Chia Pod Wants You to Eat Intelligentsia Coffee

Super Food Meets Super Coffee

If there’s anything hotter than specialty coffee right now, it’s chia seeds. The omega-3 rich super food is popping up in everything lately. It was only a matter of time before someone tried to mix it with nature’s other miracle, coffee. Thankfully, Chia Pod and Intelligentsia have risen to the occasion, and they were kind enough to send us a sample in exchange for our opinion. In our experience Intelligentsia only puts their name on quality products (like this Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream collaboration). Plus, as a barista, I’ve never been one to turn down free food.

Chia Swag

The chia pod came in a really snazzy mini-cooler. Whoever is doing Chia Co’s marketing should probably get a raise. I haven’t tasted anything yet, but I’m already predisposed to like it. To top it off, they threw in a bad of Intelligentsia’s House Blend (which, evidently, exists) and a few Chia Shots.

First Impressions

My first impression of the Intelli Chia Pod is that it looks like tapioca pudding, or maybe caviar. Either way, it smells like coffee. I take a bite and am surprised by the coffee-forward taste. It has the bite I associate with cold brew, but a surprising acidity and a nice sweetness. I’m not sure I entirely like it though. The chia seeds are surrounded by these sort of globules that are in fact similar to tapioca. I really like the mouthfeel of the chia globules, which makes me want to keep eating. Three bites in and I’ve decided the coffee taste is actually nice, plus the lingering chia seed aftertaste is making me feel better about myself. I have the sudden urge to buy some Chacos and start rock climbing.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an easy way to get more caffeine and omega-3 fatty acids in your diet, Chia Pod and Intelligentsia’s collaboration is a great way to do it. We think this would be a great light breakfast, or post-work out recovering snack. We doubt, however, this would ever replace our daily morning cup.

Thanks Chia Pod and Intelligentsia for asking us to review your product.