According to Great Plains Flax, the difference is: "Brown flax, can be eaten however, it is grown for the commercial Linseed Oil , paint, and solvents Industries. The Omega Golden Flax Seed was developed for human consumption and is preferred for the food market because of its nutty-buttery flavor. The nutritional value of golden flaxseed vs. brown flaxseed are very similar if the samples are of the same quality. Quality is very important in determining the omega-3,6 content and overall nutritional value." For more info: http://bit.ly/m7IqMN