Bob’s Red Mill Natural Foods Whole Flaxseed 13oz (368g) Exp Jan 2026

Nutrients and Flax
Don’t let the tiny, unimposing size of brown flax seeds fool you: the potential benefits of flaxseed are mighty. For instance, flaxseeds are an excellent source of soluble fiber. They are also the most widely available botanical source of omega-3 fatty acids. Most adults don't consume nearly enough omega-3s, and eating flax seeds is an easy and tasty way to get these essential fatty acids in your diet!

Studies also indicate that regular consumption of flax seeds may help maintain blood sugar levels, prevent high blood pressure and reduce cholesterol levels. Brown flax seeds are also a source of lignans, a phytonutrient with potential health benefits, and contain 6 grams of plant-based protein per 3 tablespoon serving.

Uses for Flax
Flax seeds can be eaten whole, sprouted or ground. The nutrients in ground flaxseed are better digested by the body, and fortunately it’s easy to make ground flaxseed at home: just whirl them in a coffee grinder or blender to crack the outer hull and release the benefits of brown flax in seconds.

History of Flax
Flax has been cultivated for thousands of years as a source of textiles, food and oil. In fact, there’s evidence that wild flax was spun and dyed in Paleolithic times! While flax was initially cultivated in the Fertile Crescent, it quickly spread to Syria, Germany, Switzerland, China and India. Flax held an important role in Egyptian society as a symbol of purity: not only were priests only dressed in linen, but mummies were wrapped in it.

In the Middle Ages, Europe became a major player in flax production, where it was raised for fiber and oil. Flax later spread to North America, where it flourished until the rise of cotton, which was cheaper to grow, limited production.

Today, fiber from flax is used to make linen, which is commonly used to create clothes, sheets and other housewares like napkins and tablecloths. Flax is also still a major source of oil and delicious flaxseed, which is prized for its high content of lignans, fiber, protein and essential fatty acids.

Cooking with Flax Seeds
Add whole or ground flax seed to baked goods like bread, muffins, bars, biscuits, crackers, granola and cookies. Sprinkle flax seeds on hot cereal or yogurt, or add to other recipes for extra nutrition and a nutty flavor.