Wheat Free Flour Targets Development of Nutritionally Dense Foods

Nuchia 100% Chia Seed Flour is Gluten Free raw whole grain and offers many attributes for health-conscious consumers who want wellness foods but who don't want to give up baked goods

ORLANDO, FL (March 7, 2011) -- Nuchia Foods Corp. has announced its launch of 100% Chia Seed Flour that is nutritionally dense, gluten free and is an easy-to-work-with food ingredient that can improve the appearance, quality and nutritional value of foods and beverages aimed at the burgeoning consumer demand for wellness convenience foods.

"Chia seed flour is a natural hydrocolloid and provides outstanding opportunities for manufacturers to create new varieties of wellness-oriented baked convenience foods," says Homer Hartage, President of Nuchia Foods Corp.

Nuchia 100% Chia Seed Flour is made from chia seed, long known as the super-food of ancient cultures, rediscovered by Arizona professor Dr. Wayne Coates. Interest in these seeds and the health benefits they offer has grown in recent years. Laboratory studies have shown chia seed to be a viable antioxidant with an ORAC value of 11,100 and provides 12 essential minerals. A 100-gram serving yields the consumer 5.5 grams of omega-3, 2 grams of omega-6, 47 grams insoluble fiber, 830 mg calcium, 910 mg potassium, and 510 mg of magnesium. Nuchia's 100% Chia Seed Flour is low-fat, and free of sodium, sugar and gluten and has a neutral taste and smell.

For example: two-tablespoons contains 530 milligrams (0.53 grams) of omega-3, which amounts to a full 30% of the recommended daily intake for men and 50% for women; 63 milligrams of calcium, 7 grams of fiber and 5 grams of protein. It also contains 12 essential minerals, making it one of the most nutrient-dense foods in the world.

"In our efforts to create the world’s best gluten free flour that can replace wheat flour cup for cup and compete on taste, we now can offer a shelf-stable, versatile and nutritionally dense food ingredient that can help stave off malnutrition," Hartage describes.

Food manufacturing technology combined with superlative ingredients with health value have created a new food arena for consumers to enjoy eating healthier versions of old favorites considered the ultimate "diet no-no's." For instance: heart-healthy dark-chocolate brownies that provide solid levels of Omega 3 EFAs and antioxidants; as well as whole grain breads, snack chips and pastas delivering essential minerals, Omega 3 EFAs, fiber and antioxidants. "Now more than ever, Americans will be able to enjoy comfort foods that actually nutritionally support healthy weight and blood sugar management, and cardiovascular health," Hartage says.

Dr. David C. Nieman, director of the Human Performance Lab, Appalachian State University is currently studying chia seed's influence on weight loss, cardiovascular health, insulin/blood sugar, and inflammation. Nuchia Chia Seed Flour is generating enthusiastic interest from bakers and food companies throughout the United States as well as international interest as far as United Arab Emirates, Haiti, Israel, Canada and Australia.