Chia seed specialist Benexia has launched what it claims is a ‘first-of-its-kind’ innovation under its Seeds of Wellness brand: chia seed milk.

Claimed to be the first ever plant-based milk made from whole chia seeds, the milk alternative provides a source of protein, fibre and omega-3 fats, with a nutty flavour also offered by the seeds.

Each 8oz serving delivers 740mg of plant-based omega-3, and according to the brand, three times more protein than typical rice milks, while offering four times more fibre than oat or almond milks currently on the market. It contains no added sugar and is fortified with calcium and vitamin D while containing only 25 calories per serving.

Benexia is a field-to-shelf chia ingredients specialist, vertically integrated from chia agricultural production to final ingredient solutions and distribution.

The group said its chia farms rely exclusively on rainwater as a watering source and follow regenerative agriculture practices. The chia seeds used in the new milk alternative are processed without the use of water, solvents or enzymes, using a nearly zero-waste and zero-water process from seed to packaging. Water is only introduced as the main ingredient in the final product.

Seeds of Wellness’ proprietary micro-filling process to grind up whole chia seeds preserves their nutrition and flavour properties, Benexia added, resulting in a creamy and smooth drink that can be used in many applications such as smoothies, coffee, tea, baking, cereals and more.

The beverage, which is free from major allergens including dairy, gluten, soya and nuts, is available now in original flavour, with a vanilla variant soon to follow.

Sandra Gillot, CEO and co-founder of Benexia, said: “We are chia experts. We grow chia, we study chia, and we harness the nutritional power of chia to deliver wholesome products that we believe consumers deserve.”

“We looked at the best milk alternatives on the market and asked ourselves how we could elevate options for consumers. From seed to shelf, every aspect of Seeds of Wellness Chia Milk is designed with human and planet health in mind.”

Seeds of Wellness Chia Milk is available in the US now at select Costco locations, as well as via Amazon for nationwide shipping.