Chia seeds (Salvia hispanica) are commercially available in black and white varieties, valued for their omega-3 (ALA), fiber, and protein content. Bolivia, Paraguay, and Mexico are the traditional origins, with Australia and Argentina as growing sources. Compare chia seed suppliers and chia seed manufacturers on Nutrada by color, origin, and certification.
Chia seeds are small, oval seeds that absorb up to 12 times their weight in water, forming a gel-like texture. In food manufacturing, they are used in bakery products, cereals, energy bars, smoothie packs, puddings, and as an egg replacer in vegan formulations. People often combine them in recipes with flaxseed and hemp seeds. They are one of the richest plant sources of omega-3 fatty acids (alpha-linolenic acid). Chia is approved as a Novel Food in the EU with specific labeling requirements.
Chia seeds are usually harvested from late summer to early fall, around August to October. They grow best in warm, dry areas with lots of sunlight. When the plants flower and the seeds are ready, they are collected, cleaned, and prepared for various uses.
Chia is grown in various regions around the world. These regions are the source for the global supply of chia seeds, with more planting happening due to the growing demand. The countries that are best known for their chia production, are:
Chia seeds have moved from a niche superfood to becoming a common part of many diets. People like them for their health benefits and how they can be used in different ways. They are now found in health foods, drinks, vegan baking, and dietary supplements. There is an increasing demand for organic and non-GMO chia seeds, especially in Europe and North America.
Chia seeds can absorb liquid and form a gel-like texture. This makes them popular for plant-based puddings, as substitutes for eggs, and as texture enhancers. Food companies are getting creative by adding chia seeds to protein bars, granolas, cereals, drinks, and even pasta. Growth is driven by the superfood trend, demand for omega-3 plant sources, and expansion of chia into mainstream bakery and breakfast products. EU Novel Food regulation (max 15g chia per serving in certain categories) affects product development.
Nutrada matches buyers with verified chia seed suppliers from important areas like Paraguay, Mexico, and Australia. Whether you need white or black chia, ground chia, or chia protein, on Nutrada you will find certified suppliers who meet various quality and safety standards.
Bulk chia seeds are packed in 25 kg polypropylene bags or paper bags, palletized in 20-foot containers (approximately 20 metric tons per container). Shelf life is 18–24 months in cool, dry storage.
Key specifications: purity (percentage of foreign matter), moisture content (<10%), omega-3 content (ALA), and Salmonella/E.coli testing. Chia seeds are prone to insect infestation if not stored properly, fumigation certificates may be required.
Private label chia seeds are sold in resealable pouches (200g, 500g, 1 kg) in the health food aisle. Chia pudding mixes and chia-based snack products are growing private label formats. White chia seeds are sometimes positioned as premium.
Organic chia seeds are well-supplied from Bolivia, Paraguay, and Argentina. Request EU Organic certification, pesticide residue testing, and confirm Novel Food compliance for the EU market. Organic chia from South American origins is competitively priced due to established organic farming traditions.
Nutrada's platform helps you find chia manufacturers from around the world. Forget about Google and other directories, Nutrada can help you source chia seeds with confidence.
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