Canada’s flax industry can now say that ground, whole flaxseed lowers blood cholesterol levels.
William Hill, Flax Council of Canada president, said Health Canada has approved the health claim, making Canada the first nation to permit such a claim for flaxseed.
“Based upon the strength of the scientific data we submitted, Health Canada’s Food Directorate recommended the acceptance of a health claim showing flaxseed can lower blood cholesterol”, Hill said in a statement. “This is a proud achievement as Canada is the first country in the world to allow a health-related claim for flaxseed for use on food labels. This claim is one of only a dozen deemed to meet the rigorous scientific criteria established by Health Canada.”
According to a flax council press release, consuming five tablespoons of ground flaxseed per day helps lower cholesterol levels.
“Food manufacturers will be able to clearly state on labels the relationship between flax consumption and a reduction of cholesterol,” said Eric Fridfinnson, Manitoba Flax Growers Association chair.
“This health claim will help encourage the development and demand for products containing flax.”
