Flax (Linum usitatissimum L.)

Flax is a temperate industrial oilseed crop grown primarily in Canada, China, and Russia. Flax is a diploid, autogamous species, and breeding follows traditional methods, enhanced by mutation breeding and the use of genetic markers. Recently available flax genomic resources may hasten the achievement of breeding objectives: increased yield, shorter time to mature, disease resistance, and seed oil quality. Flax oil is unique because it is contains up to 64% α-linolenic acid (ALA). ALA polymerizes rapidly with exposure to oxygen and is therefore useful in varnishes, inks, linoleum, and other traditional industrial applications. ALA is also a metabolic precursor to ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), which have positive effects with respect to cardiovascular health and inflammatory diseases, as well as anticancer properties. In addition to ALS, flax contains antioxidants and phytosterols that may increase health benefits. Flax is being used as a functional food ingredient for humans and animal feed to increase the ω-3 fatty acids in eggs and meat. Considerable progress has been made in understanding and enhancing the metabolic pathways leading to ALA and PUFA synthesis in flax. Further research investment in this niche crop will increase the scope of utilization for industrial, food and feed oil, and fiber byproducts.