Chia Seeds

Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are harvested from Salvia hispanica, minimally processed to retain outer hull rich in soluble fiber and antioxidants. Used as functional ingredient, thickener, egg replacer, and nutrition booster providing complete amino acids, plant-based omega-3, and instant hydration gelling ideal for bakery, beverages, and clean-label products. In the food industry, chia delivers 10g fiber per ounce serving with low glycemic impact and neutral flavor perfect for fortification without texture compromise.

Food Industry Applications

• Bakery products: Whole seeds add crunch to breads, muffins, pancakes with 25% water binding preventing staling. Ground chia replaces eggs (1:10 ratio) creating tender crumb in vegan cakes. Prevents cookie spreading during baking.

• Beverages: Hydrated gel suspends pulp in smoothies, juices, lemonades creating natural viscosity without gums. Provides 5g fiber per serving in RTD wellness drinks. Stable through UHT processing.

• Snack foods: Clusters energy bars, granola, trail mixes with gelled texture binding fruits/nuts. Microwaveable chia pudding cups for convenience. Roasted versions reduce beany notes.

• Plant-based dairy: Thickens nut milks, yogurts creating authentic spoonable texture at 2-3% usage. Omega-3 fortification for premium positioning. Heat stable for cooked pudding bases.

• Confectionery: Chia gel replaces gelatin in vegan marshmallows, jams with fiber boost. Seed crunch in chocolate coatings surviving tempering. Clean label appeal vs synthetic fibers.

Other Industry Applications

In cosmetics, chia seed oil provides omega-3 rich non-greasy emollient for anti-aging serums. In animal feed, improves laying hen omega-3 egg content. In textiles, uses mucilage as natural warp sizing. In paper coating, improves print quality with fiber adhesion.