Rooted in the sun-drenched soils of central and southern Mexico, chia seeds have a captivating history. In the Aztec and Mayan civilizations, these tiny powerhouses were seamlessly integrated into daily life, symbolizing endurance, strength, and overall well-being.
Historically, chia seeds were prepared in various ways by these indigenous cultures. One such method gave birth to the refreshing "chia fresca" or "iskiate" beverage, where chia seeds mixed with water or fruit juices formed a gel-like consistency. Chia seeds were also incorporated into traditional foods such as porridges and gruels. They were sometimes ground into flour and used to make flatbreads. Due to their ability to absorb and retain water, chia seeds were valuable for sustaining individuals during long journeys or strenuous activities.