Grams to Tablespoons Chia Seeds Conversion – Chia Seeds Calculator
Quickly convert grams of chia seeds to tablespoons and back again. Chia seeds have a density of approximately 0.6 g/mL, so 1 tablespoon ≈8.87 grams. Use the calculator, reference table, and tips below for accurate measurements.
Chia Seeds Calculator
Formula: tablespoons = grams ÷ 8.87 (approx.).
What Are Grams and Tablespoons?
A gram (g) is a unit of mass in the metric system (1 g ≈0.03527 oz). A tablespoon (tbsp) is a unit of volume equal to 3 teaspoons, or about 14.7868 milliliters. Mass and volume measure different things, so you need the ingredient's density to convert between them.1
Chia Seeds Density and Formula
Chia seeds are small, round seeds that pack relatively tightly. Their density is approximately 0.6 g/mL, which means they weigh less per tablespoon than denser ingredients like honey or butter.
tablespoons = grams ÷ 8.87
grams = tablespoons Ã 8.87
More precisely, tablespoons = grams ÷ (14.7868 Ã density). For chia seeds with density ~0.6 g/mL, this gives approximately 8.87 grams per tablespoon.2
Important Note: When chia seeds are soaked in liquid, they absorb water and expand, significantly increasing their volume. The conversions on this page are for dry chia seeds only. The mass (weight in grams) remains constant, but the volume changes dramatically after soaking.
Chia Seeds Conversion Table
This table lists common gram amounts with their approximate tablespoon equivalents for dry chia seeds.
| Grams (g) | Tablespoons (tbsp) |
|---|
Assumes 1 tbsp ≈8.87 g for dry chia seeds. Results vary based on how seeds pack into the measuring spoon.
Tips for Accurate Measuring
- Weighing is most reliable: A kitchen scale provides the most accurate chia seed measurements.2
- Spoon and level: Gently spoon chia seeds into a tablespoon and level the top with a straight edge for consistent measurements.
- Dry vs. soaked: These conversions apply only to dry chia seeds. Once soaked, chia seeds can expand to 10-12 times their original volume.
- Freshness matters: Older chia seeds may pack slightly differently, but the difference is usually minimal.
- Use for recipes: Most recipes call for dry chia seeds. Measure before soaking if your recipe requires pre-soaking.
FAQs
How many tablespoons is 50 g of chia seeds?
About 5.64 tbsp (50 ÷ 8.87). Use the calculator for exact rounding.
How many grams is 3 tablespoons of chia seeds?
About 26.6 g (3 Ã 8.87).
Do these conversions apply to soaked chia seeds?
No. These conversions are for dry chia seeds only. Soaked chia seeds expand dramatically in volume while maintaining the same mass.
Why do chia seeds expand in liquid?
Chia seeds form a gel-like coating when exposed to liquid due to their high soluble fiber content. This causes them to swell and take up much more volume.
Can I use this for chia seed pudding measurements?
For chia pudding, measure the dry seeds first using these conversions, then add your liquid. The seeds will expand during the soaking process.
Sources
- Tablespoon ≈14.7868 mL; density needed to convert mass to volume.2
- Measurement accuracy and density guidance; tablespoons derived from grams and density for dry chia seeds.
To keep this page fast and focused, external links are omitted. Values reflect commonly cited references in food measurement guides and nutrition labeling.