Flax Seed Meal

Flax seed meal is made from ground flax seeds. Flax seeds are small, edible seeds from the plant Linum usitatissimum, native to the region extending from the eastern Mediterranean to India. The seeds are typically cleaned, dried, and then milled into a coarse meal.

Flax seed meal is often used as a source of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids in foods. Manufacturers add it to baked goods like breads, muffins, and granola bars to boost their nutritional profile. It can also be used as a binder in vegetarian and vegan recipes, replacing eggs.

Flax seed meal is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It is a good source of dietary fiber, lignans, and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid. JECFA has evaluated flax seed and found no safety concerns at typical consumption levels. Some studies suggest potential benefits for heart health and digestion due to its fiber and omega-3 content, but more research is needed to confirm these effects.