Defatted chia (Salvia hispanica L.) flour peptides: Exploring nutritional profiles, techno-functional and bio-functional properties, and future directions

Chia (Salvia hispanica L.) is a summer-blooming herb from the mint family, known for its rich nutritional profile, including high-quality protein, fibre, and a balanced ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. With the rising demand for chia oil, defatted chia flour (DCF), a by-product of oil extraction, has gained attention as a valuable ingredient. DCF is rich in essential macronutrients and amino acids, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional protein sources and supporting global food sustainability and waste reduction efforts. Recent studies have highlighted the techno-functional properties of DCF peptides, showing excellent solubility, water- and oil-absorption capacities, as well as emulsifying, foaming, and gelling abilities. These properties enhance their application in diverse food systems, making DCF an important ingredient in the development of nutritious, innovative, and appealing food products. Beyond their functional roles, chia-derived peptides also exhibit significant bioactive properties, such as antioxidants, antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, anti-aging, hypolipidemic, and hypoglycaemic effects. These properties make them beneficial for improving health and wellness. Integrating DCF peptides into food products provides a natural approach to managing chronic diseases, promoting longevity, and improving overall health. To fully realize the potential of DCF peptides, future research should focus on understanding their bioactivities at the molecular level and exploring how they interact with various physiological systems. Interdisciplinary collaboration among food science, biotechnology, pharmacology, and nutrition is essential, along with careful evaluation of safety and potential risks. Regulatory frameworks will be crucial for the broader use of DCF peptides in food and nutraceuticals. Additionally, advancements in peptide production, extraction, and purification technologies will be necessary for large-scale, sustainable applications. Focusing on these areas will maximize the benefits of chia peptides for human health, nutrition, and environmental sustainability.