What are the concerns about eating flaxseed?
Some comments, laws etc. from government agencies which give an indication that there are problems associated with human consumption of flaxseed.
USDA - link - footnote at bottom of page says "Up to 12 percent flax seed can safely be used as an ingredient in food.", although this is a reasonable amount, it does mean there are concerns about over consumption.
FDA - link - shows that the GRAS (Generally Regarded As Safe) application was withdrawn. GRAS status has not been granted to date.
Health Canada - link - recommends that intake be limited in general, and should not be consumed if some medications are being taken
Government of France - link (Translation of Article 2-1 is shown below the original
| Article 2-1 |
| Créé par Décret n°78-840 du 9 août 1978 (JORF 11 août 1978). |
La teneur en acide érucique des huiles, des graisses et de leurs mélanges, destinés tels quels à la consommation humaine, doit être calculée sur la teneur totale de ces produits en acides gras dans la phase grasse. Elle ne doit pas dépasser 5 p. 100.