Tao Kae Noi is Thailand’s best selling snack. Basically nothing more than a bag of crispy fried seaweed (yep, you read that right, seaweed), Tao Kae Noi has seen sales explode even more after the movie “Top Secret” was released last year.
Top Secret told the story of how Tao Kae Noi owner, Aitthipat “Top” Kulapongvanich, created Tao Kae Noi and made it the success it is today. In fact, so popular is it, I have gone days where I haven’t been able to buy it at my local 7-11, as they have already sold out.
Tao Kae Noi has several products on the shelves right now – Original, Hot and Spicy, Tom Yum Goong, Tomato Sauce, Wasabit, Seafood and Chicken.
I have tried all of them and still prefer the Original, the Hot and Spicy, and the Chicken flavors, but you might think differently. I also usually buy the ‘Big Sheet’ packets, as I prefer eating my seaweed in one big sheet, than in lots of messy pieces.
The great thing about this crispy seaweed snack is that, calorie-wise it is actually quite low, and as far as healthy, although it does have additives and preservatives, it is still seaweed, which definitely gives you a health kick.
Personally, I don’t think it’s just the taste that has made Tao Kae Noi so successful. I think it also has to do with the cute cartoon Chinese guy on the front of each pack.
Of course, if you’re in Bangkok and love Tao Kae Noi as much as I do, the best place to always find it in stock is at Tao Kae Noi Land — the seaweed brand’s very own store. There is one at Major Ratchayothin, in my area of town, but they are also popping up all over Bangkok. Find one and stock up.
The Tao Kae Noi website can tell you more.
