Abstract

Flaxseed or linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) is well known as the best terrestrial food source of α-linolenic acid, anomega-3 fatty acid, and a rich source of lignans and dietary fibre. These flaxseed components, especially the oil, havereceived particular attention as functional food ingredients due to their cardiovascular and other health benefits.Moreover, flaxseed also contains appreciable amounts of high quality proteins, which have been underutilized in the human food system. After oil extraction, the flaxseed meal by-product contains proteins that are rich in essential amino acids. Flaxseed proteins also contain bioactive peptide sequences that are encrypted within their primary structure andcan be released through enzymatic proteolysis. This paper discusses the nutritional and therapeutic potential of flaxseedproteins and protein-derived peptides.