally inspired seasonings and improved recyclable packaging. The initiative focused on expanding its better-for-you snack portfolio, utilizing carefully sourced organic seaweed and advanced roasting techniques to enhance flavor retention, strengthen retail distribution, and address rising consumer demand for nutritious plant-based snacks.
• July 2023: Taokaenoi Food & Marketing PLC introduced an expanded premium seaweed snacks range incorporating innovative seasoning technologies and optimized low-oil roasting processes. The development aimed to improve product texture, preserve nutritional value, and diversify flavor offerings, reinforcing the company’s leadership in Asian and international snack markets while supporting continued export growth.
• May 2024: CJ CheilJedang unveiled new bibigo-branded roasted seaweed snack products designed for international consumers seeking convenient Korean-inspired snacks. The launch leveraged advanced food processing and moisture-control packaging technologies to maintain crispness and freshness, supporting the company’s strategy to expand its global convenience food portfolio and strengthen brand recognition across key export markets.
• October 2024: Kwangcheonkim Co., Ltd. announced the expansion of its seaweed snack manufacturing capacity through investments in automated roasting, seasoning, and packaging lines. The project enhances production efficiency, ensures consistent product quality, and increases export capabilities, enabling the company to meet growing global demand for premium roasted seaweed snacks across retail and foodservice channels.
• February 2025: SeaSnax introduced a new line of avocado oil-based roasted seaweed snacks featuring clean-label ingredients and enhanced sustainable packaging materials. The initiative combines improved roasting technology with premium ingredient sourcing to deliver superior taste and nutritional value, strengthening the company’s competitive position within the rapidly growing healthy snack and plant-based food segments.

REPORT COVERAGE

The Seaweed Snacks Market Report provides comprehensive coverage of global market conditions, including product segmentation, application analysis, regional performance, competitive landscape, investment opportunities, and innovation trends. The report evaluates major product categories including strips, flakes, bars, and other seaweed snack formats. Strips represent approximately 48% of market demand, while flakes and bars continue gaining adoption through product innovation. The Seaweed Snacks Market Research Report analyzes key application channels including supermarkets, convenience stores, specialty stores, and online platforms. Supermarkets contribute approximately 45% of product distribution, while online channels are expanding due to increasing digital purchasing behavior. The report examines consumer trends influencing purchasing decisions, including demand for plant-based foods, sustainable products, and functional nutrition.

Regional analysis within the Seaweed Snacks Industry Report covers North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Middle East & Africa. Asia-Pacific leads with approximately 52% market share due to strong consumption traditions and production capabilities, while North America contributes around 26% through increasing adoption of healthy snack products. The report evaluates market dynamics including drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges affecting industry development. It analyzes the impact of sustainability trends, changing consumer preferences, technological advancements, and retail expansion on the Seaweed Snacks Market Growth.