Flax Seed
What is Flax Seed?
Flax seed is the tiny, oil-rich seed of the flax plant, native to the region between the eastern Mediterranean and India. The seeds are typically harvested, cleaned, and dried. They can be consumed whole, ground, or pressed to extract their oil.
Is Flax Seed vegan?
Flax Seed is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Flax Seed gluten-free?
It does not contain gluten.
Is Flax Seed a major allergen?
Flax seed is not one of the 9 FDA major allergens.
What is Flax Seed used for?
Flax seed is often added to foods for its nutritional value, acting as a source of fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Is Flax Seed safe?
Flax seed is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food.
Why it's used
Flax seed is often added to foods for its nutritional value, acting as a source of fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids. It is commonly found in baked goods like breads, muffins, and crackers, as well as in cereals, granola bars, and smoothies.
Health notes
Flax seed is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It is a good source of dietary fiber and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid. Some research suggests that flax seed may have benefits for heart health and digestion due to its fiber and ALA content, but more research is needed. JECFA has evaluated flax seed and did not set a numeric limit (ADI not specified).
Allergen info
Flax seed is not one of the 9 FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.
Foods that contain Flax Seed
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