Seaweed could be the next superfood and there is a significant gap in the market that Queensland chefs and farmers could take advantage of, according to university researchers.

University of the Sunshine Coast experts say seaweed has major health and environmental benefits and they are hoping to drive the creation of a new seaweed industry in Queensland and Australia.

Queensland university researchers have spoken to farmers and chefs about the opportunities seaweed presents.

USC biologist Dr Nick Paul has studied seaweed for 20 years. He and his university colleagues have been talking to Queensland farmers and chefs about the opportunities seaweed presents.

"There is lots of seaweed produced and eaten in the world and there are plenty of health and environmental benefits attached," he said.