Flaxseed is sold in a variety of forms and is used in many different products. It is sold as whole seeds, ground flaxseeds, flaxseed meal, oil, oil capsules, and in pre-made foods or mixes. It can even be used to make linen for clothing!

We often hear consumers use the terms ground flaxseed and flax meal interchangeably. There is, however, a difference.

Most people don’t know there is a difference between whole-milled (or ground) flaxseed and flaxseed meal, yet they are actually two very different products.

In this article we will explore the differences so you can make an educated decision on your next purchase.

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Flaxseed Meal: What is it?

When a manufacturer makes flaxseed oil, they must press the seeds to extract the oil. This produces flaxseed oil and leaves behind crushed flax seeds as a byproduct.

The oil will be sold separately as flaxseed oil, while the crushed flax seeds will be sold as flaxseed meal.

Because the oil has been extracted, these crushed flax seeds have been stripped of their oils and healthy fats (polyunsaturated fats and omega-3s).

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Flaxseed Meal is a byproduct of the oil pressing process.

 

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What Does Whole-Milled Flaxseed Mean?

Whole-milled means that the whole flaxseed was used to create the final product. The whole flaxseed was ground into a fine powder that contains its natural oils and healthy fats.

Whole-milled flaxseed can also be called ground flaxseed.

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What type is Manitoba Milling Co. Flaxseed?

As stated in the name, Manitoba Milling Smooth Whole-Milled Flaxseed, is whole-milled (or ground). Both our flaxseed and flax milk use the whole flaxseed. We do not sell any byproducts; just the real, whole seed to ensure and optimal nutrition content.

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Curious how to store flaxseed? This article gives another overview of the difference between milled flaxseed and flax meal as well as education on the importance of flaxseed quality and proper flaxseed storage.