The Chia Co Oats + Chia

In the most recent foodie surprise parcel from Degustabox, I was delighted to find a sachet of the Mixed Berry variety of The Chia Co Oats + Chia. This easy to make vegan cereal is made with Wholegrain Oats (58%), Chia Seed (13%), Coconut Sugar, Dried Mixed Berries (Strawberries, Raspberries, Blackberries, Blueberries - 10%), and Virgin Coconut Oil. Ever since I reviewed The Chia Co Chia Pods, I've been adding chia seeds when I have porridge for breakfast, so I was curious to see how this ready made version would compare. 

Inside the packet is a generous 45g portion (for comparison an Oats So Simple sachet contains 27g), that is packed full of dried fruit pieces. The instructions are very easy and simply require the addition of water. It can either be made with boiling water and left for one minute, or it can be made with cold water and microwaved for one minute.

A quick stir and the cereal is ready to eat. Chia seeds have a gel-like consistency when they are added to liquid, sometimes resulting in a "slimy" consistency, but thankfully that is not an issue in this Chia + Oats combination. The texture is smooth and creamy, with the Chia seeds simply giving it a lighter consistency compared to regular oatmeal, whilst the generous portion still ensures a satisfying and filling breakfast. The mixed berries add a lovely sweet and fruity flavour and a little crunch too. I've never actually made porridge with water before and I was surprised by just how delicious the flavour is here - very indulgent and surprisingly rich.

Overall I highly recommend The Chia Co Oats. There are two other flavours available in the range; Banana & Mango, and Apple Spice and I can't wait to give them both a try.

Grocery Gems Verdict: The Chia Co Oats + Chia

RATING: 9 out of 10.

Buy them again?: Yes. 

Nutrition: 188 calories per serving. 

Purchased: Available at Ocado.

Price: £5.00p for 5 sachets (currently on offer for £3.75p). 

Other Reviews:
The Chia Co - Chia Pods
The Chia Co - Chia Oila

The Chia Co - Chia Oil

The Chia Co are already well known for their Chia Seeds and healthy ready made Chia Pod desserts, which I've previously reviewed. Like the Chia Pods and Chia Seeds, their Chia Oil is also available from Whole Foods Markets. Chia Oil is a pure and natural plant oil that is a rich source of Omega 3 (60%) and Omega 6 (20%). I've already been adding Chia Seeds to my morning porridge, as it's such an easy way to boost the antioxidant, protein and fibre content, so I couldn't wait to give the Chia Oil a try too. It's simple to use by adding to smoothies or even drizzled over meals, and especially salads.

I really didn't know what to expect from the flavour of the Chia Oil but I was pleased to find that it's extremely mild. It won't affect or overpower the taste of the dish that it's added to, it just gives a lovely light dressing.

So far we've mainly tried it on cous cous, salads, and vegetables, and each time it's been fantastic. The flavour is very simple but it satisfies that need to add a garnish or dressing to a salad (I can't eat dry salads!), and it's good to know that it also provides me with some extra nutritional benefits.

The Chia Co is actually an Australian company which was set up in 2001 and is now the world's larger producer of premium quality Chia seed. All their farms located in the ideal climate conditions of Western Australia. Take a look at their website for more info and further recipe ideas: www.thechiaco.com.au

Grocery Gems Verdict: Chia Oil

RATING: 8.5 out of 10.
Buy them again?: Yes. 
Purchased: Available from Whole Foods Market.
Price: £15.39

I was sent this product in order to write an honest review and all opinions are my own.