Applications of chia (Salvia hispanica L.) in food products

Besides the nutritional benefits of chia incorporation in food products the technological effects are emphasized very often. Summarized in five main topics, most authors conclude that chia is a valuable food ingredient for functional food development. The application of chia in baked goods for example is beneficial not only to improve the nutritional value but acting as hydrocolloid or substitute egg, fat or gluten. The increase of oil stability and applications as food thickener in novel food applications are of high importance too. As different chia fractions give various options for applications the utilization of chia for further food products will increase significantly in the future.