BENEXIA: CHIA
SEED-BASED INGREDIENTS
Functional and Nutritional Solutions for Animal Nutrition
Consumer preferences are shifting towards sustainable, nutrient-rich solutions, increasing demand for products that prioritize health and environmental responsibility.
Chia, renowned for its nutritional excellence and versatility in human nutrition, offers two exceptional ingredients that support the health and well-being of pets with their exceptional profile of essential nutrients.
Join us in exploring the transformative potential of Benexia ® Xia Oil and Benexia ® Xia Powder 435 W LM in your products, ushering in a new era of animal well-being and vitality, powered by the unparalleled benefits of nature's superfood: chia.
An Ancient Superfood for the 21st Century
The Power of Chia
The seeds of change may start small, but in the right environment, they grow mighty. That can certainly be said of the chia plant, whose minuscule seed grains nourished ancient civilizations for centuries - and has, in recent decades, experienced a revitalization as a superfood ideal for meeting the needs of modern consumers.
Most call Chia a seed, though it’s technically a grain. Regardless of how consumers categorize it, the tiny black or white orbs far surpass their seed or grain counterparts when it comes to nutrition: Chia brings together protein, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, antioxidants, and an array of minerals, all in a package no bigger than a pinhead.
An ancient food with the highest omega-3 content found in nature: with unsuspected health benefits, chia is an amazing sustainable source of essential nutrients.
A unique nutritional profile has enabled for chia to sustain civilizations such as the Aztecs and the Mayans. Today, a mounting body of evidence shows that the grain has the potential to aid in addressing some of our most pressing health concerns, including heart disease, diabetes, inflammation, and neurocognitive and neurodegenerative conditions. Chia’s nutritional components have also proven integral to fetal and child development, positioning it to support the health of coming generations through pre- and postnatal nutrition.
The versatile grains can be enjoyed whole (both raw or soaked) or cold-pressed into a nutrient-dense oil, while the leftover matter can be ground in a fiber- and protein-rich flour.
40% of Dietary Fiber 22% of Proteins 20% of Omega-3
6% of Omega-6 1:4 omega-6:omega-3 ratio
Minerals
Calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium
Vitamins
Phytonutrients
High levels of antioxidants, tocopherols, and plant sterols
A Highly Sustainable Food Source
Chia, too, is a food that supports the health of the planet. Requiring few resources to thrive in its native environment, the crop supports humanity’s need for increased sustainability, reduced water usage, and fewer greenhouse gas emissions in our global food supply.
Chia is, by its very nature, a highly sustainable crop. Grown in its native South America, where it evolved to thrive—it’s the right plant for the right place—and can be grown with minimal additional resources. Benexia, a fully integrated company specializing in the production, processing, and commercialization of chia and chia-based ingredients, has built on these inherent qualities to yield an eco-friendly farming production process that gives back to the local environment, local communities, and the planet at large. Ultimately, chia is a food people can feel good about.
99.95%
the level of purity of chia seeds grown, cleaned and processed by Benexia
After a couple of years of carefully monitored harvests, chia fields are left to rest crop-free for 1-2 years during which grasses are planted and animals can graze. Once the land has been fully replenished and the soil’s inherent nutrient composition is again optimal, a new crop is planted. These crop rotation practices support healthier soil, which in turn yields greater crop resilience as well as more reliable local economic activity.
Chia’s nutrition, sustainability, and versatility make it a highly appealing option for consumers and food manufacturers.
CLEAN, NO-WASTE PRODUCTION METHODS
Fresh from the field, Benexia's newly-harvested chia seeds are processed without the use of gas or water. Seeds are cleaned and separated using physical processes such as airflow and density-based separation methods, yielding a final seed product that's 99.95% pure.
From there, all parts of the seeds are used to ensure that nothing is lost - and no resources are wasted. After the seeds are cleaned, they are pasteurized with a specialized, organically certified process that uses no solvents, chemicals, or water, while the omega-3 rich chia oil is extracted from the seeds via a single cold pressing to retain maximum nutrition capacity. The oil is cleaned and purified through a filter, that, again, requires no chemicals or solvents.
Once the oil is extracted from the seeds, the leftover fibrous matter is dried and milled to separate the fiber from the protein. The powdered chia fiber and protein, now a fine flour, can be incorporated into formulations as a source of zero-waste, functional nutrition.
CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY
Considering Benexia's commitment to the planet, it may come as no surprise that, since its founding in 2005, the company is equally dedicated to supporting the welfare of its local communities. Benexia is aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development goals and is on track to complete its B Corporation certification by 2023.
As a vertically integrated company, 50% of Benexia's partner shareholders are chia seed farmers. This guarantees fair pricing and technical support within the company's supply chain as well as full traceability of their ingredients.
Benexia® Xia Oil
The Highest Natural Plant-based Source of Omega-3
Chia Oil is the edible vegetable oil with the largest content of Omega-3 fatty acids found in nature: over 63% of this oil is composed of this fatty acid. In addition to the high content of Omega-3, chia oil contains significant quantities of bioactive substances, contributing to its outstandingly high Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC), excellent oxidative stability, and significant health benefits.
63% total fat is Omega-3
19% of Omega-6
THE PERFECT BALANCE
A ratio of 1-4:1 of omega-6 to omega-3 is the perfect balance beetween these fatty acids.
In 2015, AAFCO approved specific fatty acid ratios for pet foods. The body uses Omega fatty acids to reduce inflammation and are building blocks for many biochemical pathways. Some of these fatty acids are essential, meaning the body cannot make its own.
As this is a plant-product, these values may be sugest to variation.
Benexia® Xia Oil is naturally free from cholesterol and trans fatty acids
Diet is the richest source of omega fatty acids. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are necessary in dogs, cats, and humans; the ratio they are delivered to the body also matters. AAFCO recommends the omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acid ratio be less than 30:1. For every milligram of omega-3 fatty acids in the diet, the maximum omega-6 allowed is 30 milligrams.
Omega-6 fatty acids are most commonly sourced from meat but are also found in high concentrations in corn, soy, and other grains. Omega-3 fatty acids are most commonly sourced from fish, shellfish, chia seed oil, and other seed plants.
Fatty Acid Profile & Bioactive Components
Health Benefits
Caffeic acid and Coumaric acid showed a positive effect on reducing carcinogenic incidence. It is known to have antimitogenic, anticarcinogenic, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties.
Health Benefits
Emerging data reveal that gamma tocopherol supplies potent protection against cardiovascular disease, cancer, and even neurodegenerative conditions. Gamma tocopherol has superior anti-inflammatory and gene regulatory activities, while alphatocopherol remains a potent antioxidant.
Health Benefits
Numerous clinical trials have demonstrated that daily consumption of plant sterols or stanols lowers serum LDL cholesterol. In addition to the cholesterol-lowering and anti-cancer properties of phytosterols, there is also evidence that these components have antioxidant activity.
Omega-3: Functional Benefits
Omega-3 provides numerous benefits for pets, promoting their overall well-being at all stages of life. Discover how Omega-3 can help improve the pet's health.
Dermatological and Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
Omega-3 offers a range of benefits for pets, starting with its ability to improve skin and fur health. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in reducing inflammation commonly associated with arthritis, thus promoting greater mobility and comfort for pets suffering from this condition.
Cardiovascular Health
Moreover, incorporating omega-3 into a pet's diet has been shown to enhance cardiovascular health, contributing to overall well-being.
Neuroprotective Benefits
As pets age, omega-3 may play a pivotal role in preserving cognitive function by enhancing brain health. This can potentially stave off the deterioration of mental faculties commonly seen in aging animals, allowing them to maintain a higher quality of life for longer periods.
Boots Inmmune System
Furthermore, omega-3 supports a robust immune system, which is vital for pets of all ages. By bolstering immunity, omega-3 helps protect against various ailments and help pets can better fend off infections and diseases.
Fatty Acids Balance
One significant aspect of omega-3 is its balance with omega-6 fatty acids, which is crucial for optimal health. This balance is particularly beneficial for pets dealing with allergies, auto-immune disorders, or inflammatory conditions like dermatitis, pemphigus, rheumatoid arthritis, or glomerulonephritis. Moreover, the natural antioxidants found in omega-3 play a key role in safeguarding the body's cells from damage and strengthening the immune system. In young animals, these antioxidants promote the development of a robust immune system, while in older animals, they contribute to a longer and healthier life by mitigating the effects of aging and enhancing overall vitality.
Omega-3 enhances skin and fur health, reduces inflammation associated with arthritis, supports cardiovascular health, and preserves cognitive function as pets age. Moreover, it bolsters the immune system, balances fatty acids, and provides natural antioxidants, contributing to overall vitality in pets of all ages.
Benexia® Xia Oil Applications
Enhance your Products with Chia Oil
Integrating chia oil into pet products such as dry foods, wet foods, snacks, supplements, and grooming products offers a convenient opportunity to significantly boost the ALA omega-3 content and overall health benefits. The mild, nutty flavor of chia oil complements various pet palates perfectly. By incorporating more products infused with chia oil, pet owners can effortlessly provide a delicious way to enhance their animal's diet and promote balanced nutrition. Whether for dogs, cats and horses, chia oil serves as a versatile and beneficial addition to their daily regimen.
Enrich your pet products with the benefits of essential Omega-3 (ALA) and Omega-6 (LA) fatty acids. These fatty acids are vital for health, both in humans and animals.
Our Chia Oil, a natural source of Omega-3 ALA and Omega-6 LA, is the perfect solution to elevate the nutritional quality of your pet foods. Some pet food companies have already begun incorporating it into their formulations, achieving positive results.
The Chia Oil can be utilized in products formulation or sprayed over pet food as a supplement.
Harness the benefits of Chia Oil to enhance your pet products and stand out in the market. Contact us for more information on how we can help you elevate the nutritional quality of your pet foods with our premium Chia Oil!
Nutritional Data Sheet
PRODUCT
Benexia® Xia Oil
REFERENCE CODE
OIL
OILO
DATE
June 2023
1: As this is a natural product, the values reported as typical may vary.
2: Calorie calculation (common conversion factors): In the US, use the 4-4-9 method, which assumes that each gram of protein contributes 4 calories to the caloric total, each gram of carbohydrates contributes 4 calories (less the amount of non-digestible carbohydrates), and each gram of fat contributes 9 calories (FDA).
3: In Canada and in the European Union, use the 4-4-9 adjusted for fiber. A value of 2 calories (8 kJ) per gram should be used for the dietary fiber portion of the fiber source.
Xia Oil
Xia Oil Technical Data Sheet
PRODUCT
Benexia® Xia OIl
REFERENCE CODE
XIA OIL
DATE May 2023
DESCRIPTION
Benexia® Xia Oil is a golden-colored, transparent, and brilliant oil obtained through a proprietary premium technology, ensuring the most natural cold-press extraction of plant-based omega-3 from chia seed (Salvia hispanica L.).
INGREDIENTS
100 % chia oil
FORMAT AND PACKAGING MATERIAL
190 Kg enamelled drum
Packed under modified atmosphera (MA), replacing oxygen by nitrogen.
BEST BEFORE DATE AND STORAGE
24 months, stored in a cool dry place in original unopened package.
Recommended storage conditions: Temperature <20 oC and <60 % of relative humidity. Once opened, it is recommended to consume the whole drum or refill with nitrogen before sealing.
CERTIFICATIONS
FSSC 22000
Halal and Kosher
QUALITY ASSURANCE
Additives: Free GMO: Free
Allergens: According to allergen assessment.
Contaminants: Comply with regulation.
Suitable diets: Gluten free, vegetarian, vegan, keto, and low carb.
APPLICATIONS
Food, beverage, and nutraceutical ingredient.
REGULATION
Chia oil has been approved as Novel Food (Commission Decision 2014/890/EU).
Custom Tariff Code: 15.15.9090
Origin: Chile.
Microbiological
Ps. aeruginosa2 Absence Manual OXOID Salmonella spp.2 Absence (0/25g)
* Or equivalent method ** At the end of the shelf-life period, if it has been stored according to instructions. The typical value at the date of manufacture is <2
1: Analysed per lot production 2: Analysed per yearly productions
Benexia® Xia Powder 435 W LM
A byproduct of the chia oil production process, the chia fiber has high potential as an ingredient for highly nutritious pet food manufacturers. Made from pure, pulverized chia seeds, Benexia Xia Powder 435 W LM is produced using our Microtech® technology. The result is a functional, alternative powder, standardized under U.S. Mesh 40 (or < 435 μm), ideal for animal foods.
100% natural, with no additives or chemical substances.
GMO Free and Allergen Free
A Unique, Natural, Multifunctional High-Protein Fiber Microtechnology
Benexia® Xia Powder 435 W LM is processed by Microtech®, an exclusive and proprietary technology designed by Benexia. Microtech® is a natural and organic micro-milling process that turns the chia into a clean and pure ingredient at low temperature without needing additives, processing aid ingredients, solvents, or enzymes. Microtech® provides an ingredient with a standardized particle size that offers application versatility. This pasteurized product has a unique nutritional content, great flavor, and exceptional shelf life.
Benexia® Xia Powder 435 W LM, a naturally occurring dietary fiber defined and approved by the FDA, contains up to 56% total dietary fiber, along with a soluble and insoluble dietary fiber ratio of 1:9, 25% plant protein with high biological value, and 5% omega-3. It serves as a source of omega-3 no bad taste and no available carbs (no sugar), while also providing calcium, potassium, and magnesium.
56% of Dietary Fiber
Benexia® Xia Powder 435 W LM Benefits
Benexia® Xia Powder 435 W LM offers a range of health benefits for animals, particularly in promoting gastrointestinal health and overall well-being.
• Contributes to digestive health
• Supports blood glucose management
• Support cardiovascular health
• Reduces overall calorie intake
DIGESTIVE HEALTH SUPPORT
Incorporating chia fiber into an animal's diet can significantly aid digestion. Firstly, it aids in increasing both bulk and water in the intestine, which helps regulate intestinal transit time by either slowing down or speeding up transit times. This regulation is essential for managing digestive issues such as diarrhea and constipation in animals.
Additionally, Benexia® Xia Powder 435 W LM indirectly supports the maintenance of healthy gut microbiota by preventing the overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the digestive tract. It also assists in the recovery of intestinal cells following injury, potentially reducing the risk of gastrointestinal disorders in animals.
BLOOD GLUCOSE MANAGEMENT
Assist in maintaining stable blood glucose levels, particularly beneficial for pets with diabetes or insulin resistance.
CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH SUPPORT
Promote heart health and circulation, contributing to overall cardiovascular well-being in pets.
WEIGHT MANAGEMENT
Furthermore, chia fiber is beneficial in managing and preventing obesity in pets by promoting a feeling of satiety without adding extra calories to their diet. Overall, incorporating Benexia® Xia Powder 435 W LM into the diets of animals can contribute to improved digestive health and overall well-being.
Benexia® Xia Powder 435 W LM Applications
An Economical Alternative for your Products
Utilize the transformative power of Benexia® Xia Powder 435 W LM to revolutionize your pet products with enhanced nutrition and health benefits. This versatile and functional fiber offers a myriad of applications for pet food manufacturers, ensuring optimal well-being for our beloved animal companions.
Incorporate Benexia® Xia Powder 435 W LM into a wide range of pet products, including dry foods, wet foods, treats, supplements, and more. This natural dietary fiber offers a holistic approach to pet nutrition, supporting their health from the inside out.
USAGE RECOMMENDATIONS
Incorporating Xia Powder 435 W LM at a dosage of 3% when considering the most effective use of it. While many opt for the use of Chia Seed Raw at a dosage ranging from 2% to 3%, the advantages of employing Xia Powder 435 W LM are noteworthy. Not only it is nutritionallly better, but it also presents a more economical option, being 20% cheaper compared to both Chia Whole or Milled Chia Seed varieties.
Therefore, for those seeking costeffective and efficient solutions, Benexia® Xia Powder 435 W LM emerges as a favorable choice.
Contact us today to discover how you can integrate this premium fiber into your formulations and provide pets with the nutrition they deserve.
Nutritional Data Sheet
Xia Powder 435 W LM
PRODUCT
Benexia® Xia Powder 435 White LM
REFERENCE CODE
XP435WLM
XP435WOLM
DATE
June 2023
1: As this is a natural product, the values reported as typical may vary.
2: Calorie calculation (common conversion factors): In the US, use the 4-4-9 method, which assumes that each gram of protein contributes 4 calories to the caloric total, each gram of carbohydrates contributes 4 calories (less the amount of non-digestible carbohydrates), and each gram of fat contributes 9 calories (FDA).
3: In Canada and in the European Union, use the 4-4-9 adjusted for fiber. A value of 2 calories (8 kJ) per gram should be used for the dietary fiber portion of the fiber source.
Technical Data Sheet
Xia Powder 435 W LM
PRODUCT
Benexia® Xia Powder 435 White LM
REFERENCE CODE
XP435WLM
DATE May 2023
DESCRIPTION
Benexia® Xia Powder 435 White LM is a chia fiber powder that boasts a fiber content of up to 56 %, featuring particle sizes smaller than 435 microns. This powder is derived from partially defatted Benexia® White Chia LM through MicroTechTM technology. These seeds undergo a 100% natural and chemical-free pasteurization process for disinfestation and disinfection, guaranteeing a pathogen-free product.
INGREDIENTS
100% partially defatted milled chia
FORMAT AND PACKAGING MATERIAL
20Kg LDPE inner and kraft outer bags.
BEST BEFORE DATE AND STORAGE
36 months, stored in a cool dry place in original unopened package.
Recommended storage conditions: Temperature <25 oC and <60 % of relative humidity.
CERTIFICATIONS
FSSC 22000
Halal and Kosher
QUALITY ASSURANCE
Additives: Free GMO: Free
Allergens: According to allergen assessment.
Contaminants: Comply with regulation.
Suitable diets: Gluten free, vegetarian, vegan, keto, and low carb.
APPLICATIONS
Food, beverage, and nutraceutical ingredient.
REGULATION
Partially defatted milled chia has been approved as Novel Food (Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2020/500).
Custom Tariff Code: 23.06.9000
Origin: Chile.
Microbiological
perfringens
L. monocytogenes2
Salmonella spp.2
Contaminants
* Or equivalent method 1: Analysed per lot production 2: Analysed per yearly productions
11290-1
The Future of Chia in Animals Products: Looking Ahead
Consumer demand for plant-based ingredients and nutrient-rich products that are sustainable will continue to rise across a wide range of industries in the coming years. Similarly, public awareness of the benefits of incorporating high-quality proteins, increased fiber, and achieving a healthier balance of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids into their pets' diets will grow. As more and more consumers seek out products with these qualities, they will increasingly turn to chia (and products made with it) as a go-to option that is accessible, affordable, and highly versatile for various animal care needs.
Beyond just food, chia's versatility extends to a wide array of products, including hair oils and dietary supplements for animals. This adaptability makes chia a valuable ingredient in meeting the diverse needs of pet owners who prioritize sustainability and wellness.
And while nutritional benefits remain a key focus, consumers today also demand products with clean labels and a proven commitment to environmental responsibility. Therefore, products featuring chia must not only deliver nutritional excellence but also uphold stringent sustainability standards to resonate with conscientious consumers across different product categories.
CHIA SEED INGREDIENTS FOR PETS APPLICATIONS: COMPARED NUTRITIONAL CONTENTS
BENEXIA® CHIA OIL
BENEXIA® XIA POWDER 435 W LM (CHIA FIBER)
Benexia, a leader in the industry
All Benexia® Ingredients are naturally processed, cleanlabel, gluten-free, and come from sustainable agriculture.
Benexia is a fully vertically integrated company (from agricultural production, extraction and concentration processes, ingredients development, and distribution), from chia agricultural production plant to the final ingredients and solutions.
Benexia guarantees traceability from the fields to your facility and offers certified quality (GAP, GMP-HACCP, and FSSC 22000), Halal, and Kosher.
Our team, the best customer service
We are a group of passionate people fully devoted to our customers, with a great sense of service and love for health and well-being. We offer support in formulation, nutrition, scientific and regulatory matters, with the best experts to assist your needs.
Contact us for samples, application sheets and more information at info@benexia.com