Where Are Chia Seeds in the Grocery Store?
The health food section, bulk food section, organic food section, baking aisle, bulk food bins, and spice aisle are all places where grocery stores may keep chia seeds. Shoppers may also find them in the aisle where rice and dry beans are sold.
Stores That Sell Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are available at most grocery stores these days, particularly those that keep up with modern trends and those that sell organic or healthy foods. National chains like Kroger, Publix, Trader Joe’s, Walmart, Target, Whole Foods, Aldi, and Safeway all carry them. Shoppers may also find them at local health food stores and stores like GNC that sell nutritional supplements. They’re even available online through retailers like Amazon and Thrive Market.
Whole vs. Ground Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are available for sale in two forms: whole and ground. Whole chia seeds last longer and typically contain more nutrients, but ground seeds are easier to cook with and incorporate into recipes. Shoppers who can only find whole chia seeds in their local grocery stores may choose to grind them up themselves.
Other Tips for Buying Chia Seeds
When shopping for chia seeds, many experts recommend buying from reputable brands that get their seeds from countries with high standards for food production. Bob’s Red Mill, The Chia Co., and Nutiva are all reputable, according to Bon Appetit. If possible, buy organic chia seeds or chia seeds that claim to be free of harmful chemicals. Buying in bulk may be cheaper than buying small packages, but chia seeds do not have a long shelf life. Seeds are usually black and white. Some may appear brown, but those are typically not mature and may not taste good or offer full nutrition.
What Are Chia Seeds?
Chia seeds were once hard to find, but today, they’re everywhere, including grocery stores. They also come baked into foods like granola bars and crackers, and they’re even served in restaurants in dishes, like salads and desserts. They come from the Salvia hispanica plant, a type of mint that grows in Mexico and Guatemala. Historians believe the Mayan and Aztec cultures used the seeds to provide energy. When Chia seeds are wet, they soak up about 10 times their weight in liquid and form a gel.
Chia Seeds Nutritional Facts
Chia seeds also contain high amounts of calcium, phosphorus, manganese, magnesium, and protein. They contain antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids as well. An ounce of chia seeds contains 11 grams of fiber, 4 grams of protein, and 9 grams of fat. An ounce also contains 30 percent of the daily recommended intake of magnesium and manganese, 27 percent of the daily recommended intake of phosphorus, and 18 percent of the daily recommended intake of calcium.
Health Benefits of Chia Seeds
Throughout the 2010s, chia seeds became known as a superfood for their many health benefits. While they’re low in calories, they’re high in fiber and can help a person feel full. For this reason, they’re considered a healthy weight loss tool by some. Studies have shown that they may help reduce blood sugar, prevent heart disease, and fight against chronic inflammation. They’re also good for bone health.
How to Use Chia Seeds
Smoothies, puddings, and salads are just a few of the ways people incorporate chia seeds into their diets. People sprinkle them into oatmeal, rice dishes, cereal, and yogurt. They can also take the place of eggs and other thickening agents in recipes. Chia seed pudding has become a popular healthy treat because it’s easy to make. Mix the seeds with a liquid like milk, juice, or water, and add anything from fruit to spices to flavor it.
