Organically grown chia. Chia is a member of the mint family. The seeds are either white or black and both types are highly nutritious. Originally grown in Mexico and the Southwest between 1500 and 910 B.C., Chia seeds were an important part of the Aztec and Mayan diet. Chia seeds are surrounded by a layer of water-soluble fibres and when wet can absorb up to 7x their weight in water, forming a mucilaginous gel. This may explain how chia is able to satiate hunger for such extended periods, as the seeds swell in size to fill the stomach. They are high in fibre, protein, and the minerals iron, potassium, calcium and magnesium. Iron contributes to normal transport of oxygen around the body; it also contributes to normal cognitive function, normal function of the immune system and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. Chia is also high in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. These essential fatty acids cannot be synthesized by the human body so must be acquired through diet. Alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid, has been shown to help maintain normal blood cholesterol concentrations. Our subtle tasting chia seeds add texture and volume without affecting flavour.