A new seed that's now becoming readily available to New Zealanders, promises to help address obesity concerns and provide a range of nutritional benefits that are currently lacking from the average Kiwi diet.

Chia is an ancient seed first used by the Aztecs, and is one of the highest natural sources of the plant form of omega-3 (ALA) at 19.3 per cent.

Chia seeds are also very high in dietary fibre at 37.8 per cent, rich in antioxidants and contribute beneficial levels of protein and other minerals such as iron, magnesium, phosphorous and calcium. These key nutrients provide a range of health benefits including heart, bone and digestive benefits.

They are also needed for overall general wellbeing and contribute to a balanced diet, assisting with weight management. Bakers Delight's Chia Bread is a nutritious super food suitable for lunchboxes every day. Just two slices contains 60 per cent more fibre than regular supermarket white bread and half the total fat of other seed breads.

John Foss, founder of The Chia Company in Western Australia, says he is excited about the exclusive national supply partnership the company has secured with Bakers Delight.

"We've worked hard to develop the most sophisticated planting, monitoring and harvesting practices to produce the purest Chia possible to maintain its nutritional profile.

"Our Chia seeds are like multi-vitamins designed to be consumed regularly - now that they are contained in an every day product through Bakers Delight bread we are able for the first time, to deliver the health benefits to homes across Australia and New Zealand," he says.

Baked fresh everyday with no preservatives, the new Chia White Block Loaf (RRP $5.20 - $5.50) and Chia White Round Rolls (RRP $0.90 each) are available from tomorrow (28 January).

For more information or to find your nearest bakery please visit www.bakersdelight.co.nz

Bakers Delight has 22 Auckland and five Christchurch stores, as well as bakeries in Hamilton, Hastings, Mt Maunganui, Tauranga, Rotorua and Taupo.