Chia Seeds Information and Supply

Chia Seed

At Uren Food Group, we take pride in sourcing and providing the highest quality chia seeds from our suppliers in Paraguay.

Our extensive selection includes both organic and conventional varieties to cater to diverse preferences. Grown in the fertile lands of Paraguay, our chia seeds are nurtured with utmost care to ensure optimal nutrition and exceptional taste. Whether you prefer the purity of organic or the flexibility of conventional chia seeds, we have you covered. Experience the goodness of these nutrient-rich powerhouses, perfect for incorporating into your healthy recipes and boosting your well-being.

Ever wondered how Chia arrives in the shops? What processes it takes to get it there?

Cultivation and Harvesting

Chia plants (Salvia hispanica) are typically grown as an annual crop. The plants require well-drained soil and a warm climate. Chia seeds are ready for harvesting when the flower heads have dried and turned brown. The timing of the harvest is crucial to ensure that the seeds are fully matured.

Threshing and Cleaning

Once the chia plants are harvested, the next step is to remove the seeds from the flower heads. This can be done through threshing, which involves beating or shaking the plants to dislodge the seeds. After threshing, the seeds undergo a cleaning process to remove any impurities such as stems, leaves, or debris.

Drying

Chia seeds have a high moisture content after harvesting, so they need to be dried to reduce their moisture levels for storage and preservation. This is typically done using low-temperature drying methods to avoid damaging the seeds' nutritional properties.

Packaging and Processing

After drying, the chia seeds are usually packaged in bags or other suitable containers for transportation. In some cases, the seeds may undergo additional processing steps, such as sorting by size and colour or removing any remaining impurities.

Quality Control and Export

Chia seeds intended for export undergo quality control measures to ensure they meet international standards and regulations. This may involve testing for purity, moisture content, and other quality parameters. Once the seeds pass the quality control checks, they are prepared for export, complying with the necessary documentation and customs procedures.

What are the Health benefits of including Chia into your diet?

Chia seeds are highly regarded for their nutritional value and potential health benefits. Here are some key health benefits associated with chia seeds:

Nutrient-rich

• Chia seeds are packed with essential nutrients, including fibre, protein, healthy fats (particularly omega-3 fatty acids), vitamins (such as thiamine, niacin, and vitamin E), and minerals (including calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus).
• Despite their small size, chia seeds offer a concentrated dose of nutrients.

Rich in Fiber

• Chia seeds are an excellent source of dietary fibre.
• They contain both soluble and insoluble fibre, which can support healthy digestion, promote regular bowel movements, and contribute to a feeling of fullness, which may aid in weight management.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

• Chia seeds are one of the richest plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).
• These essential fatty acids play a vital role in brain health, heart health, and reducing inflammation in the body.

Antioxidant Properties

• Chia seeds contain antioxidants that help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
• Antioxidants have been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and certain types of cancer.

Blood Sugar Regulation

• The high fibre and protein content in chia seeds can help stabilize blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
• This can be beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those aiming to manage their blood sugar levels.

Weight Management

• Chia seeds can help with weight management due to their high fibre and protein content.
• The combination of fibre and protein promotes feelings of satiety, potentially reducing overall calorie intake.

Bone Health

• Chia seeds are a good source of several minerals essential for bone health, including calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus.
• These minerals are crucial for maintaining strong bones and may help reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

Hydration

• When soaked in liquid, chia seeds form a gel-like substance that can retain several times their weight in water.
• This property can help with hydration and maintaining electrolyte balance, making chia seeds a popular choice among athletes and individuals needing sustained energy.

While there are no distinct "types" of chia seeds, you may find variations in colour. The most common types are black and white chia seeds. Nutritionally, there is no significant difference between black and white chia seeds. Both varieties offer similar health benefits and can be incorporated into your diet based on personal preference and availability.

Uses for Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are incredibly versatile and can be incorporated into various dishes and recipes. Here are some popular ways to use chia seeds:

Chia Pudding

One of the most popular uses of chia seeds is to make chia pudding. Simply mix chia seeds with your choice of liquid, sweetener, and flavouring and let it sit in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. The chia seeds will absorb the liquid, creating a creamy and nutritious pudding-like texture.

Smoothies

Add a tablespoon or two of chia seeds to your favourite smoothie recipe. The chia seeds will thicken the smoothie and provide an added nutritional boost.

Baked Goods

Chia seeds can be added to baked goods like muffins, bread, and cookies to enhance their nutritional profile. Sprinkle a tablespoon or two of chia seeds into the batter or dough before baking.

Toppings

Sprinkle chia seeds on top of yogurt, oatmeal, or cereal to add a crunchy texture and boost the nutritional content of your breakfast.

Salads

Add a tablespoon of chia seeds to salads for an extra crunch and nutritional punch. You can sprinkle them over the top or mix them into the dressing.

Energy Bars and Balls

Chia seeds can be included in homemade energy bars or balls to provide a nutritious boost. Combine them with nuts, dried fruits, nut butter, and other ingredients, then shape into bars or balls for a healthy snack.

Egg Replacer

Chia seeds can act as an egg replacer in vegan baking recipes. To replace one egg, mix one tablespoon of chia seeds with three tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it forms a gel-like consistency. Use this mixture as a substitute for eggs in recipes.

Chia Jam

Make a healthier version of jam by combining mashed fruit with chia seeds. The chia seeds will help thicken the mixture naturally, resulting in a delicious, spreadable jam.

Chia Drinks

Chia seeds can be added to beverages for a fun and nutritious twist. Mix chia seeds with water, juice, or herbal tea, and let them sit for a while to allow the seeds to absorb the liquid. The result is a refreshing drink with a gel-like texture.

Chia Egg Pudding

Mix chia seeds with your choice of milk, sweetener, and flavouring to create a creamy chia seed pudding. The seeds will absorb the liquid and form a gel-like consistency similar to tapioca pudding.

Remember that chia seeds absorb liquid and develop a gel-like texture when soaked, so it's important to drink plenty of water when consuming chia seeds to prevent any discomfort.

Get in Touch

If you have any questions or comments about Uren's chia seed products, feel free to get in touch with us. Our team is passionate about providing our customers with the finest quality products and exceptional service.