Linwoods Organic Whole Chia Seeds (400g)

Product Summary

100% Organic Whole Chia (Salvia hispanica) Seeds.

Key Features

• Organic
• Simply plant-based
• Natural plant goodness
• Source of fibre and protein: Protein contributes to the growth and maintenance of muscle mass and the maintenance of normal bones.
• High in omega 3 (ALA): contributes to the maintenance of normal blood cholesterol levels.
• Phosphorus: contributes to the maintenance of normal bones and health
• Suitable for vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free diets

Preparation and Usage

• Add 15g to your favourite dish, smoothie or drink.
• 15g = x1 dessertspoonful
• Examples: Porridge, yoghurt, smoothie and overnight oats

Ingredients

Organic Whole Chia (Salvia hispanica) Seeds

Allergy Advice

• Nuts - May Contain
• Sesame - May Contain
• Soya - May Contain

Storage

Keep refrigerated after opening.

Consume within 45 days and best before end date.

FAQs Answered by experts

Can You Consume Chia Seeds Raw or Do They Have to be Cooked?

Yes, you can consume either raw or cooked chia seeds,** whichever you like. It is safe to consume them raw, but it is better to soak them in water, milk, or some liquid such as juice beforehand. This is because chia seeds absorb 10 times their weight in liquid! If you eat them dry without enough liquid, they can expand in your throat or stomach and might cause discomfort or choking, especially if you don't have a lot of water with them. Soaking them makes them soft and gives them a gel-like consistency, which is easier to digest. Add soaked seeds to porridge, yoghurt, overnight oats, or even baking. If you're blending them into smoothies, you may mix them dry or soaked, based on the thickness of your smoothie. Consume plenty of water whenever you add chia seeds to your meals.

How Much Chia Seed Is Safe to Eat Per Day?

The recommended chia seeds are approximately 15 grams daily, roughly one dessert spoonful. This quantity gives you a good balance of omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, protein, and minerals without overindulging. Taking too much can upset your stomach because chia seeds are very high in fibre content. Excessive fibre intake at once may lead to bloating, gas, or stomach cramps if your body is not accustomed to it. Start with a smaller amount and gradually increase the intake over time if you want to eat more. Others consume up to 30 grams (two spoonfuls) daily, but listen to your body. Additionally, drink plenty of fluids when consuming chia seeds, as they expand in the stomach and require liquid to function correctly. If you have any health conditions, please consult a medical professional before increasing your intake.

Can Chia Seeds Aid Digestion or Weight Management?

Chia seeds are also widely used to aid digestion and weight management due to their dense fibre content. The fibre helps make your digestive system operate well, helping prevent constipation and maintain a healthy gut. When chia seeds absorb liquid, they swell up and become gel-like. This can make you feel fuller for longer, which may help reduce your daily food intake. This is why chia can be an invaluable food for someone trying to lose weight healthily. However, chia seeds aren't a miracle weight-reducing food; they're only at their best in an overall well-structured diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole foods, and regular exercise. Eating them daily in limited quantities can be part of a healthy eating routine, but consuming them in excess will not produce quicker effects and could be potentially harmful to the stomach.

Are Chia Seeds Okay for Kids and Teenagers to Eat?

Yes, chia seeds can be consumed by children and teenagers, including those as young as 4 years old, as long as they are taken in small, age-specific amounts. They have nutrient-rich compounds like omega-3 fats, protein, and minerals that help create strong bones and muscles. However, because chia seeds expand in water, younger children must be given pre-soaked seeds and supervised while they eat them. This reduces the chance of choking and helps with digestion. Teenagers may have the standard adult intake of 15 grams a day, provided they are consuming sufficient fluids. If your child suffers from an allergy—e.g., to sesame, nuts, or soya—it's very important to check labelling closely, as foods including chia might include traces of these. If you're unsure whether chia seeds suit your child, you should speak with your dietitian or GP, especially if they have any food sensitivities or digestive issues.

Do Chia Seeds Lose Their Nutrients When Heated?

Yes, you can bake and cook with chia seeds, and they will maintain most of their nutritional content even when heated. While a small amount of omega-3 (ALA) will break down with very high heat, all the major nutrients—like fibre, protein, and minerals, including phosphorus and calcium—survive. Chia seeds can be added to bread, muffins, pancakes, or granola bars. They can also replace eggs in vegan recipes by mixing one tablespoon of chia seeds and three tablespoons of water together to form a gel. This combination can replace a single egg in recipes. The seeds won't change the flavour too much but will introduce a bit of a crunch or chewy texture depending on how you add them to recipes. When you need to keep more healthy fats, use them in raw recipes like energy balls, overnight oats, or smoothies.