You really need to spend some time on Dr. Wayne Coates' website. He calls himself (rightly) "Mr. Chia" and he has done more than anyone to educate consumers about the benefits of chia seeds. He was recently asked about the difference between the two samples of chia seed pictured below.
His answer:
The seed on the left is clearly inferior quality, contains many immature seeds (brown) and even the black seeds are a lighter color which is not normal. The seed on the right is much higher quality. So look at the seed you buy, brown is bad, white(cream) or black are good.
I wouldn't worry about it too much. In the past I have purchased seed that had a small amount of inedible "chaff" mixed in. It was a nuisance, but I got a good price, even though it was poorer quality. The best seed might have higher nutritional value, but it might not be worth the difference in price. I don't make recommendations.
Posted by: Margaret | December 31, 2012 at 11:05 PM
What do you mean by "bad"? I bought some today that look sort of like the ones on the left, but I won't know for sure until I see them in natural light, tomorrow.
Posted by: Mrs4444 | December 31, 2012 at 10:38 PM