Remember those annoying commercials of old featuring the plant that grows atop shapes of various animals, Chia Pet?  Well, it appears the seeds used to sprout those crazy designs are regulated as food by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and that food is becoming popular in health stores in San Francisco.  

Derived from a mint-related plant known as Salvia hispanica, chia seeds are high in proteins, omega-3 fatty acids, and amino acids.   An ounce of chia seeds contains 137 calories, 4 grams of protein and 11 grams of fiber in addition to omega-3s known to help prevent heart disease.  The Chicago Tribune reports that the seeds are higher in omega-3 than any other plant source, including flaxseed, which many people tout for its health benefits.

The chia seeds are beginning to garner media attention.  The company that produces them recently received plugs by Oprah and CBS news.  Following the growth of this bizarre, niche snack food, a major health-food store began offering them nationwide. 

Prices for a pound of the seed can range from $7 to more than $20, much more than the Chia Pet itself. Bon appetit!