What You Need to Know About the Chia Seed Recall

If you regularly eat fiber- and omega-3-rich chia seeds, it's time to look at your stash of sprouted seeds and powders to make sure they're safe for consumption. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Canada Food Inspection Agency have expanded a recent recall to include a number of popular chia-filled products from brands like Navitas Naturals, Organic Traditions, and GreenSmoothieGirl. Investigation is underway to determine exactly how these products were contaminated, but the CDC and FDA have identified organic sprouted chia seeds, which are also used to make chia powder, as the most likely culprit. At least 65 salmonella infections in the US and Canada have been linked to sprouted chia seed products since May, and consumers are encouraged to discontinue use of the products immediately. Check the CDC website for a full list of US chia seed products and the CFIA for a full list of the Canadian chia seed products that have been recalled.

If you rely on sprouted chia or chia powder as a primary source of fiber in your breakfast smoothie, look to these other smart smoothie add-ins like flax seeds for nutritious inspiration.