Superfoods & Herbs

Sesame (Sesamum indicum) is an annual steppe grass and one of the world's oldest cultivated oilseed plants. The black sesame seed is a naturally occurring variety, not a colored version of the more common white seed.Common in Japanese cuisineThe black seed is particularly common in Japanese cooking, including in the spice blend gomashio (sesame and salt) which is traditionally sprinkled over rice.What black sesame seeds containBlack sesame seeds contain calcium, zinc, iron, vitamin E, and healthy fatty acids.Uses in the kitchenSuitable for Asian dishes, salads, or sprinkled as a garnish on bread and sushi – its dark color also provides a visual contrast to lighter dishes. Our organic black sesame seeds are an example of how they are typically sold.

Hemp (Cannabis sativa) is one of humanity's oldest cultivated plants, with a history of use spanning over 10,000 years in both Asia and Europe.A plant for fiber, not intoxicationThe hemp varieties cultivated for seeds and fiber are specifically bred to contain negligible amounts of THC, unlike varieties grown for other purposes. Industrial hemp has historically been used for ropes, sails, and fabrics – both Christopher Columbus's ships and the early American flag are said to have been made from hemp fabric.From fiber plant to foodUsing the seeds themselves as food is an older practice that has become significantly more common in the Western world in recent years, where hemp seeds are now sold both whole and hulled.What hemp seeds containHemp seeds contain protein, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, as well as minerals such as magnesium, zinc, iron, potassium, and phosphorus.Good to knowPeople with sensitive stomachs may experience loose stools when consuming larger quantities of hemp seeds.In the kitchenHemp seeds have a mild, nutty flavor and are suitable for salads, porridge, and baking, or sprinkled over yogurt. Our hulled hemp seeds are an example of how they are commonly sold.

Chia seeds have been historically used by the Aztecs and Mayans in Central America, where the seeds were such an important crop that they were used as currency and as offerings in religious ceremonies.From whole seeds to flourChia flour is made by grinding whole chia seeds into a fine powder, which makes the nutrients more accessible than from whole seeds, where the husk can otherwise pass relatively undigested through the digestive system.What chia flour containsChia flour contains omega-3 (ALA), protein, and fiber, as well as minerals such as calcium, potassium, and phosphorus.UsageChia flour is well-suited for gluten-free baking or can be stirred into water for a jelly-like consistency, unlike whole seeds which retain their slightly crispy texture. Our organic chia protein (chia flour) is an example of how it is typically sold.