Chia Seeds: Full Macro & Calorie Guide
Chia Seeds contains 486 kcal per 100g, with 16.5g of protein, 42.1g of carbohydrates, and 30.7g of fat. At 486 kcal per 100g, it is an energy-dense food. A naturally keto-friendly food, thanks to its minimal carbohydrate content. It is suitable for vegans.
- Allergens: None of the major allergens
- Dietary: Keto, Paleo, Halal, Kosher, Vegan, Vegetarian
- Key Micronutrients (per 100g): Iron 7.72mg, Calcium 631.0mg, Vitamin C 1.6mg
UK nutrition data · FSA traffic lights · Reference Intakes
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Based on FSA traffic-light thresholds per 100g
| Nutrient | Per | Per 100g | % RI* |
|---|
*Reference Intake of an average adult (8400kJ / 2000kcal)
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Nutritional Overview
Chia Seeds is a nutrient-dense food rich in healthy fats, often eaten as a snack or ingredient. Per 100g serving, it provides 486 kcal of energy, 16.5g of protein, 42.1g of carbohydrates, and 30.7g of fat.
Under UK FSA traffic-light labelling, this food is classified as high in fat with 30.7g per 100g (3.3g of which is saturated). The NHS recommends that fat makes up no more than 35% of daily energy intake. Portion awareness is advisable when including it regularly.
With only 0.0g of sugar per 100g, it meets the UK/EU "low sugar" nutrition-claim threshold. This makes it a suitable choice for those reducing their sugar intake as part of a balanced diet.
It provides 17,552mg of omega-3 fatty acids per 100g. The British Nutrition Foundation recommends eating at least one portion of oily fish (including Caviar (black, sturgeon) and Oscietra Caviar) per week for heart health. Omega-3s, particularly EPA and DHA, are linked to reduced inflammation, improved cardiovascular function, and cognitive benefits.
This food is a useful source of iron, providing 7.7mg per 100g. The UK recommended intake is 8.7mg for men and 14.8mg for women per day. Iron is essential for producing haemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood. Low iron intake is the most common nutritional deficiency in the UK.
With 631mg of calcium per 100g, it contributes meaningfully to daily calcium needs (the UK recommendation is 700mg for adults). Calcium is vital for maintaining strong bones and teeth, as well as supporting normal muscle and nerve function.
Each 100g serving provides 34.4g of dietary fibre per 100g, meeting the UK/EU "high fibre" nutrition-claim threshold. The UK government recommends 30g of fibre per day for adults. Adequate fibre intake supports healthy digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and may reduce the risk of heart disease and bowel cancer.
Each 100g serving contains 0.02g of salt, meeting the UK/EU "low salt" nutrition-claim threshold. The NHS recommends adults consume no more than 6g of salt per day, so choosing lower-salt foods like this one makes it easier to stay within that limit and supports healthy blood pressure.
Chia Seeds is suitable for ketogenic (with only 42.1g of carbs per 100g), vegan, halal and kosher diets, making it a versatile choice for households with mixed dietary requirements.
This is an energy-dense food at 486 kcal per 100g, largely due to its fat content (30.7g per 100g). Fat provides 9 calories per gram, more than double that of protein or carbohydrates. While it can be part of a balanced diet, portion control is recommended to avoid exceeding daily calorie needs. Chia Seeds's real energy value is 486 kcal per 100g. Our meal nutritional value calculator adds that straight into your day's running total.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in Chia Seeds?
Chia Seeds contains 486 kcal per 100g, which is approximately 24% of the recommended daily intake of 2,000 kcal for an average adult. This is considered energy-dense.
Is Chia Seeds high in fat?
Yes, according to FSA traffic-light guidelines, Chia Seeds is classified as high in fat with 30.7g per 100g (the threshold is 17.5g). Of this, 3.3g is saturated fat.
Is Chia Seeds low in sugar?
Yes, Chia Seeds has only 0.0g of sugar per 100g, meeting the UK/EU "low sugar" nutrition-claim threshold.
Is Chia Seeds low in salt?
Yes, Chia Seeds contains only 0.02g of salt per 100g, meeting the UK/EU "low salt" nutrition-claim threshold. This makes it a suitable choice for those managing their sodium intake as part of a heart-healthy diet.
Is Chia Seeds high in fibre?
Yes, Chia Seeds provides 34.4g of dietary fibre per 100g, meeting the UK/EU "high fibre" nutrition-claim threshold. The UK government recommends 30g of fibre per day for adults.
Is Chia Seeds keto-friendly?
Yes, with only 42.1g of carbohydrates per 100g, Chia Seeds fits within a standard ketogenic diet that typically limits carbs to 20-50g per day.
Is Chia Seeds suitable for vegans?
Yes, Chia Seeds is suitable for a vegan diet as it contains no animal-derived ingredients. It provides 486 kcal and 16.5g of protein per 100g.
Is Chia Seeds halal?
Yes, Chia Seeds is considered halal. However, preparation methods and cross-contamination may vary, so always verify with the specific brand or supplier.
Is Chia Seeds free from major allergens?
Chia Seeds does not contain any of the 14 major allergens recognised under UK food law. However, cross-contamination during manufacturing is always possible; always check the packaging for 'may contain' warnings.
Is Chia Seeds a good source of iron?
Chia Seeds contains 7.72mg of iron per 100g. The UK recommended daily intake is 8.7mg for men and 14.8mg for women. Iron is essential for red blood cell production and preventing anaemia.
Is Chia Seeds a good source of calcium?
Chia Seeds provides 631mg of calcium per 100g. The UK recommended daily intake is 700mg for adults. Calcium is vital for strong bones, teeth, and muscle function.
Does Chia Seeds contain omega-3 fatty acids?
Yes, Chia Seeds contains 17,552mg of total omega-3 fatty acids per 100g. Omega-3s are essential fats that support heart health, brain function, and may reduce inflammation.
Why is Chia Seeds so high in calories?
At 486 kcal per 100g, Chia Seeds is energy-dense, primarily due to its high fat content (30.7g per 100g). Fat provides 9 calories per gram, more than double that of protein or carbohydrates.
Sources & References
- British Nutrition Foundation — UK nutrition science and education
- McCance & Widdowson's Composition of Foods — UK food composition tables
- USDA FoodData Central — US Department of Agriculture food composition database — View Chia Seeds data
- NHS Eat Well — UK National Health Service dietary guidance
- Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN) — UK government dietary recommendations and nutrient reference values
- World Health Organization (WHO) Nutrition — global dietary guidelines and public health nutrition
Nutritional values are per 100g unless otherwise stated and are provided for general information only. Not a substitute for professional dietary or medical advice. If you have a health condition, allergy, or are pregnant, consult a qualified healthcare professional. Values may vary depending on brand, preparation method, and serving size.
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