Chia
What is Chia?
Chia seeds are the tiny edible seeds of the Salvia hispanica plant, a member of the mint family native to Mexico and Guatemala. The seeds are harvested from the plant and are typically consumed whole or ground.
Is Chia vegan?
Chia is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Chia gluten-free?
They do not contain gluten.
Is Chia a major allergen?
Chia seeds are not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
What is Chia used for?
Manufacturers add chia seeds for their nutritional content, particularly their fibre and omega-3 fatty acid profile.
Is Chia safe?
Chia seeds are not considered a food additive and are widely consumed as a food ingredient.
Why it's used
Manufacturers add chia seeds for their nutritional content, particularly their fibre and omega-3 fatty acid profile. They are often incorporated into breakfast cereals, baked goods, yoghurts, and smoothies, where they can also act as a thickener due to their ability to absorb liquid.
Health notes
Chia seeds are not considered a food additive and are widely consumed as a food ingredient. They are a source of dietary fibre, which can contribute to digestive health. Some research suggests that the soluble fibre in chia seeds may help to slow the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. EFSA has evaluated chia seeds in the context of novel foods, and they are authorised for use in the EU and Great Britain.
Allergen info
Chia seeds are not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. They do not contain gluten.
Foods that contain Chia
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