Salvia hispanica, more commonly known as Chia seeds, is an herb that, due to its high omega-3, calcium, phosphorous and manganese content, has become a staple in smoothies and yogurt toppings for health-conscious trend followers.
The seeds, which are purported to make you feel fuller faster and to help reduce food cravings and block calorie absorption, have enjoyed a surge in popularity in recent years due to endorsements by guys like Dr. Oz and Dr. Andrew Weil who herald them as "Just about the healthiest thing around" and "A healthful and interesting addition to my diet," respectively.
Indeed, they're the perfect, easy addition to salads, juices, etc. because they're so simple; sprinkle in or toss on a handful and you've instantly upped the nutritional content of whatever you're putting into your body.
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It's the ease (and relative non-taste) of Chia seeds that's helped make them so popular but with the news of a massive multi-state recall their attractiveness may suffer a setback.
The CDC has issued a warning, linking chia products to 21 cases of salmonella poisoning in 12 U.S. states (similar occurrences have happened in Canada).
If you're a Chia user, be sure to check your cupboards for any of the products listed below and, even if you've used one of them and not gotten sick yet, you're best bet is to toss it or bring it back to the market for a refund -- don't take any chances.
•Navitas Naturals Organic Sprouted Chia Powder
•Navitas Naturals Omega Blend Sprouted Smoothie Mix
•Williams-Sonoma Omega 3 Smoothie Mixer
•Organic Traditions Sprouted Chia Seed Powder
•Organic Traditions Sprouted Chia and Flax Seed Powder
•Green Smoothie Girl Sprouted Ground TriOmega Superfood (silver pouch)
•Green Smoothie Girl Sprouted Ground TriOmega Superfood (gold pouch)
•Navitas Naturals Organic Sprouted Chia Powder
•Navitas Naturals Omega Blend Sprouted Smoothie Mix
•Williams-Sonoma Omega 3 Smoothie Mixer
And, you can click
here for more info and warnings from the CDC.
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