Chia has a long history of production in South America as a food crop, with references to its cultivation dating back to the Aztecs. The seeds have been used for centuries in bread making as a simple food source as they are a useful source of essential nutrients including vitamins A, B (1,2,3) as well as being rich in an oil that is full of Essential Fatty Acids. More recently, changes in market trends combined with enhanced local awareness of its health properties has led to an increase in the usage of Chia in a variety of food products such as multi-seed breads, salad toppings and other food and health-food applications. This increased demand has helped justify in production being established in the UK and during 2017 the first commercial crop was established on our contract farm in Essex. By growing Chia in the UK our farmers can ensure a faster supply of a much fresher material to the food industry both here and in Europe whilst in turn it has enabled us to access a premium quality seed for premium quality oil extraction

Chia seeds contain around 30% oil, making it relatively easy to extract. The oil is produced by means of expeller pressing at low temperatures and is therefore cold pressed. The oil may then be refined using traditional techniques as required. The benefit of the Northstar supply chain is that it is very short, from field to oil in less than 200miles (300km). This ensures that end product is of a superior quality and freshness, with higher oxidative stability. This means that Northstar Chia oil has a superior shelf life.

Cold pressed chia oil is golden yellow in colour and has a characteristic odour.

Chia oil is one of the richest natural sources of the Essential Fatty Acid, Alpha Linolenic Acid (ALA). ALA is an Omega 3 fatty acid which plays an important role in the regulation cardiovascular and tissue health. This makes Chia oil a very healthy ingredient. When applied topically, oils rich in Omega 3 have been shown to enrich, protect and moisturise the skin whilst being readily absorbed. Chia seed oil absorbs very quickly, leaving the skin with a light sheen. It can be used in nourishing creams and massage/body oils to help re-hydrate, soften and protect.