Flax
Whatsapp Order
Flax (Linum usitatissimum) is an ancient crop cultivated primarily for its seeds and fibers. The flax seeds are small, flat, and oval, ranging from golden yellow to brown in color, and are rich in nutrients including omega-3 fatty acids (alpha-linolenic acid), lignans, dietary fiber, proteins, and vitamins. Flax fibers are derived from the stem and used in textile and industrial applications. Flaxseed oil, extracted from the seeds, is highly valued for its nutritional and therapeutic properties. Flax is utilized across food, nutraceutical, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and industrial sectors due to its multifunctional health benefits, fiber content, and sustainable nature.
Category: Nutraceutical Ingredients (food)
Tags: Flax, Flax Oil, Flaxseed, Linseed, Nutritional supplement, Omega-3 Source, Superfood
Description
Table of Contents
Toggle
Flax
Primary Uses
- Food Industry
- Used as a nutritional supplement and ingredient in baked goods, cereals, smoothies, and snacks for its high fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein content.
- Ground flaxseed (flax meal) is widely added to bread, muffins, and cereals to enhance nutritional profiles and provide dietary fiber.
- Flaxseed oil is used as a culinary oil, salad dressing, and nutritional supplement, prized for its omega-3 fatty acids.
- Acts as a natural egg substitute (flax egg) in vegan and allergen-free baking.
- Incorporated in functional foods targeting cardiovascular health, digestive wellness, and weight management.
- Nutraceuticals and Dietary Supplements
- Formulated in capsules, oils, and powders to promote heart health by reducing cholesterol and blood pressure.
- Used for hormonal balance support due to its phytoestrogenic lignans.
- Supports digestive health by promoting regularity through high soluble and insoluble fiber content.
- Exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties beneficial for chronic disease prevention.
- Cosmetics and Personal Care
- Flaxseed oil is incorporated into skin and hair care products as a natural moisturizer, emollient, and anti-inflammatory agent.
- Used in formulations to improve skin barrier function, reduce dryness, and soothe irritation.
- Flax-derived compounds are employed in anti-aging and acne care products due to their antioxidant effects.
- Applied in hair conditioners and serums to enhance hair strength and shine.
- Pharmaceutical Industry
- Investigated for therapeutic effects in cardiovascular disease, diabetes management, and certain cancers.
- Used as a source of bioactive lignans and omega-3 fatty acids in formulations targeting metabolic health.
- Employed in wound healing and anti-inflammatory preparations.
- Textile and Industrial Applications
- Flax fibers are used extensively in the production of linen textiles, ropes, composites, and eco-friendly packaging materials.
- Applied in biodegradable and sustainable composite materials for automotive and construction industries.
Secondary Uses
- Animal Feed
- Flaxseed meal is used as a high-protein, high-fiber feed additive for poultry, cattle, and aquaculture, enhancing omega-3 content in animal products.
- Biomedical Research
- Studied for its lignans and omega-3s in anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory research.
- Investigated as a scaffold material in tissue engineering due to flax fiber properties.
- Environmental Applications
- Flax straw and fiber used in erosion control mats and biodegradable geotextiles.
KEY PRODUCT FEATURES
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Scientific Name: Linum usitatissimum
- Common/Trade Name: Flax, Flaxseed, Linseed
- CAS Number: 8001-26-1 (for flaxseed oil)
- HS Code: 1204.00 (Flaxseed) / 1512.11 (Flaxseed oil)
- Molecular Formula: Variable depending on component (e.g., C18H30O2 for alpha-linolenic acid)
- Synonyms: Linseed, Common flax, Brown flax, Golden flax, Linum
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Seeds (small, flat, oval); oil (yellow to amber liquid); fibers (long, slender)
- Color & Odor: Seeds vary from golden yellow to brown; oil is golden-yellow with mild nutty odor
- Solubility: Oil soluble in organic solvents; seeds rich in soluble and insoluble fiber
- Melting Point: Flaxseed oil solidifies at ~-20 °C
- Stability: Oil sensitive to oxidation; best stored in cool, dark conditions
- Nutrient Content: High in alpha-linolenic acid (~50-60%), dietary fiber, protein, lignans
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS): Not hazardous; generally recognized as safe (GRAS)
- Toxicity: Low; safe for food and topical use
- Allergies: Rare but possible sensitivity to flax or linseed products
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store seeds and oil in cool, dry, dark environments to prevent rancidity and microbial growth
- Container Type: Food-grade bags or bottles with oxygen barrier
- Shelf Life: Seeds up to 12 months; oil 6-12 months when refrigerated
- Handling Precautions: Avoid moisture and heat to preserve quality
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Approved as a food ingredient and supplement by FDA, EFSA, and other authorities
- Complies with food safety and organic certification standards where applicable
- Labeling regulations apply for allergen and omega-3 content claims
6. Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Fully biodegradable and environmentally friendly
- Ecotoxicity: Low environmental impact
- Bioaccumulation: Not applicable
- Health Benefits: Cardiovascular support, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hormonal balance
SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Gloves recommended for large-scale handling; dust mask if handling ground flax powder
- Handling Guidelines: Minimize dust exposure; handle in well-ventilated areas
- Storage Measures: Avoid moisture and prolonged heat exposure
- Hygiene Practices: Wash hands after handling; avoid ingestion of raw seed powder in large quantities
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air if respiratory irritation occurs
- Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water if irritation occurs
- Eye Contact: Rinse with water for 15 minutes if exposed; seek medical advice if irritation persists
- Ingestion: Generally safe; excessive consumption may cause digestive discomfort
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Flammable solid (seeds and fibers) and liquid (oil); oil vapors may be combustible
- Extinguishing Media: Foam, dry chemical, CO₂, or water spray
- Special Precautions: Use protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus if exposed to smoke
- Decomposition Products: Carbon oxides and other combustion byproducts
Related products
Apricot Powder
Apricot powder is a dehydrated, finely ground form of apricot fruit, retaining much of the natural flavor, aroma, and nutritional properties of fresh apricots. It is typically made by drying fresh apricots through spray drying, freeze drying, or drum drying, then milling into a fine powder. Apricot powder is rich in vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber, and antioxidants such as beta-carotene and vitamin C. It is widely used as a natural flavoring agent, colorant, and nutritional supplement in food and beverage products, as well as in cosmetics and dietary supplements. Its convenient powdered form allows for easy incorporation into dry mixes and processed goods without the perishability of fresh fruit.
Ashawaganha Powder
Ashawaganha Powder is derived from the dried roots of Withania somnifera, a renowned herb in Ayurvedic and traditional medicine systems. Known as Indian ginseng or winter cherry, Ashwagandha is valued for its adaptogenic properties, helping the body combat stress, enhance vitality, and support overall wellness. The powder is finely ground root material, rich in bioactive compounds such as withanolides, alkaloids, and steroidal lactones. It is widely used as a dietary supplement, in herbal formulations, cosmetics, and traditional medicine.
Avocado Oil
Avocado Oil is a nutrient-rich, plant-based oil cold-pressed from the pulp of ripe avocados (Persea americana). Recognized for its deep green color and mildly nutty aroma, this oil is highly valued for its high content of monounsaturated fatty acids, especially oleic acid, along with vitamins A, D, and E, sterols, lecithin, and antioxidants.
Due to its excellent penetration, moisturizing, and regenerative properties, Avocado Oil is widely used in cosmetics, personal care, pharmaceutical, and nutraceutical formulations. It helps in restoring skin elasticity, promoting collagen synthesis, and soothing inflammation, making it ideal for dry, sensitive, or aging skin. In hair care, it strengthens and softens hair, improves scalp health, and reduces dandruff.
Additionally, refined, food-grade Avocado Oil is used in cooking due to its high smoke point and nutritional profile. It is also increasingly found in dietary supplements and therapeutic blends
Castor Oil Food Grade
Castor Oil Food Grade is a pale yellow, viscous vegetable oil derived by cold pressing the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant. Known for its high content of ricinoleic acid, it has a mild flavor and is widely used in the food, pharmaceutical, and nutraceutical industries. As a food-grade oil, it is purified to meet strict quality and safety standards. It serves both as a laxative agent and a food additive, often used in flavor carriers, coatings, and processing aids. The oil’s high stability and low moisture content also make it suitable for specialty industrial applications in food-safe environments.
Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate
Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate, also known as iron(II) sulfate heptahydrate, is a pale green crystalline solid containing seven molecules of water of crystallization (FeSO₄·7H₂O). It is a widely used inorganic iron compound characterized by its high iron content (approximately 20% Fe) and good solubility in water. This hydrated salt is commonly used in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, water treatment, and various industrial processes. The heptahydrate form is preferred for many applications due to its stability, ease of handling, and cost-effectiveness.
Folic Acid
Folic Acid, also known as Vitamin B9 or pteroylmonoglutamic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin essential for numerous physiological processes including DNA synthesis, repair, and methylation, as well as amino acid metabolism. It appears as a yellow to orange-yellow crystalline powder, odorless or with a faint characteristic odor. Folic Acid is vital for cell division and growth, making it critical during pregnancy and periods of rapid growth. It is widely used in the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, food fortification, and cosmetic industries due to its role in preventing folate deficiency anemia, neural tube defects in newborns, and supporting overall cellular health.
Prunes
Prunes are dried plums that serve as a natural source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. They are widely used in food products and snacks to provide natural sweetness, improve digestive health, and enhance nutritional value. Supplied in bulk 5 kg packaging, prunes are ideal for commercial and industrial food applications.
Sunflower Butter
Sunflower Butter is a creamy spread made from roasted sunflower seeds, offering a nutritious and allergen-friendly alternative to traditional nut butters. It is rich in healthy fats, protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it a popular choice for health-conscious consumers. Sunflower Butter has a mild, slightly nutty flavor and smooth texture, suitable for direct consumption or incorporation into various food products.

Preservatives(food)
Flavor Enhancers
Acidulants
Sweeteners
Antioxidants
Colorants(food)
Nutraceutical Ingredients (food)
Nutrient Supplements
Emulsifiers
Collectors
Dust Suppressants
Explosives and Blasting Agents
Flocculants and Coagulants
Frothers
Leaching Agents
pH Modifiers
Precious Metal Extraction Agents
Antioxidants(plastic)
Colorants (Pigments, Dyes)
Fillers and Reinforcements
Flame Retardants
Monomers
Plasticizers
Polymerization Initiators
Stabilizers (UV, Heat)
Antifoaming Agents
Chelating Agents
Coagulants and Flocculants
Corrosion Inhibitors
Disinfectants and Biocides
Oxidizing Agents
pH Adjusters
Scale Inhibitors( water)
Antioxidants(cosmetic)
Emollients
Fragrances and Essential Oils
Humectants
Preservatives
Surfactants(cosmetic)
Thickeners
UV Filters
Fertilizers
Soil Conditioners
Plant Growth Regulators
Animal Feed Additives
Biostimulants
Pesticides (Herbicides, Insecticides, Fungicides)
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs)
Excipients
Solvents(pharmaceutical)
Antibiotics
Antiseptics and Disinfectants
Vaccine Adjuvants
Nutraceutical Ingredients (pharmaceutical)
Analgesics & Antipyretics
Analytical Reagents
Solvents(lab)
Chromatography Chemicals
Spectroscopy Reagents
microbiology-and-cell-culture-reagents
Molecular Biology Reagents
Biochemical Reagents
Inorganic and Organic Standards
Laboratory Safety Chemicals
Specialty Laboratory Chemicals(Special Laboratory Equipment)
Demulsifiers
Hydraulic Fracturing Fluids
Scale Inhibitors(oil)
Surfactants(oil)
Drilling Fluids
Dyes and Pigments
Bleaching Agents
Softening Agents
Finishing Agents
Antistatic Agents
Admixtures
Waterproofing Agents
Sealants and Adhesives
Curing Compounds
Concrete Repair Chemicals
Anti-Corrosion Coatings
Surfactants(cleaning)
Builders
Enzymes
Solvents (Cleaning)
Fragrances
Electronic Chemicals
Catalysts
Lubricants
Photographic Chemicals
Refrigerants
Automotive chemicals
Pyrotechnic Chemicals
Biodegradable Surfactants
Bio-based Solvents
Renewable Polymers
Carbon Capture Chemicals
Wastewater Treatment Chemicals
Pigments
Solvents(paint)
Specialty Coatings
Binders/Resins
Additives
Driers
Anti-Corrosion Agents
Functional Coatings
Application-Specific Coatings
Fresh Herbs
Ground Spices
Whole Spices
Spice Blends
Dried Herbs
Leavening Agents
Dough Conditioners
Flour Treatments
Fat Replacers
Decoratives
Preservatives(baking)
Plasticizers & Softeners
Reinforcing Agents
Adhesion Promoters
Vulcanizing Agents
Antidegradants
Blowing Agents
Fillers & Extenders
Accelerators & Retarders