Flax seeds have a distinct appearance, being oval, flat, and typically brown or yellow in color.
Visual Characteristics of Flax Seeds
Based on their physical description, here is how flax seeds generally look:
- Shape: Flax seeds are oval and flat shaped seeds. This flat, slightly elongated oval shape makes them easily distinguishable from round seeds.
- Size: They are described as being slightly larger than sesame seeds. While still small, they are noticeably bigger than tiny sesame seeds.
- Color: Flax seeds can come in two primary colors: brown or yellow.
- Common Type: The type of flax seeds you will most likely encounter in grocery stores are brown flax seeds. Yellow or golden flax seeds are also available but are less common commercially.
- Texture (Visual Implication): Although their texture is described as crisp and chewy when eaten, visually, this implies a firm, solid appearance before consumption.
In summary, envision a small seed that isn't perfectly round but has a flattened, slightly elongated oval shape. Its color will typically be a rich brown, although a golden-yellow variety also exists. They are slightly larger than the familiar sesame seed.
These characteristics help identify flax seeds, whether you find them whole, ground, or incorporated into foods.