'First’ organic chia enters US market

'First’ organic chia enters US market
By Lorraine Heller
07-Apr-2009

http://www.foodnavigator-usa.com/content/view/print/242583

‘Superfood’ firm Navitas Naturals has launched what it claims to be the first organically certified chia seed product available on the North American market.

The firm said it will supply the omega-3-rich seed both to the retail market and to the manufacturing sector.

Chia is the edible seed of the desert plant Salvia hispanica, a member of the mint family, which grows in Latin American countries including Mexico, Argentina and Peru. The seeds are said to be a significant source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. They are also rich in fiber (over 5 percent soluble fiber), protein (over 20 percent), amino acids, and a range of nutrients, vitamins and minerals (including calcium, B vitamins, zinc, boron, potassium, copper and phosphorus). They are also said to be a stable source of antioxidants.

“Modern consumers’ appetite for international food, combined with the growing trend for healthier organic options, is fueling the popularity of organic ‘power foods’ from around the world,” stated the company.

“By reintroducing ancient natural foods to the Western world, Navitas Naturals is expanding the functional food category and providing options with more bio-available essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals than most supplements and chemical extracts.”

Navitas said it sources its chia from the highlands of Mexico, where it is “sustainably harvested”. The product is USDA organic certified, said the firm.

The company explained that the essential fatty acid profile of chia seeds provides omega-3s and omega-6s in a ratio of 3:2.

to read the full article:
http://www.foodnavigator-usa.com/Financial-Industry/First-organic-chia-enters-US-market/?c=NAUpDVS3q2rXe8ZdclLApg%3D%3D&utm_source=newsletter_weekly&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Newsletter%2BWeekly